Nicola Helmink

Graduate Diploma in Early Childhood Education

After spending 17 years in the Netherlands, Nicola Helmink returned to Aotearoa in 2024 with her daughter — ready to reconnect with whānau, offer her child a Kiwi upbringing, and formally pursue her long-standing passion for early childhood education.

Nicola’s background in drama education and creative arts-based workshops saw her working in both primary and early childhood settings in Europe. Alongside this, she trained as a Neuro Emotional Integration (NEI) therapist — a holistic modality that supports emotional wellbeing and self-awareness. This path not only shaped her professional journey, but also deeply influenced her personal growth, especially after becoming a mother.

“My daughter has been my greatest inspiration,” Nicola shares. “Her presence motivates me to stay present, grow, and model the values I want to pass on.”

Keen to align her international experience with the New Zealand ECE context, Nicola chose NZTC’s Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE) for its flexibility and supportive online structure.

“As a solo parent balancing study, part-time work, and motherhood, NZTC Online made further education possible. I’ve been able to study in my own time while staying closely connected to my daughter — even attending the same ECE centre she goes to.”

Nicola has a strong interest in supporting tamariki who are quieter or need extra encouragement to express themselves. She’s also passionate about emotional regulation, language development, and integrating music and creativity into everyday practice — often bringing in her handpan for calming and playful group sessions.

Her studies have deepened her appreciation for the learning environment as the “third teacher” and strengthened her desire to create inclusive, nurturing spaces for all learners. Practicum placements have offered rich, hands-on opportunities to integrate theory with meaningful, relationship-based teaching.

Looking ahead, Nicola hopes to continue in part-time ECE teaching while expanding her NEI therapy practice and supporting Dutch language learners at the Auckland Dutch School. She’s also excited to eventually step into relieving roles in primary education — continuing to nurture young learners through holistic, creative approaches.

“My journey is about weaving together all the things I love — teaching, healing, creativity, and connection. I feel grateful to be shaping a career that reflects my whole self.”