Achieving academic success: a practical guide on getting the most out of tutoring - MES

In today’s education system, young people face a multitude of challenges. From standardised testing and demanding coursework, to navigating stringent admissions criteria, it’s no wonder many students feel overwhelmed and anxious about studying.

For many, tutoring provides students with the opportunity to reinforce understanding, build confidence in their academic abilities and ultimately achieve their full potential.

However, there are a myriad of options available, making navigating the tutoring process daunting. Students and parents may find themselves grappling with questions like: Which tutoring format is best suited to my needs? How do I assess the qualifications and effectiveness of a potential tutor or tutoring service? What criteria should I consider when evaluating different tutoring options? Factors like cost, scheduling flexibility, and compatibility with their child’s learning style also add layers of complexity to the selection process.

Before you start - making informed decisions:

In the vast landscape of tutoring options, making informed decisions is crucial. If you’re a parent or caregiver looking for tutoring for your child (or perhaps a student looking into tutoring for yourself), here are some key considerations to assess before selecting a tutor:

Set clear expectations and goals: Before diving into the search for support, take a moment to define your academic objectives. Whether it's improving grades, mastering specific subjects, or enhancing study skills, having clear goals will help you decide what (and how much) tutoring you need.
Conduct thorough market research: With numerous tutoring services available, it's essential to conduct in-depth research. Seek out reputable tutors or online tutoring services with proven track records of success and positive testimonials from past clients. Online platforms such as TrustPilot gather feedback and reviews from other users, providing valuable insights into the quality and reliability of various tutoring options.
Verify teacher credentials: Qualifications matter. Ensure that the tutor possesses the necessary expertise, experience, and credentials to teach the subject effectively.
Consider cost and time commitment: Assess the financial investment required for tutoring services and ensure it aligns with your budget. Additionally, evaluate the time commitment needed for tutoring sessions in relation to your (and your child’s) existing schedule to avoid overburdening yourself or making a commitment you can’t keep.
Consider logistics: Determine the practical aspects of tutoring, including location (in-person, online, or tutoring centre), scheduling flexibility, communication channels, and travel arrangements. Make sure you’re committing to something that’s achievable, for as long as you need it.
Curriculum alignment: Tutoring should complement what goes on at school and making sure that your tutor’s approach aligns with school curriculum is crucial. This holistic approach helps children reinforce what they’ve learned in the classroom and master key concepts.
Prioritise safety: Safety is paramount, especially for in-home tutoring. Verify that the tutor has undergone necessary background checks, such as a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, to ensure a secure learning environment.

Ongoing success - during tutoring sessions

Your work isn’t done once you’ve booked a tutor and started lessons. Here's how to make the most of your tutoring sessions:

Commit regularly: Dedicate consistent time each week to tutoring sessions to maintain momentum and continuity in your child’s learning journey.
Active engagement: Encourage your child to actively participate in lessons by asking questions, seeking clarification, and engaging in discussions. Their proactive involvement fosters deeper understanding and retention of concepts.
Seek feedback: Ask for feedback from your tutor to assess progress, identify areas for improvement, and refine learning strategies accordingly.
Review progress: Periodically review your academic progress and achievements to track your development and set new goals for growth.
Address challenges: Don't shy away from revisiting challenging topics or areas of struggle. Addressing areas of difficulty head-on with your tutor only helps strengthen understanding and builds confidence.
Focus on exam technique: In addition to content mastery, focus on developing effective exam techniques and strategies to excel in assessments and examinations. Whether that’s time management or understanding how to approach different question types, honing these skills alongside subject knowledge is essential for achieving optimal results.
Community engagement: Engage with other parents who have chosen tutoring for their child. You could also help your children team up with their own peers to share experiences, exchange study tips, and create a supportive learning community.

A path to a bright future

We know that tutoring can be a valuable asset in navigating the challenges of academia. By understanding the pressures students face and actively engaging in seeking extra support, students can boost their confidence levels and ultimately achieve more.. Remember, tutoring is not a sign of weakness but a proactive step towards academic success. With the right approach and mindset, students can overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.