How much does private tutoring cost?

The cost of private tutoring varies depending on a number of factors. Tutoring as a profession requires no accreditation. This means, that anyone can say that they are a tutor, for any subject, and at any level. This is problematic for several reasons: Firstly. they may not have adequate subject knowledge, and secondly, they may not have the teaching skills and knowledge required.

Here is some information about different types of tutors and their approximate costs:

High School Graduates:
These tutors have finished high school in the last few years. They are likely to have knowledge in the subjects they are offering tutoring for. Many of them have received top grades in their VCE. However, they may lack teaching ability and may also struggle tutoring low achieving students. Many high achievers struggle to break concepts down to their basic components, as the understanding comes so naturally for them. High school graduates normally charge anywhere from $25-$50 per hour.

Undergraduate students, studying to become teachers:
These tutors are far more capable in their teaching capacity. Not only have they recently finished high school, they are currently studying to become teachers. They are learning about various teaching techniques and undertaking placements in schools. Undergraduate teachers cost between $40 and $70 per hour in my experience.

Qualified Teachers:
Qualified teachers having finished their teaching degree, specialising in one or two subjects. They may be employed within a public or private school. Qualified teachers have knowledge of a wide range of teaching techniques and up to date knowledge of the Victorian Curriculum and VCE curriculum. Qualified teachers are hard to find as tutors, as they are normally teaching in schools full time. They normally charge $60-$90 per hour.

Qualified Teachers with specialist knowledge:
This is the top pick for a tutor. Not only are these teachers qualified and experienced, but they have recent experience in the exact subject area you require help in. So, if you are struggling with Maths Methods for example, a tutor with specialist knowledge would have taught Maths Methods within the last few years. This gives them an in depth knowledge of the subject matter, an understanding of the exam structure and focus assessment areas. Specialist teachers generally charge $75-$100 per hour.

Of course, other factors also come in to play. As a tutor of many years, I also charge different amounts depending on my travel time. This is for two reasons. The first, is that my travel is causing wear and tear on my car, and I am using petrol, but the main reason is that I am not earning money in that time. Earlier this year, I was tutoring 5 students in one day, but it was taking 8 hours in total. When you only work for one hour at each place, travel is a significant factor.  Some tutors, who work from home, may charge less as they do not have to travel at all.

If you’d like to see improvement in your child, our recommendation is to spend a little extra to get an appropriately trained tutor who will be able to effectively teach all concepts and bring about understanding.  To find out about our maths tutors and costs, contact us today or click here to learn more!