What were you doing before attending Sprott Shaw College?

I was a caregiver in Singapore.

Why did you choose Sprott Shaw College?

I was looking at different colleges in BC when Sprott Shaw College popped into my mind, thanks to its strong reputation and positive reviews from various students.

How was the admissions process?

My experience with the admission process was very smooth. The staff were exceptionally helpful, guiding and assisting me every step of the way. I started by taking an English quiz exam offered by the school, and after passing it successfully, I promptly submitted all the required documents. Overall, their clear instructions and supportive approach made the process straightforward and efficient.

What program did you choose and why?

I chose the Early Childhood Educator program because of my passion for working with young children and my eagerness to learn more about the field. I firmly believe that Sprott Shaw College holds the key to gaining the advanced knowledge and understanding necessary to excel in this career.

What was the atmosphere like during your time at Sprott Shaw College?

During my time at Sprott Shaw College, the environment was exceptionally supportive and conducive to both academic and personal growth. The campus fostered a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where faculty and staff were always available to provide guidance and encouragement. Collaborative spaces and a strong sense of community allowed students to share ideas, engage in meaningful discussions, and build valuable professional networks. Overall, the college’s positive culture and commitment to excellence created an inspiring environment for learning and personal development.

Where was your practicum or co-op and how was it?

During my practicum, I had the opportunity to work across three centres: Rothewood, St. Dulwich Academy, and Cefa, each offering its own unique teaching style. This dynamic and varied experience was not only fun, engaging, and enjoyable but also enriched my skill set as an early childhood educator. I was exposed to a range of effective techniques for interacting with young children, which helped me grow both personally and professionally. These experiences significantly enhanced my ability to adapt to different educational environments and deepened my understanding of best practices in early childhood education.

How long did it take you to find a job after graduation?

I was able to secure employment quickly. During my practicum, the comprehensive support and practical training provided by Sprott Shaw College enabled me to effectively apply the skills I had learned in a real-world setting. As a result, I received job offers at every practicum placement, which presented me with multiple opportunities. This experience not only validated the quality of my education but also laid a strong foundation for my career in early childhood education.

Where do you work? Can you explain your duties?

My role as an early childhood educator involves preparing age-appropriate lesson plans that foster both academic and social-emotional development. I always ensure the classroom is a secure, inclusive space where every child feels valued and supported. I observe and evaluate children’s growth, adapt teaching strategies to meet individual needs, and document progress for ongoing development.

Collaboration with Families and Colleagues is also essential. I ensure that both families and teachers maintain open communication, and I encourage them to work collaboratively with fellow educators to support their child’s learning journey. Additionally, I engage children in activities that develop critical thinking, creativity, and social skills, thereby laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

If you could give advice to someone coming to Sprott Shaw, what would you say?

You may encounter moments of challenge and constructive criticism during your studies. However, these experiences are essential for personal and professional growth. Embrace feedback from instructors and peers as valuable guidance to refine your skills and deepen your understanding. Approach each experience—both positive and challenging—as an opportunity to learn. Engage actively in class discussions and practical sessions, ask questions, and remain open to new perspectives. By using every piece of feedback to fuel your development, you’ll build a solid foundation for a rewarding career in early childhood education.

Joanne Jalea
Early Childhood Education Basic
Richmond campus