1148 ECE graduates celebrated at time-honoured ceremony

A day of recognition and reflection, celebrating the hard work and commitment that have led graduates to this milestone. Honouring outstanding achievements and the dedication that has shaped their journey.

New Zealand Tertiary College proudly celebrated the success of more than 1,000 graduates at its 2025 graduation ceremony, marking a significant milestone for early childhood education in Aotearoa. Graduates from the college’s Bachelor of Teaching (ECE), Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE), and postgraduate programs were recognised for their perseverance, commitment, and dedication to shaping young minds across New Zealand.

Held on Saturday 17 May, the event was attended by graduates, their families, and members of the NZTC community, including NZTC CEO James Ward and Academic Dean Dr Sean Dolan, who presented awards and delivered speeches.

“We gathered not just to celebrate an academic milestone but the beginning of a truly profound journey. Our graduates leave NZTC with more than a qualification, they leave with the power to shape the future – one child at a time. They are the architects of curiosity, the champions of early literacy, and the first responders to a child’s need for safety, trust, and encouragement,” said Dr Sean Dolan, NZTC Academic Dean.
In recognition of exceptional efforts, NZTC presented awards to graduates who excelled in both academic performance and professional practice.

Jennifer Gaylard was honoured for her outstanding dedication throughout her Master of Education (ECE) qualification. “I was very shocked to receive this award, but so proud. I have always been determined to make a difference to the education system in Aotearoa, New Zealand, and I feel that my studies have allowed me to challenge and expand my thinking so that I am better positioned to be able to do this,” she said.

Special awards were also presented to Lauren Michael (Bachelor of Education (ECE)), Janelle Schreiber (Bachelor of Teaching (ECE)), Eunmee Park (Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE)) and Saffyre Haddon (Bachelor of Teaching (ECE)).

Graduates celebrated the milestone by embracing a beloved tradition—the photo booth—creating lasting memories with their loved ones and peers. They also received an NZTC created memory card game—a valuable teaching resource for classroom use with tamariki, serving as a reminder of their journey at NZTC.

NZTC CEO James Ward praised graduates for their efforts, stating, “The fingerprints of our graduates' care and guidance will be on every learning space, every career, and every life our graduates influence in the years to come. That is no small legacy.”