Laura

I am a second-year Bachelor of Teaching and Learning in Primary Education student at the University of Canterbury. My family and I are from Chile and have been living in New Zealand since 2008. I have two younger siblings, a brother and a sister, ages 11 and 14.  

My preference for education stemmed from my ease with children. My degree is a hands-on programme that demands a significant amount of time to study and practise. This study has given me the opportunity to work in two placements: Avonhead School with year 3 and 4 students and Wharenui School with year 6 and 8 students.  

The placement requirements are to provide activities for the children so that they can learn, engage, and grow, as well as myself to grow as a pre-service teacher. I feel the abilities I gained as a student teacher will be useful in any childcare setting.  

The family I work for require diaper changes, bottle feeding, naps, housework, school pick-ups, and activities both inside and outside the home. We all go to the park, library, and McDonalds when the older child is on holiday. Both parents work; one family works from home, while the other goes to work.