When knowledge flows “from the top down” Older students teaching younger ones

/ / Blog / December 10, 2025

When knowledge flows “from the top down”

Older students teaching younger ones

At Savremena Primary School, we believe that knowledge is best acquired when it is shared and put into practice. That is why we actively nurture a learning model in which older students have the opportunity to step into the role of a teacher and pass their knowledge on to younger peers, in a safe and supportive environment. This week, Kristina Mladenović, a Year 5 student (V-3), delivered a mathematics lesson to Year 1 students from class I-2, showing how learning can be both effective and inspiring for everyone involved.

For Kristina, this experience was a chance to further consolidate her own knowledge while developing important skills such as clear communication, patience and responsibility. At the same time, she had the opportunity to experience what it means to stand in front of a class and take on a leadership role—guiding, explaining and encouraging others. For the younger students, the lesson provided additional support in mastering the material through a different, very relatable approach: learning from an older peer who understands their questions and learning pace.

Mathematics through cooperation and encouragement

During the lesson, Year 1 students solved mathematics tasks, revised previously learned content and reinforced basic concepts through exercises tailored to their age. Kristina explained each task clearly and patiently, encouraging students to think step by step and to ask questions without fear of making mistakes. Special attention was given to creating a positive classroom atmosphere, where students felt safe, confident and motivated to participate.

The lesson unfolded in a spirit of cooperation, mutual support and positive energy, with students following the activities with great interest. The class ended with a small but meaningful gesture of recognition—praise in the form of stickers—which the students experienced as a reward for their effort and engagement. This approach further motivates children and teaches them that hard work, focus and persistence are noticed and appreciated.

A modern practice that builds confidence

The learning model in which older students teach younger ones is an integral part of the modern educational approach we cultivate at our school. Such activities encourage mutual respect, strengthen a sense of community and help develop social and emotional skills in students of all ages. Older students learn how to be role models, how to take responsibility and how to communicate knowledge in a clear and accessible way.

Younger students, on the other hand, benefit from learning in a more relaxed atmosphere, guided by someone closer to their age—an approach that often increases motivation and self-confidence. The mathematics lesson delivered by Kristina Mladenović once again demonstrated the value of this practice—not only in mastering academic content, but also in fostering confidence, empathy and mutual trust. At Savremena, we continue to build an educational environment where students learn from one another, because we believe that such experiences leave the deepest and most lasting impact.


Violeta Nincetovic author

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