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UM students complete transformative Peer-Tutoring programme in Gdańsk

Eight second-year BA Primary Education University of Malta students, together with Prof. Michelle Attard Tonna and Dr Charmaine Bonello, participated in an intensive Peer-Edu training programme hosted by the University of Gdańsk, in partnership with the University of Split and the University of Malta. The students completed this enriching programme, a NAWA-funded initiative, that brought together students and academics from the three universities for a week of intensive skill-building, intercultural exchange and professional development.

The training programme focused on empowering students to become effective and ethical peer tutors, an increasingly vital element in today’s higher education landscape. Through practical workshops, simulations and group activities, students explored core tutoring competencies including active listening, appreciative feedback, rapport-building, ethical decision-making, and professional boundaries. Structured tools featured prominently: the Question Funnel (encouraging purposeful questioning), SMART goal-setting, the GROW coaching model, and growth-mindset strategies, all of which played a central role in helping students develop reflective, student-centred tutoring approaches.

Participants also co-constructed a shared Code of Ethics & Professionalism, reinforcing values such as respect, equity, confidentiality and academic integrity. Several activities required students from different universities to work together, strengthening teamwork skills while deepening cultural understanding.

The experience proved exceptionally fruitful: students reported increased confidence, stronger communication skills and a clearer sense of professional identity as future peer tutors. Beyond skills development, the programme highlighted the importance of international collaboration in shaping inclusive and supportive learning environments.

This tri-university partnership marks a significant step forward in developing a sustainable peer-tutoring ecosystem, one that enhances academic success, wellbeing and student engagement across Europe.