If you have decided to use the services of a tutor, then you may be anxious about choosing the right person to work with your child. Here are some guidelines to ensure you find the most suitable person and that your child is safe.
Remember, you are the employer and you need to be in control and happy with any arrangements you make.
Your first call
Your child's school may be the best place to start. They will give you another view about whether your child needs help and what kind of help. They may even be able to offer extra support in school without you having to look at outside options.
If you still require a tutor, then the school may have teaching colleagues who are prepared to be employed as a tutor and will have references and police checks as a result of their work with your school.
Finding and selecting a tutor
If you decide to look for an independent tutor, then it is a good idea to informa your school so that they are aware of your child's situation and his development needs.
Tutors advertise in local and national publications and there are websites offering tutor services. The most important factors to consider are firstly, whether they are qualified to teach the subjects you require and secondly, whether your child will be safe with this person. Here is a checklist to follow when selecting your tutor:
- always request and read the tutor's curriculum vitae (cv)
- always interview the tutor
- ask to see their quallification certificates
- check their references either by calling or visiting the referees
- if they have worked in a school, ask the head teacher for a reference
- if they are a qualified teacher, ask for a copy of their General Teaching Council Registration
- ask to see their CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check
- if the tutor has any career gaps, make sure you are satisfied with their explanations
- make sure your child meets the tutor - watch their reactions and judge how you think they will get on
Where should the tuition take place?
All professional tutors should be fully aware of parental concerns regarding a child's safety. They should be happy to comply with your wishes and may even suggest the safeguards you have in mind themselves. If they have any objections or suggest inferior arrangements, then perhaps you should walk away. Here is some safety advice - tuition should take place as follows:
- in a quiet place away from radios and TVs
- never in a bedroom or study bedroom
- you or an adult chosen by you should be on the premises
- make sure you can observe and have free access to the room if necessary at all times
- these rules can apply in either your home, the tutor's home or other setting
What if something inappropriate happens'
However embarrassed you may feel, this is a serious situation which needs professional attention. Your child's welfare cannot be put at risk.
If your child reports an inappropriate action or abuse then listen to them carefully, reassure them and tell them it's not their fault.
You must report the instance to Social Services - you could ask your school for assistance in contacting them.
Trust your instincts.
If your child needs a little extra help then you may not need to go to the expense of a tutor. Check out the curriculum based homework sheets which are feely downloadable to members of Please Miss.
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Early Learning Sheets
