Grattan Institute Reading Guarantee Report: Leading SA Girls’ School Turns a Page with Advanced Reading Outcomes
This week, the Grattan Institute released a damning report finding that Australia is in the midst of a reading crisis. Just 12 percent of Australian 15-year-olds can read at an advanced level, but Loreto College Marryatville in South Australia is leading the way in instilling advanced reading skills among all their students.
Loreto College Principal, Kylie McCullah said the students develop a love for reading fostered by its innovative multi-faceted literacy program.
“A strong emphasis is placed on instilling advanced reading skills among all students, ensuring a solid foundation for lifelong learning. We let the results speak for themselves,” she said.
The school’s 2023 NAPLAN reading outcomes have been described as well above the average when compared to other schools across Australia.
Loreto College’s results in the 2023 SACE program for English saw 60 percent of students achieving an A compared with 39 percent across the state.
In English Literary Studies 100 percent of all Loreto students studying the course attained an A compared with 45 percent across South Australia.
“These achievements are a testament to the school's dedication and investment in literacy development, with a multi-faceted program in place designed to progressively challenge students, incorporating diverse and engaging reading materials that cater to various interests and skill levels.” McCullah explained.
The provisions in place to support students with reading begin from the moment they enter the school.
“Loreto College provides targeted interventions for those who may require extra support, ensuring that every student receives the necessary resources to thrive in their reading journey,” McCullah said.
The Grattan Institute advised the Catholic education systems and independent schools should commit to a six-step reading guarantee, including a pledge that at least 90 percent of students should be proficient readers. Loreto College Marryatville has already turned a page when it comes to advanced reading proficiency.
About Loreto College
Loreto College Marryatville is South Australia’s leading all-girls day and boarding school, catering for students from Early Learning to Year 12.
Established in 1905, a Loreto education is built on a 400-year-old tradition first inspired by the founder of Loreto schools worldwide, Mary Ward, and encapsulates her beliefs in delivering an education that inspires strong, passionate, and confident girls and young women.
In delivering this view, Loreto College Marryatville provides girls with a well-rounded education where students are presented with a broad range of opportunities and given the support and encouragement to become confident and engaged learners with the knowledge and skills to make a difference in their world.
About Loreto College Principal, Kylie McCullah
With over 20 years of experience in Sydney’s independent school sector, Ms McCullah is committed to finding new opportunities that will broaden learning experiences and prepare and position Loreto students for the world they will both contribute to and lead.
Ms. McCullah holds a Bachelor of Secondary Education, a Master of Education, and a Certificate of Gifted Education, and has presented at several educational conferences. Most recently, the 2023 International Coalition of Girls’ Schools conference held in Cleveland, USA. She has also contributed to several educational publications, including a published interview with Australian Financial Review, which discussed the increase in demand for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects.
Ms McCullah is passionate about ensuring students develop the skills to succeed in a fast-changing, technology-driven world.
Shannon Muscolino