What qualities make a good tutor? 

1. Knowledgeable: A good tutor has a deep understanding of the subject or subjects they tutor and can effectively explain difficult concepts and provide helpful examples.
2. Patient: A good tutor is patient and understands that learning can be a slow and frustrating process at times. They can provide support and encouragement to students who may be struggling and help them persevere through challenging material.
3. Flexible: A good tutor can adapt their teaching style and approach to match the learning style and needs of the student. They can adjust their lessons and materials to accommodate different learning styles and abilities.
4. Organized: A good tutor is organised and prepared for each tutoring session. They have a clear plan for what will be covered in the session and have all the necessary materials and resources on hand.
5. Communicative: A good tutor is an effective communicator and can explain complex ideas and concepts clearly and concisely. They are also able to listen carefully to the student and provide feedback and guidance in a way that is supportive and helpful.
6. Positive: A good tutor has a positive attitude and can create a supportive and encouraging learning environment. They can motivate and inspire students to succeed and reach their full potential.
7. Responsive: A good tutor is responsive and can quickly address any questions or concerns that the student may have. They can provide timely feedback and support to help the student stay on track and make progress.
8. Encouraging: A good tutor is encouraging and can provide positive reinforcement and praise to help students build confidence and motivation. They can recognize and celebrate the student’s accomplishments, no matter how small.
9. Experienced: A good tutor has experience teaching the subject or subjects they tutor and can provide valuable insights and tips based on their own experiences. They can provide guidance and support to help the student succeed.
10. Accessible: A good tutor is accessible and can make themselves available for tutoring sessions at times that are convenient for the student. They can provide support and guidance both during scheduled sessions and outside of them as needed.

How and where to find the perfect fit?

Finding the best online tutor for your 12-year-old child depends on several factors, including your child’s specific learning needs, learning style, and budget. Before looking for a tutor, it’s essential to understand your child’s particular learning needs and goals.

We have noticed that children are more open to learning with young student tutors. One reason is that student tutors are often closer in age to the children they tutor, which can make them more relatable and easier to connect with. Children may feel more comfortable asking questions and sharing their thoughts and ideas with someone closer to their age.

Another reason children may enjoy working with student tutors is that they can provide a fresh perspective and approach to learning. Student tutors are often more up-to-date on the latest teaching methods and technologies, and they may be able to provide a more engaging and interactive learning experience.

Additionally, student tutors may be able to provide a more personalized and individualized approach to tutoring. Because they are often working with a smaller number of students, they may be able to give each student more individual attention and support, which can be especially beneficial for children who may be struggling in school.

Overall, children may enjoy working with student tutors because they can provide a supportive, engaging, and individualized learning experience that can help them succeed in school.

Another important trend we have seen recently is that more parents choose tutors from Top universities such as Cambridge and Oxford. They believe that by hiring tutors from these universities, their children will be able to get a head start in their academic life.

This is likely because tutors from these universities are generally considered to be some of the best tutors in the country, as they have been educated and have experience teaching at these prestigious institutions.

One of the main benefits of working with Oxbridge tutors is that they are highly knowledgeable and experienced in their subject areas. They have a deep understanding of the subject matter and can effectively explain complex concepts and provide valuable insights and tips.

Another benefit of working with Oxbridge tutors is that they are often well-connected and can provide valuable advice and guidance on applying to Oxford or Cambridge, as well as other top universities. They may be able to provide valuable support and guidance throughout the application process.

However, Oxbridge tutors can also be quite expensive, and not everyone will be able to afford their services. If you are on a tight budget, there may be other, more affordable tutoring options available that can still provide high-quality tutoring and support.

Final thoughts

Look for tutors who have a strong understanding of their subjects, care about helping students learn, and love teaching. Subject-specific tutors generally know the ins and outs of that specific subject. 

Additionally, Check if your child prefers to work with a young tutor closer in age. Children may enjoy working with student tutors because they can provide a supportive, engaging, and individualised learning experience that can help them succeed in school. 

And see if you can get more than just subject-specific support. Oxbridge tutors may be a good option for your child because they can help with writing personal statements and finding relevant internships in the industry—things that are especially important when applying to top universities.