Tell us about your scholarship project.
The project I undertook was becoming a qualified counsellor. This entailed three years of study at AUT to receive a bachelor’s degree in health science, alongside 2 years of Placement, where I took on my own caseload (with the support of some fantastic supervisors). This project provided me with the skills and knowledge to help support rangatahi with common problems such as anxiety, stress, low mood, identity and grief. This project also strongly focused on te Tiriti o Waitangi and the importance it still plays when working in Aotearoa.
How have you managed doing your study alongside your job?
This has been one of the biggest challenges of this project. Creating balance between uni, assignments, work, placement and life. What helped me was prioritising the small things that I enjoyed doing, which I know improved my own well-being. Too often, the things that bring us joy are the first things that disappear in times of stress.
What has surprised you about working on the project?
I think this would be the power of whakawhanaungatanga. The connections and relationships I build with my peers, supervisors, lecturers, the university’s barista, librarians, alongside my pre-established relationships with family and friends. It is ultimately this support that helped me achieve this project. Much of the theory and skills I learnt are nothing without the ability to connect with who is sitting across from you. Mental Health, for some, is still a tough subject, so to be able to feel safe and comfortable talking about issues is important.
In what way has the scholarship opportunity changed your practice?
For me, completing this degree was a natural progression for me as a teacher aide. Many of the skills I used as a TA have been helpful in working as a counsellor. One change, however, has been by expanding my worldview with many different cultural experiences. One important focus for me has been aligning my practice with te Tiriti o Waitangi. This has helped give a holistic view of the individual, seeing the person for who they are, their strengths and skills, rather than just the problem.
What’s next? Do you have plans for further study or research?
I am excited to return to full-time work, of which I’ll be working three days a week at a local secondary school and the other two days at one of my amazing placements. I am currently on a break from study but will be continuing some research. Areas of interest include neurodiversity and art modalities in therapy.
What’s your top tip/mantra/whakataukī for starting a new school year?
For all those taking on a new adventure this year, I take advice from the wise Ted Lasso: “Taking on a challenge is a lot like riding a horse, isn’t it? If you’re comfortable while you’re doing it, you’re probably doing it wrong.”
The 2026 scholarship applications round opened on Saturday 2 February 2025 and close on Friday 2 May 2025.
The scholarships are set up to advance the strategic direction of NZEI Te Riu Roa by providing an opportunity for early childhood education and support staff members to enhance their skills and knowledge within the workplace and in education generally.
Find out more and apply here.
