Toru Yuasa

Name: Toru Yuasa

Qualification: Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education)

After working in New Zealand’s tourism industry for several years, Toru Yuasa was forced to rethink his career when the Covid-19 pandemic hit.

“All of a sudden tourism completely disappeared and I lost my job. So I thought, what is the best choice for me?

“I searched on the internet and found ECE programs with NZTC and I asked my family what they thought. They said it was a great idea because I’ve enjoyed taking care of my relative’s children.”

Originally from Japan, Yuasa decided to move to New Zealand to experience a different culture. Currently half way through his studies towards a Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE), he is now enjoying the multicultural focus his centre places on teaching.

“At the centre, we count in Māori and English and use te reo for days of the week.

“I think it’s important for children to understand that we share different cultures and in the future, I’d like to share about my own Japanese culture with the children.”

Yuasa says a highlight for him is Field Practice, where he loves incorporating his passion for music with singing and guitar sessions during mat-time.

“Field Experience is what I enjoy the most. Communicating with children is a highlight because I can see their growth day by day. For example, a child couldn’t open their lunch box and one month later they can. This kind of thing makes me excited and when I go to pre-school the children are so fresh and eager to learn.”

He is glad he pursued a new career in early childhood education, and finds the balance between juggling study and work commitments with NZTC’s flexible workplace learning just right.

“Some people told me it would be too hard, working, studying and doing placement. But I think if you are really willing to be a teacher you can put in the effort.”

After completing his studies with NZTC he is looking forward to gaining teacher registration.