International ECE students bring diverse perspectives to NZ

New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC) welcomed 65 new international students to the college in July, marking the first step in their journey towards becoming early childhood professionals in New Zealand.

International teachers play an important role in New Zealand’s early childhood centres, as the national early childhood curriculum Te Whāriki aims to help all children gain a positive awareness of their own and other cultures.

Students from Nigeria, China, India, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and the Philippines enjoyed a traditional welcoming ceremony led by Chief Executive Selena Fox.

Orientation continued throughout the week with information sessions and campus city tours in Christchurch and Auckland to make the students’ transition into life in New Zealand as smooth as possible.

Nigerian student Jessica Iyekekpolo said she was filled with a new sense of belonging after meeting with college staff and other students.

“I feel so welcomed, it was amazing watching the staff sing to us today and I’ve already made some new friends. It has left me feeling so positive about my study and excited for what’s to come,” said Jessica.

Master of Early Childhood Education student Kristel Canalita moved from the Philippines to New Zealand to pursue her study, an experience she believes will lead to both professional and personal growth.

“It’s so exciting. I’ve uprooted everything, my life, my family, and ventured into the unknown. I know this experience will be challenging but it will open my eyes to the world and make me a stronger person.”

Describing herself as a ‘progressive teacher’, Kristel said she knew she wanted to study with NZTC after learning about the college’s belief in child-led learning.

“I’ve been teaching for seven years, three of those in an international school where I had a lot of freedom to teach the way I want to teach. I realised I want the children to be in control of their learning,” said Kristel.

“I’m so happy to be here. I appreciate how upfront the college has been - they have told us there may be challenges along the way but reassured us that they’ll be here to help every step of the way.”