Double NZSL applause for graduating Ara classmates

_{Graduation morning arrives for Danielle Elliott (left) and Liberty Francis} 

Danielle Elliott describes studying alongside deaf classmate Liberty Francis as "the best of both worlds."

The pair both enrolled in at Ara Institute of Canterbury in 2025 but didn't meet until a student support orientation day, when they discovered they were taking the same course.

Before long, they were deep in assignments and work placements, tackling deadlines and "the dreaded APA referencing" alongside their New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Level 4) cohort.

Strong contributors in class, the pair were supported with interpreters and note-takers to help them reach their study goals.

Last Friday, they both graduated, and the Wolfbrook Arena fell hushed in silent New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) applause, twice, as each crossed the stage.

In all, more than 1800 students were eligible to graduate in Ara’s first ceremonies since gaining independence at the start of the year.

The cohort included 65 postgraduate awardees, 586 graduates earning bachelor’s degrees or graduate diplomas, and 1123 completing certificates and diplomas at Levels 4, 5 and 6.

For Elliott, simply being among her classmates had been the highlight of both the day and her study journey. "Having that connection and family environment was the main thing. We had a great class vibe," she said.

The skills she gained are serving her well in her role with North Canterbury's Florence Nightingale Agency, which provides personalised nursing care and support. The mother of three also volunteered at Burwood and Christchurch hospitals throughout her studies, driven by a genuine desire to help others.

For Liberty Francis, studying at Ara had been "a big step up" from her time at Ko Taku Reo, Deaf Education New Zealand's satellite unit at Hillmorton High School. She spoke with pride about "learning so much complex material and being able to stay focused."

"Having interpreters to help me break down complicated language and concepts into sign language was a big thing, as well as helping take notes quickly. That meant I could complete assignments understanding everything I needed to," she said.

Francis was still weighing her next steps, but graduation was a milestone she had long been looking forward to.

"I feel different, more confident. Tertiary study was a very new experience for me and I feel proud of what I've achieved," she said.

_{Danielle and Liberty in Danelle Norton's class with NZSL interpreter Evelyn Pateman}

Tutor Danelle Norton said the skill of the interpreters had been key to reducing study barriers for both students in her Te Ao Hauora Māori class. She described Danielle and Liberty as dedicated and motivated, with a strong determination to learn and engage bi-culturally.

"Their contribution to group work and discussions was truly valuable. They were able to draw on their own experiences in conversations about discrimination against Māori in our current health system," Norton said.

Both students credited their tutors and classmates as a vital source of support throughout the year.

"At the start I was nervous and a bit sceptical about how it would go. I'm shy around people I don't know. But after a couple of weeks, we all just clicked. Group work helped friendships form and we could stay in touch via text or Messenger to keep each other on track," Elliott said.

Graduation brought the class of 2025 back together one more time, a chance to celebrate how far they'd all come.