An absolute highlight of our holiday in the Cook Islands was our visit to the Rutaki school, which is not too far from the Rarotongan Resort. We arranged a visit in advance through the resort, who contacted the school on our behalf. We wanted our kids to see what school life was like in the Cook Islands.
On the day of our planned visit, we walked to the school, taking with us a bag full of supplies: books, pencils, pens, tape, etc, and a few skipping ropes and Frisbees that we had carried from Sydney.
When we arrived we were amazed to find that the principle, a couple of teachers and mums, and about ten children had come in from their school holidays especially to greet us.
We were blown away by the reception we received. They had laid out a spread of food (coconuts, star fruit, melon, biscuits, etc, etc). They greeted us with flower leis and shell necklaces, and the children sang us songs.
We then were shown through the school, and saw first hand what little they had by way of resources. Its small enough that the classes span several grades. They explained how they made do with what they had, and how a few kids would go on to study in New Zealand in later years where financially possible.
Our kids played together for a while, sharing some of their respective schoolyard games - some common and others not so.
If you visit Rutaki, you will feel compelled to support them. The smiles on the kids faces will tell you its a caring community school.
Thank you Rutaki!
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