How to choose an online tutor for your child

1. Does the tutor know your child's syllabus?

CBSE, ICSE, IGCSE and IB teach the same subjects in different orders and examine them in different ways. Ask which board and class the tutor has taught, and whether they will follow your child's textbook and school order rather than their own.

2. Can you try a class first?

A trial class shows more than any profile. Watch whether the tutor asks your child questions or only talks, whether they notice what your child does not understand, and whether your child is willing to have another class with them.

3. Is the class 1-to-1 or a group?

Both can work, but they are different products. In a 1-to-1 class the pace and the topics are set for your child. In a group the tutor has to teach to the middle. Make sure you know which you are paying for.

4. How will the tutor find out where your child is?

Good tutors start by finding gaps: a short diagnostic, a look at recent school tests, or questions on earlier topics. Be wary of a tutor who starts on this week's chapter without checking whether last year's foundations are in place.

5. How will you hear about progress?

Ask what you will see and how often: a note after each class, regular reports, or nothing unless you ask. Notes should say what was covered and what your child should practise, not just that the class happened.

6. Do the timings work for your family?

Regular classes at a fixed time work better than classes squeezed in when everyone is free. Check that the tutor can teach in your time zone, around school, and that there is a clear way to reschedule when exams or illness get in the way.

7. Is the online setup simple and safe?

• Classes should run on a platform you can see and use, with video and a shared whiteboard.
• You should be able to join or watch a class whenever you want.
• Messages between the tutor and your child should go through channels you can see.

Your child only needs a laptop or tablet with a camera and a stable internet connection. A quiet spot at a table makes a real difference.

8. Will the tutor work with what school is doing?

The most useful tuition lines up with school: revising before class tests, helping with homework topics and preparing for the exam your child will actually sit. Share the school calendar and test dates with the tutor at the start.

9. What happens if it is not working?

Even a good tutor is not right for every child. Ask whether you can change tutors, what notice you need to give, and how payment works if you stop.

Try Tutelage the same way

Our first class is a free 30-minute demo, so you can judge the fit before anything is paid. If you already know what you need, start from tuition by class and board, or English tuition if reading and writing are the worry.