A Parent’s Guide to Navigating the Tutoring Market

The tutoring industry is vast and unregulated, which makes it difficult for parents to know where to start. If you’ve decided that tutoring is the right option for your child, here’s a framework to help you find a high-quality tutor or tutoring service that genuinely meets their needs.

Step 1: Identify the Goal of Tutoring

Before searching for a tutor, be clear about what you want to achieve. Common goals include:

Filling gaps in knowledge (e.g., a child who struggled with maths in Year 5 needs help before moving to Year 6)
Boosting confidence in a subject
Stretching a high-achieving child beyond the curriculum
Preparing for a specific exam (11+, GCSEs, A-levels)

Understanding the purpose of tutoring helps narrow down the type of tutor or service you need.

Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Tutoring

There are several options available:

1️⃣ Private One-to-One Tutor – Offers personalised support but is often the most expensive. The quality depends entirely on the tutor.

2️⃣ Small Group Tutoring – Cheaper than one-to-one, with the added benefit of peer interaction. Works well for subjects like maths and English.

3️⃣ Online Tutoring Platforms – Websites like MyTutor, Tutorful, and Outschool provide vetted tutors at a range of price points. Useful for flexible scheduling.

4️⃣ Tuition Centres – Companies like Kumon, Explore Learning, or 11+ specialist centres follow structured programs but may be less adaptable to individual needs.

5️⃣ School-Run Tutoring – Some schools offer after-school booster sessions or government-funded tuition (such as the National Tutoring Programme). These can be a lower-cost option.

Step 3: Check the Tutor’s Credentials

Since tutoring is unregulated, it’s crucial to vet potential tutors carefully. Ask:

What is your teaching experience? (Are they a qualified teacher, a subject specialist, or a university student?)
Do you have experience with my child’s specific needs? (E.g., preparing for the 11+, working with dyslexic learners, etc.)
Can you provide references or reviews? (Check online testimonials or ask for parent recommendations.)
Do you have a DBS check? (Especially important for in-person tuition.)

Step 4: Ask the Right Questions

When speaking to a potential tutor or tutoring company, consider asking:

✅ How do you assess my child’s needs? (Good tutors will conduct an initial assessment or consultation.)

✅ How do you track progress? (Do they provide feedback after each session?)

✅ What is your teaching approach? (Do they follow a structured curriculum, or do they adapt lessons based on the child’s progress?)

✅ What happens if my child isn’t making progress? (Are they open to adjusting their methods or recommending a different approach?)

✅ What is the cancellation policy? (Important if you need flexibility.)

Step 5: Manage Expectations

Tutoring is most effective when combined with independent learning. A tutor should not replace a child’s own efforts but rather guide them towards becoming a more confident, independent learner.

⚠️ Warning Signs to Watch Out For:

❌ Tutors who promise guaranteed grade improvements or 11+ success

❌ A one-size-fits-all approach with no personalisation

❌ Lack of clear progress tracking or communication

Final Thoughts

Finding the right tutor requires research, clear goals, and regular communication. Whether you choose tutoring for academic support, confidence building, or exam prep, remember that your child’s long-term love of learning is just as important as their short-term performance.