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What is the true cost of hiring a tutor? A Guide to Cost and Pricing (Click here to go straight to the bottom of this page for our fee structure) Investment in education and training is an investment for life with long-term benefits. If anything like us, you may still be undertaking training courses CPD opportunities yourself! So, as you consider employing our services, this cost and pricing guide will help you develop an initial budget and plan for your child's learning journey. If you have done even a tiny bit of research, you will know the true cost of getting a tutor can vary depending on several factors such as: - the tutor's experience and qualifications, - the subject matter/specialist area - the level of qualification, - the duration of the sessions, - the location, - the type of 'program' - the delivery method - the frequency of the sessions. There are lot's of options when it comes to additional support, all with pro's and con's which depend on your own personal requirements and budget. Although a 1:1 tutor, who can provide personalised tuition and tailor a unique learning pathway is the preferred solution for most people, the costs can vary massively. Typically, qualified tutors usually charge between £30 - £90 (note I haven't put per hour as although most tutors do 1 hour sessions with the student, the price you pay also includes additional costs for example: time planning, preparing resources and travel where applicable) So what are your options? - Tuition Companies: Personally matching vetted tutors with students, with you for the whole journey, providing support to parents, students and tutors to ensure continuous standards of provision and most effective use of time, Can sometimes be slightly more expensive due to the additional service and peace of mind that everything is taken care of for you. Many tutors choose to work through companies to streamline their services and have all the administration, marketing, legal obligations and payment processing taken care of. - Tuition Agencies: A directory of tutors, anyone can list themselves as a tutor and it's up to you to pick who you think is suitable and carry out checks to validate them. Many tutors offer a free trial lesson which can be a positive but could also waste valuable time if you need to have 5 or 6 unproductive free trials to find the right tutor. Tutors set their own rates which can be anything from £10 - £90 depending on their experience although this is up to you to verify. (remember, if something looks too cheap, there is often a reason for it). Agencies can charge tutors anything from 10% - 30% of their income through their sites. - Study Guides, Revision Books: A very cost effective and convenient option. An excellent revision tool but provide only a superficial understanding of topics. They also require students to be very self-motivated and independent learners. Usually between £5 - £30, there is a wide selection to accommodate different exam boards, literary works and skills. - Local study centres: These vary greatly in type of provision and cost too. Some have qualified staff delivering high quality personalised tuition to small groups, others have unqualified staff overseeing students working through a computer program. The costs of these vary considerably between £30 and £400 per month (usually payable in advance and regardless of whether you can make the sessions or not) so please ensure you research them individually to make sure it's right for your child and that you can get them to the centre regularly. - Online courses / programs: Very convenient but often very costly and will cover the whole course, ideal if this is your only method of study as most come with online tutor support. Some may come with accreditation but any statutory exams will still need to be sat as an independent student in a registered centre. Not an effective use of time or money if you need to plug gaps in learning or need to know where your gaps in knowledge are, although some courses do allow you to flick back and forth to individual lessons, allowing you more control over your learning pathway. and rate of progress. There are so many variations and options, ensure you check that the provision is right for your child, if necessary, check with your child's teacher to ask for advice as to whether it's worth investing in. - Free online resources: They are FREE! (we all love free stuff right?) Lot's of the exam boards have some great resources and past papers on their websites now, however, unless you are very specific and know where your gaps in knowledge are a you can waste a lot of time and energy searching for internet for the right resources (many of which are very poor quality and not targeted to what you need). Do speak to your child's school as they may already be paying for systems which your child can access for free outside of school and in addition to homework (they may also be providing lunch, or after school clubs which your child has forgot to mention to you). Ultimately, your decision will depend on your child's individual needs, their learning style, your personal circumstances, time available to co-ordinate everything yourself, ability to travel, access to the internet, other commitments and your budget. The above options range from an investment of a few £'s to £1000's, so when thinking of the true cost of a tutor it is important to be clear about what you want so you can effectively use both time and money to maximise timely results. Here is a summarised comparison table which may help in your decision making. Our Tuition Fees With Making the Grade you can be sure your child's tuition is in good hands, from initial assessment throughout their learning journey, everything is taken care of for you. All tutors are fully vetted, subject specialists, professional, trustworthy, and kept up to date with Examination Boards and current curriculum