Yandi Li
Early Childhood Education Teacher, Te Tupu o Te Tōrea
Master of Teaching and Learning (Early Childhood)
What he loves most about being an early childhood education teacher is seeing the children’s growth and progress, says Yandi Li who now works at Te Tupu o Te Tōrea.
“My job involves creating safe, inclusive and nurturing environments that support children’s holistic growth. This includes designing play-based, culturally responsive learning experiences aligned with Te Whāriki, recognising each child’s strengths and background; building strong relationships with tamariki, whānau and communities; and ensuring the children’s wellbeing and belonging.
“It’s deeply rewarding to witness the children’s development, whether they’re learning new skills, building confidence or expressing themselves more freely. Being part of their journey and supporting them to reach their potential gives me great joy and motivation.”
The right choice
Deciding to retrain and enrol in a Master of Teaching and Learning was easy for him, says Yandi who came to AUT as an international student from China.
“I decided to pursue a master’s degree because, after graduating from my bachelor’s more than ten years ago, I felt it was time to follow my true passion and take my professional and personal growth to the next level. AUT stood out to me not only as one of New Zealand’s eight leading universities, but also as one of the top young universities in the world. Its diverse, vibrant and supportive community inspired me, and I knew it would be the ideal place to challenge myself, broaden my perspective, and grow both academically and personally.”
He says his studies prepared him well for the work he is doing now.
“Through my studies at AUT I developed strong skills in reflective practice, culturally responsive teaching and effective communication. I now apply these skills in my teaching by designing inclusive play-based learning experiences, building meaningful relationships with tamariki and whānau, and promoting equity and wellbeing. In this way, I contribute to creating a supportive, high-quality early childhood learning environment that makes a positive difference to both my workplace and the wider community.”
Reflecting on his year at AUT
Yandi, who graduated from AUT in August 2025, says the highlight of his time at AUT was attending the Celebration of Achievement in the School of Education.
“This gave me a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the year I had spent at AUT, and it was a moment when I truly felt that all the hard work and effort I had put in had paid off.”
He has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.
“My advice for future AUT students is to embrace change with an open mind and always strive to do your best. University life can be challenging, but every experience is an opportunity to learn, grow and discover your true potential.”
