Monthly If you’re a tutor looking to build your career, you may have come across both Qualified Tutor and The Tutors’ Association (TTA). While both organisations support tutors, they have different focuses and provide distinct benefits.
This article explores the key differences between Qualified Tutor and The Tutors’ Association, helping you decide which aligns best with your professional goals.
What Is Qualified Tutor?
Qualified Tutor is an organisation dedicated to raising standards in tutoring by ensuring that every tutor is safe, skilled, and supported. It provides training, professional development, and a collaborative community to help tutors refine their practice and enhance student learning.
What Qualified Tutor Offers:
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Live and self-paced training: Courses such as the Level 3 Award in Education and Training and AI for Tutors provide practical skills, certification, and qualifications.
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A focus on safeguarding and quality teaching: Tutors receive guidance on best practices, student engagement, and professional growth.
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A vibrant community: Tutors can network and learn from each other through a lively WhatsApp group and eight live sessions most weeks, including the Independent Tutors Club and Network and Connect sessions.
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Certification and digital credentials: Qualified Tutor offers recognised credentials that verify tutors’ training and expertise, building trust with students and parents.
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Enhanced DBS and Daily DBS checks: Qualified Tutor offers enhanced DBS checks to ensure tutors meet the highest safeguarding standards.
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Postgraduate qualification: Soon to launch the Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Tutoring, providing an advanced qualification for experienced tutors.
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Membership costs: Independent tutors can join Qualified Tutor for £23.99 per month, which includes access to training, events, and digital credentials.
What Is The Tutors’ Association?
The Tutors’ Association is a formal membership body that represents tutors and tutoring businesses. It advocates for professional standards and provides industry representation but does not offer accreditation.
What The Tutors’ Association Offers:
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A code of conduct: Members agree to uphold ethical and professional standards.
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Awards Night: TTA hosts an annual awards night and conference, but only a small number of tutors receive recognition.
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Public statements and advocacy: The organisation makes official statements on industry practices and businesses it does not endorse.
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Enhanced DBS checks: TTA also offers enhanced DBS checks for its members.
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Membership costs: Independent tutors can join The Tutors’ Association for £9.50 per month, which provides industry representation and access to networking opportunities.
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Training Events: TTA provides some training opportunities, including a monthly online call, an annual in-person event, a safeguarding session, and occasional additional sessions.
What Each Organisation Sells
| Offering | Qualified Tutor (£23.99/month) | The Tutors’ Association (£9.50/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Live and self-paced training | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Certification and Digital Credentials | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Enhanced DBS checks | ✅ Yes (includes Daily DBS checks) | ✅ Yes (no daily checks) |
| Postgraduate qualification | ✅ Soon launching | ❌ No |
| Community and Networking | ✅ Live online sessions per week | ✅ Monthly Networking opportunities |
| Code of conduct | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Industry awards & conference | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (small number awarded) |
| Public statements & advocacy | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Overlap in Membership
Many tutors choose to engage with both organisations, as they provide different benefits. Tutors often turn to Qualified Tutor for professional development, accreditation, and a supportive community, while The Tutors’ Association offers industry representation and a formal membership structure. Being a part of both allows tutors to build their skills while also demonstrating professional credibility.
Which Organisation Is Right for You?
Both Qualified Tutor and The Tutors’ Association provide valuable services, but their priorities are different. If you’re looking for training, professional development, accreditation, and a supportive tutor network, Qualified Tutor is the best choice. If you’re seeking formal membership and industry representation, The Tutors’ Association may be a good fit.
Some tutors choose to engage with both organisations—building their skills and earning credentials through Qualified Tutor while gaining industry recognition through The Tutors’ Association.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between these organisations can help you make an informed decision about your professional development. Whether you prioritise training, accreditation, or community support, there’s an option that suits your needs as a tutor.