requirements. Your child's progress will be tracked, monitored and assessed regularly. Due to the nature of the services we offer, prices are calculated on a number of factors personal to you so please get in touch to discuss your personal package. As a rough guide however, prices range from £35 - £75 depending on the option chosen. Group tuition starts from £18. Give us a call Face to face lessons do include a surcharge due to the limited availability of tutors able to travel due to additional time and expenses. These will be calculated on an individual basis. Lessons are booked and paid for on a half termly basis. Payment for the half term is due on or before the first day of term. All lessons will include: 60 minute 1:1 sessions, All additional time spent planning, preparation of personalised session content/resources and homework material, Use of our systems to access lessons, recordings and resources, All associated administration costs to ensure consistency and quality of provision, Individual lesson reports allowing you to comment and liaise with the tutor Entrance Exams Small Group Tuition Home-schooling Test Prep Still unsure? Call and have a chat or take our online assessment to see if a tutor is the right path for your child.

Small Group Online Tuition We understand that different students have varying preferences and learning styles, so in addition to our 1:1 online tuition, we offer small group tuition where students can benefit from collaborative learning in a supportive environment. Although 1:1 is hugely effective, small group tuition can be equally as beneficial for some students whilst keeping the costs down for parents. As with all our advice and guidance, this page outlines some of the benefits and drawbacks to group tuition and is here to assist you in making an informed decision for your child's educational needs. Please contact us and have a chat if you have any questions or wish to discuss your child's individual requirements. Benefits of Group Tuition Collaboration and Peer Learning: Small group tuition provides students with the opportunity to collaborate with their peers and engage in interactive learning experiences. Working alongside others who share similar academic goals can foster a supportive and motivating environment. Students can learn from one another, exchange ideas, and develop teamwork and communication skills. Enhanced Engagement and Participation: In small group settings, students often feel more comfortable actively participating in discussions and activities. The smaller class size allows for increased interaction with the tutor, promoting a higher level of engagement. Students can ask questions, share their thoughts, and benefit from personalized attention while still benefiting from the social dynamics of a group. Different Perspectives and Ideas: When students come together in a small group, they bring different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. This diversity of ideas can enrich the learning process, exposing students to various viewpoints and approaches to problem-solving. It encourages critical thinking and expands their understanding of the subject matter. Cost-Effective Option: Compared to 1:1 tuition, small group tuition can be a more cost-effective option for parents. By sharing the session cost among a small number of students, the overall expense per student is reduced while still providing high-quality instruction. This makes small group tuition an attractive choice for families seeking personalized attention within a budget. Whilst Group Tuition is a suitable option for some students it does have it's drawbacks for others. Reduced In dividual Attention: In small group tuition, the tutor's attention is divided among multiple students. While tutors strive to provide individualised support, it may not be as extensive as in 1:1 tuition. Students may receive slightly less one-on-one time with the tutor, which could impact their ability to address specific learning needs or challenges. Differences in Pacing and Learning Styles: Students within a small group may have varying learning paces and styles. This diversity can create challenges in terms of accommodating individual needs and preferences. Our groups are carefully constructed to ensure all students are working at the same level and Tutors strive to strike a balance to ensure the material is covered effectively and tailored to the group's collective understanding. Group Dynamics: Small group tuition relies on positive group dynamics for optimal effectiveness. While collaboration is encouraged, occasionally, group dynamics may hinder the learning process. Conflicting personalities or different levels of participation can impact the overall experience. We aim to prevent this as much as possible and Tutors play a crucial role in managing and fostering a harmonious learning environment. Limited Flexibility: Small group tuition follows a strict schedule which may limit flexibility for students with busy schedules or varying commitments. Unlike 1:1 tuition, if a student is unable to attend the lesson will still take place and cannot be rescheduled. Book a FREE Consultation

Your Questions... Answered. How do you handle students with learning differences or special needs? We're committed to inclusive education and have tutors who are trained in working with students with a variety of learning differences and special needs. Many tutors have experience of dealing with a variety of learning needs in school settings and 1:1 tutoring, they use tailored teaching strategies and resources to cater to these students' unique learning styles and ensure they have a supportive and effective learning experience. The process of assessment during the enrolment will allow us to assess your child's individual needs and if for any reason we don't feel we are able to accommodate your child's needs we will certainly do our best to connect you with a person or company that can.

