Introduction

The Better Start Literacy Approach is an example of a structured literacy teaching approach. Professor Gail Gillon and Professor Brigid McNeill led the development of this approach through a series of controlled research trials. This development was supported by a team of researchers and practitioners  across the disciplines of education, psychology, speech-language therapy. Leaders in Māori and Pacific education as well as community indigenous (Māori) leaders influenced its development to ensure culturally responsive teaching practices are embedded within the approach.

Data indicating the effectiveness of this approach for children aged 5-7 years led to a national implementation of the approach. A team of researchers and practitioners have contributed to the extension of the approach across the primary school years.

BSLA is a comprehensive approach set within a strengths-based and inclusive framework. It includes novel online monitoring assessments, quality teaching resources, lesson plans and activities, and activities to engage children’s whānau (family) in their children’s learning.