Today, I observed Demi working with Saffron, a Year 10 student, on data topics, specifically the five number summary. It was evident throughout the session that Demi had built a strong rapport with Saffron, fostering a comfortable and engaging learning environment.

Demi made great use of the board as a visual tool to break down complex ideas. She carefully outlined the steps involved in identifying quartiles, ensuring Saffron could follow along easily. By drawing diagrams and annotating key points, Demi provided a clear, structured approach that allowed Saffron to visualise the concepts rather than just memorise formulas. This interactive method helped reinforce understanding and encouraged active participation.

Their strong tutor-student relationship was apparent in the way Saffron confidently engaged in discussions, asked questions, and responded to prompts without hesitation. Demi’s approachable and encouraging nature made it clear that Saffron felt comfortable expressing any uncertainties. Demi also adapted her explanations based on Saffron’s responses, using different methods such as real-world examples and step-by-step reasoning to ensure complete comprehension.

A key highlight was Demi’s patience and encouragement. When Saffron initially struggled with interpreting data sets, Demi guided her through the problem without rushing, allowing her time to think and apply concepts independently. This approach not only strengthened Saffron’s confidence but also reinforced problem-solving skills that will be valuable in future lessons.

By the end of the session, Saffron demonstrated a much stronger grasp of the topic, successfully solving practice questions with greater independence. Observing this session reinforced the importance of a strong tutor-student relationship, the effective use of visual tools, and adaptive teaching strategies, key elements I aim to incorporate into my own tutoring approach.

Demetria Koutavas