What does the right academic support look like?
Five useful questions to ask before choosing a tutor or programme.
Start with the learning need
“Improve maths” is a useful starting point, but it helps to be more specific. Is your child finding the concepts difficult, struggling to apply them, or running out of time in tests? Recent schoolwork and teacher feedback can help distinguish these needs.
Check the curriculum match
The subject name alone is not enough. Ask whether the tutor works with your child’s curriculum, year group, exam board and level. For qualifications such as the IB Diploma, Mathematics AA and AI — and Standard and Higher Level — have different demands.
Ask how progress will be reviewed
A good conversation should cover how the tutor identifies learning gaps, gives feedback and revisits difficult topics. Look for specific examples of the review process rather than promises of a particular grade.
Build a manageable routine
More lessons are not automatically a better plan. Consider schoolwork, independent practice, rest and other commitments. Ask what students are expected to do between sessions, and how the plan can adapt when their needs change.
Make the first conversation useful
Have the curriculum, subjects, recent assessments and questions ready. Ask about tutor availability, learning format, programme fees and what is included. Keep the student involved: support works better when they understand the purpose of the plan.
Let’s talk about your next step.
Bring your questions to an academic advisor.