FAQ

Getting Started

Why do parents choose SHLC?

Our tutors are experienced subject specialists with a minimum of 5 years teaching or tutoring experience. We're selective about who teaches at SHLC, choosing tutors with strong subject expertise, clear explanations, and a proven record of results. We maintain consistently high standards through ongoing quality checks. Meet our tutors.

What subjects do you offer tutoring in?

We specialise in Maths, English, and Science, from SATs and 11+ to GCSE level. Our students are typically between 8 and 16 years old. Each tutor brings deep subject knowledge and teaching experience to help students build confidence and achieve their goals.

Do you offer a free trial or consultation?

Yes, we offer a free 15 minute consultation to discuss your child's needs and how we can help. There's no obligation, and it gives you a chance to meet your tutor and ask any questions before committing to regular sessions. Book your free consultation.

How much does tutoring cost?

One to one online lessons start from £40 per hour, with pricing based on level and exam focus (11+, SATs, or GCSE). Payment is made monthly in advance to cover your weekly sessions.

How do I book a tutoring session?

You can book a free consultation directly through our website, or contact us via email or phone to arrange a time that works for you.

Where does the tutoring take place?

All tutoring is conducted online, making it accessible and flexible for students anywhere. Whether you're in the UK or living abroad, your child can access expert tutoring from home.

How It Works

How do online classes work?

Our online lessons take place through a secure video platform with an interactive whiteboard that both tutor and student can use together in real time. During the session, your child and their tutor can write, draw, solve problems, and share documents on the whiteboard through screen sharing. After each lesson, students receive personalised homework based on their progress and the specific content they've been working on.

What equipment is required for online tutoring?

For Maths and Science:

• Microphone
• Scientific calculator
• Notepad (preferably square grid for maths, useful for diagrams and equations in science)

For English:

• Microphone
• Notepad
• Access to any set texts or books being studied

A webcam is preferable but not mandatory for lessons.

Do you provide group sessions or only one to one tutoring?

We focus on one to one sessions to provide a fully personalised learning experience and maximise your child's potential. This means lessons are tailored exactly to your child's needs, moving at their pace and focusing on areas where they need the most help.

Assessment and Progress

How will you assess my child in the first session?

The first session confirms your child's current level and highlights the quickest wins. We send a pre-session assessment and then assess further during the lesson. Together, we agree a goal for the term (11+ readiness, SATs confidence, GCSE grade improvement) and set a clear plan for lessons and practice.

What does my child's lesson look like week to week?

We start by building a clear picture of your child's level and what will help them make the biggest progress. We teach clear methods and practise questions live with immediate feedback, using 11+, SATs, or GCSE style questions as needed. Each session ends with a short recap and clear next steps.

Do you assign homework?

Yes, homework is an integral part of our tutoring to reinforce learning and ensure progress. Assignments are customised to your child's needs and typically take 30 minutes to an hour. As exams approach, additional homework may be assigned for targeted preparation.

How do you track progress and update parents?

We track performance against targets and keep notes on strengths, gaps, and priorities. Parents can receive short, clear updates showing what improved, what's next, and how the plan links to 11+, SATs, or GCSE requirements.

Scheduling

What are your availability hours?

Our schedule is fairly flexible, with most students taking lessons after school or on weekends. Please contact us to find a time that works best for you.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a session?

Sessions can be cancelled or rescheduled without issue with more than 24 hours notice. Cancellations or rescheduling with less than 24 hours notice can only be accepted in unforeseen circumstances. Refunds cannot be made for unattended sessions or cancellations within 24 hours unless a sufficient reason is provided.

What happens if I miss a session?

Missed sessions cannot be refunded unless cancellation was made with sufficient notice or a valid reason is provided.

Can I end my child's tuition?

Yes. If you wish to end tuition, let us know the desired end date and reason for cancellation. Any remaining prepaid sessions will still be provided.

Exam Preparation

Can online tutoring help me pass my exam?

Absolutely. Whether you need help with GCSE maths, 11+ entrance exams, or SATs, our tutors specialise in exam preparation. We use a proven and tried method, identifying weak areas, teaching exam techniques, and building your confidence with the material. With regular sessions and proper commitment to homework, students typically see significant improvements in their mock results and final grades. We also work through past papers to ensure you're fully prepared for exam day.

Can you help with last minute exam preparation?

Yes, we offer intensive sessions tailored to specific topics or challenges before exams. However, we recommend starting tuition at least three months prior to exams for the best results. Ideally, beginning at the start of the academic year provides the most significant opportunity to maximise grades.

Do you offer summer tutoring?

Yes, summer tutoring is a great way to catch up or get ahead before the next academic year. It's particularly useful for consolidating weak areas or preparing early for upcoming exams.

Additional Support

Do you work with students with special educational needs?

Yes, we adapt our approach to meet the individual needs of each student, including those with learning difficulties. Our one to one format allows us to tailor teaching methods and pace to suit your child's specific requirements.

What free resources do you offer?

We provide a range of free exam resources to support your child's learning, including past papers for AQA, Edexcel, and OCR exam boards. You can also access our YouTube channel for free GCSE maths tutorials, and check out our blog for exam tips and revision guides.

Payments

When and how do I pay for sessions?

Payment is made monthly in advance to cover your weekly sessions. The free initial consultation is completely free, and payments only start once you've decided to proceed with regular tutoring.

What payment methods do you accept?

Payments are made via bank transfer or other methods such as PayPal. Details will be provided upon registration.

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Still have questions? Book a free consultation and we'll talk you through everything