Q&A with ThriveTutors Co-Founder, Emma Goding

Being a school teacher and/or tutor is such a rewarding job. You help students learn and grow now, and give them skills to pursue passions outside the classroom. Students who have a positive experience at school have the power to positively impact future generations.

Launched in early 2023, ThriveTutors is an Australian online tutoring platform for students of all ages and skill levels. Unlike many of its competitors, only qualified teachers, whether currently working or retired, can sign up. This ensures that all lessons are relevant and of the highest quality.

ThriveTutors co-founder Emma Goding lives and breathes education. The 25-year-old has a Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education and 2+ years of experience teaching in rural and remote communities. Through ThriveTutors, she aims to influence not just one classroom, but thousands!

Learn about Emma’s teaching experience, her thoughts on Australia’s education system, and why she believes tutoring is crucial now…

1. What kind of student were you?

I was a huge teacher’s pet! I loved sitting in the front row of every class, answering all the questions and always having my work done on time. I loved studying and was always really invested in my learning. I found genuine joy in discovering new things and would often spend extra time diving into topics that really intrigued me. 

2. What made you want to become a primary school teacher?

I knew I wanted to be a school teacher very early on, probably around 7 or 8 years old. Being an older sister, I loved teaching my younger siblings how to do new things and helping them navigate different challenges. During my high school years though, I had an incredible Senior Health Teacher who was such an inspiration and really cemented the teaching career path for me.  

3. What has been the most rewarding part of teaching?

For me, the most rewarding part of school teaching is witnessing the difference I can have on the lives of my students. Whether it’s the joy on their faces when they grasp a challenging concept, or those moments when you realise that, for six hours a day, you’re creating a positive and nurturing space for them. It’s a daily reminder that education is so much more than literacy and numeracy and the curriculum. 

4. What has been the most challenging part of the job?

The most personally challenging aspect of the job, for me, is the realisation that I can’t help every student as much as I’d like. Walking into a classroom, my goal is to guide each student through the curriculum and help them overcome every obstacle. However, the reality is that despite our best efforts, there are limitations to what we can achieve in a classroom teaching setting.

5. What are some of the most common issues faced by teachers and students today?

I think the most common issue faced by teachers is burnout due to the high demand from all the job responsibilities. As teachers, we are constantly working to juggle all the tasks of educating students, managing behaviour, completing admin tasks, marking assessments, communicating with parents and so much more. And there’s an emotional element to it all as well, as we know that we’re working to shape lives. All of these factors have contributed to the national teacher shortage we have on our hands at the moment too.

For school students, navigating social expectations has become a substantial challenge. Whether in primary school or high school, the pressure from peers, parental opinions, and the general noise of expectations can make it difficult for young people to focus solely on their learning journey.

6. Why do you think tutoring can make such a difference?

Tutoring can be such a game-changer, as it is tailored to each student’s individual learning styles and needs. A one-on-one tutoring approach when you work with children allows them to grasp concepts at their own pace, fostering a deeper understanding. Additionally, tutors can identify and address specific challenges a student may face, filling gaps in their understanding that may have been overlooked in a larger classroom setting.

And the confidence boost that comes with mastering a subject through tutoring can have a lasting impact, influencing not just academic performance but also shaping a positive attitude towards learning. 

7. What made you want to set up your own online tutoring business?

The decision to establish my own online tutoring business stemmed from a deep passion for education and a desire to make a meaningful impact on my students’ lives beyond the traditional classroom teaching space. I saw an opportunity to create a space where students could receive one-on-one, targeted support with a qualified teacher, without the daily distractions of a normal classroom. It was a great way for me to continue my passion for inspiring and empowering students whilst also contributing to a new way of learning.  

8. What sets ThriveTutors apart from other tutoring services? What are you doing differently or better?

ThriveTutors has an unwavering commitment to quality education. Unlike other tutoring services, we exclusively have qualified teachers on board. This ensures that our students receive guidance from experienced professionals who not only have a deep understanding of the subjects but also possess the pedagogical expertise to effectively impart knowledge.

We also have a strong commitment to personalised learning experiences, which is why we tailor our tutoring sessions to meet the specific needs and learning styles of each student. 

We’re not just tutoring; we’re cultivating an experience for every student, ensuring they not only succeed academically but thrive in their educational pursuits.

9. What advice would you give to school teachers thinking about taking up tutoring?

For school teachers considering tutoring, my advice would be to embrace the opportunity as a chance to make even more of an impact. Leverage your classroom experience to tailor your tutoring sessions, addressing individual student needs. Emphasise the strengths of one-on-one engagement and utilise your expertise to create a supportive and enriching learning environment.

Additionally, be open to learning from your tutoring experiences; it’s a unique avenue to refine your teaching skills and connect with students on a more personal level.

10. What advice would you give to parents thinking about hiring a tutor for their child?

For parents considering hiring a tutor for their child, I would recommend starting by clearly defining the specific needs and goals for tutoring. Communication is key, so share your expectations and aspirations for your child’s academic journey with the tutor. Look for a tutor who not only excels in the subject matter but also possesses the ability to connect with your child on a personal level. Remember, it’s not just about grades; it’s about nurturing a positive attitude towards learning. 

ThriveTutors is an Australian online tutoring platform created to suit students from Prep to Year 12. Contact us today for more information about our services!