News & Events

We’re delighted to announce that Merge NZ is now a key provider of New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) courses for Ko Taku Reo - Deaf Education New Zealand staff.

Since February 2025, Merge NZ has been running weekly online NZSL learning for all hearing staff, supporting approximately 230 teachers, Senior Leaders and support staff on their NZSL journey. Merge NZ offers 30 courses suited to staff’s abilities each term, with lessons structured from Beginner through to Advanced, Levels 1–3. Each course includes “homework” tasks to reinforce learning and encourage practice.

On average, ten Deaf NZSL teachers are engaged each term to deliver these courses. Their expertise, cultural knowledge, and teaching skills are the heart of this programme, and their hard work is being recognised and valued as a vital long-term investment in the future of Deaf Education.

At Ko Taku Reo, we foster a workplace culture of inclusivity. All staff, not just our teachers, are expected to learn and use NZSL. This partnership with Merge NZ and our commitment to NZSL learning for all staff is part of a larger goal to strengthen educational pathways for all Deaf and hard of hearing children, so that ākonga can thrive with the full support of the Ko Taku Reo – Deaf Education New Zealand community.

New Zealand Sign Language is a full and rich language; it's a gateway to connection, inclusion, and understanding. For teachers, learning NZSL is essential in creating an inclusive and accessible learning environment. It enables them to engage with their students effectively, foster a sense of belonging, and support their language development while respecting Deaf identity and culture. For management and support staff, NZSL provides opportunities for connection and collaboration.

We would like to thank Janine Campbell, Merge NZ’s NZSL for Schools Coordinator, and Ko Taku Reo’s Senior Administrator, Riley Harter, who both have been instrumental in organising and delivering these courses. Their leadership has ensured that NZSL learning is embedded not only for teachers, but also for management and support staff.

We look forward to continuing to work with Merge NZ and seeing the positive impact of these NZSL courses.