ELA VOICES SERIES - The Reflections of a Tutor by Wendy Johnson

This reflective piece was written by one of our dedicated Functional Skills Tutors here at ELA. It offers an honest, heartfelt look at what it means to guide adult learners - the challenges, the triumphs, and the deep sense of purpose that comes from helping others grow.

At ELA, our tutors don’t just teach - they inspire. They meet learners where they are, nurture confidence, and celebrate every success along the way. This story captures that spirit perfectly.

I didn’t plan to become a tutor. I didn’t map it out, chase it, or dream of it as a child. I “fell” into adult education in 2017, stumbled, really - through a twist of timing and opportunity. But when I look back, I realise I’ve always been here. Not in the job title, but in the instinct. The instinct to share, to guide, to help someone find their footing and flourish.

Whether it was explaining a concept to a friend, helping someone navigate a form, or simply offering encouragement - I’ve always loved the moment when someone lights up with understanding. That spark. That shift. That quiet “I can do this.”

It’s never just about knowledge. It’s about dignity, confidence, and connection.

Over the years, I’ve delivered a beautiful mix of subjects. Each one has its own rhythm, emotional texture, and unique kind of transformation.

• Social Media for Business: Helping learners harness digital tools to amplify their voices and ventures. Watching someone go from “I don’t do tech” to confidently scheduling posts and analysing engagement - it’s a joy every time.

• Employability Skills: This one feels especially close to my heart. It’s not just about CVs and interviews - it’s about restoring belief. About helping someone say, “I am worthy of this job. I am ready.”

• Functional Skills: Maths and English carry so much emotional weight - past school experiences, self-doubt, fear. Supporting learners to overcome those barriers and realise their own capability is one of the most powerful transformations I’ve witnessed.

• Safeguarding Support Officer Apprenticeship: This is my current adventure - a brand-new standard that I’m proud to deliver. It’s a role rooted in empathy, vigilance, and integrity. I feel honoured to guide learners who will go on to protect and support others in vulnerable situations.

Each subject has taught me something - not just about the curriculum, but about people. About resilience, curiosity, and the quiet bravery it takes to learn as an adult.

Let’s talk about the part of the job that rarely gets the spotlight - admin.

If you think tutoring is all about delivering sessions - whether online, face-to-face, in groups or one-to-one - you’d be surprised. Behind every interaction, every qualification, every learner success story, there’s a mountain of paperwork, compliance checks, and digital signatures.

I often joke that I spend half my life chasing signatures. “Hi, just a quick reminder to sign…” has become my unofficial catchphrase.

But in truth, this side of the job is essential. It ensures quality, accountability, and that our learners receive the support they deserve.

And I have endless admiration for my colleagues in compliance and admin. They navigate systems and regulations that make my head spin - and they do it with grace, precision, and patience. Their work is the backbone of our organisation, and I’m constantly in awe of their dedication.

If you ask me what I love most about my job, the answer is simple: the learners.

Watching someone grow - not just academically, but personally - is a privilege I never take for granted. It’s not just about qualifications. It’s about confidence. It’s about someone walking a little taller, speaking a little louder, daring to dream a little bigger.

I’ve seen learners transform from hesitant and unsure to bold and brilliant. And every time, I feel proud. Deeply proud.

I’ve also learned so much from my learners. They come from all walks of life - different cultures, industries, and roles. They bring stories, perspectives, and wisdom that enrich my own understanding.

I’ve had conversations that stay with me long after the session ends. I’ve laughed, cried, and grown alongside them.

Teaching, for me, is a two-way street. I may be the tutor, but I’m also the student -constantly learning, evolving, and being humbled by the incredible people I meet.

In January 2026, I’ll celebrate four years with ELA - a chapter filled with growth, support, and meaningful work. From day one, I felt welcomed - not just as a professional, but as a person.

What do I love about working with ELA? So many things:

• Inclusivity: Everyone is valued. Differences are celebrated. There’s a genuine commitment to creating a space where people feel seen and heard.

• Supportive Culture: Whether it’s a quick Teams message or a deep conversation, support is always available. We lift each other up, share knowledge, and celebrate wins together.

• Forward Thinking: ELA doesn’t stand still. There’s a constant drive to innovate, improve, and adapt. It’s exciting to be part of an organisation that embraces change and encourages creativity.

• Adaptability: No two days are the same - and that’s okay. ELA equips us to handle the unexpected with confidence and care.

• Approachability: From leadership to admin, everyone is approachable. There’s no hierarchy of ego - just a shared mission to support learners and each other.

ELA has given me the space to grow, the tools to succeed, and the community to thrive. I’m grateful every day to be part of this team.

Being a tutor isn’t just a job - it’s a calling. 

It’s about showing up, holding space, and believing in people even when they don’t believe in themselves. It’s about planting seeds of confidence, curiosity, and courage.

I didn’t plan to become a tutor. But now, I can’t imagine being anything else.

To my learners - past, present, and future, thank you. You’ve taught me more than you know. You’ve made me better, braver, and more compassionate.

To my colleagues - especially those in admin and compliance - you are the unsung heroes.

To ELA - thank you for being a place where I can be myself, do meaningful work, and continue growing.

Here’s to many more years of learning, laughing, and lifting others up.

Wendy Johnson

Functional Skills Tutor, Education & Learning Academy Limited