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  • The Power of Tutoring: Raising Up Learners in Disadvantaged Communities

    Upside volunteer busy with tutoring a Grade 8 learner

    Introduction

    Tutoring is a powerful tool that can help raise up learners in disadvantaged communities. Students who come from economically challenged backgrounds often lack access to the resources and support they need to succeed academically. Tutoring can bridge this gap by providing personalized, one-on-one instruction that addresses each student’s unique learning needs.

    Tailored Teaching

    One of the key benefits of tutoring is the ability to tailor instruction to the individual learner. In a traditional classroom setting, teachers are often limited in providing personalised attention to each student. However, each session can be customised with tutoring to meet the student’s specific needs. This can be especially beneficial for students who struggle with certain subjects or concepts, as tutors can work with them to develop a deeper understanding and mastery of these areas.

    Tutoring Improves Grades

    A significant body of evidence says quality tutoring can have a profound and positive impact on the academic achievement of disadvantaged students. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, students who receive tutoring are more likely to see increases in their grades, test scores, and overall academic performance.

    Some of the benefits of tutoring include:

    – One-on-one attention from a tutor who is focused on helping the student succeed

    – A customised learning experience that is tailored to the student’s individual needs

    – The opportunity to get immediate feedback and guidance on assignments

    Improved Grades Encourages Success

    Tutoring can also provide students with additional motivation and encouragement to succeed. In many disadvantaged communities, students may not have a strong support system at home or in their communities. Tutors can serve as positive role models and sources of inspiration, helping students to see the value of education and the possibilities and if they work hard and stay committed to their goals.

    Tutoring Builds Positive Relationships

    Another important benefit of tutoring is building relationships between learners and their tutors. Students from disadvantaged backgrounds may not have as many positive adult relationships in their lives. Tutoring can provide a safe and supportive space for students to connect with caring adults who can help guide them towards success.

    Overall, tutoring can be a powerful way to raise up learners in disadvantaged communities. By providing personalized instruction, motivation, and support, tutors can help students overcome barriers and achieve their full potential. As more resources are devoted to tutoring programs in underserved areas, we can create a brighter future for all young people, regardless of their background or circumstances.

    ONside Programme

    UPside Community Services recently launched its ONside tutoring programme. The initial focus during this pilot phase was on Grade 8 Mathematics. Tutors were available to guide these learners through their challenges by answering questions and providing support while doing actual exercises. Learners were so keen they hardly stopped to snack during the two hour session.

    UPside will continue with its tutoring programme during the year. Check the website and our social media platforms to learn more and follow our YouTube Channel for online learner support content. Please sign up here if you are interested.

  • FREE Presentation on Helping with Loss

    Join me, for a free LIVE Online Event to help you support others in grief, trauma, and loss.

    Helping with Loss: Addressing the Six Needs of Grief

    March 21st, 12 pm PT/ 3 pm ET

    In this teaching, we’ll discuss how to:
    – Help others who have suffered even the most tragic losses
    – Learn the 6 needs of the grieving so you can help others navigate grief
    – Support others on their darkest days
    – Encourage post-traumatic growth to move beyond the pain and create a legacy of love
    – Inspire others to identify reserves of resilience that may surprise them

    Register below to reserve your space.

    Visit https://helpingwithgrief.com for more information.

  • Partnerships, together, are stronger and more effective than ‘going it alone’.

    Sive Vaaltein is the family strengthening manager at Living Hope. Living Hope is one such NPO that UPside has partnered with.

    Non-profit organizations (NPOs) are essential to our society. They work tirelessly to address a range of social, economic, and environmental issues and provide crucial services to those in need. However, as with any organization, NPOs face various challenges that can make it difficult to achieve their goals. This is where partnerships come in.

    Partnerships between NPOs can be incredibly valuable, providing a range of benefits that are difficult to achieve when each organization goes it alone. Here are just a few reasons why NPOs should consider partnerships:

    1. Access to expertise and resources: NPOs often operate on limited budgets and with limited staff, which can make it difficult to address complex challenges. By partnering with other NGOs/NPOs and related organisations, your NPOs can tap into a broader range of expertise and resources, allowing them to tackle more ambitious projects.
    2. Increased visibility and credibility: When NPOs partner with other NPOs/NGOs and supporting organisations, they can increase their visibility and credibility. By working together, they can demonstrate their impact on their communities and attract more support from donors, volunteers, and other stakeholders.
    3. Collaborative problem-solving: Many issues that NPOs are working to address are complex and multifaceted. By partnering with others, including tertiary institutions such as UCT, your NPOs can collaborate on problem-solving, bringing together diverse perspectives and approaches to find innovative solutions.

      UPside recently had the privilege to be invited to the University of Cape Town’s Knowledge Co-operative. We had the opportunity to explore UCT’s role in linking community research needs with the students and lecturers of UCT and network with other NPOs to explore partnership opportunities.
      Click here to read about the event hosted by the UCT Knowledge Co-op.

      In short, partnerships can provide NPOs with many benefits that are difficult to achieve when working alone. By collaborating with other organizations, NPOs can access expertise and resources, increase their visibility and credibility, collaborate on problem-solving, and increase their efficiency and effectiveness. For NPOs committed to achieving their goals and making a positive impact in their communities, partnerships are an essential tool that should not be overlooked.

      Click here to see the other organisations that UPside has partnered with.