Duffy Books In Homes Programme
Melville Primary School is lucky enough to be a Duffy Books in Homes School.
Some 15 years ago the author Alan Duff was very concerned that low socio economic families did not have access to books and therefore children's learning was being disadvantaged. He grew up in such a home but the difference was that books were a precious taonga in his home and were shared, read and discussed with all in the family. Alan campaigned to begin the Duffy Books in Homes Programme to change this.
Melville Primary School is generously sponsored by Scholastic NZ the number one children's book publishers in NZ and supplemented by a BOT contribution.
This means that every child in our school receives up to 8 self-chosen books a year to keep as their very own and to read and share with all in their family.
At each Whole School Assembly we have a Caught Being Good Award and a Principals award given for virtues behaviour, academic learning progress and being a striving for the highest Melvi learner. Awardees receive a special certificate and a book.
The Duffy Books in Homes Programme has a number of role models who visit school assemblies talking to the children about their experiences in being an elite academic, scientist, sports person, actor, singer, artist, dancer or storyteller. All these people talk about how books and reading got them to where they are today.
The Duffy Books in Homes Programme also has a Theatre Group who visit schools giving a performance which reinforces reading, books, virtues and values. We also have the opportunity through the programme to honour a mum, a dad and a grandparent from our school during the year.
Kids At Home ProgrammeYour school children may bring home a book for your pre-schoolers on their birthday. See the office staff about registering your pre-schoolers name to be included in this programme.
When you have a book you have a friend.A book can entertain you, take you to an imaginary land or grow your knowledge of the world and how it works.