Continuing a Passion for Education Across Borders: Rajni Sharma’s Journey
A love for teaching can take you anywhere, but its impact knows no boundaries.
For Rajni Sharma, education is a passion that has shaped her journey across countries and cultures.
Born and raised in India, Rajni completed her bachelor's and master's degrees before beginning her career as a teacher. Teaching had always been something she loved, and supporting children's learning and development inspired her to pursue a career in education.
When she moved to New Zealand, she knew she wanted to continue doing what she loved while embracing new opportunities to grow professionally. This led her to further her studies in Early Childhood Education (ECE), completing a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education) and a Master of Early Childhood Education with New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC).
Building on her previous teaching experience in India, Rajni embraced the opportunity to learn more about the New Zealand education system, particularly Te Whāriki and the importance of creating meaningful learning experiences for children.
Among the areas that left a lasting impression on her during her studies was inclusion and diversity in early childhood education. Having experienced different cultural environments herself, Rajni particularly enjoyed learning about the unique cultural, family and social backgrounds children bring into their learning environments.
One important lesson that has stayed with her is that inclusion goes beyond simply welcoming every child. It means ensuring every child feels valued, respected, supported and has a genuine sense of belonging.
She also developed a particular interest in Te Reo Māori and its place in children's everyday learning. Rajni believes that introducing tamariki to Māori language, culture and values from an early age helps foster respect, belonging and a deeper understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand's identity.
Throughout her studies, the flexibility of NZTC Online allowed Rajni to balance her assignments with work and family responsibilities. Although managing everything came with challenges, she appreciated the guidance and encouragement of her tutors and the support provided by the college. She fondly remembers lecturers Sean and Keshni, whose encouragement made a positive impression on her learning journey.
Today, Rajni works with Kuddles Home Based Childcare as a qualified and registered Visiting Teacher, supporting both educators and children in their learning environments. Her role involves observing children's development, discussing their interests and learning needs, and working alongside educators to create positive, safe and engaging environments. She also supports educators' professional development by sharing ideas, resources and guidance to strengthen their teaching practices and confidence.
What she enjoys most is building positive relationships with educators and whānau, celebrating children's achievements and helping others grow professionally. For Rajni, supporting educators is another meaningful way to make a difference in children's lives.
One of her proudest moments was her NZTC graduation ceremony. Rajni was pregnant at the time, making the occasion even more special as she celebrated her academic achievements while preparing for a new chapter in her life. The day brought an unexpected surprise when she received a Certificate of Excellence. She had not known she would be receiving the award, making the recognition even more meaningful.
She still keeps the NZTC bowls gifted to her that day as a special reminder of how far she has come and the dedication she has put into her journey.
Her connection with NZTC has also continued well beyond graduation. Rajni particularly appreciates the resources she continues to receive from the college, which offer useful ideas, inspiration and opportunities to reflect on her professional practice. She enjoys learning from these resources and bringing new ideas into her work with educators and children.
Looking ahead, Rajni hopes to further develop her leadership and mentoring skills, continuing to make a positive difference in the lives of children, families and the educators she works alongside.
For Rajni, professional growth is an ongoing journey. Her passion for education has taken her across borders, but her commitment to learning, supporting others and helping every child feel they belong remains at the heart of everything she does.