We understand how difficult it is to find a qualified and experienced Physics tutor online. There are many services offering tuition and all look good at first sight. It is worth investing a little bit of time before you spend your  money on tuition though.

A Level Tuition in Physics or GCSE Physics: Tutor’s Qualifications To Look For

First things first, qualifications really matter. You wouldn’t want someone teaching you Physics who has not studied it themselves. Look for tutors with:

• • A degree in Physics or a related field. A solid academic background is a good start.

• • Teaching qualifications and/or experience. Just because someone offers tuition for Physics doesn’t mean they can teach it well. A teaching qualification or experience in teaching e.g. A Level Physics will show you, that they have been trained in how to explain things effectively.

• • Book a Free Consultation first. This will allow you to meet the tutor without any obligation. You can tell them what you need to learn, when your tests or exams are and you can ask them about their teaching approach, method etc.

It is also worth checking if they have a good understanding of specific exam boards, especially if you are aiming for a particular grade in your A-levels. BK Tutoring tutors even help students preparing for entry to university.

Specialisation In Exam Preparation, e.g. Higher Physics

Exams are a different beast altogether. It is not just about tutoring Physics; it is about knowing how to apply that knowledge under pressure. A tutor who specialises in exam preparation can help you with:

• • Exam techniques. They can teach you how to approach different types of questions, how to manage your time effectively, and how to avoid common mistakes. It is important to book a Free Consultation to discuss your exam goals.

• • Past papers.Scottish SQA or English AQA are just the two examples of exam authorities which publish their past papers online. Practising these is crucial for exam success, and a specialist tutor will have a wealth of experience in this area.

• • Revision strategies. They can help you create a revision plan that works for you and ensure that you cover all key topics. They can also share some exam revision tips for Maths or refer you to another tutor.

Evaluating Tutor Compatibility

Finding a tutor who is technically skilled is only half the battle. You also need someone who gels with your learning style and personality. Make sure you enjoy your lessons and do not worry about saying to the tutor if he/she is working too fast or too slow.

Understanding Different Teaching Styles

Tutors, like students, are not one-size-fits-all. Some are very structured, setting out a detailed plan and sticking to it religiously. Others are more flexible, adapting their approach based on your progress and questions. Some might focus on drilling practice questions, while others prefer explaining the underlying concepts in depth. Think about how you learn best. Do you prefer a strict, organised approach, or something more relaxed and conversational? Do you learn by doing, or by listening? Understanding your own preferences is key to finding a tutor whose teaching style complements your needs.

Importance Of A Personal Connection

It might sound a bit ‘out there’, but having a good rapport with your tutor can make a massive difference. If you feel comfortable and at ease, you are more likely to ask questions, admit if you are finding something particularly difficult and generally engage with the material. A tutor who understands your personality can also tailor their approach to keep you motivated and interested. You don’t need to become best mates, but you want to have a positive and supportive learning environment. To find the best tutors, it is therefore important to consider the personal connection.

Trial Sessions And Feedback

Before committing to a long-term arrangement, book a trial session if this is an option offered. This gives you a chance to see the tutor in action and get a feel for their teaching style. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and explain your learning goals. After the session, take some time to reflect on how it went. Did you feel comfortable? Did you understand the explanations? Did you feel motivated? Feedback is a two-way street. Let the tutor know what worked well and what could be improved. This initial period is crucial for establishing a strong foundation for effective tuition. Consider these points:

• • Was the tutor able to explain complex concepts in a way that made sense to you?

• • Did the tutor create a comfortable and supportive learning environment?

• • Did you feel like the tutor understood your learning goals and needs?

• • Was your tuition in Physics successful?

You don’t have to settle for someone who is ‘okay’. However, sometimes it takes two or three lessons to decide and this is also okay.