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Ko Taku Reo - Deaf Education New Zealand

Yearbook 2023

Welcome to our 2023 Online Yearbook

Use the tags or article index at the top right corner of this page to browse. Once you've chosen an article, click back on tags, article index or go to the top left-hand corner and click on the school's logo. This will take you back to the main menu where you can select your next article.

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We hope you enjoy viewing our 2023 memories of Ko Taku Reo - Deaf Education NZ.


To keep the authenticity of our learners' voices, we have not edited their work.

For a PDF version, click to view and download.

Contents

Video: Message from the Acting Executive Principal

Message from the Acting Executive Principal

by Denise Powell - Acting Executive Principal

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Video: Message from the Commissioner

Message from the Commissioner

by Mike Rondel - Commissioner

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Video: From the Director of Education Services

From the Director of Education Services

by Ginny Neal - Director of Education Services (Acting)

A yearbook is a collection of memories summarising a year of outstanding accomplishments and inspiring moments. We are celebrating our students' achievements and the support of our entire learning community.

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Video: The Power of Early Years - Setting the Foundations for Lifelong Success!

The Power of Early Years - Setting the Foundations for Lifelong Success!

by Sarah de Heer - Senior Leader Planning and Engagement

The Early Years teams at Ko Taku Reo are starting to step up their work with our youngest learners and the support they can offer by sharing practice with the wider Ko Taku Reo teaching teams.

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Video: Unforgettable Moments from Recent Māori Events

Unforgettable Moments from Recent Māori Events

by Kathie Rifle - Māori Strategic Lead

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Video: Another Year of Delightful Moments and Achievements

Another Year of Delightful Moments and Achievements

by Holly Laurin - Teacher Aide of the Deaf

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Video: NZSL Tutor Team Inspires, Innovates, and Transforms

NZSL Tutor Team Inspires, Innovates, and Transforms

by NZSL Tutor Co Leads

Making connections through New Zealand Sign Language.

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Video: Keep in Touch Days for Stronger Bonds and Lasting Relationships!

Keep in Touch Days for Stronger Bonds and Lasting Relationships!

by Waikato East and West Teams

Making new friends and having new experiences are always a highlight of Keep in Touch (KIT) Days.

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Video: Christchurch Connections at Our Keep in Touch Day

Christchurch Connections at Our Keep in Touch Day

by Christchurch Sumner Team

A chance to have a new experience, to learn, laugh and communicate, what a wonderful day!

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Video: The Power of Friendship on our Journey to Happiness

The Power of Friendship on our Journey to Happiness

by North Shore Outreach

Genuine friends exchanged radiant smiles.

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Video: Connecting at the Regional Rūaumoko Hui

Connecting at the Regional Rūaumoko Hui

by Jenni Boulton - Resource Teacher of the Deaf and Judith Sosich - Outreach Team Lead and Lara Shakelton

In the heart of Rūaumoko Marae, two extraordinary days unfolded, where eager learners from across the region converged to gain knowledge, forge connections, discover their sense of belonging, and revel in moments of pure joy.

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Video: Rosie Takes Centre Stage

Rosie Takes Centre Stage

by Tanisha - Student

Hagley College unveils an unforgettable drama performance in Term 3, 2023.

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Video: World of 'Fantasy Farmyard' at My Art Gallery

World of 'Fantasy Farmyard' at My Art Gallery

by Liberty - Student

Figures of our Fantasies come to life at my Art Gallery's mesmerising Fantasy Farmyard exhibit.

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Video: Unleashing Creativity Through Fun and Innovation

Unleashing Creativity Through Fun and Innovation

by Kiean - Student

My successes during 2023 at Hagley Provision.

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Video: Asinate Culinary Skills at Hagley Provision

Asinate Culinary Skills at Hagley Provision

by Asinate - Student

Unlocking Asinate's Inner Master Chef.

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Video: Amber-Rose's Unforgettable Chapter at Hagley

Amber-Rose's Unforgettable Chapter at Hagley

by Amber-Rose - Student

As the final page turns on my chapter at Hagley Provision and Ko Taku Reo, I reflect on the journey that has shaped my past and ignited the flame of an unwritten future.

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Video: Aimee's Dazzling Digital Designs Transform Hagley Provision in 2023!

