Tutoring Rates: What UK Tutors Earn and How to Set Your Price
If you’re thinking about becoming a private tutor or hiring one, the first question is always the same – how much should you charge? In the UK, tutoring rates can swing from £15 an hour for a beginner helping a primary pupil to over £80 an hour for a specialist preparing A‑level candidates. The right price sits somewhere in the middle and depends on a few clear factors.
Factors that Influence Tutoring Prices
Experience is the biggest driver. A brand‑new tutor fresh out of university will usually start at the lower end of the scale, while someone with five or more years of proven results can ask for premium rates. Subject matter matters too – maths, physics and languages often command higher fees than topics with broader supply.
Location plays a role. Tutors in London and other major cities tend to charge more because of higher living costs and greater demand. If you offer online sessions, you can usually set a slightly lower price, but you also broaden your market, which can offset the difference.
Group lessons lower the hourly rate per student. A tutor might charge £120 for a two‑hour group of three learners, which works out to £40 per hour per child. One‑on‑one sessions stay more expensive because the tutor’s full attention is on a single student.
Qualifications add credibility. Holding a relevant degree, a teaching certification, or specific exam results (like the GCSE or A‑level grades you helped a student achieve) lets you justify a higher fee.
How to Choose the Right Rate for You
Start by researching local listings. Sites like Tutorful, First Tutors or even local school bulletin boards give a snapshot of what others charge. Aim to set a price that feels competitive but still respects your time and expertise.
Calculate your costs. Factor in travel, materials, taxes and any platform fees if you’re using a tutoring marketplace. If you need to travel to a student’s home, add a small mileage allowance – £0.30 per mile works well.
Test the market. Offer a trial lesson at a modest rate, like £20‑£25 an hour, and gauge the student’s reaction. If they’re happy with your teaching style, you can raise the price for subsequent lessons.
Be transparent. Clearly list what’s included – lesson plans, homework checks, progress reports – so parents understand the value they’re getting. Many tutors bundle a short email summary after each session, and they can charge a little extra for that service.
Finally, revisit your rates every six months. As you gain success stories, updated qualifications or new subject expertise, it’s fair to adjust your pricing. Consistent, honest communication keeps clients happy and your income growing.
Whether you’re starting out or looking to boost your earnings, understanding these basics helps you set a fair tutoring rate that matches the quality you provide. Happy tutoring!
