A tutoring agreement is a formal document that outlines the terms and conditions between a tutor and a client (the student or parent). It serves to clarify the expectations, responsibilities, and logistics of the tutoring arrangement.
Whether you’re a tutor or a parent seeking educational support, a Tutoring Agreement ensures that all aspects of the tutoring process are well-defined and documented.
Private Tutoring is Increasing in the UK
Private tutoring has become increasingly common in the UK, especially in recent years. Studies suggest that around 27% of young people in the UK have used a private tutor at some point during their education, with the numbers rising in areas like London. The figure is even higher for students preparing for key exams such as such as GCSEs and A-Levels.
The use of online tutoring has also surged, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift has made tutoring more accessible, allowing students to connect with tutors from all over the country, regardless of location.
The UK tutoring market is valued between £1-2 billion, with an average session costing around £38, though this can vary depending on the subject and level.
Tutoring Agreement Outlines Expectations
A tutoring agreement sets clear expectations for both the tutor and the student, including the scope of tutoring services, session frequency, and subject matter. This prevents misunderstandings and ensures both parties are aligned on what the tutoring will cover and how the sessions will be conducted.
- Payment: It defines payment details such as the cost per session, payment schedule, and accepted methods of payment. This protects both parties by ensuring transparency regarding the financial aspects and prevents disputes over fees or missed payments.
- Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies: The agreement typically includes a policy on cancellations and rescheduling, specifying how much notice needs to be given and whether any fees apply for last-minute cancellations. This helps tutors manage their time effectively and ensures students commit to the scheduled sessions.
- Confidentiality: A tutoring agreement often includes a confidentiality clause to protect the student’s personal and academic information. This is especially important when working with younger students or when sensitive academic records are involved.
- Liability and Termination: The agreement can cover liability limits and outline the terms under which the tutoring relationship can be terminated by either party. This is crucial in the event of non-payment, inappropriate behaviour, or dissatisfaction with the services provided.
- Legal Protection: For both tutors and clients, the agreement offers legal protection by serving as a written record of the terms and conditions agreed upon. Should any disputes arise, this document provides a reference point for resolving issues in a clear and professional manner.
Things NOT to Include to a Tutoring Agreement
In a tutoring agreement, certain clauses or expectations should be avoided to maintain fairness and realism.
- Unrealistic Guarantees of Success: Avoid clauses that guarantee specific outcomes, such as promising that a student will achieve top grades or pass a particular exam. A tutor can provide guidance and support, but the student’s success ultimately depends on their effort, learning ability, and other factors beyond the tutor's control.
- Unlimited Availability: Do not include promises of 24/7 availability for tutoring or support outside agreed-upon hours. Tutors need to set clear boundaries for their availability, and unlimited access is not practical or sustainable.
- Excessive Sessions Without Compensation: An agreement should not require the tutor to offer extra sessions, support, or tutoring without additional compensation. This includes requests for homework help outside scheduled sessions or free extra hours of tutoring.
- Non-Compete Clauses: It is not common or appropriate to include non-compete clauses in a tutoring agreement, such as restricting the tutor from offering services to other students in the same area or school. Tutors typically work with multiple clients, and such clauses may be unreasonable and unenforceable.
- Penalties for Student Performance: The tutor should not be penalised financially or otherwise if the student does not achieve a specific grade or performance level. Success is influenced by many factors, including the student’s dedication and external circumstances, making such penalties unfair.
- Inflexible Cancellation Terms: The agreement should not include overly rigid cancellation policies, such as charging full fees for cancellations without adequate notice. Reasonable and fair notice periods (e.g., 24 or 48 hours) should be set to balance both parties' needs.
Creating a Tutoring Agreement
This basic template includes all the essential elements of a tutoring agreement. It can be tailored further to suit specific preferences or legal requirements based on the tutor-client arrangement.
Tutoring Agreement
This Tutoring Agreement ("Agreement") is made and entered into on [Date], by and between:
- Tutor: [Tutor's Name], located at [Tutor's Address]
- Client: [Client's Name], located at [Client's Address]
1. Scope of Services
The Tutor agrees to provide tutoring services to the Student, [Student's Name], in the subject(s) of [Subject(s)].
- Start Date: [Date]
- Session Frequency: [e.g., Weekly, Biweekly]
- Session Length: [Duration of each session, e.g., 1 hour]
- Location: [In-person location or online platform]
2. Payment Terms
The Client agrees to pay the Tutor [Rate] per session. Payments are to be made via [Payment Method] and will be due [Payment Schedule, e.g., after each session, monthly].
- Late Fees: [Specify if any, e.g., "A £10 late fee will apply if payment is more than 7 days late."]
- Additional Fees: [List any extra fees, e.g., for materials.]
3. Cancellation and Rescheduling
If the Client or Student needs to cancel or reschedule a session, at least [Specify notice period, e.g., 24 or 48 hours] notice is required. If adequate notice is not provided, the full session fee will still be charged.
- Tutor Cancellations: If the Tutor must cancel, they will give [Notice Period] and arrange a rescheduled session or provide a refund for that session.
4. Tutor Responsibilities
The Tutor agrees to:
- Provide lessons tailored to the Student’s individual needs.
- Arrive on time for all sessions.
- Maintain confidentiality regarding the Student’s academic performance and any personal information.
5. Student Responsibilities
The Student agrees to:
- Be on time and prepared for each session with the required materials.
- Complete any assignments or homework given by the Tutor.
- Notify the Tutor of any changes in schedule or issues with understanding the material.
6. Confidentiality
Both parties agree to keep the details of this Agreement and the Student's personal and academic information confidential, unless written consent is given for disclosure.
7. Termination
Either party may terminate this Agreement by providing [Notice Period, e.g., one week] written notice. The Client will be responsible for any outstanding fees up to the termination date.
8. Limitation of Liability
The Tutor will not be held liable for any indirect, special, or consequential damages arising out of this Agreement. The Tutor's total liability shall not exceed the fees paid for tutoring services under this Agreement.
9. Entire Agreement
This Agreement constitutes the entire understanding between the parties regarding tutoring services and supersedes all prior agreements.
Signatures
Tutor’s Signature
Date: [Date]Client’s Signature
Date: [Date]
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