FAQ
Common Questions
Everything parents ask before booking. If your question is not here, the free consultation is the quickest way to get an answer.
Getting Started
Why do parents choose SHLC?
Every tutor at SHLC is a subject specialist with a minimum of five years teaching or tutoring experience. We vet carefully and keep the team small. Parents also value the structured approach: we assess first, build a plan around the actual gaps, then track and report on progress. Meet our tutors.
What subjects and ages do you cover?
Maths, English and Science for students aged 8 to 16. We cover 11+ preparation, SATs and GCSE. Each subject is taught by a specialist in that discipline.
Is there a free consultation?
A free 15-minute consultation is available before you commit to anything. It is a chance to talk through your child's situation, ask questions and understand what a programme would look like for them. Book a free consultation.
How much does tutoring cost?
One-to-one sessions start from £40 per hour. We also offer fixed sprint packages from £240 for a four-week block. Full monthly programmes start from £250 per month. View all packages.
How do I book?
Book a free consultation through the website, or message us on WhatsApp and we will arrange a time.
Are sessions online or in person?
All sessions are online via Google Meet. Your child joins from home. This works whether you are based in the UK or living abroad.
How It Works
What happens during an online session?
Sessions run via Google Meet with a shared interactive whiteboard. Your child and their tutor work through problems together in real time, writing, drawing and solving questions on screen. Personalised homework is set at the end of each session based on what was covered.
What does my child need for sessions?
Requirements vary slightly by subject:
Maths and Science
- Microphone
- Scientific calculator
- Squared notepad
English
- Microphone
- Notepad
- Set texts being studied
A webcam is useful but not required.
Are sessions one-to-one or group?
Standard programmes are one-to-one. We also offer Tutoring With Friends, where 2 to 5 students at a similar level share a session and split the cost. Find out more about Tutoring With Friends.
Assessment and Progress
What happens in the first session?
We send a short pre-session assessment before the first lesson, then continue assessing during the session itself. By the end, we have a clear picture of your child's current level, the gaps to address and a plan for the term ahead.
What does a typical session look like week to week?
The tutor teaches a method, works through questions live with your child and gives immediate feedback. Questions are matched to the exam format your child is preparing for. Each session ends with a short recap and clear homework for the week.
Is homework set after sessions?
Homework is set after every session and matched to what was covered. Tasks typically take 30 to 60 minutes. As exams get closer, the homework shifts to focused past paper practice.
How do parents get updates on progress?
Students on full monthly programmes receive a written progress report each month. Reports cover what improved, what is still being worked on and what the next sessions will focus on. They are written for parents, not just students.
Scheduling
When are sessions available?
Most students book after school or at weekends. We are flexible on timing. Contact us and we will find a slot that works.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Sessions can be cancelled or rescheduled without issue with more than 24 hours notice. Within 24 hours, rescheduling is only accepted in unforeseen circumstances. Refunds are not available for missed sessions or late cancellations unless a valid reason is provided.
What happens if my child misses a session?
Missed sessions are not refunded unless sufficient notice was given beforehand or a valid reason applies.
Can we stop tuition at any point?
Yes. Let us know your desired end date and we will confirm. Any remaining prepaid sessions will still be delivered in full before the end date.
Exam Preparation
How much improvement can my child realistically expect?
GCSE students typically improve two to three grades in three to seven months. The UK average is one grade per year. On the 11+ side, students have secured places at over ten selective schools including Merchant Taylors', Queen Elizabeth's and The Latymer School. Results depend on the student's starting point, consistency with homework and how much time there is before the exam. See GCSE results.
Can you help with last-minute preparation?
Intensive sessions focused on specific weak areas before exams are available. Starting at least three months before the exam gives the best results. Starting at the beginning of the academic year gives the most room to improve significantly.
Do you offer tutoring over school holidays?
Tutoring runs throughout the year including school holidays. We also offer Holiday Intensives: five sessions across one holiday week for a concentrated block of focused work. Find out more.
Additional Support
Do you work with students who have special educational needs?
The one-to-one format means we adapt pace and teaching method to suit each student individually. This includes students with learning difficulties. Raise any specific needs at the consultation and we will match your child with the most suitable tutor.
What free resources are available?
Free past papers for AQA, Edexcel and OCR are on the site. The YouTube channel has free GCSE Maths tutorials, and the blog covers exam tips and revision strategies. Browse all free resources.
Payments
When and how do I pay?
Payment is made monthly in advance to cover your weekly sessions. The free consultation has no cost. Payment starts only when you decide to go ahead with regular tuition.
What payment methods are accepted?
Bank transfer or PayPal. Full details are provided when you register.
Not sure if SHLC is right for your child?
Book a free 10-minute call. We will look at where your child is, what they are working towards, and give you an honest view of how we can help.
Want to find out more?
Book a free, no-obligation call with us today. Let us talk you through how we can help you and your family.