As students embark on their A-Level journey, navigating through the conventional subjects, there emerges a distinctive pathway that encourages autonomy, critical thinking, and in-depth exploration of personal interests—the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). In parallel, a counterpart in Wales, the Welsh Baccalaureate, shares some common threads while introducing its unique benefits to students' broader education and preparation for work or further study. What is the EPQ? The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) stands as an academic jewel, allowing students to venture beyond the boundaries of conventional subjects. Often undertaken in Year 12 or 13, it is a Level 3 qualification integrated into the A Level curriculum. What sets the EPQ apart is its essence—a self-driven project rooted in independent research and critical analysis. One defining characteristic of the EPQ is its hands-off approach. Students are entrusted with the responsibility of completing their projects independently, mirroring the self-directed nature of higher education and professional environments. While this nurtures invaluable skills, such as time management and autonomy, parents should gauge their child's readiness for the added responsibility. What are the benefits of doing the EPQ? Subject Freedom: One of the EPQ's virtues lies in its liberating embrace of subject matter. Students wield the power to choose a topic aligned with their passions, hobbies, or future aspirations. Whether it's dissecting the ethical implications of modern issues or exploring historical parallels, the EPQ is a canvas for intellectual exploration. Project Formats: The EPQ also offers diverse project formats, adding an element of creativity to academic pursuits. Students can opt for a traditional 5000-word essay, construct a tangible artifact, or curate a performance accompanied by a concise report. This diversity not only accommodates various learning styles but also invites students to express their ideas innovatively. Real-world Relevance: The real beauty of the EPQ lies in the preparation for life beyond academia. By emulating the challenges of university-level research and project management, the EPQ equips students with skills essential for navigating the complexities of the professional world. The Welsh Baccalaureate: A Companion in Exploration In Wales, students study the Welsh Baccalaureate at GCSE too, preparing them for either further study, training or employment. At A-Level, the Welsh Baccalaureate accompanies students on a journey that mirrors the ethos of the EPQ while standing out as an opportunity for a much broader experience with the different elements of the qualification. Subject Autonomy: Like the EPQ, the Welsh Baccalaureate encourages students to tread a path aligned with their interests. This holistic qualification integrates individual project work with a broader curriculum, fostering a connection between personal exploration and a comprehensive understanding of societal issues. Skill Cultivation: Beyond subject knowledge, both the EPQ and the Welsh Baccalaureate are conduits for skill development. Students immersed in these projects cultivate essential life skills, from effective time management and research prowess to resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. Maximising University Offers Both the EPQ and the Welsh Baccalaureate are recognised as Level 3 qualifications, akin to an AS-level. This recognition extends beyond academic merit, as universities often consider them valuable assets in the admissions process. Some institutions even extend dual offers—one without the EPQ or Welsh Baccalaureate and another that includes it. This flexibility can be a strategic advantage, offering students a nuanced approach to meet the entry requirements of competitive universities. The UCAS points awarded for the EPQ depend on the final grade obtained. A grade E will achieve 8 points and a final grade A, 28 points* which are comparable to the points awarded for an AS level. The UCAS points for the Welsh Baccalaureate are also calculated based on the overall grade achieved but carry a much higher value. The Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (ASCC), is graded in only 4 stages: - Pass: 40 points - Merit: 50 points - Distinction: 70 points - Distinction: (D*) 80 points The Welsh Baccalaureate often includes various components, including the Core Certificate and Additional Specialist Endorsement. The UCAS points are primarily awarded based on the achievement in the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate. Remember that these points contribute to the