"Peer learning certainly helps with pupil confidence...we have seen students improve and thrive"
Adam Ryder, Principal at Morley Academy
Olivia Martin, 19, from East End Park, has been tutoring other young people at The Morley Academy in West Yorkshire - and it has been so successful that she has just signed on for a second year, putting off her further education plans.
“I was approaching the end of my A levels and I wanted to take a gap year before starting a fashion or photography course at university,” says Olivia. “I signed up with in-school tutoring organisation Yipiyap, which led to my position here at Morley Academy. I’m working with young learners between the ages of 11-16 to give extra tuition in English.
“It was daunting at first, being so close in age, but as time went on, I settled into the new role and it gave me more confidence, while helping the students themselves. Covid means things are a bit uncertain and I’ve enjoyed it so much that it made sense to defer for another year, as in the meantime, tutoring is a great way to expand my skills.”
Yipiyap provides peer tutors to schools all over the UK. Founded in 2012 by former maths teacher Anne Morris, the organisation harnesses the talent of high-achieving sixth formers and following a thorough interview process, places them with schools for a gap year or two. The organisation has seen a record number of applications this year as students defer university or travelling plans.
“Olivia made a great impact on the learners she supports, so we were delighted to welcome her back for another year,” says Adam Ryder, Principal at Morley Academy. “Peer learning certainly helps with pupil confidence and we have seen students improve and thrive with her input. She has been pivotal in English.”
“We often see our tutors really decide their future plans once they realise how much they enjoy teaching,” says Anne Morris, founder of Yipiyap. “They learn so much from the classroom and gain whole new skillsets that help shape their future. We’re delighted that Olivia’s experiences have been so positive.
“She will do brilliantly in fashion or photography, but if she chooses to go into teaching, I think she would excel there too!”
