How to choose the right tutor for your child's subject, grade and curriculum

Before you contact anyone, write down in a sentence or two what you want to change. For example: "She understands the lessons but runs out of time in tests", or "He has fallen behind in Grade 10 Maths since algebra started". This helps a tutor tell you honestly whether they are a good fit.

• Catching up on work that was missed or not understood
• Keeping up week by week with homework and class tests
• Preparing for June or November exams, or the matric final exams
• Stretching a learner who is already doing well

Recent test scripts, report comments and a look at the exercise book are often more useful to a tutor than a mark on its own.

Most public schools follow CAPS, the national curriculum set by the Department of Basic Education. Many independent schools write IEB exams, which are also based on CAPS but set and assessed differently, and some schools follow Cambridge. The content, emphasis and exam style can differ, so ask the tutor which curriculum and grades they have taught recently.

CAPS documents on the Department of Basic Education websiteThe official subject documents show what should be covered in each grade and term.

Subject choice matters too. Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy are different subjects from Grade 10, and a tutor comfortable with one may not suit the other.

In-person lessons can suit younger children and learners who struggle to concentrate on a screen. Online lessons widen your choice to specialists anywhere in South Africa, save travel time and are often easier to fit around school and sport. Many families use both.

• Which grades and curriculum have you taught in the last year or two?
• How would you find out where my child is struggling?
• What happens in a typical lesson, and is there work between lessons?
• How will you let me know how things are going?
• What is your rate, and what is your cancellation policy?

Ask to see qualifications or references if they matter to you. On Extra Lessons SA, tutors describe their own experience and qualifications; we do not verify identity, qualifications or background, so this is a check you should make yourself.

A short WhatsApp message or email that confirms the rate, day and time, venue or online platform, cancellation terms and how payment works avoids misunderstandings. For younger learners, agree where a parent or another adult will be during in-person lessons. Our safety page has more guidance.

Give it a few weeks, then review honestly with your child. If it is not working, it is fine to try someone else.