Mount Waverley North Primary School acknowledges that active and effective participation in Australian society and the global community depends on the ability to think, listen, speak, read, view and write with confidence, purpose and enjoyment in a wide range of contexts. The study of English, and the broader concept of literacy, is about the appropriate and effective use of language, the use of language as a means of learning and the development of knowledge about language. Through language use, students convey and discover information, work through ideas and express feelings. Students learn how language works and how to use it appropriately.

Literacy is integrally related to learning in all areas of the curriculum, and enables all students to develop knowledge and understanding.

During 2008, teachers participated in extensive professional development in literacy, with an emphasis on oral language and student engagement. This has provided a basis for developing a whole school approach to literacy. In 2009 teachers will take part in further professional development in Literacy skills, especially the area of reading comprehension. Classroom workshops will also be conducted for teachers to enable them to further enhance Literacy programs.

The Early Years Literacy Program is implemented Prep – Year 4 to cater for the learning needs of young students, whilst in the Middle Years – Years 5 and 6, teaching strategies are used to challenge and extend students within a supportive environment. Learning is relevant to the needs of all students, builds on previous learning and the varied learning styles of students. Intervention and extension programs and ESL (English as a Second Language) focus on students with specific learning needs.

The school also promotes State and National programs such as the Premier’s Reading Challenge, Book Week and Literacy Week.