Aimee's Dazzling Digital Designs Transform Hagley Provision in 2023!

by Aimee - Student

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Video: Reflecting on Our Year at the Auckland Residential Campus

Reflecting on Our Year at the Auckland Residential Campus

by Susan Thomas - Residential Youth Worker

We have had a busy year at the Auckland Residence with many fun activities and have been developing NZSL communication skills, confidence and friendships.

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Video: Dylan's Journey to Hiki Ake

Dylan's Journey to Hiki Ake

by South Auckland Team and Dylan - Student

In the tapestry of challenges, one learner's triumph becomes a resounding anthem of success, echoing through the generations and marking a historic first for his whānau.

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Video: Manawere Embraces Connection and Inspiration at Keep in Touch Day

Manawahe Embraces Connection and Inspiration at Keep in Touch Day

by Students - Teams from Whakatane, Kawerau & Ōpōtiki

After a fantastic time at Manawahe Eco Trust, our students wanted to share their experiences!

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Video: Step Inside the Classroom that Nurtures Freedom and Independence!

Step Inside the Classroom that Nurtures Freedom and Independence!

by Chris Sinclair - Teacher of the Deaf and Tū Kōkiri Provision

Dive into a transformative journey with Tū Kōkiri, where endless opportunities meet essential life skills, shaping a future of boundless potential.

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Video: Celebrating Tairawhiti ki Wairoa

Celebrating Tairawhiti ki Wairoa

by Tairāwhiti ki Wairoa (Gisborne) Team

Whāia te mātauranga hei oranga mō koutou - If you follow the path of learning, the world will be your oyster.

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Video: A Celebration of a Talented Tongan Artist's

A Celebration of a Talented Tongan Artist

by Jan Butters - Resource Teacher of the Deaf (Hawke's Bay)

Molini, a student in Year 13 at Hastings Girls' High, breathes life into her art, weaving a vivid narrative of her Tongan heritage through the strokes of her paintbrush and the intricacies of her printmaking.

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Video: Mathletics Champion- Small School, Big Achievements!

Mathletics Champion: Small School, Big Achievements!

by Jan Butters - Resource Teacher of the Deaf (Outreach Hawke's Bay)

In a triumph of determination and brilliance, Micah, a Year 7 student enrolled in the Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS) at Eskdale School in Hawke’s Bay, has become the pride of the community.

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Video: A Year of Thriving at the Christchurch Residence

A Year of Thriving at the Christchurch Residence

by Roger Wyrill - Residential Team Leader

This year, the Christchurch residence has been bustling with activity as our 12 students have engaged in numerous enjoyable activities and experienced significant learning opportunities.

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Video: Hawke's Bay Gathers for a 'My Kitchen Rules' Extravaganza at Keep in Touch Day!

Hawke's Bay Gathers for a 'My Kitchen Rules' Extravaganza at Keep in Touch Day!

by Lachlan Laing - Student

Students from Years 4-10 were invited to participate in our 'My Kitchen Rules' Keep in Touch (KIT) Day, where everyone was challenged to make and create the best pizza.

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Video: NZSL@School Student Secures 3rd Place in Interschool Speech Finals

NZSL@School Student Secures 3rd Place in Interschool Speech Finals

by Rakena Brightwell - Student and Penny Ireland - Resource Teacher of the Deaf

Rakena is a Year 5 NZSL@School student at Ebbett Park School from Hawke’s Bay who represented his school at the Interschool Speech competitions in Hastings.

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Video: Woodford House's Poster Girl Extraordinaire

Woodford House's Poster Girl Extraordinaire

by Millie Read - Student

Stepping into the spotlight, Millie, a Year 12 student, found herself at the forefront of her school's identity, gracing the new billboards that proudly showcased Woodford House School to the world.

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Video: Empowering Youth to Discover and Embrace their Leadership Qualities

Empowering Youth to Discover and Embrace their Leadership Qualities

by Daniel Greenwood - Deputy Head of Enrolled School

During Youth Week 2023, we held a Leadership workshop for our students in Auckland and Christchurch.

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Video: Vocational Pathways at Massey High for a Bright Tomorrow!

Vocational Pathways at Massey High for a Bright Tomorrow!

by Daniel Greenwood - Deputy Head of Enrolled School

One student completed an NCEA vocational student pathway this year at Massey High School's Trades Academy. This pathway is designed to support students with a tertiary qualification, leading to employment or an apprenticeship.

