Inspiring a love of reading and writing from a young age
Children build the foundations for lifelong learning from a very young age. In Wesley’s Junior Schools, literacy is taught every day by combining inquiry-based learning and explicit teacher-directed instruction.
But how do we encourage children to love reading and writing, and to unlock the many benefits of reading consistently? From book clubs to writing challenges, there are a variety of ways for students of all ages to engage with reading and writing at Wesley, thanks to the creativity and passion of our literature-loving teachers.
Big readers, little listeners
Modelling is one of the most effective ways to sustain children's interest in reading, which is why our Glen Waverley Campus introduced the Year 9 Reading Buddies program. At each session, Year 9 students read aloud to Year 1 students, who are completely captivated by the energy and humour their older peeps bring to storytelling. The younger students experience firsthand how a genuine love of reading can be contagious when modelled by engaging male and female buddies.
But the program extends beyond reading aloud. Our Year 9s are learning to think deeply about what makes a story work. What makes it come alive? They’re discovering that being a lifelong reader means more than just loving books - it’s about sharing that love and learning how to bring stories to life in creative and compelling ways.
‘Write a Book in a Day’
How hard is it to write a book? Just ask the Years 5 and 6 students from our St Kilda Road Campus who tried to write one in a day!
Working from 8.00am to 5.30pm, students collaborated to write three complete books: The Caravan Kids, The Dingo’s Journey and The Great Shape Escape and the UFS. They incorporated dramatic elements – ‘There was only one box of Vegemite Shapes left in the entire world!’ - and poignant lessons about self-acceptance. Students used digital and traditional media to illustrate and craft their narratives.
The unique challenge, organised by The Kids’ Cancer Project ensures each book will be made available to children in hospitals around Australia, contributing to an online library of work made by children for children.
During Book Week, all students in Years 5 to 12 were invited to join the campus-wide flash fiction competition, within the tiniest of word counts – 100 words for younger students and just 80 words for Year 11 and 12! This powerful storytelling form demonstrates that compelling narratives can unfold in remarkably few words.
Storytelling in action
Our Year 7 and 8 Book Trail program - designed to foster creativity, critical thinking and a love of reading, has been brought to life in the most unforgettable way!
This beloved English project challenges students to select a book and recommend it to classmates in a 2-3 minute presentation using persuasive language, sharing a personal response and using a visual/creative tool like a soundtrack, model or performance.
Frances (Year 7) selected Lion: A Long Way Home by Saroo Brierley as her book, then took a bold and inspiring step by interviewing Garth Davis, director of the Academy Award-nominated film Lion and proud parent of her classmate, River.
‘I chose the story Lion because it’s the most heart wrenching and hopeful story,’ explained Frances. ‘Talking to Garth, I learned that even a scene that’s just three seconds long is super important, because it keeps people watching. I think it’s amazing how a film can make you feel so many emotions and let you see the world through someone else’s eyes.’
River has gained unique insights watching his father’s creative process. ‘It’s awesome seeing him bring a scene together and listen to everyone’s ideas. Storytelling isn’t just about the story - it’s about making people feel something. My favourite memory was watching him help an actor really connect with his role. The emotion was amazing.’
Throw in a challenge and students will rise to it
For capable readers, the Elsternwick Campus Library runs a literary extension program where Year 7 and 8 students engage in university-style discussions about sci-fi, dystopian novels and more.
Books are thoughtfully selected by Faculty Coordinator and English teacher Mrs Hazell, and students read at their own pace before coming together. The students relish the deep discussions about literature and it’s a wonderful celebration of curiosity, critical thinking and sharing a story.
At Wesley, we recognise the importance of literacy and nurturing a love of learning from an early age. These innovative programs spark students’ curiosity and nurture their interest, encouraging them to keep reading and keep learning!
