TAFE NSW responds to ECEC demand and supports local migrants to forge great careers

The number of early childhood education and care (ECEC) job advertisements is growing, and as the sector surges, TAFE NSW is positioning to support. 

Zari Barikzai is one of many who has taken on the ECEC career path, and recently shared her story. 

Having arrived in Australia from Afghanistan in 1994, Ms Barikzai’s story is one not only of finding her way in Australia as a migrant, but also of a mid-life career pivot. 

“I migrated to Australia in 1994 as a teenager with my parents and younger brother, escaping the civil war in Afghanistan,” she explained. 

“I was lucky to be able to build a life and family here in Australia, and worked from home as a project manager while looking after my three kids.” 

“Once my children had grown up, I realised I needed a career change and decided to follow my passion for working with children. I enrolled in the Certificate III which has been a stepping stone to a rewarding career in the ECEC sector,” she said. 

After studying at TAFE NSW Meadowbank, she now works part time at Explore & Develop North Ryde Public School, with plans to study the Diploma. 

“I feel blessed to be able to continue my education, especially since my own cousins back home cannot go to school past primary school because they are girls. My parents left everything behind in Afghanistan so we could continue our education, so I want to make them proud.”

“The teachers at TAFE NSW have been so supportive, and I was able to complete a work placement and gain practical skills. I love working with children and applying all the knowledge I’ve gained so far, and am looking forward to starting the Diploma next year and becoming an early childhood teacher.”

Learn more about TAFE NSW here.