Lingxiao Wang

Name: Lingxiao Wang

Qualification: Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education)

A former news editor, Lingxiao Wang first fell in love with the Kiwi culture after leaving his career in China behind to travel around New Zealand on a working holiday.

“It was such a fun time, I experienced a lot and totally fell for this way of life. New Zealand is a relaxed and tranquil land away from the maddening crowd,” he said.

“I knew I wanted to become a teacher, so it seemed like a natural choice to stay here to further my education. I spoke to a Kiwi friend who owned an early childhood centre and she recommended New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC).”

Excited to begin his early childhood education learning journey, Lingxiao was thrilled to find out that NZTC offered a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE) qualification with start dates throughout the year.

Having never experienced online study before, the Chinese student initially found the concept of a ‘virtual classroom’ challenging, but quickly adapted with the support of his classmates and NZTC staff.

“There’s always someone to turn to, whether it’s a tricky situation we face in our daily lives or an academic question. The blended learning study mode has suited me well, allowing me to study at home following my own schedule.”

Lingxiao is embracing every opportunity to combine his love for teaching with another passion he’s picked up since arriving in New Zealand, the Māori language.

“I joined a choir during my working holiday, where we sang a lot of Māori songs. The beautiful lyrics and tunes captured my heart,” he shared.

“Now I am learning to apply te reo Māori in my practice. For example, I help my Associate Teacher to do a karakia (prayer) before lunch.”

“I would also like to practice waiata (singing) to help children gain more knowledge of the Māori language. This captures the children's attention and inspires them to learn about the philosophies and values of the Māori culture.”