Key Questions to Ask a Potential Tutor

Prior to commencing any tutoring sessions, it is advisable to engage in a comprehensive conversation with a tutor via telephone or video call to verify their identity and assess their suitability.

When speaking with new tutors, consider asking about the following:

1. Is the Tutor DBS Checked?

Ensuring the safety of your child is paramount. A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check verifies whether an individual has any criminal convictions and is an essential measure for safeguarding children. The tutor’s DBS check should ideally be less than 12 months old and registered on the update service, providing added assurance. This step is particularly vital if the tutor will be working unsupervised with your child.

2. Does the Tutor Have Safeguarding Training?

Safeguarding training equips tutors with knowledge about child protection, legal responsibilities, and best practices. Ideally, your chosen tutor should hold at least a Level 2 Safeguarding certificate. This training ensures the safety of all parties involved and demonstrates professionalism.

3. How Does the Tutor Handle Data Protection and Privacy?

In today’s digital age, ensuring data protection is critical. Ask the tutor how they manage and store personal data, whether they have a GDPR policy, and who has access to your child’s information. A transparent and secure approach to handling data reflects the tutor's responsibility and professionalism.

4. Will the Sessions Be Recorded?

If sessions are to be recorded, ensure you’ve given express consent and understand how the recordings will be stored and used. This transparency is essential to maintaining trust and clarity between parents and the tutor.

5. What Are the Tutor's Qualifications?

While a degree in the subject being taught is not always a necessity, it can be a significant advantage, especially for exam-focused tutoring such as for the 11+, GCSE and A-level preparation. If the tutor does not hold a degree in the subject, inquire about their relevant experience or evidence of successful outcomes with past students. Additionally, some parents prefer tutors with a formal teaching qualification, so explore this aspect as part of your evaluation.

6. What Experience Does the Tutor Have?

Experience in tutoring for specific schools, exam formats, or age groups can make a significant difference in the quality of tutoring. For example, tutors familiar with the specific requirements of your target school will be better equipped to prepare your child effectively.

7. How Are Lessons Planned and Structured?

Ask how the tutor customises lessons to suit your child’s learning style. Do they use PowerPoint presentations, workbooks, or Google Docs? Are lesson plans tailored to specific educational goals? A clear understanding of the learning approach will help you determine how well it aligns with your child’s needs.

8. What is the Group Size for Lessons?

If you are considering group tutoring, find out how many students will be in each session. Smaller groups allow for more individual attention, while larger groups may foster a collaborative learning environment. Ensure the tutor has strategies in place to engage shy or reserved students and encourage active participation.

9. Will Homework Be Assigned?

Some tutors set weekly homework to consolidate learning, while others focus solely on in-session progress. Clarify whether independent learning tasks will be set, how they will be marked, and where the completed work will be stored. Striking the right balance between practice and overwhelm is key to maintaining your child’s motivation.

10. How is Progress Assessed and Reported?

A good tutor will assess your child’s abilities during the first few sessions and provide regular updates on their progress. Inquire about their assessment methods and whether you can expect feedback through emails, WhatsApp, or detailed progress reports. Regular, transparent communication can help you track your child’s achievements and areas for improvement.

11. What Do the Fees Include?

Ensure you understand the breakdown of costs—some tutors charge additional fees for services such as marking or materials. Also, clarify the payment schedule and whether fees need to be paid weekly, monthly, or termly in advance. A fair and transparent fee structure will help avoid any misunderstandings later on.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tutor for your child requires careful consideration of their qualifications, experience, and teaching style. Don’t hesitate to ask as many questions as needed to feel confident in your decision. A professional tutor will welcome your queries and provide thorough answers to help you make an informed choice. Remember, the right tutor can make a significant difference in your child’s academic success, so take the time to ensure the perfect match.