Do you have to be a certified teacher in order to become a private tutor?

Question

I'm currently in school majoring in Education and I also currently working in a public school environment, I enjoy it very much, but I prefer to run my own business like giving private lessons to those students who are homeschooling, who need extra help in certain subjects they are falling behind in school....etc.

If so how do I start to get clients for this type of business.

I really appreciated for all the help I can get.

Thanks!

Answer 1

No. However, many top tutoring agencies in my metro area require either a license or a certain number of years experience. Parents go for either.

To obtain clients, send out emails to the public and private school teachers in your area (who teach the subjects you'd be able to tutor in). Teachers are often asked where students can get a tutor. Posting ads around town (bookstores, coffeehouses) as well as in the paper and Craigslist are all ways to get your name out there. Word of mouth, of course, is the tried and true method, But that's virtually out of control.

The other option is to start a website about your tutoring services in the hope that your future clients will google "tutoring".

Answer 2

No, I just go done doing private tutoring.  Although I am a teacher, it's up to the parents.  Some prefer a certified teacher and some don't care as long as you know how to help.  Put an add on the paper.

Answer 3

No, you do not have to be certified to be a tutor; however, by having proper certification and a degree you will be able to charge more for your services.   You get clients in the beginning by notifying all schools in your area that you are in business; you may even host an "open house" at your place of business so you can network with teachers (Slyvan Learning Centers do this).  You will also want to advertise in the local newspaper and be sure to get a phone number for your business; once you're in the Yellow Pages, that will help you as well.  You may also decide to advertise on the Internet, but my experience tells me your best advertising is "word-of-mouth"... once you establish a good reputation, people will seek you instead of you seeking them.  I would try to keep your advertising expenses to a minimum.  Sometimes a newspaper ad is all you need to get started.  Perhaps something like: Private tutor available; reasonable rates.  Call 123-4567.

Answer 4

I'm not sure, but I don't think so, because parents can home school their children without any qualifications. Teaching experience would definitely help though

Answer 5

Although you don't need to be a certified teacher to be a private tutor, it can be hard to establish a name. I suggest starting to ask friends if they know anyone with younger siblings who could use a hand. Start with low fees and then ask for more as you gain a reputation.

To further increase your client pool, go to a satisfied client's school and ask if you can be put on the morning announcements. Some schools will refuse, but if you are polite, most will at least give you a spot on their message board. (People actually do read the message boards.)