Lisa-Maree, Ria, Chami and Rose previous Reader / Writers for SGHS
Rotary Club of Invercargill’s partnership with Southland Girls High school (SGHS) over the years has provided many opportunities to “Unite for Good”
One of the most impactful ways we’ve supported SGHS is through our involvement with students who qualify for Special Assessment Conditions (SAC) during their New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) exams.
These students face learning challenges that can make exam conditions especially difficult. With the help of a Reader and/or Writer, they’re given the support they need to complete their assessment. A Reader reads the exam questions aloud, while a Writer records the student’s spoken answers—simple tasks that make a difference.
Education is one of Rotary International’s seven areas of focus, and this initiative reflects our Club’s commitment to empowering young people through learning.
This November, SGHS has once again invited our Club to assist with Reader/Writer support for their end-of-year exams.
We’re calling on volunteers—Club members, and / or anyone you may know of know of that wants to support our community.
If you can spare a few hours, you’ll be helping young people directly with their education.
A Twofold Benefit
Not only does this initiative provide direct, in-person support to students, but it also serves as a fundraising opportunity. Each Reader/Writer receives a payment per exam, and members have previously chosen to donate the payment back to the Club.
In previous years, these donations supported the Rotary Give Every Child A Future (RGECAF) campaign, helping fund 100 life-saving vaccines in celebration of Rotary’s 100th year.
2025 Exam Dates
- Monday 10 November: 1.45 pm – 5.00 pm
- Tuesday 11 November: 9.15 am – 12.30 pm
- Thursday 13 November: 9.15 am – 12.30 pm
- Wednesday 26 November: 1.45 pm – 5.00 pm
Please note you can volunteer to do just one exam, one time or be available to help with more than one.
What’s Involved
Subject knowledge is not required. All that’s required is the ability to read exam questions clearly and, if needed, write down the student’s answers. Most support will focus on reading, but needs may vary slightly per student. A one-hour training session with SGHS’s SENCO (Specialist Educational Needs Coordinator) will be provided to ensure volunteers feel confident and prepared.
Volunteers must complete an application form and undergo Police vetting. Lisa-Maree is coordinating the documentation and is happy to assist with any questions.
Can you help, know someone who might be able to help or want more information?
Please contact Lisa-Maree on 027 2304 611 or email: lmfkjs@xtra.co.nz.
For more information on Reader/Writer support, visit NZQA’s official page.