Breeanna Lubbers with a child from her centre

Name: Breeanna Lubbers

Qualification: Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)

After Covid-19 saw Breeanna Lubbers lose her job as a flight attendant, she was faced with the difficult reality of a career change.

“When I found out the path I had worked hard towards for the past 10 years was to come to an end, I felt hurt, but also a glimmer of excitement at the opportunities out there.

“I decided to look back at what aspects of my role were most important to me, and found myself constantly returning to my experiences of looking after the unaccompanied minors on my flights. I found delight and passion in caring for them and making them feel safe.

“After coming to this realisation, I knew that this was it! I was destined to pursue a career in early childhood.”

Now halfway through the Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) with New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC), Breeanna is loving the flexible nature of her program which will allow her to apply for NZ Teacher Registration upon completion.

“I have the ability to work close to full-time in an ECE centre, as well as being a full-time student. There is no better way to gain full understanding of a career than jumping straight in the deep end by completing practical and theoretical work in unison.”

While there was desire and curiosity in her flight attendant position, Breeanna feels she has truly found her calling with early childhood – a sector that continues to see a high demand for fully qualified teachers throughout the country.

“I can no longer see myself in any other role. Every day is filled with such passion, care and laughter, and the support and community feel within my ECE centre is something I have never experienced to this level in a workplace before.

“I feel so relieved knowing that my career choice is secure. It keeps me motivated that there is huge growth and opportunity out there. The demand for teachers in the early childhood sector broadens possibilities and creates many exciting new pathways for those nearing the end of their ECE programs.”