Observing a tutoring session with a younger student can be a valuable remainder of how foundational skills are built and how important engagement is in early learning. Today, I observed Demetria working with a Year 1 student she was covering, where they had focused on phonics, word blends and reading. What stood out most was her use of interactive learning strategies to maintain the student’s attention and enthusiasm throughout the lesson.

At this stage of learning, students benefit greatly from activities that are hands on and varied. Demetria incorporated a mix of verbal repetition, visual prompts and guided reading, which helped reinforce the connection between sounds and letters. Rather than relying solely on worksheets or passive instruction, she encouraged the student to actively participate, sounding out blends, recognising patterns and applying these skills in short reading exercises. This approach not only strengthened the student’s understanding but also built their confidence.

Interactive learning is particularly effective for younger students because it aligns with their development needs. Children in Year 1 often have shorter attention spans and learn best when they are engaged both mentally and physically. By turning learning into a dynamic process, Demetria was able to keep the student focused while also making the session enjoyable. This is crucial, as positive early experiences with literacy can shape a student’s long term attitude towards learning.

Additionally, the session highlighted the importance of adaptability. As a cover tutor, Demetria quickly assessed the student’s ability level and adjusted her teaching style accordingly. This flexibility ensured that the student was neither overwhelmed nor under challenged, allowing for steady progress.

Overall, this observation reinforced the value of interactive, student centred learning in early education. It demonstrated that effective tutoring is not just about delivering content, but about creating an engaging environment where students feel supported, motivated and capable of success.

Isabella Naumovski