“It's Good to Be Alive” – A Year of Growth, Appreciation and Connection

This year, the Inclusion Support Centre continued to grow as a vibrant hub of positivity, belonging and connection. We were proud to support over 60 neurodiverse students, alongside more than 35 dedicated and passionate staff members who worked each day to empower, uplift and inspire.

Our theme for 2025 was appreciation, recognising the people, places and moments that enriched our lives. Throughout the year, our students and staff embraced acts of kindness, shared service and appreciation. These moments reminded us that giving to others strengthened our sense of purpose and encouraged us to notice the joy already around us. This idea was also the theme of our celebration: “Its Good to Be Alive.”

Our celebration this year was full of energy, colour and connection. Students entertained us with a wonderful performance of Beyond the Limits Dance to the song “I Believe,” showcasing confidence, teamwork and joy. All students also participated in an upbeat video presentation, “It’s Good to Be Alive,” filmed with very little rehearsal throughout a single day and capturing authentic moments of fun, friendship and everyday magic.

On the day, we honoured not only the achievements of our learners but also the collective journey of our community. We especially recognised our five remarkable graduates: Mollie, Michael, Ray, Leroy and Taniya. Their growth, resilience and spirit reflected everything we value in the ISC. As we celebrated them, we also appreciated how far we had come together. When we move forward together, we grow together.

We also farewelled two valued staff members, Ange Olsen and Justin Baatjes, as they head off to new pursuits. Their contributions to our centre have been deeply appreciated, and we wish them every success in what lies ahead.

2025 ISC Awards – Celebrating Excellence

Our learners showed heart, courage, creativity and incredible growth this year. We were proud to celebrate the following award recipients:

Medal for Improved Fitness • Veda Grace Housham

Medal for Improvement in Physiotherapy • Aidyn La Rosa

Medal for Most Improved Communicator • Kristy McBride

Medal for Excellent Use of Their Communication Device • Jethro Taylor

Medal for Improved Independence Skills • Kelvin Singh

Emma Evans Cup for Motivation and Determination • Harper Ross-Sinclair

Fitzgibbons Entertainer of the Year • Micah Ngaeruaiti

Te Rangimarie Award • Cyprus Tepu

 Denise McCartney Award • Dakota Tusili-Hunuki

Rosie Garner Award for Mātauranga • Rogan Broadley

Wayne Mills Award for Respect, Integrity and Generosity • Cyprus Tepu

Junior Trophy • Jeremiah Betham-Noble

Senior Trophy • Khaian Masi

Year 13 Leaver Award • Leroy Ryder

As we close the 2025 school year, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to every student, staff member, whānau and members of our wider community who contributed to our successful year. Their support, kindness and belief in our kaupapa made the ISC a place of warmth, growth and joy.

What a gift it was to have shared this journey together. It's good to be alive.