Choosing the right type of tuition for your child depends on a variety of factors, including their learning style, academic needs and personality. Here are some options to consider:
ONE-TO-ONE TUITION
One-to-one tuition is often the most effective for children who require personalised attention. A tutor can adjust the lessons to suit your child’s pace and focus on specific areas of difficulty. This type of tuition is especially beneficial for students with additional learning needs.
However, one-to-one tuition may lack the engagement and motivation from having other students working alongside. The tutor will often work at the child’s pace, which may be too slow for the 11+ preparation. Additionally, it can sometimes isolate students from important social interactions and development. One-to-one tuition can also be expensive, and finding a well-matched tutor can be challenging, as good tutors are often in high demand. Additional mock exams and assessments will also be necessary to ensure full preparation for the 11+ exam.
GROUP TUITION
Group tuition allows your child to learn alongside their peers, fostering a motivational and engaging environment while maintaining structure and productivity. This approach is often ideal for children who are generally doing well in school but need some extra support for their 11+ preparation. Group tuition allows for group problem-solving and discussions and can even involve some friendly competition. This is generally a more affordable option with more flexibility with class options and make-up lessons.
However, group tuition may be less effective for children with varying abilities, especially those with additional learning needs. The quality of group tuition can vary significantly between providers, so it’s crucial to choose one that offers small class sizes—no more than 15 students per class—and employs qualified, experienced teachers.
DIY – TUITION FROM A PARENT
Parent-led tuition is a low-cost option where you, as a parent, have complete control over the learning process. You can tailor lessons to suit your child's needs.
However, this approach can be time-consuming and requires a child who is self-motivated and compliant. There is also no external objectivity or benchmarking, so the pace and effectiveness of lessons may be limited. Additional mock exams and assessments will be necessary to ensure your child is fully prepared for the 11+ exam.
ONLINE TUITION
For children who are comfortable with technology, online tuition can be a convenient and flexible option. From live lessons to pre-recorded videos and supplementary resources, there are many online tuition platforms available. This can be a great solution if your child is unable to attend in-person classes due to location, a busy schedule or other commitments.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT OPTION FOR YOUR CHILD
Every child is different, and it is important to do your research to find the most engaging and effective tuition that works for your child and family. I would recommend visiting the tutor or tuition centre before committing to understand more about the provider and their teaching methods and materials. A good provider or Tutor should offer a Trial Class with feedback, so you and your child can make an informed decision.
For more information or to discuss our 11+ preparation courses, including visiting our tuition centre or arranging a trial class, please contact us at office@sde11plus.com or call 01494 680190.
The content of this article is general in nature and is not a substitute for thorough research by parents. The arrangements for the 11+ exams vary widely between areas, and there are often changes from year to year. You should consult the official sources of information in your area, such as the grammar school admissions policies, local authority website and/or local 11+ exam testing consortium website. Do not rely on information on third-party websites, as it may be incorrect or out of date.