Graduate motivated to pursue leadership role
From a young age, Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) graduate, Vincy Hu, had a natural inclination towards teaching and caring for others. Spending time with her cousins and younger children, she realised that nurturing and guiding young minds brought her immense joy.
After arriving in New Zealand from China at the age of 18, she was determined to turn her childhood dream into reality. With recommendations from friends, she chose to study with NZTC.
“They recommended NZTC to me because it’s a college which offers reputable training in early childhood education, not only in an academic sense but also in a highly practical way.
“I feel that the flexibility to arrange online learning and daily practice in early childhood centres is an efficient way to incorporate theoretical knowledge into practice.”
She says a highlight during her studies was the opportunity to engage in home and out-of-home centre practicums, exposing her to different teaching styles and broadening her understanding of early childhood education.
“Exploring different types of pedagogies and philosophies was very beneficial in my learning. I was able to see how the learning environment can change the learning style, and how the children’s development can be altered by implementing different teaching philosophies.”
Now working full-time at a centre, Hu credits her studies with NZTC for equipping her with the necessary professional knowledge and skills to excel in her chosen field.
“After studying with NZTC, I gained professional knowledge in early childhood education, and I could connect my knowledge and practice to improve my teaching and become a professional ECE educator.”
Looking ahead, Hu is motivated to pursue a leadership role in early childhood education.
“I will keep putting my passion into teaching in the ECE field. But also, I’m keen on studying for a Master's degree in project management or human resources because my short-term career goal is to work as a team leader or centre manager in ECE.”
She offers some advice for fellow international students thinking of pursuing a career as an ECE kaiako.
“Be passionate about what you are doing, empower the minds of young people – you will feel amazing and proud of tamariki, but also of yourself.”