overall UCAS tariff score, which is considered by universities during the admissions process. Students can use these points to meet the entry requirements for their chosen university courses**. Beyond the realm of academic accolades, the EPQ and Welsh Baccalaureate cultivate essential skills for navigating the complexities of adulthood and the world of work. Let’s take a closer look at some of these skills: Independent Inquiry: Both qualifications champion the spirit of independent inquiry. Students are not merely consumers of information; they become creators, architects of their intellectual journeys. Time Management: Navigating these projects demands a keen sense of time management. Whether it's meeting deadlines or refining strategies, students emerge with a heightened awareness of the temporal dimensions of their work. Resilience and Adaptability: Challenges are inevitable, but it's in overcoming them that students truly grow. The EPQ and Welsh Baccalaureate present opportunities for students to navigate setbacks, fostering resilience and adaptability. Effective Communication: From crafting articulate reports to presenting findings, effective communication becomes second nature. These skills are not confined to academia but become invaluable assets in professional and personal spheres. In essence, as students consider their opportunities, the EPQ and Welsh Baccalaureate stand as gateways to a different educational experience—one that not only enriches their understanding of subjects but also cultivates skills essential for a future of limitless possibilities. Whether it's a deep dive into personal passions or an exploration of societal complexities, these qualifications empower students to be architects of their own academic journeys, preparing them not just for university admissions but for the ever-evolving landscape of life beyond the classroom. *UCAS points and qualifications are subject to updates, so it's always advisable to check the latest information on the official UCAS website or with relevant educational authorities. **Always check with the latest UCAS guidelines and the specific requirements of the universities you are interested in for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Bringing the Festive Cheer to Learning with Making-the-Grade. As we dive into the season of nativity plays, festive melodies, and winter wonderlands, the joy of learning doesn't have to take a back seat. At Making-the-Grade, we believe that every holiday experience is a learning opportunity, contributing to your child's confidence and well-being. So, how about blending the holiday magic with a sprinkle of education? Here are a few fun activities to weave some educational magic into your Christmas celebrations. 1. Crafting Christmas Decorations: Fine Motor Skills Unleashed! Gather around the table, and let the creative juices flow. Crafting Christmas decorations and cards is not just about decking the halls; it's about honing those fine motor skills. Crafting is a fantastic way to enhance a variety of abilities at any age! 2. Letters to Santa: The Art of Persuasion! Encourage your little ones to pen down their Christmas wishes. Writing a letter to Santa isn't just an exercise in wishlist creation; it's an excellent opportunity to understand the art of letter writing. For the older kids, challenge them to draft a persuasive letter to the "buyer" of that super-expensive game console, in their own words explain what they have done this year to warrant such as gift! (Just be prepared to fulfil their wishes if the letter is compelling enough!) 3. Yuletide Baking: A Delicious Lesson in Measurements! Transform your kitchen into a festive learning zone. Baking delicious Christmas treats is a chance to revise calculations, weights, and measurements. Tailor the complexity of the baking process to suit different age groups. Younger ones can help with simple tasks like counting or identifying when the measurements are just right. Older kids can take charge, converting grams to ounces or experimenting with American recipes measured in cups. These activities are not just festive fun; they seamlessly connect with the school curriculum. They also serve as brilliant responses to the age-old question, "Why am I learning this?" The promise of delectable Christmas biscuits might just be the motivation your child needs! At Making-the-Grade, we believe that learning is a continuous journey, even during the merriest season of the year. You can download our Top 10 Ideas for Educational Christmas Activities on our Facebook Page @MakingtheGrade Wishing you a season filled with joy, laughter, and a touch of educational magic!

