Zuzanna Kolodziej

My teaching approach is student-led, personalised and adaptable. I believe students learn most effectively when they are actively involved in the learning process, rather than simply being given information to memorise. I therefore adapt each lesson around the individual student’s needs, strengths and areas for development.

My degree in Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, particularly my studies in Cognition, has given me insight into how information is processed, including the roles of attention, memory and decision-making in learning. This helps me consider how much information to introduce at once, when repetition or retrieval practice may be useful, and how to present concepts in different ways depending on the student.

For example, I would typically begin a lesson with a short recap or retrieval activity to identify what the student remembers from previous sessions. I would then introduce the new concept in manageable sections, checking understanding regularly through questioning rather than simply asking the student to listen. The majority of the lesson would involve the student actively applying what they have learned through practice questions, problem-solving or explaining concepts back to me. I would gradually reduce my support as their confidence increases, encouraging them to reach answers independently.

I also use the lesson as an opportunity to identify misconceptions and areas that need further attention, adapting the pace or method accordingly. I would finish by reviewing the key learning points and identifying what the student should practise or revisit before the next session. This creates a structured lesson while ensuring that the student remains at the centre of the learning process.