Teachers give more time to students who show up, ask questions and act on feedback - that is the whole mechanism. Attendance and participation signal that the effort will be used, which is why help tends to flow towards those students. Ask specific questions rather than "can you explain this topic", and come back having tried the advice. It works the same way with tutors.

The Education Endowment Foundation puts one-to-one tuition at approximately five additional months’ progress on average. — EEF, One to one tuition

Building strong relationships with your teachers and tutors is crucial for academic success. In this blog post, we will delve into effective strategies to cultivate these relationships, which can lead to enhanced guidance, support, and motivation, ultimately fostering both academic achievement and personal growth.

Why Do Building Relationships Matter?

Building positive relationships with educators is not just about getting good grades; it's about creating a supportive learning environment that benefits all aspects of your academic journey. Here’s how you can achieve this:

What is regular attendance?

- Show Commitment: Attending classes regularly is a fundamental step in showing respect for the teacher's time and efforts.

- Engage in Learning: It provides a consistent opportunity to absorb the material being taught and participate actively.

What is participation in class?

- Demonstrate Engagement: Active participation in class discussions shows curiosity and respect for the teacher's knowledge.

- Enhance Learning: It allows you to clarify doubts and deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

Why does open communication matter?

- Share Your Goals: Clearly communicate your academic aspirations and challenges to your teachers.

- Build Trust: Honest communication can foster a trusting relationship, making it easier to seek help when needed.

How Do You Seek Feedback?

- Identify Improvement Areas: Regular feedback from teachers can highlight areas of improvement and success.

- Show Eagerness to Improve: Asking for feedback demonstrates a proactive approach to your learning process.

What are extracurricular activities?

- Broaden Engagement: Participating in activities outside the classroom can help you connect with teachers on a more personal level.

- Showcase Your Strengths: It provides a platform to demonstrate your skills and interests beyond academics.

How do you show gratitude?

- Express Appreciation: A simple thank you can go a long way in showing appreciation for your teachers’ hard work and dedication.

- Strengthen Relationships: Gratitude can enhance the mutual respect and positivity in your relationship with your teachers.

What should you do next?

Building strong relationships with your teachers and tutors is an integral part of achieving academic success. By attending classes regularly, participating actively, communicating openly, seeking continuous feedback, engaging in extracurricular activities, and expressing gratitude, you can establish a supportive and motivating educational environment. These relationships not only aid in academic achievements but also contribute to personal growth and development. Remember, the effort you put into fostering these relationships can profoundly impact your educational journey and beyond.

What else is worth reading?

What are the honest limits of this?

The EEF figure for one-to-one tuition is an average across many trials, not a guarantee for any one student. Tutoring works with the school, not instead of it, and no honest tutor can promise a grade.

Whether tutoring works is a measured question, not an opinion:

“Evidence indicates that one to one tuition can be effective, providing approximately five additional months’ progress on average.” — EEF, One to one tuition

What research supports these methods?

The study techniques on this page are not our opinion. Each comes from published cognitive-science research, linked here so you can read the original: