FAQs
Where does the tuition take place?
Our main focus is to provide tutoring at your home, this will be in person or online. We can suggest an alternative venue if you prefer.
What geographical area do you cover?
All areas of the Isle of Man.
What academic subjects do you offer and to what level?
All academic subjects at all levels. Our main focus is on GCSEs, A levels and International Baccalaureate but we can also provide tutors for KS2 and KS3.
Why is one to one tuition better than group tuition?
In a group the teacher only has a limited amount of time to spend with each student individually, whereas one to one tuition can focus directly on the specific requirements of a student. One to one tuition can be beneficial for students who are struggling to keep up in a group environment. It would also be beneficial for students who are being held back by a group.
When do you use online tuition?
This depends upon the availability of tutors in the Isle of Man for the subject being taught and the personal preference of the student. We can offer a hybrid approach whereby the tutor occasionally visits your home with the rest of the lessons being online. Online tuition can also be offered nearer the exam when the student only needs a short time (e.g. 30 minutes) to go through a particular past paper question.
How quickly can you provide a tutor?
We try to provide a tutor within a few days and no more than 2 weeks. If we are not able to provide a tutor to visit your home we may suggest online tutoring.
What type of tutors do you use and are they vetted?
We use tutors with different backgrounds from teachers to Manx undergraduates who are studying at the best universities. They are all passionate about their subject. All tutors are required to have an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) certificate that checks for a criminal record.
What is the sign-up process?
After an initial telephone call we will visit your home to determine the specific academic goals and needs of the student. We will make a proposal and if you are happy to proceed we set-up a user account for you on our professional online system and will then obtain a tutor for you.
What happens in the first lesson?
The tutor will make a tuition plan with the student in the first lesson so that the way ahead is clear and agreed with the parents. The first lesson is frequently a rapport building session as much as a means of assessment. The tutor will identify objectives, strengths and weaknesses and any particular learning styles/challenges/goals of the student. Tutors will then be better placed to create an ongoing tuition plan with short and long term targets. Relationships take time to build but the first lesson usually gives everyone a good indication of whether the fit has potential.
How can parents help to make the tuition successful?
We consider the parents to be an important part of the team that supports the student. This can be through helping to understand the initial goals and obstacles, ensuring that the student completes their homework and sticks to the tuition plan, reviewing the lesson reports and providing feedback on the tutor and service provided. We will contact the parents after the first and fifth lessons to obtain feedback.
What progress reports and feedback do I get?
A short report will be provided after each lesson which outlines the areas covered, whether homework was completed, progress made and homework set for the following week.
How much does the tuition cost?
This will depend upon the subject, academic level and whether the tuition is in person or online. However, our rates are favourable when compared to tuition centres and start at £28 an hour.
When do I have to pay for the lessons?
We require payment for the lessons in advance. The first 5 lessons will be billed and thereafter a monthly standing order agreed with the parents. We believe that it is easier to set-up a fixed monthly amount so that everyone is clear about the costs and can focus on the tuition. This also means that families do not have to worry about having cash available on the day of tuition. Invoices will be provided electronically after every lesson and a monthly statement that shows the balance.
What is the notice period if I want to cancel?
We require 24 hours notice to cancel a specific lesson. Within 24 hours we will try to reschedule one-off cancellations but if this is not possible then the lesson will be charged.
If you are not satisfied with the tuition we will try to provide an alternative tutor. If this does not work then we will cancel the assignment and refund any monies that you have paid in advance.
It is always our priority to provide you with an excellent service and if we do not meet the required standards you are within your rights to cancel at any time.