First Education

Today I had the opportunity to observe Sophie tutor! Her session was filled with energy, and her student was highly engaged, which immediately caught my attention. Her approach was notably patient and encouraging, creating a positive learning environment where students felt comfortable and confident.

One of the standout techniques she used was storytelling. She effortlessly integrated stories into her lessons, whether teaching concepts or discussing deeper themes. These stories helped clarify complex ideas and made the material more relatable for the students. It became evident how powerful this method could be in making abstract concepts more accessible and memorable.

Another aspect of her teaching that stood out was her focus on active listening. She gave her students the space to articulate their thoughts and guided them toward solutions without giving immediate answers. This approach encouraged independence and critical thinking, which seemed to build the students’ confidence and problem-solving skills. It was clear that this method helped foster a deeper understanding of the material.

Her ability to connect with her students, her creativity in lesson delivery, and her supportive yet empowering teaching style provided valuable insights. Observing her today highlighted the importance of patience, storytelling, and listening in creating a more engaging and effective learning environment. These are techniques that can easily be applied to any subject, showing how versatile and impactful they are in teaching.

Nabil Harrar

In a world of constant stimulation through TikTok videos, instant notifications and endless scrolling. Boredom has become something we actively avoid. But what if boredom was actually good for learning? What if, instead of filling every silent moment, tutors should embrace those pauses?

One of the biggest challenges students face today is the inability to sit with difficult problems. When something doesn’t make sense immediately, the instinct is often to give up or Google the answer. But deep learning happens in those moments of struggle, when the brain has time to process, connect ideas and problem-solve without an instant solution.

Tutoring provides a rare opportunity to reintroduce constructive boredom into education. When a tutor resists the urge to fill in the gaps too quickly and instead lets a student wrestle with a concept, something powerful happens, they start thinking for themselves. That slight discomfort of not knowing forces the brain to engage at a deeper level.

Neuroscience backs this up. Studies show that when the brain is given space, without constant input it starts forming stronger neural connections. This is why students often come up with solutions after a lesson ends, when they’re walking home or lying in bed. Their brain has finally had time to catch up.

So, how can tutors use boredom as a strategy? By introducing deliberate pauses, asking open-ended questions and resisting the urge to over-explain. A tutor’s role isn’t to provide all the answers but to create an environment where curiosity thrives.

In a world that moves too fast, maybe the greatest gift a tutor can give is the ability to slow down, sit with uncertainty and discover the joy of thinking for oneself.

Isabella Naumovski

One of the key goals of tutoring is not just to help students understand content but to equip them with the skills to learn independently. While it can be tempting to guide students through every step, effective tutoring encourages them to take ownership of their learning, building confidence and problem-solving abilities that extend beyond the session.

A crucial part of fostering independence is teaching students how to approach challenges on their own. Instead of providing immediate answers, tutors can encourage students to think critically by asking guiding questions such as, “What strategies have worked for you before?” or “How could you break this problem down into smaller steps?” This shifts the focus from simply getting the right answer to understanding the process behind it.

Another way to build independence is by helping students develop effective study techniques. Many students struggle not because they lack ability, but because they haven’t been taught how to revise efficiently or structure their responses. Tutors can introduce strategies such as active recall, summarising information in their own words, or creating study plans that allow for consistent review. Teaching students how to self-assess their work also empowers them to identify their own areas for improvement rather than relying solely on tutor feedback.

Encouraging students to take initiative in their learning also helps build resilience. When students learn to approach difficult tasks with a problem-solving mindset rather than frustration, they become more confident in their ability to tackle challenges independently. Over time, they develop the skills needed to manage their own progress, reducing their reliance on a tutor.

Ultimately, the most effective tutoring doesn’t just improve academic performance in the short term; it equips students with the tools to become self-sufficient learners. By fostering independence, tutors help students build the confidence and skills they need to succeed beyond the classroom.

Demetria

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly common part of everyday life, and its influence on how children learn is growing rapidly. From educational apps to interactive learning platforms, AI is helping kids engage with information in new and exciting ways. As technology becomes more advanced, AI is providing children with personalised learning experiences, improving their understanding of complex topics, and making education more engaging and accessible.

One of the key benefits of AI for kids is the ability to tailor learning to their individual needs. Traditional classroom settings often struggle to accommodate the different learning speeds and styles of every student. AI-powered platforms, however, can assess a child’s strengths and weaknesses in real time, adjusting the difficulty and type of content to match their learning pace.

AI also makes learning more engaging for kids by using games, interactive exercises, and visual aids. Educational apps that incorporate AI often present lessons in the form of challenges or rewards, which can help maintain a child’s interest and motivation. For example, language learning apps might use AI to adjust vocabulary and grammar exercises based on how well the child is performing, while also providing encouraging feedback. Two major examples are Duolingo and grammarly. This helps make learning feel less like a chore and more like a game.

