The big questions parents ask us
Recently we surveyed parents for the most common questions they have about us, mentoring and the educational landscape.
Here's what our co-founders Henry and Walter had to say in response:
Why did you set up Oppidan?
We set up Oppidan because we noticed scepticism from teachers about traditional tutoring. We wanted to create something different, a mentorship program at home and in schools that brings back the fun in learning and focuses on character development. We believe in supporting teachers and providing a personalized approach to education that allows the whole child to flourish.
Who are your mentors? Are they just university students looking for some extra cash?
No! We take great care in training them and ensuring they embody everything we want in a mentor. They are individuals who are vocationally aligned with our work, genuinely interested in the personal development of young people. Some of them have full-time jobs, dedicating their time and effort to mentoring outside of their full-time work. Others work for us full time, and many are freelancers who have a broad range of professional interests.
Do you work mainly in private or state schools?
We work in a mix of schools. Currently, about 70% of our schools are independent schools, and 30% are state-funded schools. However, we are excited about working with more state schools and reaching a broader range of students. We believe in providing our services to any school that can benefit from our program. As we say at Oppidan: adults have mentors, kids should too.
What evidence do you have that mentoring actually works?
We have a strong focus on impact reports and conducting pioneering research and data analysis to determine the effectiveness of our program. We understand the importance of tying outcomes with character development, although it can be challenging. We strive to provide schools and parents with concrete evidence of the positive impact mentoring has on students' outcomes and personal growth.
What do you do in schools versus what you do at home?
The activities in schools and at students' homes have some overlap, but there are slight differences. When working in students' homes, we often address specific academic needs or transition points. Parents usually reach out to us for academic support. In schools, our programs are more focused on character education and personal development. However, the training and outcomes we aim to achieve remain consistent across both settings.
Is getting a tutor an admission that the school has failed?
Absolutely not. We firmly believe that schools provide a valuable education for many children. Seeking a mentor is not an admission of failure on the part of the school. Instead, it's an acknowledgment that personalized support can enhance a student's learning journey. Mentoring is a valuable addition that complements the school's efforts in supporting students' holistic development.
What is a mentor, and how does it differ from tutoring?
A mentor, to us, is someone who forms a personal and long-term relationship with a student. It goes beyond imparting knowledge and focuses on personal development and skills building. Mentoring is about character growth and providing support in various aspects of a student's life. It's a more holistic approach compared to tutoring, which primarily focuses on academic knowledge acquisition.
What can go wrong with tutoring?
When tutoring becomes too focused on outcomes and increases pressure, it can have a negative impact. The intention of mentoring is to create a relaxed and enjoyable learning environment that is focused on long term success. If it becomes too prescriptive and stressful, it may hinder the student's progress and overall well-being.
What is the relationship between Oppidan and schools?
We work closely with around 100 schools, both independent and state funded. Over time, the perception of mentoring has changed, and schools now trust and endorse our work. We see ourselves as a valuable partner to schools, providing additional support to students. Our program aligns with the educational efforts of schools, and together we strive to create a well-rounded learning experience.