Personal tutors in secondary schools

This study by the University of Bath looked at the use of personal tutors to support secondary school pupils in the use of their personal development plans.

Key points:
- The quality of the personal tutoring is dependent upon the learning guide and student.
- These relationships should provide an encouraging interchange that identifies and considers strategies for learning, criteria for success and an understanding of critical self-assessment. An effective learning guide engages in a dialogue which focuses on personal goals, motivational factors and steps for achievement.
- Challenging but realistic expectations and targets should be set with clear and specific feedback given to students.