At NTUC First Campus, many Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) professionals find the opportunity to play a vital role in the development of Singapore’s future generations. We talk to two ECCE professionals to learn more about their rewarding and enriching career.

As the largest single provider of early childhood education in Singapore, NTUC First Campus delivers affordable, quality early childhood care and education services to many families in Singapore.

“A joyful and inspiring early learning experience for all, that fulfils the promise of each child”, this is the vision that drives the teachers in NTUC First Campus. Dedicated to helping each and every child fulfil their full potentials, the teachers devote themselves to supporting the growth and developmental needs of the children.

Meet two such inspiring individuals, 26-year-old Senior Teacher Angela How Huimin and 33-year-old Trainee Infant Care Teacher Noorrizah Binte Isma’on. These two individuals have devoted their lives to the worthy cause of nurturing children in their formative years. We speak to them to find out more about their noble and inspiring professions.

Why did you decide to join the ECCE sector?

Angela How Huimin: I wanted to focus on outcome instead of income. To me, money is not as important as passion. In the ECCE sector, I’m following my interest and my passion by grooming the next generation.

Noorrizah Binte Isma’on: After many years of experience working in an office environment, I came to realise that it just wasn’t my passion. So I decided to make a career switch. I’ve worked with children before in my first job, and I remember having a great experience working with outstanding colleagues who have become my role models. I came to the realisation that I wanted to be a part of this noble profession. Today, I’m working in My First Skool, and it has brought back the happiness that I have long lost. Working with children just brings me joy in so many ways.

Angela How Huimin
Senior Teacher,
My First Skool (Jalan Sultan)

WSQ Professional Diploma
in Early Childhood Care and Education (Childcare)
– Under NFC’s Trainee Teacher Scheme

Diploma in Electronic and Computer Engineering,
Ngee Ann Polytechnic

“Being a teacher is about taking the children by their hands, opening their minds, and touching their hearts.”

What challenges have you faced while in the ECCE industry? How have you overcome them?

Angela: When I first joined the industry, I had problems with classroom management. Fortunately for me, my Principal and colleagues were supportive, sharing with me some tips on classroom management. I tried their strategies and was consistent in carrying them out, and as a result, I was able to learn and develop as a teacher from their suggestions and feedback.

Noorrizah: As a new trainee infant care teacher, the biggest challenge that I had was when I had to share my concerns about a child’s health with a parent. Being new in this industry, I believe that we have to explain our concerns gently. After all, this is a sensitive topic for parents. Being caring, tactful, supportive, and respectful towards parents are all important foundations in building and strengthening trusting relationships.

Tell us about the training opportunities you Have been Through to become a teacher. How are you being equipped to take on your future challenges?

Angela: NTUC First Campus has equipped me with the right training and tools such as on-the-job training at my centre as well as termly curriculum trainings and workshops. Mentors are also assigned to new teachers. These mentors help by meeting with their mentees to talk about specific areas of concerns that are raised by the mentees.

Furthermore, staff are given career opportunities to grow and work towards becoming a lead teacher, a deputy centre lead, a principal, or even an education development specialist. NTUC First Campus supports every staff in their potential professional career development.

Noorrizah: I have an upcoming eight-month Advanced Certificate in Early Years course that will provide me with the necessary skills and practical knowledge in my profession. Prior to that though, I’ve attended NTUC First Campus’ Enculturation programme. This programme helped me to better understand the culture of working in the ECCE sector, and it taught me how to deal and tackle with the issues that are commonly faced when we’re on the ground.

Noorrizah Binte Isma’on
Trainee Infant Care Teacher,
My First Skool (Bedok South)

Undergoing WSQ Advanced
Certificate in Early Years –
Under NFC’s Trainee Infant
Care Teacher Scheme

Diploma in Info-Communications,
Temasek Polytechnic

“I look forward to becoming someone who can instil happiness in every child that I teach, knowing that these early years will make great memories for them even as they grow up.”

What is the most fulfilling aspect of being in the ECCE sector?

Angela: It’s really fulfilling knowing that I play such a big part in the children’s lives. They always remember all the things that I share with them, and they will in turn share it with their parents at home. Also, If I’m ever absent from work, the children will rush to give me a hug and tell me how much they miss me when I return on the following day.

Noorrizah: The most fulfilling aspect about being in the ECCE sector is that there are always opportunities for someone like me – people who’ve switched careers to pursue our dreams to work with children.

I look forward to becoming someone who can instil happiness in every child that I teach, knowing that these early years will make great memories for them even as they grow up.

Tell us about a memorable event you’ve had under NTUC First Campus.

Angela: I was eight months pregnant last year during the K2 graduation concert, so the parents of my K2 children decided to surprise me by giving me parenting books, clothes for my baby, and health supplements and tonics. It was so nice of them to show so much care and concern for me.

Noorrizah: It isn’t a memorable event per se, but I was able to witness and observe an infant’s development. When I first joined My First Skool, I came into contact with an infant who wasn’t able to walk. My colleagues patiently put in the effort to think of activities to allow her to exercise her gross motor skills. Subsequently, the child was able to walk independently without any support. This was the most memorable thing that I’ve ever witnessed, and the experience has strengthened my resolve in being part of this noble profession.

What words of wisdom do you have for those looking to follow in your footsteps?

Angela: Being a teacher is about taking the children by their hands, opening their minds, and touching their hearts. It’s really a profession that requires dedication, but it is a very fulfilling path to pursue if the passion is there.

Noorrizah: Do what feels right in your heart. Search for your happiness and follow your guiding light. No matter what your choice is, your passion will eventually lead you to success.