Teaching math to a 3-year-old can be a fun and engaging experience. At this age, children learn best through play and hands-on activities. Start with basic concepts like counting, number recognition, and shapes. You can introduce counting through everyday objects like toys or snacks, making it both practical and fun. For number recognition, use flashcards or point out numbers in everyday settings like books or clocks. Shape recognition is also important, so encourage your child to sort or match different shapes through play. Snack math is a great way to introduce simple addition and subtraction—count how many snacks your child has and then add or subtract a few. Additionally, math-based games like “Chutes and Ladders” help practice counting while providing entertainment. Reading books that include counting or shapes, such as The Very Hungry Caterpillar, is another excellent way to integrate math into storytime. By embedding math into everyday activities and play, your child will start building a strong foundation for future learning, all while having fun and discovering the world of numbers in a relaxed, enjoyable way.

Anthea Preketes

The worst thing about the HSC, or any exam season really, is finding out your timetable. If you’re lucky you might get a few days between exams, though you’re almost guaranteed to get two exams day after one another, or even on the same day. Here’s how I came to deal with it through both the high school and the HSC:

1. Mixed Study Daily (Retention)
The most important part, and this applies to all subjects too, is that you spend time on BOTH subjects on the days leading up to your two exams. This means that you’re actively growing your memory and comprehension across both subjects, and not losing any study on the downtime between spaced study sessions.

2. Burnout Between Exams (Sleep & Rest)
After an exam, especially a 3-hour one in the HSC, you’re going to be tired afterwards. Just with any normal studying and exam, you need breaks, and you definitely need sleep. Don’t neglect your own recovery to get in an hour or two more study for the next test, it’s almost always worth it to get that extra sleep. Getting proper sleep before an exam dictates how much of all the study you did is being used, it’s about getting your brain back to it’s full efficiency.

3. Study Time Allocation (Timetables)
Once again this is important for all exams, but especially significant when it comes to back-to-back exams. You need to be planning your studying for the days coming up to the two exams, as well as balancing this plan to your weaknesses and strengths + any little time you have between exams. Those last few days before your exams are especially crucial for memory and understanding, so utilise them well for both exams.

The effects of these three points on your performance are only amplified in unison with each other. They are just as important as each other, and are crucial to cementing all your hard work throughout the year despite horrible exam timing. Take from some who wished he followed this when it was his turn.

Felix Panizza

Felix Panizza

The HSC exam period can feel like one big blur of study notes, highlighters, and late-night panic. It’s totally normal to feel stressed. Surviving the HSC isn’t just about cramming; it’s about balance and time management, mindset, and self-care.

First things first: time management is crucial. Creating a simple study schedule that breaks down each subject into manageable chunks, and don’t forget to include breaks. Studying for hours on end without rest can actually hurt your memory and focus. A short walk, snack, or power nap can do wonders for your brain.

Focus on what you do know and practice exam-style questions to build confidence. This can include past papers under timed conditions and palm cards to remember quotes.

And when it’s all over? Celebrate! The post-HSC period is your time to unwind, reflect, and look forward to what’s next. The HSC is just one chapter, not the whole story.

Tamiah Mahoney

When it comes to studying and revising for exams (especially in year 12), a study plan is a necessary tool that can help tailor your lifestyle and better plan your days for optimal use of your time. Many students are told to study 3 hours per night but that approach doesn’t work for everyone; some may have after-school jobs or hobbies, which they certainly should not give up! Some students may find they are more productive with longer study sessions on the weekends rather than short sessions during the weekdays.
I like to tell my students that 2 hours per week should be dedicated per unit of a subject. So for a 2-unit subject, 4 hours should be dedicated throughout the week. By doing this, it ensures that each subject gets the right amount of attention and revision, rather than just focusing on the subjects that are most enjoyable.
By planning out a timetable, students are able to enjoy after-school activities and have a life outside of school while still studying an adequate time for each and every subject. This also prevents procrastination, as students know exactly what to do and when to do it, providing the motivation to just start studying.
For my students I usually tell them to use the study planner provided by NSW government (https://education.nsw.gov.au/content/dam/main-education/en/home/public-schools/practical-help-for-parents-and-carers/help-with-homework/Study-timetable.docx)
Using a planner can help with organisation and is such a useful tool during year 12 and even in the earlier years when students feel they are too unmotivated to study and just need that slight push to success!

