Tutors of Christmas Day 1: The gift of time
By Tahira Fitzherbert, TTN Ambassador
Isn’t it a delight to give someone a present they will value, be able to use forever and really appreciate? A gift that isn’t disposable is something we don’t come across often in today’s world.
Volunteering one hour a week to tutor someone in your subject can make an immense difference. There is a sense of ambition and accomplishment on both sides imparting and absorbing knowledge.
Tutors are familiar with that magical ‘click’ moment when a tutee pieces everything together and realises the connections and links – times like these are cause for celebration. Not only does the ‘click’ give an instantaneous feeling of accomplishment, but adds another layer of understanding, building a foundation of knowledge which can lead to more confidence, skill and enjoyment of the subject.
Books are often given at Christmas – they are a source of facts and stories which challenge the imagination. It is through having discussions about new ideas, and asking questions, that we learn. Of course, lessons covering GCSE or A-Level topics each week may not be as interesting as reading a book about the history of stars, but, hopefully, skills which come from being able to collaboratively deconstruct questions and concepts systematically will aid in all interests and interactions in all parts of life.
From a selfish point of view, tutoring is very fulfilling. In aiding TTN’s mission of expanding educational access, tutors know they are part of a greater mission for the greater good. On a pupil-tutor level, finding those ‘click’ moments makes you feel like you’ve been able to truly communicate, which you hope will help someone succeed in their future. As an organisation, TTN tutors can have pride and confidence in knowing they are adding an extra hour a week to try and make education fairer. Time spent sharing knowledge and teaching concepts well is a gift which lasts more than a season – keep the spirit of Christmas alive throughout the year by tutoring a pupil with enthusiastic cheer!
