A Safe, Supportive Place for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal Students
At Kaziw Meta, we are proud to provide a culturally strong, safe, and supportive environment for Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal boarding students from across Zenadth Kes and beyond. Boarding life at Kaziw Meta is about more than just accommodation — it’s about belonging, growth, and preparing for a proud and confident future. Our boarders live in close family-style groups where they are surrounded by staff who understand, respect, and celebrate their culture, identity, and journey.
We welcome boarding students from the outer islands of the Torres Strait in Years 7 to 12 into a nurturing environment that offers:
Family-style Living: Small boarding groups led by caring House Parents who create a home like atmosphere, with strong routines, clear boundaries, and day to day support.
Faith and Fellowship: Support for students to attend their preferred place of worship each Sunday, along with an optional, non-denominational fellowship gathering on Sunday evenings at Kaziw Meta.
Strong Academic Support: Daily supervised study sessions during the week, with on-site tutors dedicated to helping boarding students achieve their best at school.
Health, Wellbeing and Culture: A structured wellbeing program focused on emotional, physical, social, and spiritual growth, alongside regular cultural activities that strengthen identity and connection to Torres Strait and Aboriginal heritage.
Access to Support Services: Professional external services are available when needed to support student wellbeing, resilience, and safety.
Learn to Drive program: Support for learners, including supervised driving practice and lessons, to build confidence and independence over time.
Career pathways and opportunities : Support to explore career interests through exposure experiences, work readiness, and help to access part time work where appropriate.
Activities and student life: A consistent activity program that keeps students engaged and active, including sports, arts and crafts, bike riding, walking, pool and gym sessions, ping pong, courtyard games, dance, culture, and language sessions. We also run regular Island Day Out experiences and special events such as camping trips, fishing, beach days, and community activities when opportunities arise.
Programs & Activities
Kaziw Meta offers a vibrant cultural program that allows boarders to stay connected to their heritage. This includes traditional dance practices, song, storytelling, art workshops, and the preparation of traditional foods. Boarders will also have opportunities to showcase their talents at community events.
Fun Activities
• Weekly rewards for positive behaviour.
• Reward camps for exceptional conduct.
• Island trips to explore different Torres Strait cultures.
• Bike rides around the island.
• Fishing Competitions.
• Arts and Crafts activities.
• Traditional activities such as weaving.
• Dance Team performances and competitions.
• Gardening and garden beds.
• Outdoor BBQ.
• Dance Practice.
• Touch Football, Volleyball, Basketball, AFL, etc
• Access to multiple board games, books, and computers.
Driver Learners Program
Kaziw Meta actively encourages boarders to engage in work experience and part-time employment. A dedicated staff member works closely with boarders to arrange placements, drop-offs, and pick-ups. These opportunities help boarders build valuable skills and prepare for their future careers.
Career and Work Experience
Through the Driver Learners Program, boarders from outer islands can complete their learner’s permit and work towards obtaining their driver’s licence while staying at Kaziw Meta. Staff support boarders with practice, scheduling, and meeting the requirements for this milestone.
Boarder Development
Kaziw Meta encourages boarders to take on leadership roles and contribute to the community.
Opportunities to Get Involved
- Join the Boarders’ Council to represent peers and share ideas for improving the boarding program.
- Become a House Leader / Captain and represent Kaziw Meta Community in forums.
- Take part in leadership initiatives that build confidence and help shape the boarding experience for everyone.
Study and Tutoring/Career Program
Kaziw Meta offers a structured and supportive academic program designed to help boarders excel in their studies.
Support Systems
- A full-time teacher is available on-site to assist with assignments, exam preparation, and learning strategies.
- Dedicated tutors visit Kaziw Meta regularly to provide additional support tailored to each boarder’s needs.
- Study sessions are held daily, with boarders allocated quiet and focused time in See Kee House or in-house to complete schoolwork.
- Dedicated career and learn to drive staff members.
Accommodation and Facilities
Designed for Comfort, Culture and Community
At Kaziw Meta, we offer a home-like environment built to support the unique needs of Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal secondary students. Our campus includes five family group homes surrounded by tropical gardens and communal outdoor spaces that reflect the spirit of island life.
Each home is staffed by dedicated House Parents who support students in learning everyday life skills, including cooking, cleaning, sharing responsibilities, and building respectful relationships.
Each house includes:
- Twin-share bedrooms with wardrobes
- Shared bathrooms and laundry facilities
- A kitchen, dining, and lounge room
- Outdoor sitting areas for gathering and relaxing
Boarding Policies and Procedures
Our procedures are designed to ensure the comprehensive wellbeing, safety, and development of all our boarding students. Our operations are built on the core values of Respect, Trust, and Pride, underpinned by care, honesty, reliability, culture, and fun.
Our Standards of Care
- Active Supervision: Our staff maintains a watchful eye to prevent accidents, safeguard boarders from external threats, and foster a respectful atmosphere free from bullying or harassment.
- Health and Safety: We implement strict protocols for medical emergencies, routine health checks, and medication administration. Our staff are trained in First Aid and Youth Mental Health First Aid.
- Child Protection: The safety of our boarders is our highest priority. All staff members must hold a valid Blue Card, and we maintain a regular training schedule regarding child protection issues.
Student Life and Expectations
- Daily Routine: Boarders follow a structured routine to balance school and home life. Students are expected to be ready for school and out the gate by 8:30am. After school, we provide structured study time from 3:30pm to 4:30pm.
- Spiritual and Cultural Growth: We encourage development through regular fellowship and Sunday church attendance.
- Rights and Responsibilities: Every boarder has the right to live in a healthy, safe environment and to be treated with kindness. In return, students are responsible for following all policies, respecting others’ property, and representing Kaziw Meta well in the community.
Feedback and Compliants
We value open communication. All feedback or concerns should be directed to the Director of Boarding to allow for prompt and efficient resolution. Serious matters may be escalated to the CEO.