Hiring a tutor could be something you are considering for the first time. It is a challenging thought, and you may not know where to start. Having a few simple guidelines is helpful.

Here are ten recommended tips to point you in the right direction.

1. Communication – is the tutor approachable?

When you hire a tutor, you will want to know they can communicate with you and your child. The tutor needs to be relatable and available to discuss your child's progress with you. If you are using an agency, check that there are follow-up sessions to allow you to approach the tutor and find ways to work together for the benefit of your child.

2. Experience – and the right qualifications.

Check with the agency or tutor if they have the right qualifications and experience to tutor your child. The qualifications will need to cover the right level of tuition, the specific subject, and learning difficulties. An experienced tutor who has been part of the education system is preferable. A tutor who knows what is expected of the children can help correct your child and give them the skills they need to improve.

3. Delivery – does the tutor have a relatable style of coaching children?

The tutor must have a way of putting across the subject matter that is interesting and motivating. It is a good idea to check the tutor's environment for the extra tuition. Are you comfortable leaving your child to learn with this person or agency?

4. Networking – is it better to hire through word of mouth or advertising agencies?

A personal recommendation will always be encouraging, especially if the parent recommending the tutor has personal experience with that tutor. However, ensuring you have a tutor with the right qualifications and experience for your child is also essential. Word of mouth could point you in the right direction to a well-equipped agency, but reviewing the agency or making an appointment to discuss your child's problems could be a better idea.

5. Balance – Is there a well-rounded approach to tutoring your child?

Children have different learning styles and different personalities. The tutor you choose should be able to meet with you and discuss your concerns and your child's learning approach. There should be an opportunity for you to discuss how the tutor will address your child's specific problems.

6. Meet and greet – does the tutor have the skills to relate to your child?

Try to factor in a once-off session to see how well the tutor and your child connect. A revision for a test or a reading and comprehension activity would indicate the tutor's ability to relate to your child. Ask if you can be present at the beginning of a session to get a feel for how they are getting on. You won't need to stay for the whole session because you will soon see if there is a connection or not.

7. Location, location – where is the tutor in relation to your home or school?

8. Fees – what is the going rate for a tutor?

A tutor's costs vary depending on the subject, age and length of lessons. A private tutor on an individual basis would cost more than a group session, and lessons for special needs may be more expensive. It is a good idea to enquire about the current charges. Find out how long the lessons are to compare costs with other tutors.

9. Associations – does your tutor belong to any educational organizations?

Professional people in the workforce usually belong to other organizations. They are affiliated with them as a way to keep abreast of new ideas and have some protection over themselves in the event of any mishap.

10. Q and A – is there an opportunity to ask your own questions?

Prepare a list of questions of your own. You will feel much better if you have had a chance to ask a few personal questions. There is no harm in asking for anything that may be your individual concern. A conscientious, concerned tutor will be prepared to answer any questions you may have.

These ten tips should help guide you towards making the right decision when preparing to use a tutor. A professional tutor or tutoring agency should be able to tick all ten of these boxes for you.

AT TUTOR2YOU, we've done the hard work so you don’t have to. WE have Trained and Certified Tutors across 4 major cities.

Whether your child is looking to catch up, keep up or excel, we've got a tutoring program to help. Build your child’s confidence, gain motivation and improve results with Tutor2you's personalised tutoring.

Talk to us today at 1300 4200 79 or simply book your free initial consultation here.