Learning to be a voice for young children

Even before she finished secondary school, Paw Say knew her career passion was early childhood education. She took the opportunity to study a Cert III while still at secondary school, and has gone onto complete both a Diploma of Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education. Driven by her life experiences, and inspired by fellow educators, Paw Say said she feels blessed to be a voice for young children. 

Building skills at every stage 

“I moved to Australia when I was 10.

“I have always loved children. I grew up in a refugee camp, and we didn’t really have good education. I wanted to stand up for children who don’t have a voice.

"I did a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education during year 11 and 12. I enjoyed it so much that I continued on to study a diploma and bachelor.

“In the diploma I learnt so much – about safety for children, children’s development. You do observations and look at the outcomes. And in the bachelors, it is all about theory – linking it to the readings, and child psychology. It is very different. I did it online, which was more flexible.

“As part of my course I did three placements – two with VU and one at a sessional kindergarten.

“At first, even though I didn’t have a lot of experience, working with colleagues opened my mind to new perspectives, watching them interact with children in a positive way.

I just finished the bachelors last month. I loved it. I would recommend VU with all my heart. My lecturers were so supportive.  

“Even now if I want help with something, I will still email my lecturer, and they get back to me so quickly.”

First job: Werribee Childrens Centre 

“I work 8am – 5.30pm.

“Right now, I really enjoy working with children in the zero to three age: their personality, the learning, you know. Because they are still developing.” 

Advice for someone considering a career in early childhood education? 

“Come and join early childhood.  Be the voice for young children who can't speak for themselves. Stand up for children with special rights and support children to have healthy development. 

“I have a daughter who is three and there is no way I am going to be anywhere else than VU – because I just love that place.”