What to ask before choosing an online GCSE tutor

Check the course, not just the subject name

For maths and science, ask about the qualification and tier where applicable. For English, distinguish Language and Literature and share the set texts. GCSE and IGCSE specifications should not be treated as interchangeable.

Ask what relevant experience the proposed tutor has and how they prepare for the course. A profile should make qualifications and teaching experience understandable without relying on vague claims.

Ask what a lesson actually looks like

Useful questions include: How do you identify what the student understands? What happens when an explanation does not click? How much of the lesson involves the student working or explaining an idea?

A student should have opportunities to attempt work independently, as well as follow a demonstration. Ask how the tutor decides what to revisit and what to practise next.

Look for clear safeguarding arrangements

Ask about tutor suitability checks, communication boundaries, the online lesson setting and how to raise a concern. A policy should be accessible and have a clear reporting route.

At The Tutoring Hub, our safeguarding policy requires enhanced DBS checks, identity checks and references before tutors teach. Our online learning policy explains expectations for lessons. These are important processes, not guarantees that no concern can arise.

Agree what useful feedback means

Ask how goals are set and how progress will be reviewed. “Doing well” is less useful than a specific explanation of what the student can now do, what still needs practice and what comes next.

Keep expectations proportionate. A tutor can support learning and preparation, but a promised grade does not account for the many factors that affect results.

Make the practical details clear

• Lesson length, frequency and the agreed fee.
• What preparation, resources and feedback are included.
• The device, connection and access arrangements needed.
• How cancellations, missed lessons and changes are handled.
• How concerns about the tutor match can be discussed.

Use our tuition quote checklist to compare arrangements consistently. A free consultation at The Tutoring Hub is a conversation about fit and next steps, not an obligation to book.