Students

Peer tutoring

Peer tutoring is a programme which is run every year at Kogarah High School, focusing on the development of student's reading abilities. At the beginning of the year, Ms Sikes, the coordinator of the course selected around 15 year 10 students to be trained in helping to improve the reading skills of a group of younger year 7's as tutors.

During every school day year 7 and year 10 students attend a brief class in which students are partnered together for their reading lessons. The year 10 student's responsibility as tutors is not only to guide their buddies in their reading, but to also encourage them to be more confident and develop with their communication skills.

This program works well for both groups of students. The tutors have the opportunity to take the initiative to help fellow school mates, while the year 7's develop their ability to read, listen and communicate effectively, which is vital for their education.

Peer tutoring is a great way for students to gain understandings about each other and to find confidence in them selves within the school community.

By Victor, Year 10

The Peer Tutoring Program at Kogarah High is designed to aid Year 7 students' learning in all areas of their curriculum. The history of its success at Kogarah High has proven the program to be a valuable experience for all students involved.

Peer Tutoring aims to create a learning environment which encourages opportunities for all at Kogarah High. Every year, a selection of Year 7 students who need practice to improve their literacy skills are chosen and partnered with a tutor who is a Year 10 student.

During roll call whilst most classes are occupied with spelling and grammar exercises, the Peer Tutoring Program takes place. Year 10 students spend time with their tutees every morning to improve and develop their reading skills day by day. Peer tutoring is a program that serves to scaffold students forward in all facets of their learning at Kogarah High.

As a peer tutor, I think the program is beneficial to all participants. As tutors, we gain valuable communication, tolerance and leadership skills; skills pertinent to one's development as a young adult.

By Minna, Year 10