How can I find tutor for my dc's?

[frascati]

Both have been flagged by primary school to have potential to at least try and sit the entrance exams for one of the local grammars.
I have also been told that they will need tutoring.
Any ideas where I can find out about a decent one? I don't have a clue where to start tbh.
Many thanks

AFAIK there really isn't any professional body for tutors, so you'd have to rely on CRB check, teaching experience and personal recommendation. Christie and Glyn (and any other tutors out there) - would it be reasonable for frascati to ask for references?

(On the timing point, it looks as if one of the schools might have its test in the September of Year 6, so frascati might not be looking as far ahead of time as all that.)

frascati, these people have a very good reputation. Haven't used them myself (yet!) but know lots that have as well as one of the tutors. Sue Laidlaw is based in Sheen but the schools they are linked to cover a wide area and may include the one(s) you are considering for your dcs. www.suelaidlaw.co.uk/index.htm

Just a bit more info for you- I know the tutoring/agency situation as I have a friend who runs an agency, and I tutor as well as being a Parent Coach.

I give parents written info on me- which includes details of all my qualifications. I have written references from parents, plus the latest CRB clearance, plus my certificates - if they want to see them.

In the case of agencies you need to be careful. Many employ tutors who aren't qualified teachers, but who think they can teach! TBH this applies more the secondary level. Most- but not all- agencies just want to get a placement, so will try to palm you off with a tutor who roughly fits the bill, but may not really be experienced in what you want. Agencies may or may not do CRB checks- depends if they have applied to be able to carry these out. They may just ask for a copy of a tutor's CRB check which the tutor has had done by a school if they are working.

You are quite within your rights to ask any tutor for their paperwork proving who they are and what they have done. You can also ask for the tel.nos. of previous parents so you can talk to them. Any tutor who is genuine doesn't mind this. I amazed tbh that parents don't ask!