What do you consider the role of a Progress Tutor to be?
A Progress Tutor is there to support students through their course, through difficult times and to celebrate successes. Progress Tutors will help you to settle into college. They will carefully monitor your progress and help with careers guidance, choosing university courses, study skills, health issues and developing employability skills. Progress Tutors are trained and equipped to provide the support and guidance that will help you to stay on track if you encounter any difficulties. They will liaise with your subject tutors and, if required, external agencies and other support functions within the college to ensure that you get the appropriate support you need to achieve your goals.
What do you love about your job?
I enjoy being a progress tutor as it allows me to support, guide and nurture students throughout their time at college. I really enjoy celebrating their successes, but also being their support through difficult times. It’s important for our students to feel listened to and empowered to succeed. There is nothing more rewarding than to see our students have the confidence and resilience to take on the next stage of their journey!
How do you think the progress tutors make a difference to the students at Priestley?
Progress tutors are at the heart of Priestley College. They are the one constant in a student’s journey, the point of contact for them and their parent or guardian. Progress tutors are able to have an overview of the student’s whole programme of study which enables them to liaise with all staff to support the student’s journey.
Why did you want to get into education?
I began my journey as a progress tutor 20 years ago and have loved every minute of it! Being able to meet and guide so many incredible students through their education, the highs and the lows and everything in between has just strengthened my passion for the job. I originally began my time in education when my children were younger as it worked well with school holidays. Now they are grown up and I still enjoy my role.