Stephanie Samu - Early Childhood Education

Experiencing playcentre with her two children gave Stephanie the desire to help children become lifelong learners.

Stephanie Samu’s passion for Early Childhood Education was sparked by attending playcentre with her two young children.

Originally holding a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Māori studies, she spent time working in accounts and administration in the funeral industry before having children.

After accompanying them to playcentre, she discovered play-based learning and developed a passion for ECE, deciding to enrol into the Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Early Childhood Education).

“I’ve learned a lot through the programme and had a variety of experiences on practicum that have helped me to understand who I am as a teacher, what my philosophy is and what is important to me to look for in a centre.

“I feel I have been given the tools to begin my journey teaching, but there is so much more to learn…however, just as we are teaching young children to become lifelong learners, as teachers, we need to continue to learn and perfect our craft.”

This course has helped me to remember that I can do hard things.  It has empowered me to not just be a better teacher, but a better person.  I have been reminded that I have a lot to give to my family and my community.  As
an educator, I have the ability to make a change and help children discover a
love of learning.

Stephanie Samu

While there’s been plenty of highlights, the year was not without its challenges.

“Highlights of the programme included meeting other like-minded people and achieving my goals and growing as a teacher.

“But studying with two children has not been an easy task. It has been a juggle and something I could not have done without the support of family, friends and very understanding Kaiako. Getting the family, study and self-care balance right has been challenging.

“This course has helped me to remember that I can do hard things. It has empowered me to not just be a better teacher, but a better person. I have been reminded that I have a lot to give to my family and my community. As an educator, I have the ability to make a change and help children discover a love of learning.

“I’m proud that I did it. There were times I wanted to give up, but I pushed through and kept going. I am proud that my children have seen me achieve my goals despite the difficulties and challenges that came with it."