After completing his Master of Teaching in Early Childhood at the Faculty of Education, Peter stepped into the field with confidence, supported by strong practical training and inspiring mentors. Now a childcare manager, he blends leadership with classroom insight to support educators, families, and children. Passionate about guiding future teachers, Peter shares advice drawn from his own journey in early childhood education.
1.What course did you study at the Faculty of Education (then MGSE)?
Master of Teaching (Early Childhood) 2020
2.What do you remember fondly from your time there?
I fondly remember gaining a lot of practical experience alongside learning core theory, which really guided me and gave me confidence when I began my career as an early childhood teacher. One highlight I still remember vividly is the drama class that Sarah did with us—it was engaging, fun, and showed me how creativity can be such a powerful teaching tool. Those early experiences, combined with the support from my mentors, gave me not only the skills but also the passion to keep learning and growing in this field.
3.What do you love most about your current role?
I am currently working as a childcare manager and have been in this role for two years now. What I love most is that it gives me a unique view of the industry from both a management perspective and a teacher’s perspective. I get to lead and support my team, work closely with families, and ensure we are providing the best possible learning environment for children. At the same time, I still draw on my teaching background to connect with educators, understand the challenges in the classroom, and find practical solutions. This balance of leadership and hands-on insight is incredibly rewarding and keeps me passionate about the work we do every day.
4.What helped you most as a graduate teacher when you first started out?
All the practical skills I gained during my placement, along with the experience of handling the paperwork, helped me the most when I first started out as a graduate teacher. The workload during my master’s degree was quite heavy, but it taught me how to manage multiple responsibilities, prioritise tasks, and stay organised. This preparation gave me the confidence to plan effectively when I began my first job as an early childhood teacher. I already had experience creating lesson plans, documenting children’s progress, and adapting activities to suit different needs, so I could focus more on building relationships with the children, families, and my team. That combination of practical skills and academic preparation really set the foundation for my career.
5.What advice can you give current students about how they approach placement?
As an ECT, ECT mentor, EL and childcare manager, I’m passionate about supporting the next generation of educators in this field. My first piece of advice is to contact your placement service as early as possible to introduce yourself. I understand that the first time can feel nerve-wracking, but remember—we are here, ready to take your call and guide you through what to do next.
Once you are in the classroom, don’t be afraid to ask your mentor questions. Curiosity shows you are engaged and willing to learn. Also, don’t be worried about making mistakes in your paperwork or practice—this is a safe space to reflect, learn, and improve. Every challenge you face during placement is an opportunity to grow into a more confident and capable educator, teacher, or future leader.
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