These are the most common FAQs we’re asked about private tutoring in Latin, Greek, and Classics. If you have any other questions, please get in touch using the Contact page.
What are the advantages of private Classics tutoring?
Whether or not you have already started studying Latin, Greek, or Classics, there are huge advantages to 1:1 tutoring. We find that private tutoring allows the best possible relationship to be built up between teacher and student. We learn how to engage best with you on an individual basis and to meet your personal needs. The 1:1 relationship gives you the confidence to ask and answer questions without the pressure of a classroom. Progress in tutoring is usually faster than in a school or university setting. We can also slow things down and explain any elements you find challenging, according to your required pace. Tutoring can support study at school or university. We can explain difficult aspects in a way that works for you. If your school doesn’t offer Classical subjects, you can study independently with us. We aspire to give everyone access to Classics.
How much does it cost?
Our prices for 1:1 tutoring generally range from £40 to £60 per hour. The exact price would depend on the subject and level. It may be affected by whether you are learning with a tutor exclusively, and the method of delivery. However, we aim to make Classics as accessible as possible to everyone. If you are on a low income, we may be able to offer tutoring at a reduced rate. Please contact us with details of your situation and what sort of tutoring you are looking for. We will then be able to let you know the price per lesson.
How long is a lesson?
Our lessons are usually an hour long. However, shorter lessons may be more appropriate for younger children. In certain circumstances, such as summer holiday or other intensive learning, we may be able to offer longer lessons.
How many lessons will I need?
The number of lessons you will need per week will vary according to your particular needs. For support with learning at school we usually recommend one lesson per week for a minimum of one term. GCSE and A Level courses are usually taught over two years, though may be done intensively; this usually requires between 2 and 4 lessons per week, depending on level, prior knowledge, and overall course length. Please contact us and we will make recommendations based on your personal situation.
Which tutor will I get?
We all tutor the same subjects, but we do have different specialisms. You can learn more about each of us on the About Us page. You may request a particular tutor. We would be honest if we felt you would be better off with the other tutor. Our availability and capacity will also vary, and we will offer the tutor who would best meet your needs.
Can you enter me for a GCSE or A Level exam?
We’ll prepare you for GCSE or A Level, but you’ll need to find a centre to enter you for the exam. If you’re currently in school, your school should be able to enter you for the exam. In other circumstances, we can make suggestions on how to find an exam centre.
Can you provide reports on my child’s progress?
We will always communicate with you regularly to let you know how your child is progressing. While we don’t usually provide formal reports like a school, we can provide termly written updates if you require them.
What about safeguarding?
We take safeguarding extremely seriously, stay up to date with training and guidelines, and always make sure that appropriate measures are in place when teaching children. Ideally, a parent would be present in the background during all lessons with children. Where this is not possible, we will discuss with you other safeguarding measures. A copy of Enhanced DBS certificates is available on request.
Do you teach adult learners?
Many of us have experience teaching adult learners, both from scratch and returning to subjects learned many years before. This has included entering adults for formal qualifications and supporting university applications. We believe it is never too late to learn something new!
What is your teaching style?
We always tailor our teaching to each individual student’s needs. However, there are some fundamentals we believe must be in place for success. When teaching Latin and Greek, we begin with securing grammatical understanding as the bedrock of understanding. In Classical Civilisation, we bring together the core understanding of background with analysis of sources. We always encourage a lot of discussion. Our lessons are very interactive, with a lot of oral learning. We use the chat function and shared files to share ideas and answers. Extended written exercises will usually be set as homework, alongside weekly revision of the topic covered. We always welcome feedback on what works for you, and will adjust our teaching as required.
Can I have a trial lesson?
We would always recommend a trial lesson. It is important that you’re comfortable with a tutor and that we can provide what you are looking for. We may be able to offer a trial lesson at a reduced rate, so please contact us to enquire further.
How do I pay for lessons?
Our tutors are all Sole Traders. Payment is by bank transfer to the tutor with whom you’re learning, payable by the day of the lesson.
Will I need to buy any books?
If you’re learning with a particular textbook already, we’ll use this as the basis of learning. We’ll supplement this with our own materials. If you are learning exclusively with us, we’ll let you know which books to buy. The cost of books depends on your level and any qualification you wish to take. It will generally be between £20 and £100. However, second hand copies of many books are widely available. We will also provide extra resources free of charge as part of your lessons.