It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for: your first term at university. Finally, a chance to be more independent; to make new friends and try new hobbies, and to have much more control over your academic journey.
However, for some students, the transition to higher education is less rose-tinted. The step up to university-level content can be challenging, as can adjusting to a new teaching style, like lectures. You might not feel prepared for independent learning – or you might now be learning in your second language.
That’s where private tuition can help. In this article, we’ll explore how private tutoring can help you, or a student you’re supporting, to overcome these challenges and reach your fullest academic potential at university.
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Why are students seeking private tuition at university?
It might seem strange to seek out private tuition at your new university – you are, after all, paying a considerable sum to be there in the first place. However, a 2018 survey by UNiDAYS reveals that as many as one in five undergraduates engage with private tutors, with two-thirds of 3,500 students surveyed reported using one-to-one tutoring. This number is estimated to be much higher post-pandemic, and here at Quintessentially Education, we’ve seen a 30% rise in the number of undergraduate students seeking private one-to-one support.
‘Working with a tutor or mentor can help students to navigate all of the many challenges university can throw at them – both inside and outside of lectures,’ says Quintessentially Education’s Head of Education, Jess Harris.
This could include:
Academic unfamiliarity.
Students can struggle with unfamiliar mark schemes, referencing styles, or independent learning – areas that might not have been addressed at school but that are key to success at university.
Time management issues.
Balancing a more loosely structured academic schedule with personal responsibilities can be challenging for many students.
Past reliance on teachers or tutors.
Students who had supportive teachers or tutors at school can feel off-track and overwhelmed without similar guidance and support at university.
Navigating opportunities.
Universities offer a myriad of societies and extracurriculars, and some students are unsure how to make the most of their experience.
Language barriers.
International students may struggle with subject content, assignments and academic writing styles, or adjusting to cultural norms.
Learning needs.
Students with a Student Support Plan (SSP) or additional learning needs can seek specialist support from their university, but many find further personalised support independently, too.
How the changing academic landscape impacts students’ learning
We’ve also seen a rise in demand for private tuition at university because of several external factors that have crept into place over the last few years:
The rise of AI.
Over half of UK undergraduates recently admitted to using AI to write essays, raising concerns about their ability to critically engage with their subject material and develop genuine academic skills. This reliance on technology, whilst convenient, risks undermining the core purpose of higher education: fostering critical thinking and deep understanding.
An increasingly competitive graduate job market.
With more employers seeking candidates who graduate with a 2:1 or higher, there is even more pressure on students to perform academically, struggle to manage the rigorous demands and expectations of university studies.
The lasting impact of Covid-19.
The pandemic caused widespread disruptions to students’ education, leaving many learners with significant gaps in their subject knowledge or study skills.
How private tutors can help with university-level content
Areas of weakness can be targeted and tackled.
Tutors help students to identify and target the material they struggle with, which can be challenging in a seminar or lecture with larger pupil-to-lecturer ratios. They can then tackle the challenging content in their own time and at their own pace.
Personalised lessons help inspire creative thinking.
Not everyone learns in the same way. That’s why private tutors provide personalised plans tailored to your learning style, offering fresh perspectives and creative methods of understanding complex topics. As a result, students often find it easier to engage with tricky academic material.
Lessons suit your schedule, not the other way around.
You might not learn best within working hours – or even face to face. And private tutors know this, which is why they tailor their lessons to each student’s needs and preferences. You could have sessions face to face in London, online anywhere in the world, or a travelling tutor could bring lessons to you during the holidays. Whether students are early birds or night owls, this flexibility ensures support is accessible wherever and whenever it is needed.
Support extends beyond the curriculum.
Tutors can guide students on how to make the most of their university experience outside the lecture hall. Whether identifying extracurricular opportunities, providing career advice, or developing effective time management strategies, experienced tutors can help students create a well-rounded approach to both academic and personal success.
How to pick the perfect private tutor
When it comes to selecting the right tutor, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. It’s a highly personal decision, as effective tuition depends on a tutor who is not only knowledgeable but also aligns with a student’s individual needs and learning style. Here are some key factors to consider when picking your perfect tutor:
Experience and expertise.
Look for a tutor with a strong background in their subject area. Tutors come from diverse professional backgrounds, including former teachers, lecturers, and subject specialists. It’s important to find someone whose qualifications and teaching experience match your academic goals.
Personality and rapport.
A positive working relationship between you and the tutor is essential, as a tutor’s ability to build trust and rapport can significantly impact confidence and motivation, and in turn, learning outcomes.
Learning style compatibility.
Consider the ways you learn best. Is it through visual aids, hands-on activities, discussions, or auditory instruction? Whatever your learning style, ensure a tutor can tailor their teaching methods to suit your preferences.
References and safeguarding.
Always check the tutor’s references and credentials. Enhanced DBS checks and rigorous screening, such as those undertaken by Quintessentially Education, ensure that tutors meet the highest professional standards.
Goal setting.
Clearly identifying academic or personal development goals is critical. A good tutor will help a student outline their objectives and create a roadmap to work towards goals.
Flexibility and format.
Consider whether online or in-person sessions work best for you. Online tuition offers convenience and access to a wider pool of tutors, whilst in-person lessons may suit those who value face-to-face interaction.
At Quintessentially Education, we pride ourselves on pairing students with the perfect tutor. With over 10 years of experience in providing tailored educational support, we’ve helped countless learners improve their university experience. Visit our website or contact a member of our team to learn how we can support you this semester.
