Ruth Risati Kaio

Tokelauan

Early childhood supervisor

“Every child is different regardless of their stage of development. The quality of teachers is important in understanding children’s developmental differences.”

There was a good deal of excitement in the air the day Ruth was interviewed – her Tokelauan language nest centre, was preparing to shift back into its beautifully renovated premises.  As well as the new centre being able to cater more for the children’s learning needs, it’s also bigger and therefore can enrol more Pasifika children.

Ruth is the supervisor of Mataliki Tokelau Akoga Kamata, Papatoetoe, having qualified in the 1990s with a Diploma in Teaching (ECE).  She is soon to finish her Bachelor of Education (ECE), having decided to upgrade to a degree as a motivator for her staff.

“All my staff are currently training to complete a recognised qualification for teacher registration.  I decided it would be a great incentive for them to see their supervisor also studying and improving her education.”  The immediate benefits for Ruth and her staff are they can all share new information and discuss the latest early childhood research.

The importance of being a qualified early childhood educator comes through strongly in the interview with Ruth.  “It will lift the standard of quality care and learning for our children.  Being recognised as a professional is so important,” believes Ruth. “ By furthering my studies, it has helped mould my perception of how to foster our children’s uniqueness.”

Focussing on, and nurturing children, is key to Ruth’s role as supervisor.  “Every child is different regardless of their stage of development.  The quality of teachers is important in understanding children’s developmental differences.”

“I love the way they explore, experience and learn new skills.  Seeing them grow as individuals and develop their own characteristics is special. And it’s such a privilege to share those triumphs and milestones in their lives.”

Ruth also believes that advocating on behalf of her profession is one of her roles.  “ It is part of our job to invite Pasifika entity into our centres and demonstrate to them that we’re professionals not babysitters.  It’s important to keep conveying that message to help them understand our roles as educators.”