As a tutor, an observation I’ve made is how impactful personalisation can be in education. Each student provides a different perspective in tutoring. They each enter the learning space with unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations. Recognising each one of these is key in producing meaningful learning.
Personalisation in each lesson does not mean rewriting the curriculum for every student, it is about finding ways to make learning resonate on an individual level. For example, I recently worked with a student struggling with essay structure. Instead of reiterating generic writing rules, we discussed their favorite novel and mapped its plot points to mirror the structure of an argument. Suddenly, the “introduction, body, conclusion” formula clicked, not as a rule to follow but as a natural progression of thought they could relate to.
This approach isn’t just about focusing on their academic skills, it also extends to building their confidence. Many students approach tutoring sessions with a fixed mindset, convinced they’re “bad at math” or “not a natural writer.” Personalisation allows us to dismantle these mental blocks. By celebrating small victories—solving a challenging equation or drafting a strong thesis—we shift their focus from perceived inadequacies to visible progress.
Personalisation within the session also fosters a sense of trust between tutor and student. This is extremely important as this impacts how your student will listen to the advice you’re giving them on how to improve. When these students see how their tutors are willing to invest a level of understanding of their needs and interests, they’re more likely to engage actively. Trust turns the session into a collaborative effort rather than a one-sided lecture, creating a space where students feel safe to explore and even make mistakes.
Ultimately, tutoring isn’t just about helping students pass tests or complete assignments; it’s about equipping them with the skills and confidence to succeed beyond the classroom. Personalisation ensures we do so in a way that feels meaningful, impactful, and empowering.
Kassandra Pegios
