Who is Adrian Beckett?
I’m Adrian Beckett. I tutor Maths and I’ve been teaching/tutoring for the last 5 years. I first started tutoring 2 years ago, working for a few agencies but after a shortwhile I realised I wanted to work for myself. Having a middleman (the agency) just meant I got less money and a less satisfied family because they paid more and couldn’t speak directly to the tutor, before employing them.
How has Adrian Beckett been doing?
Pretty good. I love my work. I earn a decent living and work less hours than most, which allows me to have complete flexibility over my hours, days of work and holidays. Since leaving teaching and moving into tutoring I’ve found that I’ve got a lot more time: I read more, do more sport, see friends and family etc.
Who would you recommend tutoring for?
Anyone really. I guess tutoring is suitable for people from all walks of life: students, pensioners, teachers, career changers….. For some people, it’s a way of pursuing your dream . For some, it’s a way of funding your studies at uni – not a bad way to do it, tutor the subject you love and learn some life skills. For some, it’s a way to spend your last working years, making a difference to young people’s lives (I kind of imagine myself doing this when I’m older too). The possibilities are endless.
What qualities do you need to be a tutor?
You need to be a bunch of stuff but the most important thing is this - nurture the person you are working for. You need to laugh with your students, sing more, play more games, get to know them better…. Tutoring is so much more complicated than we think… but at the same time, it’s quite simple too and comes down to basic simple human values. The more human you are, the more learning takes place. It’s wonderful when it does, I love it – it’s uplifting and inspiring.
I’m a little worried about getting work at the beginning. How should I get started?
Ideally, you want to get work directly from advertising on websites. The biggest plus is it’s cheap. You get the most exposure for the least amount of pennies. At the beginning though, whilst you build up your presence on the web you might want to consider advertising locally at libraries, cafes, local schools etc. You can also register with agencies in London. You can find a list of agencies at the goodschoolsguide.
I don’t have any experience. I’m worried I won’t be any good at it.
That’s okay. You are going to be learning at the beginning. You may find you are better when you are starting out as you are fresh, keen and bursting with new ideas. Charge low to start with, get to find your feet and as you get more experienced you can start to charge more
Where can I find resources for tutors?
Check out my resources soon.
What else do you recommend?
Answer enquiries as soon as possible and ask families, if it is a suitable time to talk when you call.
Look casual and presentable. For a while, I wore a shirt and trousers but realised this was only for the parent’s benefit. The more casual you are, the more comfortable your student will be
Plan your classes but be flexible and completely adapt to your student and their needs.
Remember you are entering someone’s home – an intimate and personal space. Tread carefully.
Arrive on time for classes. Plan your route beforehand and maybe, let the family know in advance that you may arrive a little late for the first one.
Can I advertise on your site?
Sure, I’d love to get you registered. Contact me.