Kate de Graaf
Kaiako Akomanga Puāwai, Pohutukawa Kindergarten
Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood)
She had long wanted a career in early childhood education, says Kate de Graaf who studied a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning, and now works at Pohutukawa Kindergarten.
“I’ve wanted to work with children since I graduated with a social sciences degree in the early 1990s. AUT’s Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning was recommended to me by colleagues at the school where I was a teaching assistant. The one-year duration and the practical focus of this programme appealed to me as a mature student.”
Choosing AUT for her studies is a decision she certainly hasn’t regretted and she says she enjoyed the whole process of studying,
“I liked the intellectual challenge, and the comradeship between the students and the lecturing staff. The practicum placements also provided me with a broad practical knowledge and eventually led to my current teaching position. I’m especially grateful to Dr Lyn Lewis for her communication and support throughout my year-long study. Because I was a mature student, her guidance, inclusion and support were especially appreciated.”
Days filled with aha moments
After graduating from AUT at the end of 2023, Kate now loves her role at Pohutukawa Kindergarten in Glendowie where she works with children between the ages of three and five.
“The highlight for me are the ākonga and their uniqueness, passions and sheer brilliance. No day is the same, with my head always on a swivel, noticing ako ‘aha’ moments. Observing the determination, joy and pride of achieving a goal no matter how small is priceless. Children being at the heart of the matter is really embraced at Pohutukawa Kindergarten. My teaching philosophy and values are aligned with that of the centre, and as a team we support one another and share the same work ethic.”
She says her studies prepared her for a bicultural and multicultural play-based curriculum, which is far removed from her own experience as a child.
“Understanding the value of play and the opportunities to play provided me with the insight to appreciate and truly value Te Whāriki as a curriculum. With this knowledge and over time, the value of our play-based curriculum can win over any sceptic, be they parent, whānau or the wider community.”
Advice for other students
Kate has some great advice for other students.
“My advice is to enjoy the journey. Voice your questions or uncertainties, and stick to the deadlines and due dates.”
Make the most of the support available to you, she adds.
“There’s so much support at AUT – seek it out from your lecturers, the amazing library staff and the Student Hub.”
