(What Every Parent Should Know — Especially When Considering Tuition for Their Child)

Finding the right private tutor can be one of the most important decisions for your child’s academic journey. The wrong match can waste time, money, and confidence — while the right one can transform learning, build self-belief, and unlock potential. This guide walks you through what to look for, what to ask, and how to make a safe, informed choice.

1. Understanding Average Private Tutor Rates in the UK

When you begin looking for a tutor, it helps to have a realistic expectation of cost. According to recent UK market guidance:

Hourly rates for private tutors typically range from £30 to £50 per hour for GCSE- or secondary-level tuition — though exact rates vary with subject, level, tutor experience and location.

For primary-level tutoring (younger students), rates commonly fall a little lower.

Tutors with specialist skills, high qualifications (for example A-Level, university entrance preparation, or subject specialism), or those working in high-demand areas may charge more.
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Having this baseline helps you compare tutors fairly — and avoid unrealistic offers (too cheap may mean poor quality), as well as overpriced ones that don’t guarantee results.

2. Online vs In-Person Tutoring: Which Is Best for You?

When searching for a tutor, you’ll often face a choice: online or in-person tuition. Both have advantages — and the best option depends on your child’s needs and circumstances.

Online tutoring can offer flexibility (no travel), convenience, and often lower effective cost — especially if you live far from experienced tutors or centres. Many tutors and parents find it effective for theory-heavy subjects like Maths, Science or English revision.

In-person tutoring can be better for younger children, hands-on learning, or when your child needs close guidance and interaction. For exam preparation or complex concepts (e.g., Science practicals, essay writing, or exam technique), face-to-face often helps build trust, attention and confidence.

A thoughtful blend — perhaps alternating online and in-person — often works well when managed properly.

3. Key Questions to Ask a Potential Private Tutor

Before committing, it’s wise to ask potential tutors several important questions to assess suitability. Some useful ones include:

• What is your qualification and experience — especially with the subject and age range?
• Have you worked with students at my child’s Key Stage or exam level?
• What is your teaching or tutoring approach?
• How do you plan and structure sessions?
• What are your expectations for homework, revision and parental involvement?
• Are you comfortable adjusting pace if my child struggles?
• How do you help build confidence and motivation?

4. DBS Checks for Private Tutors: What Parents Need to Know

Whenever a tutor works with children in the UK, safety should be a priority. One of the key safeguards is the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

An Enhanced DBS check (with Barred List check) reveals spent and unspent convictions and whether the tutor is barred from working with children. This offers the highest level of protection.
Checks Direct
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However: for self-employed independent tutors, there is no legal requirement to have a DBS check — so many don’t.
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Because of this loophole, parents must proactively ask for proof of a DBS certificate or prefer tutors registered with agencies that carry out checks. If a tutor can’t provide valid proof — it’s a red flag.
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5. Tutor Agencies vs Independent Tutors in the UK: A Comparison

Tutor Agencies

• Often maintain a roster of screened, vetted tutors.
• Many require DBS checks and references.
• Handle scheduling, payment, and matching.

Independent Tutors

• More flexible: schedule, fee, syllabus.
• Potentially more affordable.
• Parents must verify credentials and progress.

6. Finding a Private Tutor for Dyslexia in the UK

If your child has learning differences (for example dyslexia), selecting the right tutor becomes even more important. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Seek tutors with experience in SEN or dyslexia support.
• Ask about their teaching approach and specialised resources.
• Consider frequency and consistency of sessions.
• Verify any additional relevant qualifications.

7. Tips on How to Vet a Private Tutor Online Safely

• Request credentials: qualifications, experience, DBS.
• Check references.
• Use reputable platforms only.
• Arrange a meet-up first.
• Avoid tutors who refuse to share information.

8. Essential Private Tutor Contract Template for the UK

• Tutor and student details
• Subjects and focus areas
• Lesson frequency and duration
• Fee per lesson and payment terms
• Cancellation policy
• Safeguarding conditions
• Confidentiality and conduct