Updating after our first tutor session: will do again after our second one (next week)
(As a reminder we did English with 13 yr old ds
How did you find the process of choosing your tutor?
As above: this wasn't straightforward. I am conscious that we were looking for a tutor in the run up to the exams, but quite a few of the tutors we messaged didn't get back to us, or initially replied and then went quiet, or didn't turn up to apps made (only one, but one too many!) I'd also have liked much more in the way of filters: e.g. levels of experience, tutoring experience, particular areas of focus, price, experience with SEN etc.
How was the tutor themselves?
We did a free 15 mins with two tutors and liked both. They had very different suggestions for what to do next, which was great as it meant ds could choose which route he felt happiest with. I liked them both, thought they both had some nice ideas and approaches, and felt both of them could have helped him.
What did your child say about the process and the tutoring?
He was quietly positive, but couldn't tell me much about what was covered. There weren't any notes left after the tutorial which I was surprised about - I assumed there would be something, and as the tutorial is done on the headphones, I also couldn't listen in. My son is dyslexic, so listening, thinking and making notes next to the laptop isn't a realistic option. If we paid for tutorials, I'd want to think of a way to manage this to make the most of the experience.
Had you/ your child used any kind of tutor before and if so, how does this compare to previous experience?
As I said, we've done f2f tutoring for both children. I felt much more 'out of the process' as there was no catch up with parents after the tutorial. Whilst, I think that's probably appropriate in a service aimed more at older children, if I was paying for a long course of tutorials I'd want a bit more info/reassurance as the bill payer!
Would you recommend MyTutor to other parents?
I'd certainly suggest they look at it: and it's something I would bear in mind for revision when exams get nearer.
Would you use MyTutor again?
I'll see how the next tutorial goes, but I'd certainly consider it. I do think it's very cost effective, and if you are lucky and get a good tutor, having an aspirational student teaching you is a nice idea as opposed to a jaded adult tutor (not saying they are all like that, of course!). I would be very nervous that students wouldn't have a good enough grip on what is on different exam boards though, so that would be a point against.
Any other comments?
Thanks for giving us the opportunity to have a go.