2026 NZTC Graduation Ceremony Celebrates 369 Graduates
Last Saturday, 30 May, New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC) celebrated the achievements of 369 graduates at its 2026 Graduation Ceremony, held at the Victory Convention Centre.
Graduates from the College’s Bachelor of Teaching (ECE), Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE), and postgraduate programmes were recognised at the ceremony, which brought together students, along with their families and friends, for a memorable morning of celebration, highlighting NZTC’s commitment to developing highly qualified educators for Aotearoa New Zealand.
Nicola Helmik, a graduate of the Graduate Diploma in Teaching (ECE), was selected as student speaker and delivered an inspiring address reflecting on the journey of her cohort and the important role they will play in shaping future generations.
In her speech, Nicola reflected on the perseverance and commitment shared across the graduating cohort, noting that “this ‘piece of paper’ is a recognition of commitment, of perseverance, Of late nights, early mornings, and the juggle of life, study, work, and whānau (…) it’s a reflection of something deeper… a shared aroha for tamariki that has brought each of us here today.”
She also spoke about the privilege and responsibility of working in Early Childhood Education, describing tamariki as “incredible, messy, curious, joyful little humans” who need kaiako that “choose — again and again — to be present, to be real, and to be human.”
Nicola concluded by celebrating the journey of her fellow graduates, sharing: “Each of us has walked our own path to get here. Each of us has faced our own challenges. And yet, here we are — stronger, wiser, and ready.”
In addition to her role as speaker, Nicola was presented with the Values Award, recognising her outstanding contribution and the way she has embodied NZTC’s values throughout her study journey.
The ceremony also featured a number of special awards recognising excellence and achievement across the graduating cohort.
Recipients of the Excellence in Programme Award included Dannielle Walker - Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Education), Claudia Higginbotham - Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education), Clenella Tuala - Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education), Emma Parker - Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Leadership and Management), Megan McLean - Postgraduate Diploma in Education (Early Childhood Education), and Pamela Moodley - Master of Early Childhood Education.
Rachel Nicholson received the Academic Excellence Award, while Gengyun (Lester) Lyu was presented with the Excellence in Professional Practice Award.
NZTC also presented its inaugural Alumni Award to Fitu Ah-Young, a 2023 Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education) graduate and member of NZTC’s Programme Advisory Committee (PAC). The award recognised his ongoing contribution to the early childhood sector, including his advocacy for Pacific learning communities, tamariki, whānau, and kaiako across Aotearoa New Zealand.
NZTC Chief Executive Officer James Ward expressed his pride in the graduates and the significance of the occasion: “Behind every qualification celebrated today is a story of commitment, resilience, and passion for learning. Graduation marks not only the completion of a qualification, but the beginning of an important contribution to the education sector. We are incredibly proud of our graduates and the positive impact they will have on tamariki, whānau, and communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.”
Beyond the formal proceedings, graduates had the opportunity to celebrate together, capturing the moment at the event’s photo booth and connecting with peers and whānau. Each graduate also received the NZTC Memory Card Game, a practical teaching resource designed to support their professional practice, and a symbol of NZTC’s ongoing connection with its alumni.
NZTC remains committed to supporting its graduates as they move into the education sector, with their success reflecting the strength of the College’s community and purpose.