How to become a Private Tutor?

 Demand is high for tutors – up by a third. Over 40% of pupils in London employ the services of a private tutor and in the past year alone, one in ten of all state educated 11 to 16-year-olds in England and Wales were privately tutored. 11-Plus tutors are particularly in demand. The figures show that private tuition has improved exam results giving people better chances of gaining entry to the best colleges and universities. Maths is the single most tutored subject, followed by English, the sciences, Spanish and French.

 It’s not just about school age students and exams, though – there are over 500 different subjects being taught at private level, ranging from recreational art to wellbeing. People of all ages are seeing the benefits of learning new skills and subjects.

 One-to-one teaching, with more time and attention, is hard to beat – it gives great results, as the tutor watches and monitors the progress of a pupil. Also, people learn at different rates, so a personal tutor, like a personal trainer, provides a bespoke service.

 To become a successful tutor, you have to play to your strengths. You are unique, you are the expert in your field – you're also the brand and, if you are good, people will recommend you. For some, it’s a big leap from employment, with support and infrastructure supplied, to going it alone. This can be daunting, as you'll be aware that,in addition to teaching the subject of your choice, you're the salesperson, marketer, HR and, if appropriate, the GDPR compliant professional looking after the paperwork, too. But you’ve made the decision, your friends keep telling you you’re brilliant – it’s time to make a go of it.

 Ironically, being a tutor or trainer takes some training. Planning, scheduling, advancement – all this requires meticulous use of time. Preparation of lessons held in someone’s home is very different to the preparation of a 30-strong classroom or playing field, so you have to think of logistics, too.

 Follow this guide that our experts have helped us compile, and you should find that your transitional journey will run smoothly. Obviously, requirements vary depending on the subject, but follow these fundamentals and you’ll find that you’ll be up and running in no time.

1. Choose and refine your subject – this should be a subject that you’re fully qualified in to degree level.
   
   
2. Think about the age group you want to teach.
   
   
3. Think about location. Where do you want to teach? Is it going to be one-to-one or small groups?
   
   
4. Fully understand the curriculum. You'll be asked many questions, so it is important that you know the subject and what’s required for the examination. Planning is key.
   
   
5. Gain certification. As well as your academic qualifications, proof that you continue to gain teaching awards will go down well with any potential clients.
   
   
6. Be inventive with your teaching methods. Use Powerpoint and interactive projects but allow the pupil or student to develop themselves. Don’t do it for them.
   
   
7. Listen. You'll be able to offer an expert bespoke service if you listen and take on board everything your student requires. Ask why they have chosen private tuition – this information is vital.
   
   
8. Consider when and where you choose to advertise your services
   
   
9. Think about timescales – how long are you in this for?
   
   
10. Register for free with TutorExtra – this is your online marketer. Feed the site and it will feed you!