This year has flown by with many new initiatives across the Enrolled School. As Head of the Enrolled School, I take pride in reflecting on the work and opportunities our ākonga have experienced this year. I am proud of the creativity, success, and accomplishments our students have achieved this year.

We have implemented a new 'Towards Independence programme' for our senior students in the Enrolled school. This new initiative supports our students as they transition into, between, and beyond. Seeing this initiative in action is exciting, offering our students valuable work experience opportunities at Hagley and Tū Kōkiri, building relationships with partner school careers advisors, and connecting with Geneva Health and Deaf Aotearoa. Our senior students also had the chance to attend Career Expos in Christchurch and Auckland.

We are also very excited about announcing our new partnership with Tawa College, which will provide bilingual education options for secondary Deaf and hard of hearing learners in Wellington starting in 2025. The Ministry of Education has supported us in establishing this relationship and securing space at Tawa College. We've diligently prepared for our Year 9 and 10 students to attend next year.

One of the highlights this year was the Toi Turi Youth Theatre project. This project was led by Deaf staff and students who crafted a storyline that highlighted Deaf culture and sign language through drama. Students have been empowered to lead and share their creations at the art showcase, celebrating cultural identity through Arts, NZSL Week, and the Matariki event.

As a school, we gather every term for our National School Hui, where we connect across Ko Taku Reo provisions in Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington. This event provides an opportunity to share and celebrate our students' learning successes and achievements. Each provision showcases their students' incredible work, reflecting our core values of Belong, Grow, Choose, and Excel. Students are recognised with awards for attendance, achievement, and academic progress.

A heartfelt thank you to the Enrolled School leadership team, support staff, and teachers for their dedication to ensuring our students feel successful, with a sense of belonging and pride in their identity as Deaf individuals at Ko Taku Reo Enrolled School.

We look forward to more exciting school events and planning for next year. Best wishes to everyone for a safe and happy holiday, and we look forward to reconnecting again in the New Year!

Ngā mihi nui
Lisa Sharman

Head of Enrolled School