Frequently asked questions
Click on any of the questions below to find out more |
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Why do you tutor in groups and not just individually
We believe one-to-one tuition is not for every child. During a typical one-to-one tuition session a large proportion of the time is taken by the tutor watching a child undertake activities. This can be quite intimidating for some children. By running small group sessions the children have a large amount of individual focused teaching but can also develop independent learning skills in a supportive environment. This will help them succeed when back at school.
How big are the groups?
We normally work with up to four children on their individual learning programmes in a session.
Who are the tutors?
All our tutors are experienced and qualified teachers with full DBS checks. Your child will have their own designated tutor who will work with them to establish a rapport that will enable them to learn in a relaxed environment in the learning style that suits them best.
What subjects do you cover?
We can provide assistance with English (reading, writing, spelling, handwriting etc) and Maths. We follow objectives from the National Curriculum giving children the confidence and skills that they can take back to school. The benefits of individual learning are that your child can work at the best pace for them to achieve their targets. We also offer revision and preparation for SATs and 11+ exams for grammar and public schools.
Can you help my child with SEN?
Yes! As we are all fully qualified teachers we are trained to help children with a wide range of special educational needs. Our relaxed and supportive environment will give them the confidence to tackle new skills they find difficult at school.
Will my gifted child benefit from HeadStart Tuition?
Yes! As they will be able to work at a pace suitable to their higher ability and encouraged to reach their full potential.
When should my child start preparing for the 11+ exam?
This depends very much on your child's abilities. If your child is a high achiever, we recommend you contact us a year before for an assessment. If though, they have areas where they need to improve, we suggest you start at least two years before the exam. Either way, it takes substantial time and commitment to succeed. Your child's class teacher should be able to provide you with guidance but we can carry out an assessment at any time.
How do we get started?
Before the first session you will have a meeting with one of our tutors where you will have an opportunity to talk about what you and your child wish to get out of the sessions and any goals you may have. The tutor will carry out an informal assessment to allow us to see your child's strengths and weaknesses and from there they will plan an individual learning programme to meet their needs. This assessment is free of charge.
How is a session run?
Sessions aim to be fun and enjoyable for your child to promote learning. We use both new technologies that are interactive and engaging along with more traditional paper based resources to help practise key skills.
Will my child be set homework?
A small piece of homework will often be given at the end of each session to consolidate the learning. We ask that this is not completed straight after the session so we can check their understanding has been retained after a period of time.
Where are the sessions held?
The sessions are held in convenient venues in each location. They are close enough to the schools to allow time for the child to travel and they all have parking available for easy drop off and pick up.
Do you run through the holidays?
Mainly, we are term time only. We follow the Solihull school calendar. However, we do offer summer holiday and Easter sessions, although mainly to support children taking their SATs and 11+, these lessons are open to all.
How much does a session cost?
The current rates are :
Group : £20 for one-hour face to face. Online Group : £17 for a one-hour and £18 for a one-hour 11+ preperation. 1:1 online : £30 for one-hour, £24 for 45m and £16 for 30mins. We do not offer 1:1 face to face. Do I have to commit to a number of sessions?
The initial assessment meeting and first teaching session can be taken without any further commitment. If you decide to continue with us, we then ask that sessions are paid for up to the end of each half term. However, you can cancel at any time with two week's notice.
What if I miss a session?
Sessions that are missed are non-refundable. This is to encourage regular attendance and to ensure that your child gets the maximum benefit from their individual programme. But, if at least 24 hour's notice is given, an alternative catch up session will be offered wherever possible that week.
How do I pay?
The preferred method is online payment via PayPal. Details of which will be provided on each invoice which is sent to you at the beginning of each half term..
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