Choosing the right tutor to help your pupils isn't just a procurement decision. It has a direct impact on pupil outcomes, and it's worth taking the time to get it right.
The good news is that there are some clear markers of quality to look for, and knowing what they are makes the process much more straightforward.
The starting point is Qualified Teacher Status. A tutor with QTS has been trained to teach, not just to explain, and that distinction matters. They'll understand how children learn, how to sequence content, and how to adapt their approach when something isn't landing.
Experience with the English primary curriculum is equally important. Tutors who know the national curriculum benchmarks, the expectations at each key stage, and the kinds of tasks pupils will face in school are far better placed to deliver sessions that actually complement classroom learning.
Strong tutors don't just work through a worksheet. They identify where a pupil's understanding breaks down, plan sessions around those specific gaps, and adjust as progress is made. Before any tuition begins, you should expect a clear sense of how gaps will be assessed and how sessions will be structured in response.
This is non-negotiable. Any tutor working with your pupils, whether in person or online, should hold an enhanced DBS certificate and be familiar with your school's safeguarding protocols. If you're working with an external provider, ask directly how they handle this.
The best tutoring doesn't happen in isolation. Look for tutors who will share regular updates, flag concerns early, and work alongside class teachers rather than independently of them. That joined-up approach is what turns short-term support into lasting progress.
You'll need to demonstrate impact, particularly if funding is coming from pupil premium. Ask any provider how they measure and report progress, and make sure the answer is specific rather than vague.
A good tutor is a genuine partner in a child's progress. The right questions upfront make all the difference.
So, if you'd like to find out how Primary Tutor Project matches schools with qualified, experienced primary tutors, get in touch. We'd be happy to talk through your needs and explain how we work.
