Bronwyn Walker
Name: Bronwyn Walker
Qualification: Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
After a significant career change, Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) student Bronwyn Walker is relishing opportunities to explore valuable educational pedagogy throughout the Field Practice component of her studies with New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC).
“As a mother of three children, my passion for early childhood was reignited from our Playcentre experiences together. This resulted in a move from graphic design that redirected my purpose and led to my NZTC studies.”
Bronwyn’s Home Centre nursery is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, which aligns with her creative background.
“This philosophy nurtures open-ended provocations that encourage the process of exploration and inquiry in everyday ways.
“I valued the opportunity in one of my courses to conduct a detailed investigation into Reggio Emilia as a curriculum approach alongside Te Whāriki, which developed my understanding and in turn, strengthened my passion and practice.”
Bronwyn is also able to build on her personal and professional bicultural awareness through course content, which she says is now centralised within her teaching philosophy and everyday practice.
“The natural world continues to inspire, enrich and direct my life and pedagogical pathways as I explore my affinity with te ao Māori and respect for the meaningful values held for family and whānau, as well as a connection with te ao mārama.”
Putting her learning into practice has now motivated Bronwyn to pursue some exciting new goals as a stage three student.
“Practical experience has given me greater clarity and understanding of course content. Drawing on everyday practical experiences and pedagogical examples informs course content and forum discussions – an interwoven exchange that is mutually beneficial and which I consider a strength of NZTC’s study format.
“I have been richly coached and mentored by my Home Centre Associate Teachers (ATs) and NZTC lecturers, which has inspired an interest in future leadership opportunities. I would also like to support students myself in an AT role.”