Brush up on Kiwi language skills

New Zealand's three official languages are on offer at the island's Community Education Centre this term.

The centre is offering Waihekeans the chance to learn New Zealand Sign Language, English, or te reo Maori.

NZ Sign Language is the natural language of the deaf community and unique to this country.

Over 29,000 people in New Zealand use sign language and over 220,000 people identify themselves as being deaf or have a hearing impairment, according to the last census.

Tutor Judy Everitt, who has a passion for sharing the vocabulary and culture, will introduce new participants over an eight-week course. It will run on Saturday mornings from 10.30am to 12.30pm starting on July 31. It costs $60.

English for Communication offers the chance to improve English conversation and written communication skills.

Tutor Marilyn Todd is an experienced teacher of English language, and the course aims to assist people whose first language is not English to gain confidence to talk with Kiwis in different situations, as well as enhancing job prospects and relationships.

The course is on Fridays from 10am to noon starting August 6 and costs $65.

Also on offer is the popular Maori language course with tutors Cheryl Rahui and Alix Paterson. This term the course will focus on enabling students to speak confidently and share information about themselves and their whanau.

The course is on Wednesdays from 10am to noon or 6.30pm to 8.30pm starting August 4 at Piritahi Marae. It costs $50.

To enrol, phone 372-6417, go to waihekecommed.co.nz or call into the Community Education Centre, 11 Donald Bruce Rd, Surfdale.

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