Qiang Zhao’s first job out of university was with Rolling Stone China, which launched her into a 14-year long career in the media industry. 

Years later, observing the influence of early childhood education on her daughter, Zhao traded in her success as a journalist, feature editor and creative project manager for a more meaningful role as a Montessori teacher. 

Guided by her daughter, who motivated Zhao to expand her horizons and find her strengths in early childhood education, she began searching for an early childhood study program. 

A friend suggested the Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education) at New Zealand Tertiary College, and Zhao enrolled after seeing what his experience was like. 

“He acquired an in-depth knowledge of the development of children, as well as a detailed understanding of New Zealand’s early childhood curriculum (Te Whāriki) as a result of his studies,” she explains. 

“His experience enabled me to observe the meticulous teaching and practicum opportunities at NZTC, which facilitate students’ integration into the early childhood education sector of New Zealand.” 

Since moving to New Zealand to pursue the program, Zhao has taken on an unqualified teacher role in an ECE centre in Auckland where she supervises group activities, organises outdoor activities, sets up tables, and helps to open and close the centre. 

“The extensive practicum opportunities offered by NZTC have facilitated my understanding of the actual responsibilities of a teacher, enhancing my ability to carry out the responsibilities and requirements,” she says. 

Due to her creative background, she also enjoys creating engaging activities to help children learn through the games and methods they enjoy. 

“When my daughter attended a Montessori kindergarten in Beijing, I always did my best to make crafts or provide materials for her class. After studying the Montessori curriculum and becoming a teacher, I’ve enjoyed making different materials for my children to help them develop the skills they need.” 

She’s found the transition from the media industry to education smooth, thanks to both her studies and the similarities between media professionals and tamariki. 

“Whether you’re working in media or early childhood education, both require effective communication with people. The difference is that in media you’re dealing with adults, whereas now it’s with young children, or even toddlers and infants. 

“But just as a journalist needs to thoroughly understand their interviewee before writing an outstanding article, communicating with children also requires a heartfelt understanding of them and their families.”