A Space to Develop Identity, Independence and Deafhood

Tū Kōkiri provision 2024 has been its usual hub of activity. At the start of term 1, we welcomed Holden from the Kelston Boys' High School Deaf provision and Talib from the mainstream in Wellington. We recently welcomed Destyn, who was formally in the Kelston Boys' High provision, back to school. Courtney and Thando left this year with aspirations of full-time employment. Also, one of our fabulous interpreters, Frances, left us at the end of term 2; they will all be missed.

Identity and Deafhood

The Tū Kōkiri students have excelled as role models and ambassadors for Ko Taku Reo this year. They are regularly called upon to speak to teacher groups, parents of Deaf children, and other professionals in the Deaf Education field. Their recounts of their Deafhood journeys to date are impactful and leave a lasting impression. They contribute with confidence and have a clear sense of their own Deaf identity. Opportunities to meet and hear the life stories of a diverse range of Deaf adults through the Deaf Lives aspect of the programme enable the students to make new connections and explore their own Deaf identity. They lead in whakatau and pōwhiri to welcome visitors to Rūaumoko Marae, where their Turi Māori identities come to the fore.

Independence and Work readiness

Tū Kōkiri is a great place to study and learn the Road Code theory needed to pass a New Zealand Learners Drivers Licence through NZSL. Holden gained his Learner Licence early in the year and his Forklift Licence. Holden and Destyn also completed their Site Safe Passport, allowing them to work safely on a building site. Students have gained valuable work experience through the support of local employers who willingly provide authentic work placements. Brooklyn is completing an online Certificate in Youth Work to prepare for further study and to become a social worker.

As we finish the 2024 school year, we farewell Holden, Brooklyn, Kaylee and Jasonta, who will move, well-prepared for the next chapter of their lives beyond school. We wish them well.