17th May 2013 9:00
By Blue Tutors
The number of children who receive private tuition has grown dramatically in recent years, and families who would never have previously thought of hiring a tutor are looking into it as a way to supplement their child’s learning at primary and secondary school. Once the preserve of the wealthy, families from all cultural and socio-economic backgrounds are hiring tutors to help give their children a boost, especially in the areas of English, Maths and Science. But when a family is hiring a tutor for the first time, what criteria should they use? What do parents do when they don’t know how the world of private tuition works?
The first thing to say is that the ultimate decision should be based on the candidate with whom parents feel comfortable. Even if a tutor comes highly recommended, the chances are that if parents don’t click with them, they may not be the right person to help their child. That said, a recommendation from someone close, like a family friend, is often a good way to start. Meeting with a prospective tutor before beginning lessons is crucial. Any good tutor should be happy to offer an introductory meeting, even if it is just for 15 minutes. Parents cannot expect tutors to give an unpaid lesson, but they can expect a tutor to meet with them and answer a reasonable number of questions as to their approach and availability.
The tutoring approach with which parents feel comfortable varies considerably. Some parents require relaxed, friendly and enthusiastic tutors to inspire their children on a longer term basis. Often parents feel that a younger tutor is better able to inspire their children and help get them interested in their studies. However, others require tutors who have the confidence and ability to motivate their children close to exam time, and that means a tutor who is willing to make themselves unpopular in order to get results. How much prior experience a tutor should have is also depends on what parents are looking for. Young, inexperienced tutors may provide a fresh approach, but they may not have the expertise that a more experienced tutor might be able to provide for exam preparation. Ultimately, hiring a tutor is a very individual choice, and parent should choose the candidate in whom they feel confident.