Navpreet Kaur’s journey with New Zealand Tertiary College

Originally from Punjab, India, Navpreet Kaur’s pathway into early childhood education has been shaped by a lifelong passion for teaching, learning, and supporting children. Before beginning her career in education, Navpreet studied commerce in India. However, her interest in teaching was always present. “From childhood, I always had a strong passion for teaching and helping others learn,” she explains. “I regularly supported my siblings and nephews with their studies, which helped me realise how much I enjoyed guiding and supporting children.”

A turning point came when Navpreet was given the opportunity to work in a kindergarten. That hands-on experience confirmed her career direction. “That experience showed me that early childhood education was the right career pathway for me,” she says. Motivated by this clarity, Navpreet made the move to Aotearoa New Zealand to further her education and develop a professional career in a culturally diverse and inclusive learning environment.

Navpreet chose to study the Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education (Level 7) with New Zealand Tertiary College because of its strong reputation and values-driven approach. “NZTC’s focus on Te Whāriki, culturally responsive practice, and real-world teaching experience aligned closely with my career goals,” she explains. The flexible online learning model also played a key role in her decision, allowing her to manage her studies alongside other commitments.

Studying online through NZTC proved to be a positive and supportive experience. “The learning platform is well organised, the resources are clear and accessible, and the flexibility has allowed me to manage my studies effectively,” Navpreet says. She found success by planning her time carefully, setting weekly goals, and maintaining a structured study routine. Her advice to other students balancing work and study is simple but effective: “Manage your time wisely, start assignments early, stay consistent, and don’t hesitate to reach out to lecturers for support.”

A highlight of Navpreet’s study journey was the strong balance between theory and practice. She particularly enjoyed the course Learning and Development in the Early Years. “This course clearly explained how biological, psychological, and sociological factors influence the holistic development of tamariki,” she says. “Understanding how these interconnected factors shape children’s learning, behaviour, and wellbeing has had a lasting impact on my teaching philosophy.”

Navpreet credits her lecturers and mentor teachers as key influences throughout her journey. “Their guidance, encouragement, and belief in my abilities helped build my confidence and motivated me to grow as a reflective and passionate kaiako.” She also acknowledges the impact of supportive lecturers such as Chelsea Bracefield, whose encouragement helped her strive for excellence.

Now successfully working as an early childhood teacher, Navpreet is applying her learning every day in ECE settings. She is particularly passionate about working with infants and toddlers, valuing “secure attachments, emotional wellbeing, and responsive caregiving” as the foundation for children’s lifelong learning and development.

Reflecting on her journey, Navpreet says, “I am grateful for the learning journey at New Zealand Tertiary College. The support, guidance, and practical learning opportunities have helped shape my professional identity and strengthened my passion for early childhood education.”