Our school proudly celebrated Samoan Language Week with a week full of activities that highlighted the richness of Samoan language and culture.

Samoan Language week began on Tuesday 2 June with an Ava Ceremony to officially open Samoan Language Week. Students, staff and guests gathered to acknowledge the importance of Samoan culture and the 2026 theme, "E afua mai mauga tetele manuia o le nu'u" – "From the high mountains are the blessings of the village." Following the ceremony, everyone enjoyed light refreshments, including traditional Samoan treats such as koko alaisa (cocoa rice) and pagikeke (steamed cakes).

Throughout the week, Mr Moli and our Samoan students shared daily programmes and Samoan phrases with staff, encouraging everyone to learn and use the language. Staff and students practised phrases such as "Fa'alogo mai" (Listen here), "Oa mai outou?" (How are you all?) and "Manuia le weekend" (Have a blessed weekend). Videos created by our Year 10 Gagana Samoa class helped bring the phrases to life and encouraged participation across the school.

Wednesday featured a games day where students enjoyed traditional Samoan activities, including lape and volleyball. The day provided a fun opportunity for students to learn about Samoan customs while working together and enjoying some friendly competition.

On Thursday and Friday, our junior and senior students showcased their talents through cultural performances in the school hall during Break 2. These performances celebrated Samoan language, music and dance and were enjoyed by students and staff alike. On Friday, Mr Moli also accompanied a group of students to Waterlea Primary School, where they proudly shared Samoan performances with the wider community. The week was a tremendous success, with students demonstrating respect, curiosity and a genuine willingness to learn more about Samoan culture. It was wonderful to see our school community come together to celebrate diversity, strengthen cultural understanding and honour the significant contributions of the Samoan community.

A special thank you goes to Mr Moli, our Samoan students, Cultural Council members, staff, families and community members who helped make Samoan Language Week such a memorable and meaningful celebration. Your support and enthusiasm ensured that this year's celebrations were enjoyed by all.

Manuia le aso and fa'afetai tele lava!