Many secondary school pupils hire a private tutor to help them with their studies. This is a great way to get some extra support when preparing for your exams. There are advantages and disadvantages of hiring a tutor which I’ll go over in this article.
Advantages
One on one tuition
Probably the best advantage of having a private tutor is the one-on-one attention. In school, your teacher is having to split their time between a class full of pupils. Sadly this means they cannot spend a great deal of time individually with everyone.
You can decide the topics
Together, you and your tutor will decide what topics you will focus on (rather than in school when your class teacher decides the lesson plan). There may be particular topics that you feel you are struggling with so you may decide to focus on them.
You also have the freedom to ask as many questions as you like.
Disadvantages
Can be expensive
Hiring a tutor is often an expensive option. Tutors often charge between £15-£30 per hour for their services. The fee depends on their level of experience and their qualifications.
Two different teaching methods can be confusing
Remember you will be used to being taught in school by your teachers so will be familiar with their teaching methods. Your tutor may have a different method of teaching so try not to become confused. On the other hand, you may find your tutors way of explaining things better than your teacher in school.
Choosing a tutor
A tutor could be a qualified teacher who tutors in their spare time, a university student or perhaps someone who is knowledgeable in the particular subject area.
Make sure you choose someone who you’re not only comfortable with but you feel will be able to help you. You could ask friends, family or even your teachers if they can recommend someone suitable.
There are also websites for private tutors to advertise their services. Here you can read about their qualifications and previous experience. There may also be testimonials from previous students.
Some teachers in your school may also be private tutors in their own time however your school or local authority may have specific rules about teachers tutoring pupils in their school. Double-check with your school if you are unsure.
