Tamanna’s journey: finding her place in early childhood education

Published: 02 Sep 2026

For as long as she can remember, Tamanna has felt a natural connection with children.

Drawn to their curiosity, growth and potential, she always knew she wanted a career where she could make a difference in young lives. What inspired her most was the opportunity to be a part of a child’s developmental journey during the first five years of their life,

After moving to Australia from Bangladesh, Tamanna discovered that turning her passion into a profession would require formal qualifications.

Finding the right path with SPARK

Coming from a country where early childhood education and care isn’t as widely recognised as a professional l field of study, Tamanna was unsure where to begin.

Determined to pursue her goal, she researched study options in Canberra and connected with CIT. Through that process, she was introduced to the SPARK program, which helped her build confidence and take the first steps towards a career in the industry.

“The SPARK program helped me at the right time,” she says. “The program gave me confidence and helped me start my journey in early childhood education and care.”

Tamanna is now in her second year of study, working towards completing her qualification in Early Childhood Education and Care while gaining valuable industry experience through placement.

The moment she knew she’d found the right career

For Tamanna, placements have been where theory truly came to life.
“What we learn in class becomes real when you go into placement,” she says. "You see everything you’ve been studying in action.”

One moment in particular reinforced that she had chosen the right career.

While volunteering at an early learning centre after completing placement, several children recognised her immediately and told her how much they had missed her.

“Tamanna, where have you been? We missed you,” they said.

That experience left a lasting impression.

“It made me so happy,” she says. “Before, I felt unsure, but now I feel full of joy and enthusiasm.

Knowing the children remembered me and were excited to see me showed me that I was making a difference.”

She is also passionate about challenging misconceptions about the profession.
“People often think the childcare industry is about playing with the children, but it’s not,” she says. “It’s an educational journey.”

Support that goes beyond the classroom

Throughout her studies, Tamanna says the support she has received from her CIT teachers has played a significant role in her confidence and professional growth. "Our CIT teachers are our role models,” she says. “They teach us in the same way we should teach children. They are the source of our confidence and our enthusiasm.”

She particularly values the way teachers support students both academically and personally.  

“Our CIT teachers are always supportive and always there for us, for our physical and mental wellbeing,” she says.

From assisting students during placements to maintaining strong connections with industry partners, Tamanna says CIT’s teachers work hard to help students succeed both in their studies and in the workplace.

Helping children thrive

Tamanna believes early childhood educators play a vital role in helping children build the foundations for a positive future.

“The first five years of a child’s life are very important,” she says. “Children need our support, our help and a safe environment where they can feel secure.”

Her goal is simple but powerful.

“I want them to grow up to be good human beings and good citizens. When children feel safe and supported, they can become the best version of themselves.”

Advice for future students

For anyone considering a career in early childhood and care, Tamanna’s advice is simple.

“I would 100 per cent recommend CIT,” she says. “I’ve received all the support I needed to become a professional in this industry. CIT is helping me gain my qualifications and connect with the right employment opportunities.”

From arriving in Australia unsure of where to start, to building a clear pathway in a profession she loves, Tamanna’s story is a reminder of how the right support, guidance, education and determination can help turn a passion into a meaningful career.

Learn more about studying Early Childhood Education and Care at CIT.