For nearly 20 years, a simple 15-minute shared reading routine in the staffroom at May Road School has been changing lives - one book at a time. Through one-on-one reading sessions, students aren't just improving their literacy; they're building trusted relationships, boosting their confidence, and experiencing the simple joy of storytelling.

One volunteer, Vikki, describes the RAP programme as “15 minutes of joy” where students read, talk and “sit in their bubble, where they can do their thing and not worry about anyone else”. 

May Road School Deputy Principal, Auvasa Auva'a-Key says each session promotes oral language skills and emotional intelligence where students have opportunities to talk and converse with adults. 

Another important element the volunteers provide is promoting reading for enjoyment. According to research, the most powerful predictor of reading fluency is "how often a child is read books aloud". May Road School has developed and sustained the RAP programme because it knows its learners and is intentional about building school-community connections. 

Kāinga Ora staff working within the Roskill South housing development volunteer with this team. Being part of the RAP programme is a great opportunity to strengthen relationships within the community and the rewards ultimately go both ways. What starts as a small donation of time often turns into deep community connections, with volunteers becoming a cherished part of the May Road School family.

May Road School is always looking for new volunteers to keep this programme thriving. Reach out directly to the school if you're interested.