“I BELIEVE I have the gift of inparting knowledge, and teaching young children gives me a sense of fulfillment knowing that I will make a positive difference in a child’s life and I will be an integral part of their foundation.” For Antoinette Gabriel, teaching is more than a career, it is her passion.

Antoinette graduated from The University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) with the Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) with specialisation in Early Childhood Care and Primary Education. Having a deep appreciation and keen understanding for the noble profession of teaching, Antoinette strongly believes that UTT’s Education programme offers an in-depth insight into the specialised and dynamic field of teaching. She added, “The courses are not only informative, but also enhance a teacher’s problem-solving skills, which are essential in the classroom setting.”

Antoinette was also the Head Teacher at a pre-school while studying part-time at UTT. During her time there, she was able to witness the theoretical concepts come alive. She shares, “It is almost impossible to describe the feeling that I get each time I see the animated look on my students’ faces when they discover something new or have an enlightening experience. It really is priceless.”

When the opportunity to open her own pre-school presented itself, Antoinette felt that her dreams were being realised. Today, she is the Principal of Alpha Holistic Academy Early Childhood Care located in Moruga. With years of hands-on experience coupled with her certification, the transition to owning a pre-school was seamless.

It is Antoinette’s intention to contribute to the development of children by providing them with high quality education in a safe and stimulating environment. She further adds that it is equally important to cater for their holistic development, with a curriculum that is culturally and developmentally appropriate, and is set to create life-long learners and critical thinkers.

For Antoinette, the sky is the limit as she contemplates what’s next. One of her immediate goals is to pursue a Master of Education, with a focus on Special Needs Education, an interest which is dear to her heart. As an educator, Antoinette knows that teaching goes beyond specialising in a subject matter, as it is truly a giving of oneself for the betterment of others.

The University of Trinidad and Tobago applauds Antoinette for her contributions in educating future generations.