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Otago Grows!
 
Video by Ko Taku Reo Deaf Education NZ

Otago Grows!

Deborah Warren - Outreach Team Lead - Otago —

2023 has been a year of growth for our students, staff, Playgroup and Day School.

Otago Outreach teachers worked hard to grow the skills and knowledge of our learners. Children between the ages of 3 and 16 in Otago have received innovative support to enhance their language, literacy, numeracy, and social skills. Students enjoyed two amazing Keep In Touch (KIT) Days - Art Gallery and Museum in Dunedin and Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell, the first Central Otago KIT Day. 

John is learning how to safely interact with a dog.

Online learning has been a huge learning curve for Otago teachers this year. Four teachers have participated in professional learning and taught groups of students in Auckland via Zoom. IT skills learned through this trial will benefit our local students.

Online Teaching Lesson Year 4 to 6 girls

Dunedin Day School 2023 has concluded a remarkable and successful year with students fully engaged in diverse activities, developing their NZSL, and honing their research skills. The school has fostered strong relationships among its community, empowering students to improve their self-management skills. It has been a year of growth and achievement, setting a bright path for all involved.   

The Dunedin Playgroup is in its second year, and we have enjoyed growing as a community. We receive support from visiting professionals who have integrated into the Playgroup community, establishing connections with families and imparting their expertise. The children enjoy the routine of stories, songs, and games and exploring the toys.   

Kolton and Jorgia working on Art at Day School

And finally, at the end of 2022, an Otago student was recognised by Deaf Children New Zealand: Logan Cooper was awarded the Year 10 Zis Lurajud Cup Award for diligently working independently on the pre-NCEA NZSL online course. Well done, Logan! We are all proud of you.

Logan is awarded the Deaf Children New Zealand Year 10 Zis Lurajud Cup Award by Miggy Javier Dec 2022