Chinese student excited to embark on educational journey with NZTC
Bright Chinese student, Xi Zhu, holds a range of academic achievements to her name, along with seven years’ experience as a secondary school English teacher, and two years as a teaching director.
She is now embarking on a new educational journey, having recently enrolled in the Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education) qualification with New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC). Xi received a visa and has begun her studies offshore in China by dispensation through COVID-19 allowances by the New Zealand Teaching Council and NZQA.
“After I became a mother, I started to ask myself, ‘what kind of education do I want my children to have?’ And the more books I read on education and parenting, the more I realised how important early childhood education is,” Xi says.
“In more recent years, I have volunteered in schools throughout the poorer areas of China and Thailand. I saw that there was so much work that needed to be done in those places. I want to become a professional early childhood educator so that I can be a positive influence on children and really make a difference.”
Xi decided to study with NZTC after she discovered the college’s time-honoured history.
“The early childhood qualifications NZTC offers are quite prominent among its counterparts in the field. I was particularly attracted to the college’s powerful pedagogical resources, vibrant intellectual atmosphere, and a comprehensive curriculum.”
Xi says the assistance from the college to get her set up with her studies has been phenomenal.
“NZTC has given me such strong support. During my orientation, teachers from different departments introduced the college and online course to me.
“The International Team were particularly wonderful, and truly embodied the college’s values of Vision, Heart, Competence and Spirit, by answering any questions I had patiently and with a smile.”
The convenience of being able to study online is another reason Xi chose NZTC.
“I think the NZTC Online learning platform is awesome! I can still reside in my city – Chongqing – with my family and friends, and enjoy the delicious local food and fantastic sightseeing. Meanwhile, I don’t miss out on any study!”
Xi is looking forward to eventually completing the rest of her studies in New Zealand.
“I can’t wait to come to New Zealand. I would love to meet my teachers and fellow students in person. I am also excited about experiencing Field Practice in a different country.
“Once I have gained valuable work experience, I plan to teach in China, particularly in areas where quality early childhood education is needed the most.”