The bp Student Tutoring Scheme has been one of the best experiences I have had during my time at university. The opportunity to work with children and actively observe classroom dynamics between children, as well as between children and teaching staff, was something I could not pass up.
If you are interested in a future career with children, this scheme could be just right for you. I think it is a great chance to get a perspective on whether working in education or with children is potentially what you would like to do professionally, as well as an opportunity gaining key experience and skills regardless of what your next step is.
The scheme itself involves 8-weeks of going into a school for half a day weekly; this could be a secondary or a primary school depending on preference. Initially this seemed daunting, however the teacher I was paired with offered support and guidance, and before long I knew what classroom needs I could address and how to tackle tasks assigned by the teacher to me. During my participation in the bp Student Tutoring Scheme, I would spend my Friday mornings at Kingsford School, and this soon became the highlight of my week.
A typical day at the primary school could involve leading group reading, marking quizzes or helping children with their mathematics work. One time I even got to participate in a PE class, which really took me back. Seeing the children progress week by week academically and socially was something very special. I enjoyed my time there so much that I returned to volunteer for a month in June after completing the scheme in March.
Whilst the experience felt very rewarding and I enjoyed helping in the school environment, looking forward I know that I do not want to work directly in a school but rather in an adjacent role as a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist. This experience has been invaluable in understanding what I want to do next. The opportunity to work with children and develop important communication skills as well as time management and organisational skills has been a fantastic addition to my university experience, and a brilliant way to give back.
Find out more about the bp Student Tutoring Scheme on the Careers and Employability Service website.
