The Beginner’s Guide to Finding a Good Tutor

Finding the right tutor for your child can feel overwhelming.

With so many options available, it can be difficult to know what truly matters and how to choose someone who will genuinely support your child’s learning. Whether you are seeking academic support, exam preparation, or confidence-building, the right tutor can make a meaningful difference. Here are five key things to consider when beginning your search.

1. A Tutor Who Is a Qualified Teacher

One of the most important factors to consider is whether the tutor is a qualified teacher. Qualified teachers are trained not only in subject knowledge, but in how to teach effectively. They understand the curriculum, including any changes, and are familiar with exam structures, question styles, and expectations at each stage of learning.

Teachers are also trained to recognise key pressure points in the school year, such as exam seasons and transitions, and to support students through them. In addition, they are equipped to support students with confidence, anxiety, or other pastoral needs, and to identify learning difficulties early. Most importantly, qualified teachers know how to adapt lessons to suit different learning styles and abilities, ensuring teaching is responsive and inclusive.

2. A Tutor Who Is Passionate About Their Subject

A tutor’s passion for their subject matters. A passionate teacher helps students see learning as more than just preparation for an exam. They encourage curiosity, deeper thinking, and genuine understanding, which can transform how a child engages with their studies.

Tutors who stay up to date with developments in their subject, including current research and best practice, are better placed to inspire students and keep learning relevant. As a general rule, it is worth being cautious of tutors who promise high-quality support across many subjects. Depth of knowledge and passion usually lead to far more effective teaching than breadth alone.

3. A Tutor You and Your Child Can Trust

Seeking extra support for your child is not always an easy step, which is why trust is essential. You want to know that your child is in safe, capable hands. A trustworthy tutor is honest about progress, realistic about outcomes, and genuinely invested in doing what is best for the student.

Professionalism also plays a key role. This includes being punctual, prepared, respectful, and consistent, as well as communicating clearly and honouring financial agreements. When trust is established, students feel secure, supported, and more willing to engage in their learning.

4. A Tutor Who Uses Effective Learning Strategies

It is important to consider not just what a tutor teaches, but how they teach. Effective tutors understand how learning works and use strategies that help students retain knowledge, apply understanding, and build confidence over time. This includes structured explanations, revisiting prior learning, and teaching students how to revise and study independently.

Tutors who focus only on completing worksheets or short-term exam practice may offer temporary support, but effective learning strategies lead to lasting progress and greater independence.

5. A Tutor Who Works in Partnership With Parents

Strong tutoring support works best when there is clear communication between tutors and parents. A good tutor should be open and honest about progress, challenges, and next steps, while remaining respectful of both the child and the family.

When parents, tutors, and students are aligned, learning becomes more consistent and effective. Clear communication builds confidence and ensures that everyone is working towards the same goals.

Choosing the right tutor is about more than academic results. It is about finding someone who can support your child with care, expertise, and integrity, helping them grow not just as learners, but as confident individuals.

If you would like thoughtful guidance or personalised support around finding the right tutor, please feel free to get in touch. We would be happy to support you in making a confident and informed decision.