The following work has not been edited to maintain the authenticity of our learner's voice.

Kia ora, my name is Holden,

So, this is my last term here at Ko Taku Reo and the village. Thank you to the Ko Taku Reo village staff and teachers for all the support they've given me. I've been here a long time, it's been 7 years, well it will be 7 years by the time I leave.

I remember I started here when I was 11. I remember seeing lots of role models, students and adults. I was so young and naive. It's been a good thing for me, that I moved here. I've learned a lot. I'm thankful to my Mum who helped me to move here.

I've learned a lot, and I have dreams for my future and have been thinking about work. This has been the first place I have been surrounded by Deaf people, here in the village, and that has had a big impact on me.