Introduction to the PLD
The aim of the Years 9–10 English Learning Area PLD is to build kaiako capability and confidence to design and teach Phase 4 of the curriculum through explicit, coherent and sequenced instruction.
Through connected in-depth workshops and supporting webinars, kaiako will strengthen their understanding of language as designed meaning, develop effective approaches to teaching Language studies and Text studies, and apply practical strategies that reduce cognitive load while lifting expectations towards secondary learning.
The PLD supports kaiako to design rich, inclusive learning experiences that enable ākonga to engage in the English Learning Area at their appropriate year level.
Eligibility Criteria
This PLD is available to teachers working in Phase 4 of the curriculum in State and State Integrated Schools.
Heads of department, senior leadership and staff involved in English are welcome to attend. However, the primary focus of this PLD is for teachers of Year 9 and 10 students, including those who teach English alongside another subject specialisation.
Teacher Release Day Funding
Teacher release funding will be provided for workshop attendees. This contribution will be made directly to schools the following Term after the workshop.
Note: TRD funding applies only to participants of the workshop.
Structure of the PLD
The English Learning Area for Years 9-10 PLD is organised into two in-depth workshops that build teacher capability in a progressive and connected way. Each workshop blends theory, modelling, practical strategies, and opportunities for collaboration so that kaiako can confidently apply new learning in their classrooms.
Workshop 1:
Level Up: The Move from Phase 3 to Phase 4
Participants will explore the science of learning, text requirements, and supporting materials.
A deep dive into each strand, followed by a focus on weaving them together in practice.
Workshop 2:
Evidence in Action: Informing Judgement and Responsive Teaching
Roadmap for Day 2:
Making informed decisions and professional judgements.
Analysing student work against curriculum expectations.
Developing the Language of Evidence.
Understanding Ministry of Education documentation and language used to measure progress.
All participants will also receive a resource pack including planning guides, analysis maps, checklists, overviews, graphic organisers, and sentence stems.
Webinars:
Participants will explore each listed topic from an English curriculum perspective. Teachers will have the chance to reflect on their own practice and think about what they may like to strengthen. Each webinar includes a relevant takeaway resource.
Topic list
- Unpacking the Text Specifications
- Structuring an English lesson
- Unpacking specific text forms
- Oral Communication
- Media and Digital Awareness
- Accelerative teaching approaches
- Assessment for learning
Delivery of the PLD
Please note, guided workshops and webinars have concluded for 2026. However, both workshops and webinars remain available on demand for groups of 20 or more participants.
If you are interested in attending a workshop in Term 4, please complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) form. If you are submitting an EOI on behalf of a group, please include the proposed number of participants in the 'Other Feedback' field.
Webinars are also available on request. To express interest in a webinar, please complete the EOI form and enter 'remote' in the 'Other Location' field. In the 'Other Feedback' field, please specify the title of the webinar you wish to attend.