Wairarapa local Erin Butcher always knew a career in teaching was for her, but it wasn’t until she enrolled in UCOL Wairarapa’s National Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care that she realised just how much.
After giving Sport Education a go, Erin quickly realised her heart was with early childhood care and prompted her to make the change. The chance to study in her hometown and gain a solid grounding in all aspects of early childhood education made it an easy decision to enrol with UCOL Wairarapa.
Erin says studying the 18 week course cemented that she had made the right choice in changing to early childhood care. “Even though working with children was my passion I wanted to make sure it was really what I wanted to do as a career – and it was!”
A highlight of Erin’s UCOL experience has been making lifelong friendships and learning practical industry skills. “I learnt a great deal of interesting things about early childhood education and care that is so relevant to my job now.”
Since graduating in 2012, Erin was able to use her skills and industry connections made at UCOL to gain part time employment for UCOL Kids Wairarapa and ultimately full time employment for Lollipops Educare Masterton.
During her time at UCOL she was able to meet and work alongside experienced teachers through her placement. “They helped shape me as the teacher I am today.”
In 2016 Erin took her Early Childhood Education and Care skills to the UK, and is now working as a Nanny to a three year old boy in London.
Looking at what she has achieved Erin says she found the UCOL tutors amazing. “They supported me throughout the course and pushed me to achieve all of my goals and more.”