Professional development

Fuilupe makes the most of NZTC scholarship opportunities to reach professional goal

Freya Lucas

Jan 12, 2021

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Fuilupe (Lulu) La'akulu recently returned home to New Zealand after six years of teaching English to preschool children in order to make the most of scholarship opportunities available through the New Zealand Tertiary Colleges (NZTC) group, and to grow as an early childhood professional.

“My goal was to gain a formal qualification as I knew this would open up wonderful opportunities for me, and I was excited to do this in New Zealand where the early childhood curriculum is highly regarded,” Ms La'akulu said.

As a result of being successful in her scholarship application, Ms La’akulu, who is in her first year of a Bachelor of Teaching (Early Childhood Education) qualification, will pay only $999 for her degree.

“Studying is expensive, so the scholarship has been an absolute blessing and has really motivated me to make the most of this opportunity and give it my all,” she said.

Being able to apply practical skills to the role she is undertaking while completing her qualification fills her with passion and inspiration.

“I find it so exciting when I learn new concepts through my studies, which I then get to apply in everyday practice. I’m gaining newfound skills and knowledge that I didn’t have when working with children in China.”

“It is so rewarding to know that each time a child learns something new or overcomes an obstacle, I’ve helped them do this through the valuable skills I’m developing within my studies.”

Once Ms La'akulu finishes studying, she will be eligible to apply for teacher registration, something she said will open up “a realm of opportunities, as there are so many amazing career paths available in early childhood, with lots of room for progression.”

Further information about NZTC’s current scholarship opportunities may be found here.

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