When beginning a tutoring session with a new student,it is important to start with a rough plan.
Initially, after establishing a rapport with the student, use this to judge how they view their learning journey. For example, are they a high achiever, do they dislike school and learning, are they struggling in their subject that they want to excel in etc.
I found a good way of gauging what level they are at, is to enquire about their most recent assessment or ask them to elaborate on their understanding of the current topic they are learning in class.

In this process it is important to ask whether the student has received tutoring in the past, and if they have, ask what the basic structure of their tutoring sessions was. This can give me a good idea of what expectations the student may have of the tutor (myself), and helps me make the first tuoring session enjoyable.

Usually, the first lesson is best conducted with the tutor leading the session by picking a topic or area of study the student is currently learning or has learnt in the past, and delving into it.

On the rare occasion, academically advanced and high achiving students may prefer and be more comfortable leading the session by bringing up specific topics or questions they struggle with that they would like to work through in class.

Through this process, it is of utmost importance to encourage the student to ask questions. When they use dismissive language like ‘that was a stupid question’, reassure them that a vital step in learning is asking questions. No matter if in a joking manner, always discourage any dismissal they may have of their own questions. The more comfortable an environment tutoring is for students to ask questions, the better their experience and learning outcomes will be.

Sebastian Zois