Trust and rapport are essential elements of the Student-Tutor relationship that can significantly enhance a student’s academic journey… and results! Understanding how to cultivate this relationship can lead to more effective tutoring sessions and improved outcomes for students.
1. Establishing Trust Out of the Gate
The foundation of any strong relationship is trust. Being initially punctual and prepared from the first session sets a precedent for reliability and responsibility. In addition, showing genuine interested in a students’ learning and passion in their improvement instils confidence and therefore trust in the student that you have their best interest at heart. A tip to quickly establish a welcoming tone and also gauge the student’s emotional state and academic concerns is to begin an initial session (or any session) with an open ended question, inviting shared thoughts and feelings.
2. Active Listening
Active listening is crucial. This means fully engaging with what the student is saying, without interruption. Reflect back on what the student shares to show understanding, and ask clarifying questions. This practice not only helps in building rapport but also demonstrates to students that their opinions and feelings matter.
3. Tailoring Your Approach
Every student is unique, and recognising their learning styles can strengthen trust. Take time to ask and assess how each student learns best—be it visually, audibly, or kinaesthetically (more applicable to younger students). Use this knowledge to prepare personalise lessons that resonate with the individual. When students see (or feel) that their tutor is adaptable and attentive to their needs, they feel valued and understood.
I am personally confident in these 3 keys and I try to actively observe them with all of my students (even if it’s just a one off!). I hope these tips are useful to current and aspiring tutors alike.
Freddie Le Vay
