Observing James as he works with his Year 7 student in the Maths session was an insightful experience in the art of effective teaching. James had a clear, structured approach to teaching, blending methodical explanations with student interaction to ensure that is engagement and comprehension of the material.

Throughout the lesson, James is highly interactive, continuously checking for understanding and asking the student to explain their thought process. This practice helps the student solidify their understanding and encourages them to think critically about how they approach problems. James doesn’t just focus on getting the right answer; he emphasises the reasoning behind the solution, which strengthens the student’s problem-solving skills and deepens their grasp of mathematical concepts.

Another strength of his teaching style is his patience. He doesn’t rush the student through challenges; instead, he allows time for exploration and encourages mistakes as part of the learning process. When the student struggles with a concept, James offers gentle guidance, often rephrasing or offering different examples until the student feels more confident in their understanding. This supportive, low-pressure environment fosters a growth mindset, where the student feels safe to take risks and ask questions without fear of judgment.

By the end of the session, it’s clear that James’s approach isn’t just about teaching math; it’s about fostering a love for learning. The student walks away not only with a deeper understanding of the material but also with a renewed sense of confidence and motivation to tackle future challenges.

Tira Rustom