Zara Siddiq, Lecturer - Early Years at Kingston College, reflects on a successful Early Childhood Pioneers Exhibition:
From being a student planning my own exhibitions to now guiding my students in creating one has been an incredibly surreal and rewarding journey. They worked tirelessly to design the most remarkable displays for the big day, demonstrating creativity, dedication and teamwork. The students truly did justice to the course, making the final exhibition a fitting tribute to the Foundation Degree and everything it has represented.
The turnout was fantastic, with students from all levels - Level 2, Level 3 and T Levels - attending. It was inspiring for them to see firsthand what a higher education program entails and to spark an interest in potentially pursuing such a path in the future. We were also delighted to welcome many members of the College, who had the chance to experience the impact of early years education and appreciate the vital role it plays in shaping children’s lives. The support and enthusiasm from everyone involved was truly overwhelming, highlighting the recognition and respect this field deserves across the College community.
This was undoubtedly the best exhibition we have held, and it feels especially poignant as the Foundation Degree comes to an end. After over 25 years, we are now discontinuing the program. A decision made with a heavy heart. This degree has nurtured thousands of students, providing them with the foundation for their careers and shaping the practice of educators across the College. Every teacher in our department has been part of this journey, and it is remarkable to reflect on how far we have come together. The legacy of the program will live on through the countless students it has inspired and the knowledge and passion it has instilled in all of us.
Exhibition Topics:
- Seeing with the Soul: Steiner’s path to nurturing imagination, intuition and holistic growth.
- Dare to Learn Differently: Johann Pestalozzi’s call for educating the head, heart and hands.
- Closing Gaps Through Community, Connection and Care: The African ethos, “It takes a village to raise a child,” emphasizing education that uplifts every learner.
- Mana Whenua: Belonging: Te Whāriki’s vision of identity, connection and place.
- Growing Independence Through Trust: The Mimamoru approach, a gentle Japanese philosophy supporting children’s self-regulation, confidence and problem-solving.
The exhibition was a celebration of learning, creativity and the extraordinary impact of early years education. It was a fitting finale to a program that has shaped so many lives, and a reminder of the lasting legacy of the Foundation Degree.
