Ayesha Un-Noor

Master of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood) student

Teaching has always been something she genuinely enjoys, says Ayesha Un-Noor who came to AUT from Bangladesh to study early childhood education.

“I worked in school education for several years, and after becoming a mother, I came to appreciate how much the early years can potentially shape a child’s future. That inspired me to learn more about early childhood education and eventually led me to this programme. When I was exploring my study options, I was specifically looking for a university programme that would lead towards teacher registration in New Zealand. AUT offered the postgraduate pathway I was looking for, along with practical teaching experience through practicum.”

She is particularly enjoying the teaching practicums that are a key part of her degree.

“The practicum is one of the most valuable practical aspects of the programme. Spending full days in an early childhood setting gives us a realistic picture of what the profession looks like, what to expect and what we can contribute as teachers. It gives us real experience, especially the opportunity to interact and build relationships with tamariki (children) from different cultural backgrounds, while observing and learning from experienced kaiako (educators) and receiving constructive feedback on our own practice. Most importantly, I feel that the practicum helps bridge the gap between what we learn theoretically at university and what actually happens in an early childhood setting.

“I’ve also really enjoyed the optional creative sessions organised for our class, such as printing with Dr Sarah Probine and making soft toys with Dr Mihaela Enache. We were originally supposed to have just one soft toy session, but everyone enjoyed it so much that Mihaela arranged another one and generously gave us some materials to continue our work at home. These sessions also give us a chance to relax and have casual conversations with our classmates and lecturers.”

Supported to thrive
Because she came to New Zealand as an international student, Ayesha feels grateful for all the support to help her adjust to living and studying in Auckland.

“The free three-day intensive English course AUT offered to international students before our programme started was really helpful. It was as much about meeting people and having fun together as it was about English. I got to make friends, become familiar with the classroom environment and feel more confident before my first official class. By the time classes started, the university already felt a little more familiar. I’ve also enjoyed how multicultural Auckland is. Before coming to New Zealand, I was a little worried about whether I’d fit in and how comfortable I’d feel in a completely new environment. But seeing and meeting people from so many different countries and cultural backgrounds made me feel more comfortable.”

There are two lecturers whose support she has especially appreciated.

“Dr Rebecca Hopkins is incredibly approachable and always treats us with kindness and respect. What I appreciate most is that she genuinely takes the time to listen, even when the conversation isn’t necessarily about academics. Having that kind of support at university has meant a lot to me, and somehow, it also makes me feel more confident speaking up in her class without hesitation. I also love how she makes her classes interesting and interactive, giving us opportunities to do things like drama, crafts and even play with clay. Louise Gorst has also been a wonderful lecturer and, as my mentor lecturer, has played a big part in building my confidence during the practicum. She is always kind and, with her, no question ever feels silly. She takes the time to go through my work and provides constructive feedback that really helps me improve. I feel comfortable going to her whenever I need guidance, and I really hope I get to have her as my mentor lecturer again!”

Advice for other students
Expecting to graduate in 2027, Ayesha has some great, practical advice for other students.

“Don’t stress too much if you can’t get your photo to upload to Arion. I spent ages trying to format mine correctly, only to find out that the Student Hub could take my photo and give me my ID card within a few minutes. So, if you’re stuck with something, just ask for help. Sometimes the solution is much simpler than you think.”

She would highly recommend AUT to others.

“I really like the environment at AUT and the smaller classroom setting. And on a more practical note, I love Refuel and their $9 set meals. An affordable meal on campus is always a bonus!”