StudyGuru vs First Tutors: Comparing Tutoring Platforms for UK Parents
First Tutors is one of the longest-running UK tutoring directories, connecting families with local and online tutors across hundreds of subjects. StudyGuru takes a different approach: a managed online-only platform with standardised vetting, a built-in whiteboard, and AI-powered after-lesson reporting. This comparison helps parents understand which model suits their family.
Who this page is for
- Parents who have found tutors through First Tutors and want to compare managed alternatives
- Families who want more oversight and structure around lessons and progress
- Parents comparing directory-style platforms with managed tutoring services
- Anyone researching GCSE maths tutoring options across different platform types
Quick Comparison
| Feature | StudyGuru | First Tutors |
|---|---|---|
| Platform type | Managed online tutoring platform | Tutoring directory / marketplace |
| Introductory offer | £15 Starter Pack (4 sessions at £15 each) | Check website |
| Platform fees | Price shown is total price — no additional fees | One-off finder’s fee for tutor contact details |
| DBS checks | Enhanced DBS via Update Service or fresh uCheck application | Not mandatory — ID and references required |
| Lesson platform | Built-in whiteboard + HD video | Arranged independently by tutor |
| After-lesson reports | AI-generated automatically after every session | Depends on individual tutor |
| Payment handling | Through platform (Stripe) | Typically arranged directly with tutor |
| Subjects | STEM at GCSE and A-Level | Very wide range: all subjects and levels |
| In-person option | No — online only | Yes — online and in-person |
| Tutor selection | Vetted pool (1 in 14 accepted) | Open marketplace (ID-verified) |
When to Choose StudyGuru
StudyGuru is designed for parents who want the platform to handle vetting, lesson delivery, reporting, and payments. Every tutor passes our 7-step verification including an Enhanced DBS verification and a live teaching assessment. Lessons take place on our built-in interactive whiteboard with HD video. After every session, you receive an AI-generated lesson summary with progress tracking and practice recommendations. Payment is handled securely through the platform and is only captured after the lesson takes place. The £15 Starter Pack (4 sessions at £15 each) offers a low-risk starting point.
When to Choose First Tutors
First Tutors is a long-established directory with a large number of tutors across a very wide range of subjects and levels, from primary school to university and adult learning. If you are looking for in-person tutoring, niche subjects, or a tutor at a specific price point, First Tutors’ directory model gives you a broad selection. Parents contact tutors directly and arrange lessons independently. This offers flexibility but means you manage the relationship yourself. Check the First Tutors website for their current fees and verification process.
Pricing & Fees
StudyGuru’s standard rates start from £24/hour — the price shown is the total price with no additional fees. New customers can claim the £15 Starter Pack (4 sessions at £15 each). First Tutors operates as a directory where tutors set their own rates (starting from around £9/hour). First Tutors charges a one-off finder’s fee for parents to access tutor contact details. Check First Tutors’ website for their current pricing model.
Safeguarding & Vetting
StudyGuru requires Enhanced DBS verification (via the Update Service or a fresh application through uCheck) for every tutor, plus a 20-minute live teaching assessment as part of a 7-step verification process. Approximately 1 in 14 applicants are accepted. First Tutors requires all tutors to provide photo ID, proof of address, and two references, which are reviewed by a compliance manager. However, DBS checks are not mandatory on First Tutors — some tutors may have one (often because they also work in schools) but the platform does not arrange or require them. Parents should review each tutor’s credentials and First Tutors’ current verification policies.
Lesson Experience
StudyGuru sessions happen on a purpose-built interactive whiteboard with HD video within the platform. After each lesson, AI generates a summary with topics covered, progress levels, and practice tasks. On First Tutors, lessons are arranged between parent and tutor. The tools, location, and format depend on the individual tutor. This gives flexibility but less standardisation.
Payments & Cancellations
StudyGuru handles payments through the platform via Stripe. Payment is authorised 24 hours before and captured 24 hours after each session. No contracts. On First Tutors, payment arrangements are typically made directly between parent and tutor. Check their website for any platform-level payment options.
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
Ready to Get Started?
£15 Starter Pack · 4 sessions · No commitment
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