Qualified Tutor 7 Standards for Excellence

1. Student-Centred Approach

Tutors must always prioritise the best interests of the student, ensuring that their learning, safety, and well-being are at the heart of every decision. Tutors will:

• Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment tailored to each student’s needs.
• Adapt their approach to accommodate diverse learning styles, abilities, and backgrounds.
• Promote student agency, encouraging active participation and self-efficacy.
• Support students in setting and achieving meaningful learning goals.
• Provide feedback that is constructive, motivating, and designed to improve confidence and outcomes.

2. Professionalism & Ethical Conduct

Tutors represent a professional industry and must adhere to high ethical and professional standards, including:

• Maintaining honesty, integrity, and confidentiality in all interactions.
• Upholding safeguarding and GDPR policies to protect student data and privacy.
• Only taking on tutoring engagements within their area of expertise.
• Engaging in continuous professional development to improve their practice.
• Respecting boundaries and maintaining appropriate professional relationships with students and their families.

3. Safeguarding & Student Welfare

Tutors have a duty to keep students safe at all times. This includes:

• Holding an up-to-date Enhanced DBS check (or equivalent in other regions).
• Undergoing regular safeguarding training and adhering to best practices.
• Understanding the signs of abuse, neglect, or other safeguarding concerns and knowing how to report them.
• Maintaining appropriate communication and behaviour in both online and in-person settings.
• Ensuring a safe tutoring environment, whether at home, in a tutoring centre, or online.

4. Skilled & Reflective Practice

High-quality tutoring requires skill and reflection. Tutors should:

• Use evidence-based teaching methods that align with effective learning strategies.
• Regularly assess and adapt their approach to meet student needs.
• Reflect on their practice and seek feedback to continuously improve.
• Stay informed on educational research, curriculum developments, and best practices.

5. Ethical Business Practices & Compliance

To operate legally and ethically, tutors must adhere to essential business standards:

• GDPR & Data Protection: Tutors must have clear policies on how they store and manage personal data, ensuring compliance with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).
• ICO Registration: Tutors processing personal data must register with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) where applicable.
• Insurance: Tutors should hold appropriate professional liability insurance to cover potential risks.
• Terms & Conditions: Tutors must provide clear, written terms outlining fees, cancellation policies, and commitments.
• Contracts & Payments: Payments should be transparent, fair, and invoiced professionally, with no hidden costs.

6. Clear & Transparent Communication

Tutors must maintain open, professional, and transparent communication with families, schools, and other stakeholders, including:

• Establishing clear expectations regarding goals, progress, and feedback.
• Keeping parents and guardians informed about their child’s learning journey.
• Collaborating with schools where appropriate, aligning tutoring with the student’s school curriculum.
• Ensuring all communication is respectful, professional, and appropriate.
• Using clear policies for missed sessions, rescheduling, and availability.

7. Tutor Support & Community

Tutors must have access to professional support and networks to remain effective in their role. This includes:

• Engaging in CPD (Continuous Professional Development) to enhance skills.
• Being part of professional tutoring communities for peer support and learning.
• Seeking mentorship or coaching where needed.
• Advocating for fair working conditions and professional recognition in the tutoring industry.