Another important advantage of AI is its ability to provide immediate feedback. When a child answers a question incorrectly, AI can explain why it’s wrong and suggest different ways to approach the problem. This helps children understand their mistakes and improve their problem-solving skills. AI can also recognise patterns in a child’s mistakes and adjust the content to help them overcome specific challenges, reinforcing learning in a targeted way.

While AI will never replace human teachers and the value of social learning, it offers an additional layer of support that can help kids develop confidence and a deeper understanding of what they are learning. By combining the personal touch of traditional teaching with the precision and adaptability of AI, children can benefit from a more tailored and effective learning experience.

Emily Mackay

Many students find it difficult to keep up in an educational environment where classes are frequently packed and follow set timetables. Giving each student the individualised attention they require is practically impossible, even when teachers try their best to accommodate varying learning styles. Personalised teaching is really beneficial in this situation. One-on-one tutoring, as opposed to traditional classroom settings, adjusts to each student’s particular learning style and makes sure that concepts are presented in a way that they can understand. Whether a student flourishes with visuals, hands-on practice, or step-by-step explanations, a tutor personalised their approach to enhance knowledge.

Personalised tutoring fills in deeper learning gaps that may have formed over time, going beyond just helping with homework or test preparation. Many students fall behind because they fail to understand fundamental concepts; something as small as misinterpreting fractions can cause problems in more complex algebra. Early recognition of these areas allows a tutor to work with the student to improve and be confident in these areas before they become overwhelming and a point of anxiety. In addition to providing better academic results, this solution helps students regain their confidence. Children feel enabled to ask questions, make mistakes, and genuinely engage with the topic when they receive undivided attention in a judgment-free setting.

Tutoring has many benefits that extend beyond immediate academic achievement. Through personalised learning, students develop skills that benefit them both during and after their education. Developing good study habits is one of the biggest long-term advantages. Tutors help kids learn time management, note-taking, and exam strategy—skills that are essential for long-term success but aren’t always taught in schools.

Ultimately, personalized tutoring doesn’t just improve test scores—it gives students with the tools they need to become independent, resilient, and strong lifelong learners. Whether a student is aiming for top university admissions, struggling to catch up, or simply looking to get ahead, the right tutor can make all the difference in shaping their academic journey and future success.

Sarah Constantinidis

There are a few key points that you should keep in mind when tutoring and looking to improve your tutoring skills.

1. Understand the Student’s Needs
Every student is unique, with their own strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. Take the time to assess their current understanding, goals, and preferred learning methods. This personalized approach will allow you to tailor your tutoring sessions for maximum effectiveness.

2. Prepare Thoroughly
Preparation is key to successful tutoring. Familiarize yourself with the subject material and have a structured plan for each session. However, be flexible enough to adjust the plan if the student needs extra help in certain areas.

3. Encourage Active Participation
Instead of simply lecturing, engage students by asking questions, providing exercises, and encouraging them to explain concepts in their own words. This active learning approach reinforces their understanding and boosts confidence.

4. Provide Constructive Feedback but not too harsh
Offer specific, positive feedback on what the student is doing well, along with clear, constructive criticism on areas that need improvement. Encourage them to view mistakes as learning opportunities.

5. Develop Good Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial for tutoring. Use simple, clear language and be patient when explaining difficult concepts. Encourage students to ask questions and express any confusion without hesitation.

By implementing these tips, you can become a more efficient and impactful tutor, helping your students achieve their academic goals with confidence.

Julian Podgornik

The selective test can sound pretty full-on. It’s tough, there’s heaps of competition, and yeah, it can be a bit stressful. But honestly, it’s still worth giving it a shot, even if you’re not 100% sure how you’ll go.

First off, preparing for the test actually teaches you a lot. You get better at thinking through tricky questions, managing your time, and staying focused when things get hard. Those skills come in handy way beyond just this one test. They help with school in general, other exams, and even stuff like planning your study time better.

Also, you never really know what you’re capable of until you try. Some students sit the test just to see what it’s like and end up doing way better than they expected. And even if the result isn’t what you hoped for, you’ll still learn something about your strengths and what you can work on.

Doing the test can also help you get used to formal exam settings. The earlier you start getting used to that kind of pressure, the easier it’ll be when future assessments come up.

And honestly, the biggest reason to give it a go is so you don’t end up wondering “what if?” later. At least you’ll know you gave it a try. That kind of confidence is worth more than any score.

So if you’re on the fence about it, just go for it. You’ve got nothing to lose and a lot to gain.

