It is not always obvious when a child needs extra help. Some children quietly fall behind; others cope until a big exam approaches. This guide explains the signs worth noticing, and just as important, the times when a tutor is not the answer.
Signs your child may benefit from a tutor
Grades or reports are slipping. A fall in one subject, or a gap between what your child can do and what they achieve in tests, is worth looking into.
Homework is a battle. If it regularly takes much longer than it should, or ends in tears, there may be a gap in understanding that needs patient explanation.
They avoid a subject. "I hate maths" often means "I stopped understanding maths a while ago".
Confidence has dropped. Children who think they are "bad at" a subject stop trying, which makes the gap bigger.
A big transition is coming. Moving from primary to secondary, starting GCSE courses or beginning A-Levels can expose gaps, and a tutor can smooth the step up.
They are capable of more. Some children are bored and under-stretched. A tutor can extend them beyond what the classroom offers.
Exams are approaching. Targeted help on technique and revision planning can make a real difference to how prepared a student feels.
First, talk to the school
Before choosing a tutor, ask the class teacher or subject teacher:
- Where exactly is my child finding this difficult?
- Is it understanding, speed, confidence or something else?
- What are they working towards, and what would help most?
This keeps tutoring focused on the real gap. If the teacher raises wider concerns, such as reading, attention or other needs, the school's special educational needs coordinator (SENCo) is the right person to speak to as well.
When a tutor is not the answer
Tutoring is not a fix for everything. It may not be the right first step if:
- the real issue is tiredness, anxiety or wellbeing, which need a different kind of support;
- there are possible learning needs that should be assessed first;
- your child does not want help yet. A tutor works best when the child is on board.
We will tell you honestly when we think tutoring is not the best use of your money.
What good tutoring looks like
A good tutor starts by finding the gap, sets a clear goal, explains patiently and builds confidence, then reports back to you. Progress should be visible within a few weeks. Read our guide to choosing a private tutor for what to ask before you start.
Getting started
If you decide tutoring would help, private tutoring with Britannia Crown begins with a free consultation, followed by a tutor chosen for your child. For regular weekly lessons and a consultant overseeing progress, take a look at the Partner plan.
