Record graduation numbers for NZCECE

The New Zealand College of Early Childhood Education is celebrating an impressive milestone on Friday, the biggest graduation in the College’s 20 years plus history as a place of learning.

College Manager Andy Walker believes developing excellent educators for the ECE sector is a key first step in ensuring New Zealand youngsters are given the best possible start.

“We really are being entrusted with the future of New Zealand. Reasearch links positive early learning experiences with more rounded and better socialised children, later school achievement, and increased adult productivity.

“ The College is proud to be producing teachers who have a balance of strong professional teaching practice and academic knowledge ready to meet the challenge of influencing this future,” he says.

Almost 100 students will be graduating with a Diploma of Teaching (Early Childhood Education) and one student will receive the College’s Exemplar Award given to the student who best embodies the qualities of an NZCECE graduate including having confidence in his or her ability to ‘make a difference,’ anticipating and responding effectively to change and having a passion for ECE and being an advocate for children.

And that’s something that keynote speaker Dr John Angus, NZ’s Commissioner for Children knows a thing or two about.

“Early childhood teachers do an important job and it’s not always appreciated how vital their skills are. Their knowledge, care and commitment make a key contribution to a child’s development,” he says.

Graduates receive an academic transcript; but perhaps more importantly to would-be employers, a written profile which details academic achievement, their professional teaching practice and their personal and professional qualities.

The event is being held in the Christchurch Town Hall this Friday evening.

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