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Immersion Hui - Zilon

Student Immersion Hui Experience!

by Zilon and Talib - Students (Wellington East and Wellington Central)

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Video: Atarangi's Dream Day

Atarangi's Dream Day

by Wellington East and Wellington Central

Embark on an unforgettable journey as we follow a student's Dream Day in Auckland, where curiosity meets culture, creating lifelong memories.

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Video: Empowering Connections and Enriching Minds: Wellington NZSL Immersion Day School

Empowering Connections and Enriching Minds: Wellington NZSL Immersion Day School

by Mary Sleep - Provison Lead

At the NZSL Immersion Day School, connecting and learning aren't just activities; they're the heartbeat of our vibrant community, embraced wholeheartedly by every student.

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Video: Strengthening Bonds and Creating Lasting Connections in Southland!

Strengthening Bonds and Creating Lasting Connections in Southland!

by Southland Team

2023 has proved to be another busy year in the Southland region, with lots to learn and do!

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Video: South Canterbury's Hidden Gems - A Spectacle of Talent That Will Leave You in Awe!

South Canterbury's Hidden Gems: A Spectacle of Talent That Will Leave You in Awe!

by South Canterbury Resource Teacher of the Deaf Team

Have you ever wondered how a particular trick or skill is mastered? Students around South Canterbury and Oamaru gathered to showcase their talents and skills and teach each other for our Term 3 Keep in Touch (KIT) Day.

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Video: Get Ready for a Pawsitively Artistic Keep in Touch Day!

Get Ready for a Pawsitively Artistic Keep in Touch Day!

by South Canterbury and Resource Teacher of the Deaf Team

Unlocking creativity, our students showcase their artistic talents as they delve into the world of animal art, guided by the expert hands of Wayne, our dedicated artist-instructor.

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Video: A Steady Pace Wins the Race

A Steady Pace Wins the Race

by Jacqui McIntosh - Team Lead Outreach School & Resource Teacher of the Deaf

That was the phrase Phaegan had running through his mind at this year's cross country.

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Video: Autumn leaves everywhere!

Autumn leaves everywhere!

by Jacqui McIntosh - Team Lead Outreach School & Resource Teacher of the Deaf

Discover the irresistible allure of Autumn through the eyes of Macey, a passionate nature lover from Geraldine, whose heart beats to the rhythm of falling leaves and the cosy embrace of the season.

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Video: Unleash Your Inner Athlete - Run, Jump, Throw – Let the Adventures Begin!

Unleash Your Inner Athlete: Run, Jump, Throw – Let the Adventures Begin!

by Jacqui McIntosh - Team Lead Outreach School & Resource Teacher of the Deaf

Bathed in Ashburton's sun, the open field at the domain came alive, becoming the ideal canvas for a thrilling day of local school athletics.

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Video: Confidence Takes the Stage- Fearless Presenter Steals the Spotlight!

Confidence Takes the Stage: Fearless Presenter Steals the Spotlight!

by Jacqui McIntosh - Team Lead Outreach School & Resource Teacher of the Deaf

With remarkable poise and unwavering confidence, this student defied the norm. She fearlessly delivered her inaugural speech in New Zealand Sign Language, leaving the audience in awe of her extraordinary courage.

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Video: Celebrating Busy Times and Big Achievements!

Celebrating Busy Times and Big Achievements!

by Jacqui McIntosh - Team Lead Outreach School & Resource Teacher of the Deaf

In a remarkable testament to Romy's dedication and talent, she proudly received two well-deserved certificates for her exceptional contributions at Bluestone School in Timaru.

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Video: Slice of Joy: Keep in Touch Day Celebrations at Our Own Pizzeria!

Slice of Joy: Keep in Touch Day Celebrations at Our Own Pizzeria!

by South Canterbury Resource Teacher of the Deaf Team

In the cheesy embrace of pizza, students from South Canterbury and Oamaru found more than just a meal – they discovered a delightful opportunity to connect, communicate, and forge new friendships during Term 1 of this year.

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Video: NZSL Immersion Hui- Cultivating Mana and Connection

NZSL National Immersion Hui: Cultivating Mana and Connection

by Pollyanna Ferguson - Resource Teacher of the Deaf and Sarah Cameron - Resource Teacher of the Deaf

NZSL National Immersion Hui fosters meaningful connections and cultivated mana through immersive experiences.

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Video: Exploring, Learning, and Growing- A Year Full of Fun at Auckland Preschool!