Lily Powell

Whilst working as a tutor, I have had a few students that I have taught online. This has presented me with the opportunity to think about how to ensure that the sessions are just as effective and engaging online as they would be in person. Here are some of my best tips for making sure online tutoring is a success!

1. Know which online platform you and your student like to use. At first, I used Zoom but the 40-minute time limit made it somewhat frustrating and disjointed to have to send a second link to the student to finish the rest of the lesson. My favourite platform now is Google Meet!

2. Get across all the features these video-calling platforms have. Trying out the screen sharing tool and whiteboard are always handy so you can be prepared when teaching your student.

3. Make use of the chat function! I am always sending through worksheets and resources through the chat function when I am teaching a student online. I also find that the chat function can be useful at the beginning of the session for you to write down the lesson plan, ensuring the lesson runs smoothly with the clear use of time blocks.

4. Find additional websites and tools to make online sessions fun! Quizlet and Kahoot are great for online students as it provides an engaging way to practice active recall. Even having some diagrams or slides prepared is always effective.

5. Encourage the students to give you feedback! Especially if you are running an online session for the first time or with a new student, ask them what they found beneficial and what could be improved. This also allows them to feel more comfortable as they can see that you are actively taking onboard their advice to ensure that lessons are effective, engaging and fun!

Kristina McLean

Today I had the rare opportunity to slow down and reflect on what tutoring has taught me so far, especially during the midst of the busy HSC period. This time of year always brings a mix of pressure, motivation, and lots of emotions for the students; there’s so much at stake, and the stress of the exams can easily overshadow all the effort they’ve already put in. As a tutor, I’ve learned that my role isn’t just to help the students revise content or drill past papers, it’s also to help students stay calm, confident, and focused when it matters most.
During such a period, I’ve noticed that many students are already quite comfortable with material, what they really need is reassurance. When nerves set in, even the most capable students begin to doubt themselves. Even a small reminder like “you’ve prepared for this” can help to boost their confidence; a few encouraging words can shift a student’s mindset from panic to determination. This mindset carries over into their study behaviors: if they are confident, then they spend less time stressing and more time studying.
Another thing I’ve found helpful is creating space for reflection rather than constant correction. Instead of jumping in with the right answer, it’s important to push the students to find it themselves. This is achieved by prompting them with further questions, such as “Does that sound logical?” or “What do you think the marker is looking for here?”. Guiding students to spot and fix their own mistakes helps them develop independence, which is especially valuable in exam settings where they need to rely on themselves.
The HSC period can be overwhelming, but the best progress happens when students feel supported, yet capable on their own. Tutoring during this time isn’t just about improving marks, but about helping the students trust their preparation, so that they can approach each challenge with confidence.

Katreen Diab

Comparison in learning is often a tough battle many students face, specifically in senior years when rankings come into play but it’s how we perceive and behave when dealing with comparison that can truly impact our learning.

Comparison can be both a motivator and a destroyer. On one hand, seeing a peer excel can inspire us to study harder or set new goals. On the other hand, it can quickly spiral into self-doubt, anxiety, and burnout. What often gets lost in the process is that every student’s journey is different, shaped by their strengths, circumstances, and ways of learning.

Every student is different and on their own individual path, and that’s what is key to remember. The chances are, the person next to you probably doesn’t have the same goals or long-term aspirations as you, so it would be silly to compare!

