Is a tutor right for my child?
- David @ MyTutorElite
- Jun 25
- 2 min read
Expert Advice from MyTutorElite – Specialist in 11+ and ISEB Pre-Test Preparation
At MyTutorElite, I believe tutoring should be purposeful. Whether you’re trying to prepare your child for the ISEB Pre-Test, improve exam performance, or support a specific academic gap, having a clear objective is key. Without one, hiring a private tutor might not be necessary. If you’re unsure about the reason for getting a tutor, it’s possible your child simply doesn’t need one yet.
When Do Families Use a Tutor?
Here are some of the most common situations where parents turn to MyTutorElite for expert tuition:
Year 3 tutoring: To ensure your child is ready for prep school assessments and early interview preparation.
Year 5–6 tutoring: For 11+ exam preparation, grammar school entrance exams, or the ISEB Pre-Test for selective independent schools. These usually assess English, maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning.
Year 6 tutoring: To build strong foundations in KS2 English and maths before the Key Stage 2 SATs.
Common Entrance exam help: Especially in traditionally difficult subjects like Latin, science, or algebra.
GCSE tuition: For targeted support in specific subjects to raise predicted grades.
Following a poor report or exam result: To regain confidence and close learning gaps.
Post-illness or family disruption: When your child needs help catching up after time off school.
Learning difficulties: If you suspect or have a diagnosis of a special educational need, such as dyslexia or ADHD.
When NOT to Hire a Tutor
It may seem counterintuitive for a tutor to say this, but there are actually some cases where tutoring is unnecessary or even unhelpful:
Children under 5: No formal academic testing takes place before this age. Schools focus on how a child plays, listens, and socialises—not on academic performance. Tutoring for toddlers or preschoolers is unnecessary, and parents should be wary of services that promote it.
Over-coaching for reasoning tests: Listen to the school and your tutor. More and more tuition isn't always the answer.
Following the crowd: Parents often hire tutors because “everyone else is.” But effective tutoring should be goal-led, not trend-driven. If there’s no clear academic need, the pressure can be counterproductive.
Do This Before You Book a Tutor
Sometimes, a dip in school performance isn’t about ability—it’s about wellbeing. Before searching for a tutor, try these simple but powerful strategies:
Establish a bedtime routine: Tired children can’t focus well.
Regular meals: A hungry brain doesn’t retain information.
Limit screens: Shut down devices at least an hour before bedtime.
Support learning at home: Read together and casually go through a few maths problems or comprehension tasks.
At MyTutorElite, I always encourage a balanced approach. Play, sleep, reading, and conversation at home are just as vital to academic success as formal tuition.

The MyTutorElite Promise
My goal is not to tutor every child, but to provide exceptional tutoring where it is truly needed. I specialise in:
ISEB Pre-Test preparation
Quest Assessment preparation
11+ grammar school and independent school entrance
Private school assessments
Interview support and coaching
Key Stage 2 SATs tutoring
Expert advice for children with learning needs
I'm here to help your child reach their potential—with clarity, purpose, and care.
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