Amber-Rose has come from Mairehau High School and this year is her first year being at Ko Taku Reo. Amber-Rose has been attending both mainstream and homeroom classes.

This year, I started at Ko Taku Reo as a day student based at Hagley College. At the start of the year, I didn’t know much NZSL because I wasn’t involved with Ko Taku Reo and I only knew the basic signs like the alphabet. Now since I started at Ko Taku Reo, my signing has improved, and I have a better understanding in signing now.

It’s been such a great year at Hagley and Ko Taku Reo. I love all my teachers and teacher aides who have been helpful to me this year. I’ve met a lot of new people and some amazing friends.

Thursday morning is my favourite part of the week because I have hospitality and I enjoy cooking a variety of foods and teasing another staff, Al.

Hopefully, I will keep on learning sign language for the rest of my life. I hope everyone has a great Christmas and a happy holiday.