Chloe Burgess
Name: Chloe Burgess
Qualification: Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education) student Chloe Burgess has hung up her hi-vis, and traded in her role in administration at an earthworks and haulage company for a new career in early childhood education.
“I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in the ECE sector after having my own children. Colleagues highly recommended studying through NZTC, and the reduced fee offering was an amazing help with deciding to switch careers and take steps to become a qualified teacher,” she says.
Singing the praises of NZTC’s flexible learning options and support, Chloe says being able to work full-time and study has been a win-win situation.
“Being able to spend a large amount of time with the children at my centre has definitely assisted with applying my knowledge to practical situations, and learning in my own time has been great because I like to work at my own pace.
“NZTC has been the perfect fit for studying around work hours and family commitments.”
We asked Chloe a few questions about her new journey:
What’s your favourite part of working in ECE?
The milestone moments in children’s development. I love to watch them develop new skills and confidence as they learn new things. The relationships and bonds you form with children in that environment and seeing their personalities shine through is amazing.
How are your studies helping to prepare you for your new career?
Although I’ve only been studying for a short time, I’ve already found that I’m more understanding of the way children behave and why we need to be more patient and understanding of their needs. As ECE teachers we’re not babysitters but there to enhance their learning and help them to understand the world around them, building the foundations for skills they’ll need throughout their lives. I like to think we provide the best environment away from home for them to thrive in!
What’s next for you?
Once I’m qualified, I would love to take on a team leader role or study a bit more and gain a master’s degree.