If you want to become a professional private tutor, there are definitely things to consider. You can make a great living teaching private tutoring classes or one-to-one sessions. You will need to decide what subject you might want to teach and then find suitable platforms, websites or courses like those offered by TutorExtra UK. Whether you are looking to supplement your income, transition into a different kind of job after retirement, want flexibility in your schedule or even ditch the campus altogether, here’s what you need to become an online tutor in the UK.
Deciding which subjects and levels to teach
Whether you’re currently an in-person tutor or completely new to private mentoring, the initial step is to decide which subjects and levels to tutor. In the UK, you don’t need to worry about achieving a particular qualification before tutoring, regardless of the subject. Albeit, the more qualified you are, the more desirable you’ll appear to possible tutees.
Firstly, consider what subjects you are most proficient in and comprehend well. The subject you are most qualified in is likely the easiest one to teach. For example, suppose you are certified or have a degree from a university in subjects like English, Spanish, French, History, Science, Maths, Accounting, etc. In that case, this is the most obvious subject to specialise in. Giving the matter due consideration, you should now have a better idea of what subjects to teach. And better yet, you will already know the greater substance of what you’ll be tutoring.
If you become an online tutor, you may be hired by parents looking for a tutor to help educate their homeschooled children. Regardless of their circumstances, if you expect to tutor students younger than 18, you should definitely consider providing a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (formerly CRB).
Other skills that you need to become an online tutor
The same qualities needed for in-person teaching will translate to web-based tutoring: proficiency in your subject, versatility in teaching methods and adaptability to a student’s needs. Beyond these, you’ll likewise require:
- IT abilities ‒ Although you do not need to be an IT specialist, you will need a number of basic skills in this area. You will be required to use a range of teaching platforms. Also, if you are familiar with electronic resources, your teaching will enthuse students much more;
- Business information ‒ as an online tutor, you are independent; consequently, self-employed or working as a contractor. You will need to familiarise yourself with specific business requirements like taxes and fees. But don’t worry! There are many resources at your disposal, for example, bookkeepers, accountants and small business associations who can assist you with the legalities;
- Communication skills ‒ online tutors frequently work with numerous students, so communication skills are vital! A tutor needs to be able to quickly identify what communication style works best for a given student and adapt accordingly, for instance, adapting teaching illustrations to be easily understandable for a particular student.
- Organisation skills ‒ Besides managing your time effectively, as a tutor, you will also want to keep detailed records of each lesson, allowing you to use the lesson time efficiently and better evaluate a student’s progress;
- Leadership skills ‒ Reflecting on the interaction between you and a student can reveal much about your interrelationship skills. A good leader utilises qualities such as compassion, tolerance and versatility in teaching. Such attributes will enable you to perceive a student’s ever-changing needs and adapt your approach to successfully address them;
- Creativity ‒ A successful tutor uses innovation to connect with each student by creating a customised plan to match the student’s learning style and inspire them. A creative tutor often offers fresh strategies to tackle an issue or contemplate complex ideas. This may even empower a student outside the classroom, leading to greater enrichment in their lives.
Determine an appropriate rate
With your online profile nearly complete, you’ll want to consider the amount you’ll charge for lessons. Online lessons will generally be less expensive than in-person lessons since there are fewer overhead costs (mostly travel). For instance, if a tutor charges £35 per hour for in-person lessons, online lessons might cost around £25 per hour.
Be that as it may, there’s no industry standard across subjects and levels for online classes, so doing a bit of research can assist you with setting your rates. Students generally don’t mind paying a higher price if you are experienced and offer exceptional, high-quality lessons. However, as attractive as online tutoring may sound, you should keep in mind that teaching is more of a calling than a profession.
What salary can you expect as a tutor?
A web-based tutor’s salary might fluctuate due to a few elements, including the time of year, the area of your reach, your level of involvement and the demand for your services. Of course, as a web-based tutor, you have control over the rates you set.
How is the workplace for an online tutor?
Working as an online tutor, whether part-time or full-time, is a great way to further your profession. Another advantage is that you can make your own schedule. However, if you choose to work for a tutoring organisation, you may have to meet prerequisite timetables set by your manager. Timetables differ according to the needs of the student. This often includes evenings and weekends.
Becoming an online tutor gives you more flexibility as you don’t need to meet your students in person. Therefore, you can work from home, the office or another location that suits your personal preferences. All you need is a stable connection to the internet. If online tutoring appeals to you, why not try it out? Students are waiting to benefit from your tutoring services.
