Literacy Hutt
Literacy with heart.
Teach the skill · Build the confidence · Celebrate the child
Structured 1:1 literacy intervention for children who find reading, spelling and writing hard.
"Where young minds grow…"
— About —
As a specialist literacy educator and teaching assistant, I have spent years working alongside students who often find learning hard. I have seen how literacy difficulties can affect not only academic achievement but also self-esteem and participation in the classroom.
At Literacy Hutt, I believe successful literacy intervention is about more than teaching reading and spelling. Children need explicit instruction, confidence in their abilities, and someone who genuinely believes in them.
Through structured literacy with heart, my goal is to help children develop the skills they need while rediscovering confidence in themselves as learners.
"The name Literacy Hutt reflects both my home in the Hutt Valley and my roots in KwaZulu-Natal. A Zulu hut is a place of shelter, belonging and community — those values shape my work with children every day."
— The approach —
Three simple principles, woven into every session.
Teach the Skill
Evidence-based structured literacy instruction in reading, spelling, writing and language — the skills children need to succeed.
Build the Confidence
Encouragement, achievable goals and positive learning experiences that help students rebuild belief in themselves as learners.
Celebrate the Child
Every learner has strengths, interests and a personality worth knowing. Children leave feeling valued, capable and supported.
— Tutoring options —
Find the format that fits your family.
In-school 1:1 tutoring
Specialist sessions during school hours, working alongside your child's classroom learning.
After-school in-home
1:1 or buddy sessions in the comfort of your home — flexible to suit family life.
Online 1:1 tutoring
Structured online sessions for families who want the flexibility of learning from anywhere.
— Meet your tutor —
Lauren Staats
MSL-qualified Specialist Educator & Teacher Aide
Hi, I'm Lauren, the literacy specialist behind Literacy Hutt.
As an MSL-qualified Specialist Educator currently completing AMADA accreditation, a mum of two boys, and a Teacher Aide with seven years of experience in New Zealand schools, I have dedicated my career to supporting children who find learning, particularly literacy, more challenging than their peers.
I understand how worrying it can be when your child is struggling with reading, writing, or keeping up with school expectations. Whether you've recently received a diagnosis, suspect your child may have dyslexia, or simply feel unsure about where to turn for support, you're not alone.
My goal is to provide structured, evidence-based literacy instruction in a supportive and encouraging environment. Working one-to-one and in buddy groups, I help children develop essential literacy skills while building confidence, resilience, and a positive belief in their own abilities.
Teach the skill. Build the confidence. Celebrate the child.
— Get in touch —
Tell me a little about your child and what you'd like support with. I'll be in touch to arrange a relaxed, no-pressure chat. The first consultation is free.