LAP - Learning Assistance Program

Creating new links between students, parents, teachers and the wider community

What is LAP?

The Learning Assistance Program (LAP) is a student-centred program providing individual support for students through positive parent and community participation.

Trained volunteers, in partnership with teaching staff, work with students on a one-to-one basis for one regular session of approximately 45 minutes each week.

Which students benefit from LAP?

Any student who would benefit from one-to-one time. Students of all ages and at all year levels take part. Students who lack confidence in themselves and their abilities. The withdrawn child who finds difficulty in relating to peers and/or adults.

The reluctant learner, who repeatedly falls behind with class work. More able students who need extension and support. Students with English as a second language.

Who are the Volunteers?

The volunteer may be a parent, grand-parent, member of local or neighbouring congregation, member of the local community. They become a friend and mentor for the student and participate and share in the challenge and excitement of a student's learning.

Volunteers have the opportunity to communicate a sense of value, friendship and personal worth to help their student feel special.

How does LAP work?

The LAP program at Good Shepherd is run by our Pastoral Care Team with support from our Assistant Principal. The Pastoral Care Team takes responsibility for the administrative aspects of the program, recruits volunteers to work with students, matching the interests and abilities of both, and helps volunteers plan programs for students' learning.

What is required of a LAP Volunteer?

The roles and responsibilities of LAP volunteers can be summarised in the six C's of LAP

CARE, have a genuine interest in children.
COMMUNICATION, be prepared to listen attentively, be willing to get to know the student.
CONTENT, be prepared to spend time planning activities with the Pastoral Care Team and teaching staff.
CONFIDENTIALITY, recognise the privilege you have working with the student.
COMMITMENT, have the time to make a genuine and realistic commitment to the program.
COOPERATION, be prepared to work with teachers as partners to provided support and assistance for students.


Does LAP make a difference?

Lap has helped me feel happier and more secure at School. I have more confidence to try different challenges. - Year 3 student

I would say that LAP has changed my life, and also changed the way I think. I've been with Pa for many years and he has helped me from there. LAP is special to me." - Year 6 student