Nidhi Sharma's transformation into a registered ECE teacher

Nidhi Sharma’s journey into early childhood education began long before she formally entered the sector. After moving to New Zealand in 2015, she found herself increasingly drawn to the warmth, wonder, and transformative potential of early childhood settings. While she had experience in education-related roles, it was her daily interactions with young children that revealed her true calling. “I have always felt a deep connection with young children,” she shared. “Their curiosity, honesty, and joy bring me peace and give me a sense of purpose.” These moments helped her recognise where she could make the most meaningful impact. “Early childhood is a powerful foundation stage where learning, identity, and relationships take shape, and I wanted to contribute meaningfully to this precious period of life.”

As she settled into life in Aotearoa, Nidhi embraced a deep appreciation for biculturalism and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. She explains, “Living in New Zealand has helped me understand the importance of weaving te reo Māori and tikanga Māori into my teaching philosophy.” Her commitment to inclusive, culturally responsive practice has since become central to her identity as a kaiako.

When she decided to become a qualified early childhood teacher, New Zealand Tertiary College stood out to her immediately. “I chose NZTC because of its commitment to inclusiveness, bicultural practice, and the principles of Te Whāriki,” she said. The flexibility of NZTC Online also made it possible for her to continue working full-time while studying. “The flexible structure allowed me to balance my studies with full-time work. The platform is well-organised, and I always felt connected through discussion forums, lecturer feedback, and helpful resources.”

Her study journey, however, wasn’t without challenges. During one of the most difficult periods in her personal life, Nidhi experienced the full strength of NZTC’s support network. “What made the biggest difference was the emotional and academic support I received from NZTC during a particularly challenging time,” she recalled. “My lecturers were understanding, compassionate, and encouraged me to stay strong. Their support helped me regain my confidence and reminded me why I chose this profession—to make a difference in children’s lives.”

Balancing study with full-time teaching required organisation and perseverance, but Nidhi found ways to make it work. “I adapted by carefully planning, reflecting regularly, and using my teaching experiences as real learning opportunities,” she shared. One course that particularly shaped her teaching was Inclusive Early Childhood Education. “The idea that ‘every child is competent, capable, and deserving of a voice’ has guided me in my teaching approaches.”

Now a fully qualified and registered early childhood teacher, Nidhi works with children aged 2 to 5—an age group she finds especially meaningful. “Every day is full of learning, joy, and meaningful interactions,” she said. She welcomes tamariki and whānau each morning, creates engaging play-based learning environments, supports children’s individual goals, documents learning, and collaborates with colleagues to ensure every child feels seen, valued, and included. “I love designing experiences that allow children to express themselves, ask questions, take risks, and develop confidence.”

Looking ahead, Nidhi hopes to grow as a leader and mentor in the early childhood sector. “I want to grow further as a professional leader, mentor, or specialist in inclusion and emotional well-being,” she said. She also dreams of contributing to research or one day opening her own ECE centre.

Reflecting on her journey, Nidhi describes her experience with NZTC as life-changing. “Studying at NZTC has been more than just qualifying me. It has been a journey of personal transformation, healing, and purpose,” she said. “Today, I feel stronger, better equipped, and more confident as an early childhood teacher.”

With gratitude and a deep commitment to tamariki and their whānau, Nidhi stands as a powerful example of how education, passion, and support can shape a fulfilling career—and a meaningful life.