Mikayla Sycamore
Name: Mikayla Sycamore
Qualification: Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education)
Embarking on a career change is a daunting task, but for Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) graduate, and Values Award winner, Mikayla Sycamore, it was a leap towards her true calling in early childhood education.
After working as a hairdresser, Mikayla found her passion for teaching, inspired by a lifelong enjoyment of being around children.
Now a teacher at an ECE centre in Thames, she reflects on her transformative journey.
“Ever since I was young, I had considered the path of becoming a teacher. After high school, I ventured into an eight-year career in hairdressing and always loved the moments with tamariki in my chair.
“A persistent calling towards early childhood education eventually led me to make a bold career change, and I haven’t regretted it since.”
For Sycamore, the heart of her profession lies in the connections formed with children and their whānau. Becoming an extended part of their lives, sharing stories, adventures, and milestones, is what makes her work in ECE truly rewarding.
She says her NZTC studies instilled in her a sense of achievement and the realisation of her potential through hard work.
“It made me aware of what and how much I was able to achieve by putting my mind to it! I was proud of the work I put in and how much I learnt from the courses provided, laying the foundation for a successful career.”
Recently honoured with NZTC’s Values Award in recognition of her Competence and strong work ethic, she shares what winning the award means to her.
“I was very, very touched, it made me rather emotional and extremely proud! I put my heart and soul into every assignment, making sacrifices to ensure I gave my best, and it was so rewarding having that acknowledged.
“If ever I doubt myself in my professional journey, I will remember the moment of receiving this award!”
Sycamore has recently returned from maternity leave with renewed goals in mind to provide the best learning experiences for the children in her care.
“I am on my way to becoming fully registered! I have recently gone back to work from maternity leave and am setting new goals for myself. I strive to keep challenging and pushing myself for the tamariki in which I have the privilege to teach.”