Experienced tutor offers online sessions in mathematics, calculus, chemistry, and general science up to NCEA level 3, with an emphasis on helping students achieve their personal goals.

Find out more about Olivia

• 1) When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  1) I have always had a keen interest in various academic subjects and performance art. My passion for these areas led me to excel in these subjects in school, and be presented with relevant awards. I started tutoring through my school in 2023, and found it to be an incredibly rewarding experience. I particularly enjoyed being able to connect with students and help them unlock their full potential.

• 2) Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  2) I teach English, mathematics, chemistry, biology, general science, singing, and drama. In every subject, I endeavour to discuss study skills and exam strategies as well; I believe tutoring is about far more than academic content, and it is always my goal to set students up for independent learning and success.

• 3) Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  3) I have had many teachers who have inspired me in many ways. Common themes among my inspirational figures include patience, creativity, and a sincere belief that I was capable of success. These are elements I seek to include in my own tutoring with my students.

• 4) What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  4) I believe a good tutor must be empathetic, confident, approachable, and diligent. Empathy is critical for tutors to have in order to connect well with students and create a positive learning environment. Confidence is key, as it is important for students and their families to trust the tutor and their abilities. In order for students to feel comfortable asking questions and raising concerns, tutors must be approachable. Diligence is also vital in order to put together quality sessions, and take the time to customise teachings to their student's learning needs. These are all qualities I am confident in saying I possess.

• 5) Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  5) I found in my time at school that I was more likely to achieve success in my subjects once I had teachers I connected with. This theme was consistent throughout my entire time in school. I aim to be this figure for my students, as I believe connecting with your teacher or tutor can spark more joy for the subject, which not only makes success more achievable, but makes the subject and learning more enjoyable.

• 6) What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still facing in your subject?

  6) Some difficulties I have faced in my subjects come down to study strategies. Up until the past 12 months, I did not have effective study methods that worked for me. This poses a significant barrier, as it makes it much harder for content to stick. This is why, with my own students, I always aim to discuss these study strategies, as finding study methods that work for the student will usually allow them to achieve academic success with little struggle.

• 7) Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  7) Two of my most significant passions are education and my community. I have always loved to learn, and I find it greatly rewarding to guide students on their own learning journeys. In addition to tutoring, I have experience working in the field of education in my community. I have also had some volunteering experience in my local area, which I greatly enjoyed. I see tutoring as an intersection between these passions, as I am not only working to guide others in their education, but am also uplifting students in my community.

• 8) What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions) ?

  8) I consider myself a Superprof because I genuinely care about and believe in all of my students. I find it incredibly rewarding to hear of my students' successes, whether that is achieving top grades, scholarships, or simply putting in more time and effort. I take the time to personalise my sessions to ensure my students are able to reach their full potential, and that they are able to learn in a way that is engaging and efficient for their own learning style and preference.