Ever wondered what makes a tutor’s heart sing? It’s not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about sharing a passion that lights up both the tutor and the student. In a recent episode of “Speciality,” Sarah, a seasoned teacher turned tutor, shared her journey into the world of tutoring, highlighting the unexpected joys and personal growth she experienced along the way. From her love for Shakespeare to her recent autism diagnosis, Sarah’s story is a testament to the transformative power of following one’s passion in education.
The Unexpected Joys of Tutoring
Sarah’s transition from classroom teaching to tutoring was driven by a desire for a shorter commute and a chance to stay connected with her love for teaching. Her favorite moments? Those times when she could dive deep into her special interests like Shakespeare and linguistics. “It’s not just about passing an exam; it’s about bringing the subject to life,” she enthused. For Sarah, tutoring allowed her to indulge in her literary passions while helping students find their own love for the subject.
2. Personal Growth and Diagnosis: Sarah’s recent autism diagnosis has enriched her understanding of her teaching style and the unique perspectives she brings to education.
3. Adaptability in Tutoring: From online sessions to face-to-face interactions, Sarah values the flexibility and personal connection that tutoring offers.
Navigating Learning Differences
Sarah’s journey also touches on the importance of understanding and accommodating learning differences. Her recent diagnosis as autistic has given her a fresh perspective on how students with different needs can thrive in education. She emphasizes the value of recognizing and supporting students with Dyslexia and other learning differences, ensuring they receive the tailored support they need to succeed.
Balancing Personal and Professional Life
As a tutor, finding the right balance between work and personal life is crucial. Sarah shared her routine of planning between 12 and 4:30 PM, her peak mental performance hours, and how she encourages her students to take breaks, especially during online sessions. “Learning something new is exhausting,” she noted, advocating for breaks to prevent burnout and maintain productivity.
It’s important to say if I have online lessons I do almost force the kids to take a break because the screen can be overwhelming.
Incorporating Music and Creativity
Music plays a significant role in Sarah’s tutoring sessions. She believes that allowing students to listen to music can enhance their learning experience, especially if it helps them focus. For younger students, she recommends Studio Ghibli piano instrumentals, which provide a soothing backdrop for learning. “Music has its place in learning,” she asserts, acknowledging the diverse needs and preferences of her students.
Embracing Technology and Resources
Sarah’s experience with Twinkle, an educational resource platform, has been a game-changer. She praises the platform’s ability to provide high-quality, teacher-created resources that save time and enhance lesson planning. One standout resource she recommends is the “Point Evidence Explain” starter sentences, which she finds invaluable for teaching English analysis skills. “Twinkle resources are legit and make my life so much easier,” she says.
Twinkle has self-care guides for teachers, which sounds a bit trite, but when you actually look at it, it’s all these little reminders of things that you need to do to look after yourself.
Empowering Tutors and Students Alike
As we wrap up, it’s clear that Sarah’s journey into tutoring is not just about teaching; it’s about empowering both herself and her students. Her story reminds us that tutoring is a deeply personal and rewarding profession, one that thrives on passion, adaptability, and a commitment to understanding each student’s unique needs. The “villain” in this narrative is the rigid, one-size-fits-all approach to education that fails to recognize and nurture individual talents and learning styles. By embracing a more personalized and passionate approach, tutors can truly make a difference.
So, if you’re a tutor looking to enhance your services and make a lasting impact on your students, consider the power of following your own passions and understanding the diverse needs of your learners. Join the Learning Success affiliate program to enhance your tutoring services and boost your income while helping your students overcome learning challenges.
Author: Laura Lurns
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