About Kelly Quirke
NZ sign language has always been my first language and a vital part of my identity. This passion led me to teach and share the beauty of sign language with others.
In 2017, as a Director of Usign where I combine years of teaching experience with a commitment to creating a supportive environment for all learners, you improve your sign language skills at your own pace, making the learning process enjoyable and engaging.
In my spare time I enjoy travelling, photography, cooking, and spending time with my family & friends. Of course, walking my beautiful dog.
Join me on this journey of discovery and connection through sign language. Together, we can open doors to new ways of understanding and communicating.
I am passionate in teaching
I was born profoundly Deaf and went to a Deaf school in Feilding from the age of 3. Sign Language was banned back then and I had to wear hearing aids at school, but no longer use them. I also have a Deaf sister. I have 2 hearing boys who are also fluent.
I am passionate about sign language and raising awareness within the hearing community to break down the barriers and stereotypes that are in the community.
Discover sign language
My great passion is to encourage and help you discover and experience NZ Sign Language. I am a qualified NZ Sign Language Teacher who has been teaching for many years. Anyone can learn sign language and I have the experience to support you on your journey. It's important not just to learn the language and as part of the course you will also learn about Deaf culture and history.
Frequently Asked Questions
To enter Level 1b you must have completed Level 1a. If you have not completed the previous level with me, I will need to assess your NZSL skills to ensure you can cope with the next level. If you attended previous levels with another teacher, I will need to see proof of your attendance. This is could be a certificate or letter from your previous teacher. The other option would be a one-to-one assessment for me to see your NZSL skills.
No. It’s the same as spoken languages, there are many throughout the world. While some countries may have similar signs, no two are exactly the same. For example, NZ Sign Language (NZSL) and Australian Sign Language (Auslan) are both based on British Sign Language (BSL) but there are differences.
It depends on the number of people who will be joining the private session. Generally, if it’s one person, it’s $40/hr. If there are 2 people, the cost is $35/person/hr etc.
It’s the same as any other language, just more visual. To ensure you succeed, you should regular attend all the classes in a term and complete the homework that is assigned each week.
It depends on the level. For Level 1a, the minimum number of students is 12 .
Yes. It is important to learn from a qualified Deaf Teacher. A Deaf Teacher also teaches about the Deaf community and culture. Learning about the Deaf community and culture is an important part of learning NZSL.
Maybe not. Altogether I provide 12 levels of class over a 3-year period. Depending on demand, some classes will be repeated next term, but for my level 2 and 3 classes especially, it may only be offered once a year. For example, this year I am teaching Level 2a in Term 1 so most likely will not offer it again until Term 1 next year. To move up to the next level a student has to have attended 80% of the classes in a term or made arrangements with me to have private lessons to catch up.
I currently charge from $130 to $200 for Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced. Costs would be different depends on locations.
Yes. I have students as young as 12 or 13. If a student is 14 or younger, then a parent/guardian or older sibling must enrol in the class, and attend, with the young person. There needs to be a responsible adult with them in class.
I work with businesses and will usually require a 12-person minimum to run a private class. The more people there are, the cheaper the rate per person. If I am travelling to teach a class, there may be travel costs involved too. Please contact me so we can work out the best option for your business.
Still have questions?
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Learning New Zealand Sign Language with us is fun, & flexible. Our unique beautiful language courses are a comprehensive introduction for anybody who is interested in learning NZSL.