Titikaveka College is gearing up for an exciting cultural exchange with Enuamanu School, providing a unique learning opportunity for Year 10 and Year 11 students.

This trip will support their studies in religious education and Cook Islands Māori, focusing on the history of Christianity on the island.

To help fund the travel, accommodation and food, Titikaveka College launched several fundraising initiatives, including a popular food stall from the Rising Stars competition and an upcoming Quiz night on July 9 starting at 6pm at the Ngatangiia/Matavera Sports Club.

Tickets will be sold for $120 per team, with each team consisting of six players.

“Tickets (to enter the competition) can be purchased through the school office,” said Principal Raewyn Morgan.

 “We are looking to participate in a cultural exchange with Enuamanu School while our Year 10 and 11 students research the history of Christianity on the island as part of their Religious studies and Cook Islands Māori NCEA credits.”

To raise more funds, the school will also conduct a food sale, raffles and “buy an answer” that will assist with the fundraising event.

Principal Morgan also shared that the school have entered into the float for Te Maeva Nui; they will also be running food stalls during Te Maeva Nui nights.

She added, “We are looking at also holding a morning workout session to get the community involved.”

The main purpose of this trip for the students as part of their cultural exchange programme with Enuamanu School is to investigate and present an aspect of Cook Islands Culture.

According to Principal Morgan, this purpose is part of the student's Unit Standard 32980, which is worth eight credits.

The standard is called “Ranga’anga e te kimikimi’anga no runga i tetai Peu e te Akono’anga i roto i toku matakeinanga/Enua.”

This upcoming trip will also benefit students in Religious Studies 1.1 for next year, which is worth five credits.

This standard is called “Demonstrate understanding of the development of a community that shares religious or spiritual beliefs.”

On behalf of the teachers, Principal Morgan shared “Our goal is to inspire students to experience, interact with, and develop a deeper appreciation for the Cook Islands culture, including ancestral heritage, traditional sports and customs.”

The expectations following this trip include learning to live the lifestyle of the people in Atiu, visiting historical sites, understanding the history of Christianity's arrival, exploring fishing traditions, conservation practices, building confidence in speaking te Reo Māori, and developing a strong sense of cultural pride and identity.

“We have chosen Enuamanu to inspire our students to connect with Te Akonoanga Peu Maori.”

Titikaveka College is grateful for the sponsors who are supporting this initiative, including the Pacific Resort, who have sponsored a 2-night stay for the school to raffle off on the quiz night alongside some cash prizes for the winning teams.