For many of us, the question of whether or not to bring in a tutor will arise at some point. It’s a common consideration, and in truth, not every child will need one. However, there are many situations where some additional, tailored support outside of the classroom could make a significant difference.

It’s estimated that around a quarter of UK families will arrange a tutor at some stage during their child’s education. While that doesn’t mean it’s the right step for everyone, it’s certainly become a mainstream option – whether to catch up, stay on track, or push ahead. The school system plays a key role in shaping young minds, but it’s not always enough to meet every child’s specific needs. That’s where tutoring can come in, providing personalised input that builds confidence and closes gaps before they widen.

How Do I Know If My Child Needs a Tutor?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are some clear signs that a child could benefit from extra support. It often starts with a gut feeling – you might notice a change in their attitude to schoolwork, or a drop in their marks or confidence. Other times, the signs are more obvious.

Here are 7 signs your child may need a tutor:

Struggles with homework: If your child is regularly confused by homework tasks, avoids them, or becomes anxious about completing them, this may point to gaps in understanding.

Falling behind in class: Teachers may flag concerns or you might notice that your child is not keeping up with their peers in particular subjects.

Loss of confidence: A child who once enjoyed learning might now show frustration or negative self-talk around schoolwork.

Poor test results: Even when effort is there, repeated low scores may suggest that classroom teaching alone isn’t enough.

Change in behaviour: Children who are struggling academically may act out, withdraw, or develop school-related anxieties.

Big life changes: Events like illness, moving house, or family issues can disrupt learning and lead to the need for academic catch-up.

Avoiding school altogether: If your child is not attending school for any reason – whether due to illness, anxiety, or another factor – tutoring can provide vital continuity.

Should I Get My Child a Tutor?

There are all sorts of reasons parents look into tutoring, and they’re not all about catching up. In early primary years, some parents turn to tutors to ensure a smoother start – for example, helping their Year 2 child get ready for KS1 assessments. Others may want to support a child preparing for entrance exams, such as the 11+, or key GCSE subjects that are critical to their future plans.
We also see tutoring being used to extend learning for children who are ahead of their peers, helping them stay engaged and challenged. And then there’s the support it provides during times of change – transitioning to secondary school, adapting to new subjects, or managing the leap to A-levels.
It’s worth remembering that tuition doesn’t always have to be long term. Some families choose short bursts of focused help – for example, in the lead-up to exams or to target specific subjects.

What Does a Tutor Actually Do?

The role of a tutor goes far beyond just helping with homework. A skilled tutor will take the time to understand your child’s strengths, areas of difficulty, and how they learn best. From there, they’ll tailor sessions that focus on building knowledge, improving understanding, and developing independent study skills.
Importantly, tutors offer one-to-one attention – something that’s almost impossible in a busy classroom. This allows students to ask questions, revisit tricky topics, and learn at their own pace. A good tutor can help restore a child’s confidence, make learning feel more manageable, and give them the tools they need to thrive academically.
Whether working through long division, unpicking Shakespeare, or preparing for science exams, the aim is to meet the student exactly where they are – and help them move forward.

Why Do Parents Employ Private Tutors?

Parents often tell us that the biggest benefit of a private tutor is the individual attention their child receives. In a one-to-one setting, tutors can adapt lessons to suit a student’s specific learning style, pace, and interests – something that just isn’t possible in a typical class of 30.
For many, tutoring is not simply about boosting marks. It’s about giving their child greater confidence and helping them develop the habits and mindset for long-term academic success. We’ve seen firsthand how a student who once dreaded a subject can start to enjoy it once they feel supported and understood.
In some cases, families turn to tutoring because of school absence, whether due to illness, additional needs, or other challenges. In others, parents are looking to build on what school already offers, especially in high-pressure years like GCSEs or A-levels.

What Do Parents Want from Tutors?

Ultimately, most parents want the same things: for their child to feel more confident, to enjoy learning again, and to reach their potential. They want tutors who are reliable, experienced, and able to communicate clearly with both children and adults.
We always aim to deliver tutoring that fits with the family’s goals and the child’s personality. Some children thrive in one-to-one sessions, others in small groups. Flexibility and trust are key – and so is consistency. Over time, the relationship between a tutor and student becomes a safe space to ask questions, face challenges, and make progress.
On our website, we explain how we tailor every tuition programme to meet the child’s needs, always working in partnership with parents and schools where appropriate. As noted by organisations like The Education Endowment Foundation, regular, focused tuition can lead to strong academic gains, especially when delivered by trained professionals.

Final Thoughts

Tutoring isn’t about replacing school – it’s about complementing it. Whether your child needs help catching up, preparing for an important exam, or just wants to feel more confident in their abilities, a good tutor can provide the support and structure that makes a lasting difference.
In our experience, the most successful outcomes happen when tuition is started early enough to make a meaningful impact, before frustration or anxiety takes hold. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to talk to your child’s teacher or contact us directly for a conversation. We’re here to help you decide what’s right for your child, with no pressure and honest advice.
For more information on our services or to explore how tuition could support your family, visit the tuition programmes section on our website or browse the detailed FAQs to learn more.