How studying in New Zealand led to my dream job
Arabella came to New Zealand when she was 15 and went to Burnside High School in Christchurch where she took several Early Childhood Education courses. Arabella has always loved being around children so when she got the opportunity to spend a day at a local kindergarten, she jumped at the chance. It was then she realised she could turn her passion for being with children into a career.
A different style of education
At first, Arabella really noticed the different way of teaching in New Zealand. The inquiry-based learning where she got to ask lots of questions and work collaboratively in class was different from what she was used to in China. This helped her become more open minded and willing to challenge herself to try new things. Going to school here has allowed her to follow her interests and passion and gave her a good foundation to go on to university.
I appreciated the collaborative style of learning in New Zealand, so different from what I was used to in China. It made the transition to university so much easier
Going to school here will give you a good all-round education that will help you decide what to do next – whether it’s applying for a job you really want or going on to higher learning at one of New Zealand’s vocational schools or universities.
Gaining the skills and qualifications to progress her career
High school laid the foundation for Arabella’s passion, while university opened her mind to a whole new world of possibilities. Her tutors challenged her to think independently every day. The course she took was a mix of professional knowledge and practical experience which helped her gain valuable skills and build her self-confidence. Going to university in New Zealand allowed her to fully realise her passion for early childhood learning and complete her three-year degree in a Bachelor of Teaching and Learning, Early Childhood. She is now a fully qualified and registered teacher in New Zealand and couldn’t be happier.
A New Zealand university degree is recognised and respected by employers anywhere in the world. All of New Zealand’s universities are ranked in the top 2% in the world by QS World University Rankings.
Choosing a career path
Throughout her studies, Arabella enjoyed many placements caring for babies and young children, including supporting school holiday programmes. Her dedication earned her the International Student 1st Year Scholarship for volunteering, exemplary work, and overall excellence as a student.
The chance to go out into the world and get real hands-on experience gave her the skills and confidence to apply for the job she really wanted. Now a teacher, Arabella begins each day with a Karakia (a Māori prayer for spiritual guidance and protection) and tries to incorporate te ao Māori in her lessons wherever she can.
At school we visited a Marae, and I learnt a lot about Tikanga Māori (Māori traditions).
Arabella really enjoys her job especially connecting with people and families from different backgrounds and cultures.
Loving the Kiwi way of life
Initially, Arabella found settling into a new country quite challenging, but with support from the International Department and her homestay family, she soon felt at home. Living with a Kiwi family fostered her independence, encouraging her to make new friends and explore the beauty of New Zealand.
Although she wasn’t athletic in China, she’s tried lots of outdoor activities which helped her discover a love for the outdoors, the gym, and Zumba, which she uses to unwind and recharge after a busy day in the classroom.
Whatever your goals, studying in New Zealand will give you the skills to achieve them.
How to choose a career path.
Choosing what courses to study can be a big step. Think about your strengths, your values and what sort of lifestyle you’d like to lead in the future. Try talking to people in jobs you're interested in about what they do, the skills needed for the job and what study they did.
Doing a little research now and really thinking about what’s important to you in life will help guide you along the right career path.
New Zealand offers flexible study options such as as global pathways and online courses that can help you decide not only what you want to study but also how you study.
You may also get the opportunity to work part-time while you study and if you choose, full-time during holidays.
Your chosen career may mean studying for further qualifications like a master's degree or a PhD. New Zealand's higher education system offers a wide range of programmes and education providers to choose from, in any region of the country.
If you complete a qualification in an area that is skilled and in demand in New Zealand, you may be able to continue working here by applying for a different type of work visa or a skilled migrant visa.
Join our mailing list now for expert advice and tips to kickstart your study journey in New Zealand.
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