Beyond the grades: How tutoring builds confidence and changes lives

For many pupils, the pressure to get good grades can be immense. Tests, exams, and academic targets often feel like the be-all and end-all of their school journey. 

While these grades are undeniably important for opening doors to future opportunities, there are other parts to the story. At Action Tutoring, our work goes “beyond the grades” to foster a love of learning and, most importantly, to build the confidence that can change a young person’s life forever.

The reality for many pupils facing disadvantage is that they have less access to private tutoring or other tools that can make a huge difference. This can lead to a lack of confidence in their abilities, especially in subjects like maths and English. 

“Before I started my tutoring sessions, I dreaded [maths] because I didn’t enjoy them. But my tutoring sessions were amazing and really helped boost my confidence in maths.”

– Dylan, Year 11 pupil in Bristol

When a pupil falls behind, they can start to feel isolated and believe that the subject simply isn’t for them. This creates a cycle where low confidence leads to poor performance, which in turn reinforces their lack of self-belief; a vicious cycle that can have a lasting impact long after they leave the classroom.

This is where a volunteer tutor comes in. By working with a small group of 1-3 pupils for an hour a week, you can break that cycle. It’s not just about teaching a formula or correcting a comma; it’s about providing a safe space where a pupil feels comfortable asking questions without fear of judgment. It’s about celebrating small victories, whether it’s finally understanding a tricky maths problem or writing a creative paragraph that they’re proud of. This consistent encouragement and positive reinforcement are the building blocks of confidence.

“If a teacher asks a question and says “if you want to answer, put your hand up”, if no one puts their hand up he’ll just choose someone and then I’m just hopeful for him to not choose me. With tutoring, it helps you because you’re not just sat there, because you get more attention. I feel like when there’s a big class you don’t really get more time to sort of think about [your answer], because the rest of the class needs to carry on.”

– Lilah, Year 6 pupil in London

In the 13 years we’ve been operating as a charity, we’ve seen it happen time and again; a pupil who starts their tutoring journey in silence, too shy to engage, transforms over a few weeks. Their teachers report that they begin to raise their hand in class, volunteer an answer, and even start to help their peers. They begin to see themselves not as “bad at maths” or “not a writer,” but as a capable young person with the potential to succeed. This confidence can extend far beyond their school work to their general outlook on life and belief in future prospects. 

“It has been so much fun to work with her and I will always remember our conversations. I know she has another job so it has been really huge for me that she would give up some of her time to help me. She has made a real impact on my life that I will never forget.”

– Muhammad, Year 11 pupil in London

The benefits of this relationship aren’t just for the pupils, either. As a volunteer tutor, you play a direct role in creating a fairer education system and closing the attainment gap. But you also gain a huge amount in return. 

By explaining complex ideas in a simple, patient way, you hone your own communication and problem-solving skills. By mentoring a young person, you develop your leadership and emotional intelligence. For students and young professionals, this is invaluable, CV-boosting experience that employers actively seek. For retired professionals, it’s a deeply rewarding way to use a lifetime of skills to give back to the community.

The best part? You don’t need to be a teacher to make this happen. All you need is a solid subject knowledge in maths or English, a patient and clear approach, and a desire to make a difference. We provide all the induction training, tutor workbooks, and ongoing support you need to feel confident and effective in your role.

“To someone considering volunteering with Action Tutoring, I’d say give it a go—you don’t need to be a subject expert or a former teacher. The training and resources guide you through everything, and the sessions are very structured. As for time, even one hour a week can make a real difference. Volunteering has sharpened my own thinking and communication skills, and it’s reminded me how valuable one-to-one support can be. It’s also helped me feel connected to younger generations.”

– Janet, volunteer tutor

As we look towards the new academic year, we are in high need of volunteers to start in the autumn term. Your commitment of just one hour a week can provide a child with the confidence to not only pass an exam but to believe in themselves. This October, you have the chance to be part of a volunteer team that doesn’t just tutor how to pass an exam, but truly empowers.

Ready to make a difference?