What made you choose the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)?
The first few years of a child’s life are the most important in terms of their development and it is vital that they are taught by passionate and driven teachers. This fundamental part of a child’s early development, along with my personal philosophies have cemented my choice in Early Years Education. I feel privileged to be a huge part of their future success throughout school and their adult lives.
What made you choose QUT?
I chose QUT as it has an internationally recognised reputation and many different opportunities to expand your practices overseas. In my fourth year of university I decided to go part-time to pursue a full-time education job. Throughout this process QUT was extremely helpful and understanding, they ensured that I was comfortable with my decision and happy with my new study plan. The education department at QUT are always welcoming and are very supportive.
What parts of the course did you particularly enjoy?
I really enjoyed how all tutorials and workshops were practical and interactive. This made it easier to grasp the concepts being taught and then take these skills and apply them in my practical experiences.
What is a memorable moment?
In my second year, one of my assessments was to plan and implement an experience for children at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. This assessment took me out of my comfort zone and had a really positive influence on my teaching philosophy and pedagogy. It will be an experience I will never forget.
What was it like to be involved in an exchange program?
Through QUT I was sent to Peru on a teaching exchange. It was incredible and humbling to be part of a process that supported rural low-income families to inclusive and equitable quality educational opportunities and to instil and promote lifelong learning for all.
Did you ever have a breakthrough moment when you connected with a student during your practical experience?
Definitely. During one of my practical experiences I had a child who did not have much confidence and struggled to speak with other students or in front of the class. Over the four weeks I was able to specifically work on this with her and build up on confidence. In my final week she stood up in front of her class and asked them some questions. I had to be patient and calm, allowing her to build trust in myself and eventually her peers. Making a difference in a child’s social and emotional development was an indescribable feeling and it reassured me that I had made the right career choice.
What advice would you offer to those interested in following your footsteps?
Early Childhood Education provides you with the foundations to teach all the way from birth to primary school, by learning where children start you are setting yourself up with an extremely valuable knowledge base. All the tutors and lecturers are supportive and incredibly insightful. If you have a love and passion for teaching young children and want to help shape their future learning and adult lives, then this is the degree for you.
Learn more about the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)
