There are no standard qualifications for private tutors in the UK, so anyone who has good knowledge in a specialist subject can become a tutor. However, you should have a great amount of knowledge in the subject area you plan to teach – ideally you should be a graduate in the area. Ultimately, it’s up to the tutee’s parent or carer whether they think you’re qualified enough.
The global private tutoring market is estimated to be worth over $174.65 billion by 2028, and online tutoring is a major contributor to this growth. Whether you want to teach for fun or as a side hustle, the industry is very lucrative. But before you jump into the business, there are certain legal requirements you must meet.
This means that determining whether you need to obtain a license to teach in a private school is as simple as researching the prospective school’s website or calling one of its administrative representatives. Even if a school does not require that you obtain a license to work for them, getting licensed is always a good idea for anyone who pursues a career in education.
How do I become a private tutor?
- Educate yourself. An undergraduate degree will often be the minimum requirement.
- Consider hiring into private tutoring schools or registering on tutor platforms.
- If you plan to work independently, budget for things employers cover, like health insurance and retirement funds.
- Update your skills regularly to stay current and effective in your teaching methods.
Becoming a private tutor requires you to establish your qualifications, build a client base, and ensure the success of your tutoring business. Employers will take your official education into account, while working for yourself means accounting for additional personal expenses.
Private tutors can capitalize on trends such as the growth of online learning, where familiarizing with the latest technologies is beneficial. Additionally, as parents become more involved in their children’s education, they will need private tutors who can provide individualized attention.
The impact of COVID-19 has fostered the popularity of tutoring, as many students need additional help. Benefits of becoming a private tutor include being your own boss, helping others achieve goals, and fitting tutoring around other commitments.
To be effective, tutors must be competent in the subject they teach, use their knowledge to generate income, and offer academic support to help students overcome individual learning challenges.