University student Elina reports, “The placement was so rewarding. To be able to witness the progress that a child you are working with is amazing. The relationship you develop is so valuable and those hours during your session really light up your day, even the difficult ones. At the end of the day, you know that your work helps to shape that child’s future and give them the best start in life.
From a personal and academic perspective, this has been such an amazing opportunity to put learnt knowledge into practice and learn from professionals. Tutoring really pushes you to ensure that you are learning thoroughly, paying attention to details as well as knowing what and why you are doing something. This isn’t something that you can be taught in University.
I have been a volunteer in numerous places, however, not once have I been anywhere that is so well organized. Never have I thought, ‘what if I don’t know how to do it, how will they react?’ because from day one you get very thorough training. I am really happy that I was given the chance to be a part of this team and work with so many great people. Team meetings were such a good place to practice, learn and correct myself. The Consultant gave me the chance to see if I could add anything to the team, what I have noticed and what changes should be made to the programme, which was always welcomed with open arms. That is really valuable and makes me want to try even harder to be even better at what I do.”
