From Dream to Leadership: Emma Parker’s Path in Early Childhood Education

When Emma Parker reflects on her journey into early childhood education, one theme emerges time and time again: connection.

Whether she is talking about the people who inspired her, the communities that welcomed her, the tamariki and whānau she works alongside, or the fellow students she met while completing her Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Leadership and Management) with NZTC, Emma’s story is one of relationships, belonging, and a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Originally from the United Kingdom and raised in Cyprus, Emma moved to New Zealand with her husband in 2011. What began as a move to support his educational journey soon became the beginning of a new chapter for their growing family - “We have loved everything about NZ life,” Emma shares. “The culture, the people and the philosophy. It is so fitting for who we are, and we are now very much proud Kiwis.”

Although she had always dreamed of working with children, life initially led her in a different direction. After travelling with her husband, she built a career in hospitality before eventually returning to the ambition that had never quite left her. Once her husband had established himself in his profession and the couple welcomed their first child, Emma found herself reflecting on what she truly wanted to do.

“I was able to reevaluate what I wanted to do and revisit this desire,” she says. “It meant even more to me after having a daughter and wanting to make her proud.”

That decision would set her on a path that continues to shape not only her career, but also the way she supports the people around her.

Studying through New Zealand Tertiary College allowed Emma to pursue her dream without uprooting her family. Living in Blenheim at the time, she appreciated the flexibility of online learning and quickly found herself drawn into the NZTC community. “After the first few papers, I was hooked,” she says.

What stood out most was the sense of connection she found throughout her studies. Through discussion forums, collaborative learning, and supportive lecturers, Emma discovered that some of the most valuable learning came from sharing experiences with others.

“There are names from my study that I will remember forever (…) I know at some point our paths shall cross again, and that feels so comforting.”

Throughout her journey, Emma was inspired by remarkable kaiako, mentors, and lecturers who helped shape her philosophy and confidence as an educator. Her first mentor, Ange, sparked her passion for teaching through her enthusiasm, talent, and love for the profession. In fact, years later, Emma still finds herself asking, “What would Ange do?” when faced with challenging situations. Lecturers such as Fiona Woodgate and Joy McLelland also provided encouragement, guidance, and reassurance throughout her studies. Emma even jokes that Joy’s name suits her perfectly “what a joy she is!” Their support left a lasting impact and continues to influence her practice today.

Now working as a fully registered kaiako in a visiting teacher role in Canterbury, Emma finds herself paying that support forward. While she still enjoys working directly with children and families, she also spends much of her time mentoring and supporting educators in their own teaching journeys.

It is a role that perfectly reflects her passion for helping others grow.

That passion extends to her strong commitment to supporting diverse learners. One of the most influential lessons from her studies was learning about equity and equality, a concept she says continues to shape both her professional practice and personal life.

“I think it is such valuable learning, particularly within ECE and New Zealand, where we see such diversity.”

Emma’s commitment to learning, leadership, and supporting others was recognised at NZTC’s Graduation Ceremony on 30 May, where she received the Excellence in Programme Award.

For Emma, the recognition was both humbling and deeply meaningful: “Receiving this award felt so special. It was such an honor to receive this recognition at graduation, in front of my other incredible and hardworking kaiako. My husband and children also attended the ceremony, which made this extra special. Having them there meant so much, as they are the ones who sacrificed so I could achieve my dream. It isn't often we get to just take a second to reflect on our achievements, so being given the opportunity to do so felt wonderful. Being surrounded by people, like lecturers, who were crucial to my learning journey felt very full circle."

While graduation marks the completion of one chapter, Emma is already looking ahead to the next. Although she is thriving in her current role and hopes to remain there for many years to come, she can already see a Master of Education (ECE) on the horizon.

And when that day comes, we will be delighted to welcome her back as a student once again. After all, her story is one that continues to grow through every connection she makes, every learner she supports, and every opportunity she embraces.

Congratulations, Emma, on your graduation, your Excellence in Programme Award, and the incredible impact you continue to make in the lives of tamariki, whānau, and fellow educators. We cannot wait to see where your journey takes you next.