What are you doing now that you've left us at Tutor Trust?

Since leaving the Tutor Trust, I have volunteered as a language assistant in Thailand and I am now working as an English teacher at a high school in Greater Manchester. 

What do you miss most about Tutor Trust?

I miss the opportunity to tutor in various settings at a time and place that suits me. One day I could be working in a school and the next day, I could be working with someone at their home. I even had the chance to work with a student at The Christie. The change is exciting and every day is different. 

How and why did you first get involved with The Tutor Trust?

I attended a secondary school in a deprived area. I am very passionate about working with disadvantaged students and narrowing the education gap as I belief that nobody's future should be determined by their postcode. I wanted to make a difference and I knew that the Tutor Trust would help me do just that.

What was the most challenging thing about tutoring?

Most of the students I worked with were disengaged and were devoid of motivation. Instilling a love for learning in these students was a real challenge. However, once positive working relationships were formed and the students began to engage, this was also the most rewarding part of the role. 

What do you think tutoring has taught you the most?

Tutoring has taught me that I can make a difference. It is incredibly rewarding when you see a student progress and start to believe in themselves. As well as tutoring, you learn things about yourself too. I did not have much confidence when I started with the Tutor Trust and doubted my ability as a tutor. By the end, I had the confidence to apply for teacher training. 

How do you think tuition helps you in your current role?

My experience as a tutor has helped me massively in my role as an English teacher. The professional workshops have provided me with skills that I still use today such as lesson planning, differentiation, safeguarding and behaviour management. Without the confidence I gained at the Tutor Trust, I don't think I would be teaching now. Working to inspire disadvantaged students is something that I still enjoy and hope to continue with for many years.

Is there any advice you would like to offer to offer new tutors joining us?

I would say the most important thing is to be yourself and believe in your abilities. In my opinion, relationships are the most important aspect of teaching. Use your unique personalities to create positive working relationships with the students and everything else will fall into place.