My main character has magical abilities and has to learn how to use them but...?

I am REALLY weary of crossing into the "magic school" territory as we all know that has been done. I want to be original as possible. What's a good way to get a character into a learning setting without the grades, book essays, etc? Of course the character will still need a "teacher" so I can't eliminate that. How else can I "teach" my character without the typical school environment and school cliches? Hope that makes sense. Thanks!