Pacific languages classes in demand

Porirua College launched free Pacific languages classes last week, with enrolments and interest already ‘‘phenomenal’’, according to the principal.

The school’s hall was full last Thursday night as the adult learners’ programme was introduced.

Susanne Jungersen said it was very pleasing to see so many faces from the community come out in support.

Running from Monday to Thursday, from 5.30pm-7.30pm, the tuition will see Tongan, Samoan, Cook Islands Maori, te reo Maori and Tokelauan offered, with Niuean next term.

The only charge is $10 for photocopying.

‘‘We have been looking at this since last year – we went out to our networks to see what the interest would be and the results were phenomenal. We didn’t realise the interest would be this strong,’’ Ms Jungersen said.

Run in partnership between the school and the community, with tutors either teachers or Porirua residents, she said the attraction will be for people looking to get in touch with the languages of their parents from the Pacific Islands.

‘‘New Zealand-born parents who don’t want to lose that language or have already lost it are very keen.

‘‘They can learn at the same time as their children at school, so it’s something for the entire family.

‘‘It has been organised very carefully.’’

Classes have already begun, with 90 people signed up.

There are advanced and beginner lessons available, with attendees able to earn NCEA credits.

Contact the school for more information.