I am used to Primary school and now I teach ECE over 2’s mixed group. It is very physical in ECE. It is also play-based, which I like, and less academic group-focused. You follow each child’s interests and build on them.
I am working with much younger children now. I had to learn how to adapt to them and be more basic in my teaching. Teach while we are playing. The Te Wharaki is more about their social emotional well-being and communication. I am more focused on relationship building than on teaching them how to read as in my previous formal setting.
Be open-minded and remember you have your way of teaching, but you are in a new country that has different views. Adapting, learning, and remembering every new beginning is hard until you know how it works.
It is information overload, be like Dory (Nemo movie) and just keep swimming!
Kids are kids no matter what part of the world you teach in. Set your expectations high with classroom management, and discipline and stick to it. Show the kids you love them and care for them. Do not compare your country’s curriculum to the NZ curriculum. You are here to learn and follow your love to teach children!
I am comparing it to the USA, because that is where I have been teaching for the past 5 years.
All schools start and end at the same time. Uniforms are worn here. More sports in school. Intermediate school is only 2 years compared to 3 years in the USA. Students have more free time with morning tea and lunch breaks, compared to a 25-minute lunch and 30 min recess. I was Mrs. Duvenage in the US, here I am Deidré.
It is very culturally diverse, which we like. It was difficult to secure a house that is pet friendly. My kids found it much easier to make friends here than in the USA. That to me was half the battle won.
Public transport is great and gives my teens the freedom to get around without me. We are happy in the community. Everything is accessible although there fewer choices here than in the USA. On the bright side there are more South African products available here.
We had several PDs about learning in the ECE setting and bringing the curriculum together.
Learning through play and looking after their social well-being. Each child learns at their level.
It’s apparent that knowing what to expect when teaching in New Zealand is more than just a change of scenery, it comes with its difficulties. Ashley’s conversation with Deidré helps us to understand the challenges and triumphs of teaching abroad, offering valuable lessons for anyone considering a similar leap. As we conclude, we hope this glimpse into Deidré’s adventure sparks inspiration for those contemplating their international teaching venture.
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