Eunmee Park

When Eunmee Park received a Special Commendation at her graduation ceremony for the Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education), it was more than just an academic milestone—it was a proud moment shared with her family.

“My husband and son attended the graduation with me; it was incredibly special,” she says. “It felt like recognition of the challenges I overcame and the personal growth I experienced—especially as someone who immigrated to New Zealand in my late 30s.”

Originally from South Korea, Eunmee had spent much of her professional life in education before moving to New Zealand over a decade ago, where she briefly retrained in beauty therapy. But it was motherhood that reignited her calling to teach.

“Early childhood education aligned well with my values, skills, and previous experiences,” she explains. “Once I realised that, I knew it was time to pursue a formal qualification.”

She chose to study with New Zealand Tertiary College for its flexibility. “NZTC’s online format and rolling enrolment options meant I could balance study with work and parenting.”

One of the highlights of the program was the field practise. “Each one-month practicum allowed me to apply theory in a practical setting. The home centre model also helped me build a strong relationship with my Associate Teacher and receive ongoing feedback.”

She found particular value in the course Tiriti-Based Early Childhood Education. “Before that course, I didn’t fully understand why we teach Māori songs, karakia, or legends in centres,” she shares. “Now I see the ethical and philosophical values behind them. The Māori worldview really resonates with me.”

Her academic journey was also shaped by supportive people along the way. She credits her centre manager, Jude, for inspiring her from the outset. “Jude really showed me what it means to respect children and their whānau. Her guidance and encouragement helped shape my teaching philosophy.”

When Eunmee began her studies at NZTC, she was working at BestStart as both a permanent staff member and a student teacher. The structured support that BestStart provides for student teachers made a significant difference—it really helped her balance studies and work in a stable and meaningful way.

NZTC visiting lecturer Chel Freeman also left a lasting impression. “Chel always made me feel supported, not judged. During one of our final practicum visits, she asked me, ‘If you had to sum up everything you’ve learned in one word, what would it be?’ I said, ‘Respect.’ That word has stayed with me—it reminds me what’s at the heart of teaching.”

Currently, Eunmee works as one of two lead teachers in a classroom for 3 to 4 –year olds, managing everything from mat times and free play to learning evaluations, parent communication, and strategic planning.

She has a growing interest in inclusive education and hopes to further develop her knowledge to support tamariki with additional needs. “Every classroom has children who need extra support. I want to better understand how to meet their needs, and how to support their families too.”

“I’m still learning every day,” she says. “But this award reminded me that every step forward, no matter how small, is worth it.”