If you’re a parent whose child needs a tutor, choosing the right person for the job can be a bit daunting. Many go on word of mouth recommendations, but if you’re scoping out someone new I’ve put together a quick checklist you may want consider when selecting somebody for your son or daughter:
Experience
Does the tutor have direct experience of working with your child’s age group? If, so what are their qualifications and experience? This sounds like an obvious question, but it’s worth checking that the tutor has an at least good understanding of the curricula relevant to your child.
If you’re specifically looking towards tutoring for exams, you may also want to consider the tutor’s pass rate. How many students typically pass the relevant exams who come to them?
Rapport
Finding someone your child enjoys spending time with is crucial to successful tutoring. Learning will be more accessible if children are with someone who ‘gets’ them. When speaking to a potential tutor, you will get a feeling whether or not they are suited to your child. If you’ve not met face to face, ask for a trial session to scope whether they could be the right one.
Practicalities
Tutors have a variety of services which they offer in different ways. Remember to check if they have a base they work from or if they come to you. Will lessons take place at the same time every week or is there room for flexibility? How much are the sessions? Are they delivered one to one, in small groups or as a class?
Last but definitely not least, ask to see a DBS (police check) and any other relevant documents before you make your decision.
What will you look for in a tutor?
