tutoring worries

[xanny1]

Hi, I have a friend who is concerned about tutoring agencies and how to check whether the tutors are qualified and have background checks on their suitability to be around kids. Does anyone have any advice or had similar worries?

Your friend could ask to see certificates for proof of qualifications. There is no way for an individual to carry out CRB checks, although some agencies may carry out such checks on behalf of their clients. Note that a CRB will only show up if there is a reason to deny access to children - there is no way to check on suitability to be around children.

How old is child and what sort of tutor is it? Will the tutor let the parent sit in on the first few sessions? Is the child old enough to report inappropriate behaviour.

I use tutors and what I do is discuss our needs and the tutor's suitability by email, then I meet them for an interview of sorts so that I can suss out if they'll be right for ds. When I find one I'm happy with I have them come to the house to work and I'm always around during the lessons so I have no concerns about ds being left alone with them. I've never had any problem with a tutor - I guess you have to use your common sense and instinct and not employ someone who doesn't feel 'right'.

A CRB check just says they don't have past convictions, so best way is to meet up and notice how they speak to your DC, and be around for the first few lessons at least. They should also give you a rundown of what was covered in the lesson and how it went before leaving. Ask your dc how they felt about it after every lesson, give them opportunities to do homework. Usually children look forward to tutoring lessons with a good teacher.

Yes, good point about feedback from the child. If they don't work well together then it's not the right arrangement.