Exploring, Learning, and Growing: A Year Full of Fun at Auckland Preschool!

by Susan Swolfs - Preschool Lead & Auckland Preschool Team

Auckland Preschool is a special place where we welcome new children and their whānau, make friends and get involved in many exciting experiences.

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Video: Growing Connections and Growing Minds at Linden Primary Provision

Growing Connections and Growing Minds at Linden Primary Provision

by Mary Sleep - Provison Lead - Wellington

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Video: Hillmorton High Students Embrace a Year of Positivity and Productivity!

Hillmorton High Students Embrace a Year of Positivity and Productivity!

by Catherine Blakemore - Provisional Lead & Best Practice Lead

It has been another positive year for students and staff in the Ko Taku Reo Deaf Education Hillmorton Provision.

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Video: Northland Team Learners Amaze Us All!

Northland Team Learners Amaze Us All!

by Floyd Reo - Resource Teacher of the Deaf and the Northland Team

Northland Team learners do it again with their creativity, innovation and artwork!

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Video: Otago Keep in Touch Day 2023 Unforgettable Moments!

Otago Keep in Touch Day 2023 Unforgettable Moments!

by Rylee - Student

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Video: Battle of the Houses- Crawford vs. Van Asch - A Friendly Competition!

Battle of the Houses: Crawford vs. Van Asch - A Friendly Competition!

by Alice Buckland - Speech Language Therapist

Term 4 sees the Christchurch Residential Students exploring teamwork, problem-solving, and collaboration!

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Video: Manawatū 2023 Highlights!

Manawatū 2023 Highlights!

by Manawatū Team

In the heart of Manawatū, 2023 has been a year filled with exhilarating moments, with the vibrant energy of Keep in Touch (KIT) Days, igniting the spirits of our youngest ākonga on exciting school adventures.

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Video: Toi Turi Youth Theatre Project 2023 Takes Centre Stage, Igniting Passion and Talent!

Toi Turi Youth Theatre Project 2023 Takes Centre Stage, Igniting Passion and Talent!

by Kaori Kobayashi - Assistant Head of Enrolled School

Toi Turi Youth Theatre project was a great success and concluded with a performance that brought many laughs and tears of joy.

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Video: Ormiston Senior College 2023- Empowering Minds, Shaping Futures

Ormiston Senior College 2023: Empowering Minds, Shaping Futures

by Amanda Csengo - Educational NZSL Interpreter

We have experienced a remarkable journey filled with countless achievements that will imprint in our memories for years at Ormiston Senior College in 2023.

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Video: Where Commitment, Culture, and Connection Converge at Kelston Girls Provision 2023!

Where Commitment, Culture, and Connection Converge at Kelston Girls' Provision 2023!

by Tahseen Sultana - Provision Lead Teacher

Kelston Girls' Provision has shown an outstanding commitment to learning, actively participated in various activities, and represented Ko Taku Reo in many ways in 2023.

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Video: NZSL@School Student Secures 3rd Place in Interschool Speech Finals

A Cultural Celebration Like No Other!

by Anna Staniford - Resource Teacher of the Deaf

Otago Polyfest was full of vibrant colour and sound, celebrating the cultures of the regional tamariki.

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Video: Enrolled School Student Council

Enrolled School Student Council Sparks Engagement and Collaboration

by Karen Pasco - Assistant Head of Enrolled School

A new initiative for the Enrolled School this year has been the creation of a Student Council to create and provide opportunities for student engagement and collaboration across the Enrolled School.

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Video: Kelston Intermediate Provision's Inspiring Achievements!

Kelston Intermediate Provision's Inspiring Achievements!

by Yvonne Lee - Provision Lead Teacher

The trio at Kelston Intermediate, Diamond, Shannon and Yvonne, have had an incredible, tight-knit year!

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Video: Discover the Enrolled School Year in Review

Discover the Enrolled School Year in Review

by Lisa Sharman - Head of Enrolled School

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Video: Bay of Plenty East Shines Bright: Celebrating the Remarkable Achievements of Our 2023 Learners!

Bay of Plenty East Shines Bright: Celebrating the Remarkable Achievements of Our 2023 Learners!

by Thelma Lindup - Team Lead

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Video: Southland's NZSL Immersion 1-Day School Soars to New Heights in a Spectacular Year!

