By Rozahlia Dorante
Year 6 students from across Zenadth Kes visited Torres Strait Kaziw Meta (TSKM) and Tagai State College for 2027 Orientation. The week-long program was a valuable introduction to boarding life and secondary schooling.
For the future Kaziw Meta boarders, the week started with a family welcome dinner in the courtyard, followed by a day at Waybeni Koey Ngurupay Mudh and then a special overnight camp experience at Irriki (Bamfield) where they bonded through activities, swimming, and social events designed to help them build confidence and friendships.
Students from Tagai Primary School and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart also joined the fun on a day-trip to Bamfield, connecting with their future peers.
Torres Strait Kaziw Meta CEO Tom Dunsmore said that this orientation played an important role in helping students understand what boarding life is like.
“It allows them to experience the supportive environment of our boarding community, establish new friendships and meet our caring team,” Mr Dunsmore said.
“We want boarders to arrive next year feeling confident, connected and excited about the journey ahead of them, and be familiar with the routines and expectations of living away from home,”
“Kaziw Meta would love to give a special thank you to Ms Taylah Savins-Harrison from Tagai for her work in organising the transition side at Tagai,”
“In addition, a mina big eso to all the Kaziw Meta staff who made this weekend enjoyable for the kids,” he added.
Torres Strait Kaziw Meta Wellbeing Officer Uncle Dyral Lui said the students embraced the experience and enjoyed the range of activities on offer.
“The Year 6 students loved the camp, and had the chance to explore the boarding facilities, meet new friends and take part in activities together,” Uncle Dyral said.
“Seeing their confidence grow over the three days was incredibly rewarding, and we are looking forward to welcoming them back next year as part of our boarding family,” he added.
Year 6 Student Temple Mari from Warraber Island said he was looking forward to boarding at TSKM alongside his older brother.
Fellow Year 6 Student Thomas Mooka from Dauan Island said he enjoyed his Orientation.
“I enjoyed camping, the activities and making new friends,” he said.
This annual Year 6 Orientation camp is part of TSKM and Tagai State College’s ongoing commitment to supporting Outer Island students and families as they prepare for the move from ailan to boarding school, helping ensure a smooth and successful transition into their secondary education journey.
