Lily’s Journey in Early Childhood Education

New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC) continues to shape the future of early childhood education (ECE) through its comprehensive programs. Among its many success stories is Lily Zhang, a dedicated graduate whose journey reflects the profound impact of NZTC’s Graduate Diploma in ECE.

With a deep-rooted love for nurturing young minds, Lily knew that early childhood education was her calling. “Loving and caring for children comes naturally to me—I truly believe it is both my nature and my destiny,” she shares. Originally a primary school teacher, Lily sought to expand her expertise and transitioned into ECE to further support children’s growth in their formative years.

Originally from China, Lily’s extensive academic background has provided her with a broad and insightful perspective on teaching and learning. As an advocate for lifelong education, she was drawn to NZTC’s strong reputation, encouraged by a classmate who praised the institution’s quality and industry recognition.

Through NZTC Online, Lily was able to seamlessly balance her studies and professional responsibilities. “Online learning not only saves a lot of time but also allows me to manage my schedule more freely,” she explains.

NZTC’s curriculum and faculty play a critical role in shaping the next generation of educators. Lily reflects on her favourite course, ‘Learning and Development in the Early Years’, which deepened her understanding of how young children grow and learn. She highlights the importance of building responsive and respectful relationships with tamariki, an approach that has greatly influenced her daily practice.

The support of inspiring lecturers has also been a defining aspect of Lily’s educational experience. She fondly recalls Joy McLelland, whose warmth and encouragement left a lasting impression. “Joy made every student feel valued. Her kindness and genuine care impacted me both personally and professionally,” she says.

Today, Lily applies her learning in an early childhood setting, fostering strong connections with children and families while engaging in play-based education. With a strong passion for storytelling, math concepts, arts, crafts, and science experiments, she brings creativity and enthusiasm to her teaching.

For aspiring educators juggling work and study, she offers practical advice: “Don’t wait until two days before the deadline to start your assignments—some stress is really self-inflicted. Organising materials properly can make studying much easier.”

As she looks ahead, Lily is eager to continue her professional journey, aiming to join a supportive teaching team that shares her dedication to creating a warm, inclusive environment for children. NZTC’s programs have empowered her with the skills and confidence to make a meaningful impact, reinforcing the college’s role as a leader in early childhood education.

“Love is the most powerful force in the world; kindness is the most beautiful scenery,” Lily reflects—words that encapsulate her passion for education.