Southland's NZSL Immersion 1-Day School Soars to New Heights in a Spectacular Year!

by Emma Clarke - Resource Teacher of the Deaf

In 2023, our NZSL Immersion 1-day school has seen an exceptional year, marked by our unwavering commitment to fostering a secure, enjoyable, and inclusive space for our Deaf learners.

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Video: Wellbeing Days Transform a Year of Growth, Belonging, Choice, and Excellence!

Wellbeing Days Transform a Year of Growth, Belonging, Choice, and Excellence!

by Theresa McCreight - Assistant Head of Enrolled School

At Ko Taku Reo we consider nurturing our students' physical and emotional wellbeing to be not only a priority, but also a profound commitment.

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Video: NZSL Services Roadmap Hui Journey with Students at the Centerstage!

NZSL Services Roadmap Hui Journey with Students at the Centerstage!

by Stephanie Sullivan - NZSL Services Manager and NZSL Services Team

Two days of communication and collaboration to ensure every student receives optimal support!

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Video: Transformative NZSL Services Through Collaborative Support

Transformative NZSL Services Through Collaborative Support

by Stephanie Sullivan - NZSL Services Manager and NZSL Services Team

In the evolving landscape of support and services, 2023 has emerged as a pivotal year, marked by significant strides in fostering cohesive and inclusive support for our tamariki - our most precious future.

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Video: Otago Grows!

Otago Grows!

by Deborah Warren - Outreach Team Lead - Otago

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

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Video: Keep in Touch (KIT) Days are for Connection!

Keep in Touch (KIT) Days are for Connection!

by Waikato East and West Teams

Making new friends and having new experiences are always a highlight of KIT Days.

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Video: Taranaki Whanaungatanga

Taranaki Whanaungatanga

by Taranaki Team

The Taranaki team joined twice this year for our Keep in Touch (KIT) Days. Our tamariki and whānau enjoyed meeting, reconnecting, spending time together, sharing experiences, and learning more about NZSL and our region’s history.

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Video: Reflecting on a Remarkable Year at Kelston Primary School in 2023!

Reflecting on a Remarkable Year at Kelston Primary School in 2023!

by Mandy Irwin - Provision Lead Teacher and Serena Abbott - Teacher of the Deaf

At Kelston Primary, 2023 came and went in a blink of an eye! That's not to say that lots didn't happen.

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Video: Unlocking the Essence of Identity- Waikato's Quest to Rediscover Ourselves!

Unlocking the Essence of Identity: Waikato's Quest to Rediscover Ourselves!

by Waikato Team

This year, the Waikato teens visited the Hamilton Museum to explore their Identity and Deafhood journey.

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Video: Creating Lifelong Learners Through Fun and Engagement

Creating Lifelong Learners Through Fun and Engagement

by Tracy Dahlberg - Provision Lead Teacher

This year, we have worked hard to offer many opportunities to try new activities to develop confident learners.

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Video: Big handwaves from the Outreach School Leadership team!

Big handwaves from the Outreach School Leadership team!

by Lynne Guy - Head of Outreach School

What a significant year 2023 has been with most Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) students fully returning to school this year, resulting in intensive new learning and readjustment to the school environment. We continue to aspire to deliver responsive, quality-driven programmes and support to over 3,000 DHH students nationwide.

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Video: Connecting Our Students to Success

Connecting Our Students to Success

by Alexandra Crosbie - Regional Lead - Auckland

The Central Auckland Resource Teacher of the Deaf (RTD) team want to share some of the opportunities the students have been part of that allowed them to connect in 2023.

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Video: Embracing Growth and Success- Our Journey at Ormiston Junior College - A Year to Remember!

Embracing Growth and Success: Our Journey at Ormiston Junior College - A Year to Remember!

by Rita Langstone - Provision Lead Teacher of the Deaf

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Video: A Year's Work in Dazzling Achievements and Unforgettable Moments!

A Year's Work in Dazzling Achievements and Unforgettable Moments!

by Kerri Narbey - Teacher of the Deaf

We have had a fun, action-packed, focused, skill-learning, successful year at Wharenui Provision.

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Video: Early Years Whānau Centre Paves the Way for Lifelong Learning Success!

Early Years Whānau Centre Paves the Way for Lifelong Learning Success!

by Tina Harrison - Early Years Programme Lead

Whānau and connectedness with each other in our rich language environment at the Early Years Whānau Centre (EYWC) supports children with their language, social skills, and learning.

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