My experience with the bp tutoring scheme has been amazing. I loved every second of it and would do it all over again.
I first heard about the scheme during my second year at university and was very keen to take part. However, at that time it was only open to students in their third year or above. Last year, I was finally able to apply (ironically, it was also the year they opened applications to second-year students!). I completed the application and was incredibly excited when I was selected. Even better, I was placed with my first-choice school.
I must admit I was a little nervous when I started, as I wasn't sure how it will all turn out. Looking back now, I can say with full confidence that there is truly nothing to worry about. Throughout the placement, both the teacher and I supported each other. It wasn't only my first time on the scheme but also the teacher's first time working with a tutor from the bp programme. It was an experience that we discovered together, step by step.
I worked with a primary 7 class, who have now moved on to secondary school. Much of the focus was on maths and English, but we did a mix of other activities. One of my favourites was helping to create a science themed play. I assisted with printing materials, writing scripts, making posters, and all other tasks that go into putting on a successful performance.
I am so happy that I applied. The skills I gained will continue to benefit both my future academic and professional life. The experience helps you develop skills that last a lifetime, and they are not only useful for teaching or working with children. One example is patience. I remember being told during one of the meetings that our patience would "go through the roof". At the time, I was thinking to myself: “No way, I am the most patient person I know”. After my first day, however, I realised what they meant. I thought I already had patience, but this experience strengthened it more than I ever expected. It helps you become more thoughtful and more caring. In many ways, it really does prepare you for the real world.
I couldn't recommend this scheme more highly. No matter what you want to do later in life, no matter what you are currently studying, this scheme adapts to everyone and provides a meaningful experience. Everyone has something valuable to contribute to the scheme.
One of the more rewarding aspects is seeing the impact you have on the children. You see improvements not only in their test results but also in their confidence and attitudes towards education. Hearing a child say, "Valentina, I want to go to university like you", makes you realise that you may have helped shape how they view their future. It makes you feel that you have truly made a difference where it matters most.
The children you work with, whether in primary or secondary school, will find in you the person they need, someone closer in age who understands them. I'm sure we all had that one teacher, tutor or class assistant that we remember to this day and will remember forever, because they were supportive and accepted us for who we were. The opportunity to be that person for someone else is incredibly rewarding.
