Choosing an a level tutor
Not sure how to choose the right tutor for you or your child? You don’t need to worry as you definitely won’t be along in this. You do have to research as best as possible and see what options there are out there. It is key also that this is not a rushed or hurried decision as there are so many agencies out there. When choosing a tutor, find out about the tutor’s education – what school and university they went to, what they studied and see what their many skill sets are too.
What tutoring experience do they have?
Bear in mind that for certain subjects, such as UCAS applications, or degree-level help, a tutor who has recently been through the same process and been successful can be just as helpful, even if they have less tutoring experience. It is very typical for tutors often write about their tutoring experience in their profile. If you are wondering if a tutor has experience with a certain exam board etc then feel free to send them a message and ask.
Very important – Can they provide testimonials?
Reading what other students and parents have to say about an a level tutor can be the best way to find out what they might be like – today’s digital word of mouth! Think of it like booking a restaurant online – it’s always useful to have a nosey at some reviews first.
A key detail – homework
Many tutors choose not to add to the workload of a student. However, a small amount of work (or past papers during exam time) can be beneficial. Be involved in arranging the homework schedule so it fits in well with schoolwork, and if in doubt about helping, the tutor will be able to advise on what is best. Some parents will have a tutor to help with all of their child’s homework; for others, 10 hours of one-to-one tuition is a big investment. It’s crucial to remember that you can benefit from the experience without lots of expense. Ask the tutor what advice they can give on strategies or skills you can work on with your child.
Recent figures suggest that almost 1 in 4 pupils in the UK have received private a level tuition at some point during their time at school. With this, this is also where it is key to make sure these services are being looked into in the correct way.
Very important
Choosing a tutor for your child is a delicate and often daunting process- some research has suggested it is an industry whose workers outnumber those in the NHS. It is also entirely unregulated, with anyone able to advertise their services as a tutor. With such a plethora of options.
Do not just look at cost – research it
Be wary if the price they are willing to charge “looks to good to be true”. Many tutors advertise incredibly cheap rates- but this is often for a reason! Saving money on a cheaper tutor also may not provide the results you are seeking from the arrangement. Excellent, experienced and qualified tutors typically come at a premium price. However, be careful to avoid tutors charging the earth for their services- there’s only so much one person can achieve and inflated fees often mask a deflated skills-set. Some agencies charge a set-fee for tutors, whereas others advise, in conjunction with tutors, the fees to set. With average a level tuition prices between £20 and £35 an hour, increasing markedly the closer you get to London and the higher the level of qualification, it is a good idea to work out a rough budget and see what is available in that price range.
Decide also if you will be willing to travel to a a level tutor’s home or whether you will be able to host a tutor at yours. Again, bear in mind a tutor may charge extra for travel costs to come to your home. If a tutor has an exceptional reputation but doesn’t travel to a student’s home, consider making the extra effort. On the other hand, many children feel more comfortable learning at home, in their own environment.
See what will work best for your child
Involve your child with the process of tuition as they sometimes may feel they don’t require extra help. Whilst it is fundamental to canvass their views, ensure these opinions are backed up with good reports and attainment levels. If they feel they would like more help, then include them in the process of finding a tutor. Discuss what aspects they’d ideally like in a tutor and what areas they want help with. Some children are quite sensitive to having tuition and link it with a failing on their part- it is crucial to show them the benefits of tuition and how many children, of all attainment levels, use tutors to help them achieve success!
Just remember the struggle is not just yours. Every day parents find themselves in this position; their child is struggling academically and just isn’t responding to a classroom environment alone. So, they decide that a bit of 1:1 support is what they need to help them get their grades up. With this, this is where and how it helps to see who is available online to help. This too will be the stage from which you start making contact. As you can imagine, more than ever there are no end of options for parents to choose from.
Very important
When it comes to tutors, everybody’s looking for something different. Perhaps you value experience and the number of lessons a tutor has completed above all else, but you may also have a slightly more nuanced wish list. Your child may have specific educational requirements, in which case an SEN tutor is a good idea. Or perhaps you have your heart set on in-person tuition, as opposed to online, in which case the pendulum will most likely be swinging towards locally based tutors. Consider what kind of personality would suit your child – dynamic, rigorous, a combination and make sure you speak to potential tutors about the approach they tend to favour.
