At this time of year, post-mocks, many parents are looking for a tutor, and navigating what’s out there can be tricky. Selecting the best tutor for your child can make a world of difference in their academic journey, especially when preparing for important exams like GCSE English. Here’s a friendly and professional guide to help you make the best choice for your teen:
Identify Your Child’s Needs
The first step is to understand where your child needs support. Are they struggling with specific areas such as literature analysis or creative writing? Or do they need help with exam strategies and time management? Knowing their specific needs will help you find a tutor with the right expertise.
Check Qualifications and Experience
When it comes to selecting a tutor, qualifications and experience matter a great deal. Look for tutors with a strong background in teaching English at the correct key stage, preferably with experience in teaching the specific GCSE syllabus your child is studying. Do they have any experience in examining? Don’t hesitate to ask for their credentials and about their success rates with past students. It’s also important to check that they have DBS status (‘Disclosure and Barring Service,’) and are preferably on the DBS Enhanced service.
Seek Recommendations
Personal recommendations are worth their weight in gold. Talk to a parent who has already employed the tutor. Reading reviews and testimonials can also give you a sense of the tutor’s effectiveness and approach. Look at the tutor’s website and see what you can learn from the ‘about’ page or any educational blogs they have written.
Ask for a ‘Break-through Call’
Ask if it’s possible to arrange a Zoom meeting or phone-call to get a feel for the tutor’s teaching style and personality. It’s important that your child feels comfortable and confident with their tutor. Ask about their methods and how they tailor lessons to meet individual needs.
Request a Trial Session
Ask if it’s possible to sit in on the tutor’s next small group session. A trial session can be a great way to see if the tutor is a good fit for your child. Pay attention to how they interact and whether your child feels engaged and understood. This session can also help you assess the tutor’s ability to explain concepts clearly. Additionally, look out for any free webinars or masterclasses that your child could also take part in to see if the tutor suits them.
Assess Compatibility
Beyond qualifications, the tutor’s personality and teaching style should align with your child’s learning preferences. A tutor who is patient, encouraging, and adaptable can make a significant difference in your child’s attitude towards learning.
Investing in the right tutor can be a turning point for your child’s GCSE English success. With these steps, you’ll be well on your way to finding a tutor who can guide your teen to achieve their full potential.
If your child is studying AQA GCSE English, they may find this little ‘tips sheet’ useful: https://theenglishlab.co.uk/10-tips-to-ace-the-aqa-gcse-english-exams/
Find out more about my 12-week AQA GCSE English programme at theenglishlab.co.uk or drop me a line at claire@theenglishlab.co.uk. Happy learning!