3 June 2026

Kia ora Parents/Caregivers

Oral Assessment Programme Year 3 – Year 8 

Our school is pleased to announce our students will again have the opportunity to participate in the oral assessment programme prepared by the New Zealand Speech Board.  The aim is to increase children’s communication skills, culminating in a friendly and relaxed assessment at the end of the unit of work.  This programme specifically meets the needs of the new English curriculum. Some of the areas covered are preparing and presenting a talk, creative drama, storytelling and developing discussion skills through a range of stimulating activities.

The oral assessment programme will be running in all the classrooms and all children will be involved.  Although the actual assessment at the completion of work is optional, it does give the children a wonderful sense of accomplishment as well as a goal to work towards.

A qualified Speech and Drama Assessor conducts the assessment in a supportive environment with small groups of children. Assessments will take place at school during the second week of term three.  Each student will receive a report based on their presentation and a certificate. Successful students will also receive a NZSB badge.

This assessment is beneficial to all children.  Those who are confident communicators will be extended and challenged while those who lack confidence will develop their skills and gain further self-esteem.

There is a cost for sitting the exam, which covers assessment fees, examiners travel and the badge. Below is a list of the fees for each level.

   Year 3 - Karaka
Introductory / Karaka
$46.00
Year 4 - Kowhai
Advanced Introductory / Kowhai
$53.00
Year 5 - Kakariki
Elementary / Kakariki
$60.00
Year 6 - Kikorangi
Advanced Elementary / Kikorangi
$67.00
Year 7 - Kahurangi
Junior / Kahurangi
$73.00
Year 8 - Waiporoporo
Advanced Junior / Waiporoporo
$79.00

These exams will take place at school on the week commencing  27 July (exact date is yet to be confirmed). Please complete the permissions on Skool Loop or email the school office@stpatricksgm.school.nz  Entries close on Thursday 12 June 2026. Payment of the examination fee is to be made directly to the school bank account 12-3168-0043139-02 or to the school office.  No late entries will be accepted. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any queries or concerns.

    We thoroughly recommend this most worthwhile programme and assessment.

    Ngā mihi 

    Ian Johnson

    Principal

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