How to Choose an Online GCSE Maths Tutor: A Parent\u2019s Guide
With many online tutoring options available in the UK, choosing the right one for your child can feel overwhelming. This guide covers the key factors to consider \u2014 from tutor qualifications and safeguarding to lesson format and pricing \u2014 so you can make an informed decision. We include StudyGuru as one option alongside general advice that applies to any platform.
Who this page is for
- Parents new to online tutoring who are not sure what to look for
- Families comparing multiple tutoring platforms and want objective criteria
- Anyone searching for the right GCSE maths tutor and wanting practical guidance
- Parents who want to understand what good tutoring looks like before committing
What Makes a Good GCSE Maths Tutor?
A good GCSE maths tutor should have strong subject knowledge (ideally A*/A at A-Level maths or equivalent), be familiar with your child’s specific exam board (AQA, Edexcel, or OCR), and be able to explain concepts in different ways. Look for tutors who can teach both the content and exam technique — understanding how to approach mark schemes and allocate time is just as important as knowing the maths. Good tutors also adapt to your child’s pace and learning style rather than following a fixed script.
Safeguarding: The Non-Negotiable
When your child is learning online with an adult, safeguarding should be your first consideration. At minimum, look for tutors who have completed an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. Ask whether the platform arranges the check or accepts self-declared certificates. Find out if there is a vetting process beyond DBS — such as identity verification, qualification checks, or teaching assessments. On StudyGuru, for example, every tutor completes a 7-step process including a fresh DBS check, live teaching assessment, and final safeguarding approval. Different platforms have different standards, so ask the question.
Lesson Format and Tools
Online maths tutoring works well when the tools support mathematical working. A basic video call (Zoom, Skype) with screen sharing is functional but limited. Look for platforms that offer interactive whiteboards where both tutor and student can write, draw, and solve problems together. This is particularly important for maths, where showing working is essential. Some platforms, like StudyGuru, provide a purpose-built whiteboard. Others leave tool choice to the tutor. Consider what will keep your child engaged and allow genuine collaboration.
Pricing: What to Expect
Online GCSE maths tutoring in the UK typically costs between £20 and £60+ per hour, depending on the tutor’s experience and the platform. Be aware of the full cost: some platforms charge a subscription fee on top of lesson rates, others take a commission. Look for clear, upfront pricing. Ask about introductory offers — many platforms offer trial sessions or starter packs. StudyGuru, for instance, offers a £15 Starter Pack (4 sessions at £15 each). Some competitors offer free first lessons. Compare the total cost over, say, 10 sessions rather than just the headline rate.
Progress Tracking and Parent Visibility
One advantage of structured online tutoring over informal arrangements is the potential for better parent visibility. Ask whether the platform provides lesson reports, progress tracking, or parent dashboards. Knowing what was covered in each session, how your child is progressing, and what they should practise next helps you stay informed and ensures accountability. Some platforms, including StudyGuru, use AI to generate after-lesson summaries. Others leave reporting to the individual tutor.
Evaluation Checklist for Parents
Use this checklist when evaluating any online GCSE maths tutoring option: 1. Are tutors DBS-checked, and who arranges the check? 2. Is there a vetting process beyond DBS (teaching assessment, qualification verification)? 3. Does the platform provide lesson tools, or do tutors use their own? 4. Can your child write and draw on a shared whiteboard? 5. What reports or feedback do parents receive after lessons? 6. What is the total cost including any platform fees? 7. Is there a trial or introductory offer? 8. Can you switch tutors if the fit is not right? 9. What is the cancellation policy? 10. Does the tutor cover your child’s specific exam board?
StudyGuru as an Option
StudyGuru is one option to consider. We offer DBS-checked tutors (Enhanced DBS via the Update Service or a fresh application through uCheck, plus a live teaching assessment), a purpose-built interactive whiteboard, AI-generated lesson summaries for parents, and a £15 Starter Pack (4 sessions at £15 each). Standard rates start from £24/hour with no additional fees beyond the session rate. We cover AQA, Edexcel, and OCR GCSE maths at both Foundation and Higher tier. We encourage you to compare us against other options using the checklist above.
Other Platforms to Consider
The UK online tutoring market includes several established platforms. MyTutor is a well-known option with a large tutor pool. Tutorful offers both online and in-person tutoring. Superprof is a global marketplace with broad subject coverage. First Tutors is a long-running UK directory. Each has different strengths — research a few options and, ideally, try a session on more than one before committing.
Trust & Safety
Enhanced DBS Checks
Fresh Enhanced DBS arranged via uCheck for every tutor
7-Step Vetting
Identity, qualifications, DBS, live teaching assessment, and safeguarding approval
Pay After Lessons
Payment captured 24 hours after each session via Stripe
Secure Platform
All sessions on our platform with moderated messaging
Frequently Asked Questions
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