It's been a busy term in Wellington! See how our learners demonstrated growth during the recent KIT Day

Our KIT Day Kai provided the perfect opportunity for our learners to grow and show confidence in their identity. We started the day by foraging for vegetables in the school gardens before returning to our classroom to peel and prep in groups. We took turns before adding the vegetables to our big boil-up pots. We decided fried bread and doughboys were the perfect accompaniment for our boil-up, so we got busy preparing these as well. It was a fun day with opportunities to connect with fellow learners. One of our students, Wiki, has done some beautiful writing to share her experience.

Wiki's experience

KIT Day is a Deaf community where Deaf students gather together with excitement and entertainment. 26 May 2022, my first return to KIT Day in nearly two and a half years.

It was my first role of being a helper for KIT Day. We had boil-up and fried bread for KIT Day Kai, YUM!

Jane and I arrived at the destination at sunrise, very early. We were the people to set up the day, and we even had a helper, Polly.

We were bringing items and kai inside the area to prepare the place; we tried to make it look as presentable as possible.

Starting the day was nerve-wracking and exciting, seeing countless young students in a single room. We reviewed the rules and a cooking video and then introduced the room. I felt shy but welcomed when Jane mentioned my name to thank me for joining; everyone waved their hands in the air. I was able to sign/speak to multiple kids during our group gathering. I felt responsible with pride when paying attention to the kids and guiding the students with cutting the vegetables.

I was in charge of frying the bread; it was a patient and simple job. I got praise from many Teachers and helpers; it gave me confidence in my cooking. I enjoyed my time as I had laughter and smiles throughout the day. I captured some photographs of the Teachers serving the students' boil-up, which was lovely to watch. If your wondering, the boil-up was delicious!! I even had a second bowl, haha.

I had declined to go to KIT Day for the past two and a half years until the recent KIT Day Kai. I honestly enjoyed my time there, especially being involved with the helpers.

I saw some of my past Deaf Teachers that I was able to catch up with, and it was beautiful to catch up with some people who helped me during my childhood.

I was given some appreciation from some kids, it was very sweet. It was heartwarming talking to the kids and interacting with them.

As someone who isn't fully Deaf and professionally trained in sign language, I could express my disability openly—even getting more knowledge of new signs. That day gave me the courage that being Deaf is enjoyable and amazing.

I surely want to learn more sign language after that KIT Day. I would love to go to another KIT Day, and my fry bread will be better and the best!

Thanks to Jane for persuading me multiple times to come along.

Wiki Kahui-Katene
Age 15