The young man will be 12 in October after starting the 6th Grade a month earlier. He is accustomed to a broad educational system following his long-term attendance of the Bavarian International School in Munich. A lovely boy who prefers to learn through project-based activities and working alongside peers as part of a team, he has enjoyed the fun and interactive project work provided by the IB Primary Years Programme and favours ongoing assessment over formal examinations.
The student is a budding linguist, already fully bilingual in English and German. He has recently started and is interested in French and Mandarin and Italian at some future point. He does not consider himself to be particularly artistic, nor does he currently play a musical instrument, however, he is fond of classical music.
His greatest passion is being outside with nature and especially everything to do with water. From his pet sturgeon to achieving fishing certificates, his love for marine biology and oceanic life is of huge interest. Despite not being a strong swimmer, he has accomplished his PADI diving certificate and is working towards the advanced level, hoping to qualify next year.
This young man's learning journey may be navigated via the home-school path for several years, or he may pursue a keen interest to attend either a UK or Swiss boarding school.
The ideal Tutor for this role will be someone capable of deeply tapping into the student’s interests and providing an engaging atmosphere in which to learn. Given his preference for project-based learning, the Tutor should go above and beyond to build an extensive bank of resources and tailor-made tools to cater for a continuous flow of exciting projects. They will inspire a love for learning and strive to develop the inquisitive nature that the IB perspective aims at. A professional focus on inquiry and conceptual understanding is key, along with the ability to systematically track progress, whilst refraining from intense test situations. In addition, the Tutor will nurture a thoughtful mindset and provide plenty opportunity to study on a world scale, fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a thirst for knowledge. Internet safety and a conscious incorporation of technology will also be well intertwined with the personalised curriculum.
Regardless of what the next chapter in the student's education will be, the Tutor should equip him with everything that he needs to succeed, both in school and in later life, ideally with a lifelong appreciation for learning and discovery. Whether he boards or continues to home-school, the teaching of core values is essential.
The Tutor will undoubtedly form a lasting bond with the young man, should they share a similar passion for the aquatic world. A swimmer, diver, fisherman or marine biologist could offer superb expertise and even weave these hobbies and interests into project-based learning across a wide spectrum of subjects.
If the Tutor is multilingual and can offer one of the languages currently studied, or on the student's’ wish list, then this would also make them a favourable candidate. Although the Tutor will mainly be based in Austria, Switzerland and Italy, he or she should make the most of any travel opportunities to enhance their student’s learning further. The same can be said for facilitating peer interaction where possible.
The Tutor should make themselves available to the student for an average of 30-40 hours contact time per a week, with preparation time in addition. The role is likely to follow a Monday-Friday timetable yet may differ at times. The Tutor will always be mindful of any changes in plan and be as flexible as possible in this regard.
The Tutor is entitled to an average of two consecutive days off per week but should not always expect these to occur at weekends or to be regular in their timing. The Client will always endeavour to offer up to a fortnight’s notice when schedule changes occur.
The Client will provide furnished accommodation close to the family home, along with a designated area to be adapted as a schoolroom. The Client will cover all costs save for the Tutor’s personal phone bill and will provide a car if necessary.