Private home tutors

Home tutors can help with school work, getting ready for exams, or a range of other activities such as music lessons.

How do I find a home tutor for my child?

School is often the best place to start. They may be able to give your child extra help at school, and will already know about their learning needs and abilities. Some teachers may agree to provide private tutoring at your home.

Many private tutors advertise in the classified section of your local paper, often under specific subject headings.

If you decide to employ a private tutor it is important to let your child’s school know about the extra help that your child is getting.

How can I check they are qualified and that my child will be safe?

• Always interview your chosen candidates.
• Ask for and check professional references, qualification certificates.
• Ask to see a copy of their Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check.
• If there are career gaps on their CV you should ask for and check their reasons why.

If the tutor is employed at a school you can also ask for a reference from the school’s headteacher.

Remember – you are the employer and have the right to ask for this information.

If you employ a teacher that works at a maintained (state funded) school you can be confident about their qualifications and that they have already been security checked.

It is a good idea to interview your candidates at home and introduce them to your child so you can see how they get on.

Where should tuition take place?

Find a quiet place at home away from the distraction of television or radio. It should be an area that you have easy access to and can see what is happening. Make sure that the area is well organised and suitable for studying. Do not use a bedroom.

What should I do if the tutor behaves inappropriately with my child?

If you are unhappy with the way a tutor is treating your child you should tell them to leave immediately and that they are dismissed from the position.

If you are concerned for the safety and welfare of your child you should report the tutor to one of the Children and Families Duty and Assessment teams (see below). The team will then investigate the matter with the police.

Who to contact

If you have any concerns about a private tutor teaching your child, you can contact the Children and Families Duty and Assessment Team.