English
English is an integral part of all areas of the curriculum. The English program at Apollo Parkways Primary School aims to develop student's thinking, speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. Typically the language session begins with a whole class focus and shared activity, often including the teacher modelling reading and writing skills to the students. Following this children work in small groups where they practise and consolidate their own skills. Lessons conclude with a sharing of the children's learning. 
Students are exposed to a variety of texts during the literacy session that foster enjoyment, purpose, understanding and confidence. The library is a key facility in supporting the literacy program. It houses many resources to assist the children in developing their language and research skills. Students have the opportunity to borrow books during their library sessions.
Early Years Literacy
The Early Years Literacy Program is a strategic and comprehensive approach to teaching English based on the recognition that all students should succeed in literacy by the end of their third year of schooling. In Prep to Grade 4 classrooms, students work in small groups of like needs during structured reading and writing sessions. Reading texts, and reading and writing activities are matched to the student's individual learning needs.
Assessment
Assessment may take the form of anecdotal records, work samples or formal tests. It is ongoing and informs teachers about students' progress and their learning needs.
Students are assessed for school reports in June and December.
DEECD requirements include the participation of Grade 3 & 5 students in NAPLAN (National Assessment Program Literacy & Numeracy). Results are sent to the student's parent/s.
Students in Grades 3 - 6 also have the opportunity to take part in the International Competition & Assessment for Schools - English
Home Reading
Regular home reading is expected at all levels of the school with parents playing a vital role in laying the foundations for learning to read. Home reading gives children the opportunity to practise and demonstrate their reading skills to others. The selection of appropriate material for this purpose is vital. In Prep - Grade 3 students select take home books from a range of texts provided in the classroom. These books are matched to the student's reading level to provide them with a balance between necessary support and small challenges. In Grades 4 - 6 students borrow take home books from the school library, regional library or use other suitable material. Students in all grades have a Home Reading Diary or Communication Diary, where they enter the reading they have completed at home. The student's class teacher checks these diaries on a regular basis.
Parental Involvement
Parental involvement is highly valued at all levels of the school both in assisting children at home and as classroom helpers. Many parents work in the classrooms to support students, either individually or in small groups, in the reading and writing programs. Classroom Helpers programs are offered to provide parents with skills to assist their children with reading, writing and spelling, at home and also in the classroom.
English is an integral part of all areas of the curriculum. The English program at Apollo Parkways Primary School aims to develop student's thinking, speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. Typically the language session begins with a whole class focus and shared activity, often including the teacher modelling reading and writing skills to the students. Following this children work in small groups where they practise and consolidate their own skills. Lessons conclude with a sharing of the children's learning.
Students are exposed to a variety of texts during the literacy session that foster enjoyment, purpose, understanding and confidence. The library is a key facility in supporting the literacy program. It houses many resources to assist the children in developing their language and research skills. Students have the opportunity to borrow books during their library sessions.
Additional Assistance Programs
The following programs target students needing additional assistance with their literacy learning: