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ECT Michaelle Campbell is “a testament to perseverance and passion”
Freya Lucas
Dec 06, 2023
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Michaelle Campbell, an Early Childhood Teacher in New Zealand, has thanked those who supported her to get her Bachelor of Teaching at New Zealand Tertiary College (NZTC), saying she feels “honoured and grateful” to have so much patience and compassion from her centre management and family.
Ms Campbell was given NZTC’s Values Award for her commitment to completing her qualification despite challenges, and said she appreciates that her perseverance has been rewarded.“I grew up assisting my stay-at-home mom, caring for other children, fostering a deep desire to be an educator of young children,” she explained.
“After leaving school, I worked at three Kōhanga Reo* and completed a nanny course,” she continued.
“Raising my children alone with limited income, I faced financial challenges, prompting me to apply for an early childhood program. My goal was ultimately to work with young children and support my family financially.”
While Ms Campbell said she faced personal challenges and difficulties during her study journey, seeking support from NZTC “transformed her experience”.
“There is a wonderful support system for everyone to access as needed, with plenty of advice and encouragement from lecturers and fellow students,” she said.
“It was when I learned to ask for help that things got easier. Everyone is friendly and caring at NZTC and I am eternally grateful that I received support when needed.”
Ms Campbell candidly admitted that there were several times when she wanted to give up, and that she had to apply to be allowed to continue the program after the six-year mark to complete the program expired.
“I implore all students to seek support when they need it,” she said. “Do not give up, and let your passion to be a quality early childhood teacher keep you motivated to get through your studies and meet any challenge head-on.”
Ms Campbell is currently working at a privately-owned early childhood education centre, and says gaining a qualification has boosted her confidence as she works alongside fellow kaiako (teachers), children and their whānau (family).
“I am part of an awesome teaching team with supportive management. My NZTC studies have guided me to develop confidence in my ability to teach, and I’ve learned the importance of building quality relationships with each child and their family,” she said.
Looking ahead, she is focused on further developing her leadership qualities and is enrolled in a te reo Māori course to contribute to her centre’s commitment to bilingual education.
“I’m passionate about offering quality education in both te reo Māori and English to honour our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.”
Learn more about NZTC here.
*Kōhanga Reo (Māori for 'language nest') is a whānau (family) development and language-revitalisation initiative grounded in Māori cultural principles and ideals.
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