There's no getting away from it.. AI is everywhere and rapidly increasing. But it's not just changing the way we live and work but also shaping the future of education for our children. Does what our children learn in school now, still serve them for future learning or work? Do we need to adopt more innovative ways to develop the skills we need and recognise where to use the plethora of digital tools available to us? Is your child using AI for their studies? Do you actively encourage or discourage this and why? There was once a time we had to embrace the capabilities of the humble calculator... this didn't hinder our ability to learn Maths but enhanced it; as have so many other technological developments. So is our current curriculum truly attuned to the needs of our students in the age of artificial intelligence (AI)? The classics, once revered as educational cornerstones, now stand juxtaposed with the transformative capabilities of AI, prompting a re-evaluation of the essence and efficacy of our educational content. Consider the enduring presence of Shakespearean works within our classrooms. While these literary masterpieces undeniably enrich our cultural understanding, the question arises: In a world increasingly dominated by algorithms and data analytics, how pertinent is this to the practicalities of our digital age? Historically, education has been synonymous with rote memorisation, culminating in high-stakes exams. However, as technology and AI progresses, the emphasis shifts from memorising facts to cultivating critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In a digital era where information is omnipresent, the ability to analyse, evaluate, and apply knowledge emerges as more valuable educational skills. The traditional paradigm of exams as the sole measure of academic success is also under scrutiny. The real world demands skills beyond the ability to regurgitate information under pressure. Creativity, adaptability, and digital literacy are becoming the bedrock of the future workforce. An education system poised to meet these demands must transition from exam-centricity to prioritising practical, real-world skills. AI isn't just a tool; it's a game-changer. Learning to harness it's power and utilise it in the right way to analyse massive amounts of data, means we can focus on the actual tasks at hand, deciding where it's needed the most. Although this will enhance services offered by all industries, the application of this in mainstream schools will still be challenging. Imagine a world where mainstream education is tailored to each child’s unique needs. AI is helping us inch closer to that reality. From personalised learning platforms that adapt to a student's pace to virtual tutors providing extra support, AI is becoming a valuable tool in the education toolbox; marking a departure from the conventional one-size-fits-all approach. This shift holds the promise of maximizing each student's potential, fostering a dynamic and responsive learning environment. It may take several years yet to replace the human tutor with a virtual alternative that can get to know a child's personality, temperament and feeling towards their work not just the academic content, but for some it could be an alternative. Do We Still Need a Human Eye? Absolutely. AI might analyse data, but it can't understand the nuances of a child’s emotions, motivations, or struggles like a human teacher can. The personal touch, encouragement, and mentorship that teachers provide are irreplaceable. In addition to this, AI will have extreme difficulty in managing classroom behaviour, deciding how sick a child is feeling or orchestrating interactive discussion, debate, experiments and inspiring young learners with passion and excitement. One of the big questions is, will AI replace essential skills? The answer, I believe, is no. While AI can handle repetitive tasks and crunch numbers like a champ, it lacks the creativity, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking skills that humans bring to the table. It complements, not replaces, our unique capabilities and our curriculums should be reflecting this. The current curriculum will need to broaden its scope to encompass a diverse array of voices and experiences; preparing students for a globalised society. In this recalibration of education, the question isn't about dismissing tradition but about adapting it. AI presents an opportunity to redefine our educational approach, aligning it with the needs of the 21st century. It calls for an emphasis on skills, adaptability, and knowledge that equip students for a future where change is the only constant. The challenge is not only to keep pace with technological advancements but to lead the charge in preparing the next generation for a future where the traditional and the technological coalesce. As we navigate this intricate intersection of tradition and progress, our responsibility is clear: to provide an education that empowers students with the resilience and agility needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. Who knows when our education system will catch up? Will less relevant content ever be replaced to allow time for the development and study of additional skills? As we venture into this AI-powered future, rest assured that we're committed to a balanced approach. Of course we will leverage the benefits of AI to enhance learning experiences for our students; along with guiding them in the responsible and effective use of such tools using our expertise and experience to recognise its limitations. Supporting and guiding students through their academic journey's is just one way to support... recognising and helping them prepare for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow is a job for us all. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic, please feel free to share them in the comments. #curriculum #edchat #edtech #education #AI #teaching #edreform #tutor #learn #prepare