Eireyna Papinyan

Every student learns differently, and as a tutor, adapting to their learning style can make sessions be the most effective and engaging. While all students will have their own unique way of learning, it is important to understand the key styles and be able to notice when a student’s behavior coalesces with them.

Visual Learners:

Visual learners absorb information best through images, diagrams, physical demonstrations, and color-coded notes. When tutoring, use mind maps, graphs and illustrations to break down concepts. Encourage them to highlight key ideas and draw connections between topics. Getting them involved up at the whiteboards can be particularly useful for this!

Auditory Learners:

Auditory learners retain information through discussion and auditory clues. Instead of relying on written explanations, try explaining concepts aloud, using storytelling techniques, or encouraging them to talk through their thought process. Ask open-ended questions and use mnemonic devices or rhymes to reinforce learning. This is applicable even to maths – try and reframe equations/formulas by either discussing how to derive them or making algebraic expressions representative of practical, real life experiences.

Kinesthetic Learners

These students learn best by doing. Sitting still for long periods can be a struggle, particularly for an hour, so incorporate movement into lessons. Have them write on a whiteboard, use physical objects for demonstrations, or have them doing physical movements – if doing bearings, get them to act out certain bearings to really make it stick. Encouraging them to teach back what they’ve learned also reinforces their understanding.

Reading/Writing Learners

Students in this category excel with written information. Provide clear, structured notes and encourage them to rewrite concepts in their own words. Assign short written reflections or summaries to reinforce comprehension. Using lists, definitions, and textbooks can help them absorb material more effectively.

By recognizing and adapting to these different learning styles, we can create personalised sessions that maximise student success. Often, blending multiple approaches works best, ensuring students develop a well-rounded understanding of the material.

Sophie McGrath

This Sunday I had the opportunity to observe Chloe and her Year 2 Maths and English student Emily. This session was highly valuable to observe as I learnt immensely about the importance of integrating educational games in order to enhance learning. Chloe and Emily engaged in addition worksheets, to which Emily responded well, but I noticed that her engagement and enthusiasm increased significantly when Chloe introduced a maths-based educational game. Chloe’s interplay of education and play was a very effective approach for the lesson as it minimised distraction in an engaging way.

Additionally, what also was really valuable was the ability for Chloe to read the dynamics of the lesson. Chloe understood when concentration was at its peak and then how to accommodate her lesson to fluctuating concentration levels. Whether this was through adding small breaks or switching different ways to explain addition, Chloe was able to adapt the environment of the lesson to her students’ needs.

Observing this session highlighted the importance of using interactive and dynamic techniques to support her students’ academic growth and learning. Educational games not only make learning more enjoyable but also foster engagement, critical thinking, and confidence. Chloe’s teaching approach conveyed to me that when students are given the opportunity to learn in a dynamic and fun environment, they are more likely to retain information and develop a positive attitude toward learning. This in turn, minimised her students’ disengagement and shifted her perspective to view learning as a fun activity, engaged within a supportive environment.

Jessica Ciappara

In a fast-paced environment filled with both internal and external pressures, student’s of all ages often face challenges with their educational process. Tutoring can aid in easing this pressure through a myriad of ways; boosting confidence through granting small wins, improving study skills and time management, overcoming individual learning barriers and acting as preparation for high-stakes exams. One of the most significant advantages of tutoring is its personalised structure. Unlike traditional classroom settings, where a single teacher has to engage with upwards of twenty students with a variety of learning preferences, one-on-one tutoring and small-group tutoring narrows in on an individual students’ learning pattern, ensuring engagement and therefore confidence. In answering personalised questions and honing in on areas of concern, tutoring can build a solid foundation of knowledge at the individual students’ pace. Many student’s feel dissatisfied when they are unable to grasp topics, with tutoring breaking this cycle by offering small, achievable goals, with tutors celebrating small successes along the way. In doing so, a students’ confidence will build, a feeling which will likely lead to confidence in other settings including in a class and exam room. Moreover, tutors go beyond teaching concepts and strategies for students, they build life-long skills such as time management, organisation and effective study habits. Through tutoring, students are able to plan their study schedules, organise assessment timetables and ensure their homework is completed on time before their session. Tutors are also able to teach strategies to remain focused, breaking down large chunks into manageable tasks, and reviewing material which maximises retention. These skills are crucial for student’s of all ages, whether they are in primary school, senior school or in the future for university and the workplace. Furthermore, a tutor is able to use alternative teaching methods for students with learning disabilities which will cater to their specific learning style including those who value auditory, visual or written strategies. This ensures students are able to study effectively for their exams, maximising the likelihood of their academic success.

Georgina Maxwell