In order to create a productive working environment, I build a relationship with my student, discussing shared interests and their extra-curricular activities. Therefore, i am in an excellent position to appreciate that students are individuals, not a homogeneous mass of teenagers! This means I can integrate students’ interests into my teaching. Moreover, by devising lessons solely for one student, I already have experience tailoring resources and lessons for individual needs, be they a particular weakness for long division or a barrier to learning such as dyslexia. Whatever the need, I am used to catering for it and devising a way around it. I have a motto that I tell all of my student- ‘It doesn’t matter if we get it right or wrong. An incorrect answer is an opportunity to learn something new’. It’s something I truly believe and something the children I tutor respond really well to. It takes the pressure off the need to be perfect and instead focuses them on how to overcome challenges and be a better learner. I am also approachable for both children and parents. If a tutor is patient and caring, the child will respond to that and so will their parents. I often have parents coming forward to ask for advice or help; parent relationships are just as important to me as my pupil ones. I believe I am honest, empathetic and trustworthy. By building a relationship with the child founded on respect, my members trust me. That, in turn, means that a child can really open up to me and engage in their learning journey.