NZTC-China cooperation imparts wealth of knowledge

Chinese students enrolled in the Sino-New Zealand Cooperation Program were given an insight into New Zealand culture recently with NZTC lecturer (Kaiarahi – Teaching and Learning Support) Roimata Rokx travelling to Fujian to share new information and Kiwi early childhood education perspectives with pupils.

Roimata taught 260 students during her three week stint at the Fujian Preschool Education College. Her lessons focused on infant and toddler pedagogy and the importance of play for children’s learning. An insight into Māori cultural practices was also shared with Roimata performing a poi demonstration.

Roimata was impressed with the cooperation program and the support it offers students to become skilled early childhood educators.

“I asked one of the students what she found most interesting about New Zealand education and she said that she had done her research and seen that New Zealand is ahead of most countries when it comes to early childhood education so she was very happy and thankful to be studying NZTC courses developed in New Zealand.”

While in China, Roimata met with several students who are looking forward to applying to study in New Zealand with NZTC after they complete their current ECE programs.

“You build some amazing relationships with the students that are there. I remember one hugging me and not wanting to let me go!” Roimata exclaimed.

The trip was her first time traveling alone, and being abroad for more than a week, the experience gave her an insight into what the international students she teaches may experience upon leaving home, helping her to better relate to them.

“I’m always telling students, you need to step out of your box, and this trip made me step out of mine!”

Roimata shares a meal with Fujian students

When she wasn’t teaching and preparing lessons, Roimata enjoyed seeing local sites including the Fujian Preschool, a top early childhood centre in the area that is located on the grounds of the college. While she was there, she observed the ways that Chinese and New Zealand early childhood education relate and differ.

She was surprised to see how large the centre was, with several storeys of classrooms, and a welcoming environment with a strong connection with nature. Excellent conversations were had as ideas were exchanged and New Zealand early childhood centre systems and processes shared.