In tutoring, a student might walk in feeling “behind” simply because someone else achieved a higher mark. Yet, when they start focusing on their own growth instead of someone else’s progress, their confidence and performance improve dramatically. Progress isn’t always linear; sometimes it’s slow, steady, and deeply personal. Academic success isn’t about outshining others; it’s about understanding yourself. It’s learning how YOU learn best, setting achievable goals, and celebrating small victories along the way (and with your tutor!!!)

So, next time you feel caught in the battle of comparison, take a step back. Instead of asking, “Why am I not where they are?” ask, “What’s one thing I can do to be better than I was yesterday?” That’s the only competition that truly matters.

At the end of the day, education isn’t a race, it’s a journey. And the best students aren’t the ones who compare; they’re the ones who grow individually.

Jessica Ciappara

During the session, the tutor provided a clear and structured lesson by setting out key mathematical concepts and ideas within the topic. A notable strength demonstrated by the tutor was her use of explicit and precise instruction when guiding the student through equations. She modelled the process step-by-step, showing exactly how to approach and solve each question. This clear demonstration not only clarified the method but also enabled the student to apply the same strategies independently in subsequent problems. The tutor ensured that sufficient time was allocated for the student to complete each task, allowing space for reflection and consolidation of understanding. Her approach encouraged deep thinking and supported the student in developing confidence when engaging with complex problem-solving tasks. Furthermore, the tutor effectively incorporated scaffolding techniques and purposeful questioning to extend the student’s reasoning, prompting him to explain his thought processes and justify his answers. This approach deepened the student’s conceptual understanding while fostering independence and resilience in mathematical thinking.

Emilia Labos

First off, education gives kids the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. It’s not just about memorizing facts; it’s about learning how to think critically, solve problems, and make informed decisions. These skills are crucial for navigating life and pursuing future opportunities. Education helps kids understand the world around them, from science and history to culture and society.

Next, education boosts confidence and opens doors. When kids learn and achieve, they feel good about themselves. This confidence encourages them to try new things and take on challenges. Plus, a good education leads to better job prospects and higher earning potential. It gives kids more choices and control over their future.

Lastly, education builds a better society. Educated kids grow into informed and engaged citizens who can contribute positively to their communities. They are more likely to participate in civic life, understand different perspectives, and work towards solving social issues. Education fosters innovation, creativity, and progress, making the world a better place for everyone.

Saoirse early

Many students struggle with writing under exam pressure. Faced with a blank page, they freeze, unsure how to start or what to say. This combination of writer’s block and exam anxiety is common, but with the right support, students can learn to manage it and write with confidence.

Preparation is Key
The best way to overcome writing anxiety starts before the exam. Students should feel comfortable with the content and know how to approach each section. Study, timed tasks and practice papers help build confidence, familiarity, and a sense of control, making the real exam feel less intimidating.

Break the Pressure
If students feel stuck, starting with the easiest question can help. Putting something, anything, on the page breaks the mental barrier and creates momentum for the rest of the paper. Neuroscientists at Yale University have shown that when people take small actions, like writing even one sentence, the brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter that boosts motivation and focus. This means starting with an easy question literally jump-starts your brain into problem-solving mode.

Focus on Process, Not Perfection
Students often worry about producing the “perfect” answer, but that mindset increases stress. Tutors should remind them that it’s better to get ideas down and refine later. Progress matters more than perfection; remember, teachers can mark something, not nothing.

Creating a Supportive Environment
Tutors play a key role in building confidence. Encouraging a calm, non-judgmental space allows students to experiment and make mistakes without fear.

Teach Planning Techniques
Simple strategies like mind mapping or quick outlines can help students organise their thoughts before writing. With practice, these skills become second nature and improve clarity under pressure.

Simulate Exam Conditions
Finally, short, timed writing exercises during tutoring sessions help students practice thinking clearly and managing nerves in real exam scenarios. Research from the University of Chicago found that students who practiced under simulated test conditions performed significantly better because familiarity reduced stress responses in the brain.

By combining preparation, structure, and emotional support, tutors can help students overcome writer’s block, reduce anxiety, and perform at their best when it matters most.

Vicki