Since the beginning of the school year, seven Sara Cohen School students have studied in their new satellite classroom Ruatipua at Otago Polytechnic’s Dunedin campus.
The school caters to students with intellectual disabilities aged between 5 and 21.
Principal Matthew Tofia said while Ministry of Education funding was available until the students turned 21, many had been leaving earlier.
"We had identified that there were a number of kids at 18 leaving school because they didn’t see themselves remaining at their high school until they were 21 — there wasn’t any other options for them."
Developed over four years in partnership with the polytechnic, Ruatipua gave the students a place to learn in an "age and stage appropriate" setting.
"Just like their friends, they leave high school and then they come into a tertiary setting with the polytechnic, but they’re supported," Mr Tofia said.
"Our young people are really excited to be where other young adults like [them] are."
Two teachers and a teacher aid worked in the classroom, which had capacity for 16 students to develop life skills such as cooking, cleaning and building positive relationships.
"We’re also looking at work readiness and work experience opportunities for our students because jobs are a reality for our kids, [and] their general hauora [health] and wellbeing."
Being part of the polytechnic was a great source of pride for the students and the school was lucky to have the space.
The ministry had committed to constructing new buildings for the school at the polytech, with work expected to start soon, Mr Tofia said.
Polytechnic executive director Megan Pōtiki said the new students were a great addition to the campus.
The connection to the polytechnic gave students a sense of mana.
"We’re a small place, so we should be doing our best for community and by community.
"Especially since the tertiary sector is really the heart of the community."
