ECE scholarship helps student progress towards teacher registration

Early Childhood Education

After a brief relieving stint at her daughter’s early childhood education centre, Allanah Elzakey knew teaching and inspiring young tamariki was a career she wanted to pursue.

“I really enjoyed the centre environment, seeing children’s successes and helping them overcome setbacks. I realised that teaching was something that connected to my background as a personal carer and I felt it was a good natural step forward in my career.”

Looking to fulfil her goal of becoming a qualified teacher, Elzakey was drawn to NZTC’s reduced fee study scholarships.

“The ECE scholarship has enabled me to concentrate on my studies as I don’t have to apply for a student loan or make repayments on one.”

The busy mum enjoys the flexibility of the program, allowing her to balance her commitments both as a parent and a part-time employee.

“The flexibility of the program enables me to learn at my pace and in the comfort of my own home. Sometimes it can be challenging having my daughter at home with me and I’ll feel too tired to study. I don’t punish myself for this, instead I allow time on another day to complete and make up for the missed study.”

Partway through the Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) program, she is enjoying learning theory and putting it into use at her home centre.

“Becoming a reflective teacher has been a great skill that I have learnt through my studies so far. I hope with time and practise I will continue to see new skills added to my teaching belt.”

Seeing young children gain confidence, form friendships and hit key learning milestones is a highlight for her, and she hopes to continue collaborating with whānau for the best possible outcomes for tamariki.

“I love seeing a child who has been struggling to grasp a new skill, suddenly grasp it.

“I hope to continue learning and growing as an ECE teacher, being able to see and enjoy all the children coming through the centre, whilst making strong bonds with their families that enable all of us to grow together and thrive.”