Although I have about nine years of teaching experience under my belt, what I have learned is that teachers or tutors must be updated and abreast of the changes in the MOE and education industry, be it the contents, the ways of learning, and, of course, the exam format. We do not learn for exam per say, but we do need to teach how to tackle exam formats. Too often we hear comments such as "Your child is weak in this area" but without much support. I understand the constraints and I can be the one who can plug in the gap and provide the support for your child to overcome his/her areas of concerns or to reach a breakthrough in his/her academics. I have the content knowledge, the pedagogical knowledge but most importantly, a desire to see your child improve or be at his/her best.
I am free throughout the year with the exceptions of short breaks in the school holidays. I will try my best to accommodate and will leave you with my personal number for contact throughout.
Rapport Building
Parents are free to message me their questions and I will reply as soon as I can. I prefer to let the parents know what I have covered generally at least for each session so that there is accountability.
Personally, I will let the student know that we are learning together, practising together. I do not intend to pressure the student as much as he/she is already feeling it from the school. In a secure environment, the student will not be afraid to ask or make mistakes and even give honest replies about his/her concerns.
Keeping Up with Curriculum
I left in Feb 2015. I am abreast with the new PSLE exam format which starts this year. I am still updated via websites and a close circle of teacher friends. I may have left the service, but I am still as updated about pedagogies, contents and formats.
As a Good Tutor
Accountability, ease of contact, a desire to really aid the student count a lot. To be updated with MOE's teaching styles and contents is a responsibility. I have seen and understood the constraints and conflicts between schools and tutors. While I respect the schools' teachers by accommodating to their style of work, I will also work in the interest of my individual student.