How to become an English tutor

English tutoring covers reading, comprehension, spelling, grammar, vocabulary and writing for different purposes. It's about helping students understand what they read and express their own ideas clearly.

Skills employers look for

• Strong reading and writing skills and a good grasp of grammar
• The ability to give feedback that is specific and kind
• Patience with reluctant readers and writers
• Creativity in finding texts and prompts students care about
• Familiarity with the kinds of tasks students meet at school, such as persuasive, narrative and analytical writing

Helping reluctant writers

A blank page can be intimidating. Break writing into stages: talk about ideas first, plan together, then write one paragraph at a time. Focus feedback on one or two improvements per piece so it feels achievable, and always point out what's working.

Getting started

1. Decide which year levels suit you, from early literacy to senior English.
2. Gather examples of your own writing or study achievements.
3. Highlight any experience with young people on your CV.
4. Apply for English tutor jobs near you.
5. Prepare to explain how you'd build a student's confidence in writing.