Dream come true for Melbourne teacher
The placements were really helpful because I learnt a lot of new techniques that I apply to my current work.
Alia Asif (India)
Master of Teaching (Primary Education)
With an affinity for children and a natural nurturer, Alia Asif knew she was destined to be a teacher.
“I've always had the affinity with kids and love to see their growth,” Alia, who recently graduated with a Master of Teaching (Primary Education) from Victoria University (VU), says.
“Being a teacher has always been my dream since I was a child and the VU course was the right choice for me to further my knowledge in the education field,” she says.
“I chose VU as it is multicultural and the fees are affordable. They also offer multiple intakes in a year which is different from other universities.”
Alia, a former international student from Bangalore, the capital of India's southern Karnataka state, is now working as a kindergarten teacher at Explorers Early Learning in Melbourne.
She credits her quick entry into the workforce after graduation to VU’s practical, hands-on approach to learning and teaching.
“As part of the course we had practical placements in schools where we learnt the different styles of pedagogy and the benefits of a holistic approach.
“It was such an eye-opener as schooling in India adopts a behaviourism approach with more theory, while over here it is much more practical and hands-on.
“The placements were really helpful because I learnt a lot of new techniques that I apply to my current work.”
Before becoming a kindergarten teacher, Alia worked as a casual relief teacher in various Melbourne schools to “find which schools fits my pedagogy and philosophy”.
“I decided I wanted to be part of the learning journey of younger children therefore I started my Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, and soon got a job as kinder teacher.
“My long-term goal is to do PhD in the education field and learn more about the benefits of play and how it helps a child to learn.”