For most children who need targeted help, yes - the evidence says tuition works. The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) estimates that small-group tuition adds about four months' additional progress over a year, and one-to-one tuition about five months. Tuition works best when it targets a child's specific gaps and is linked to what they are learning in school. Whether it is worth it for your family depends on your child's needs, the quality of the tuition and the cost.
What the evidence says
- Small-group tuition: about +4 months' progress on average; "most likely to be effective if it is targeted at pupils' specific needs"; diagnostic assessment helps target it. (EEF)
- One-to-one tuition: about +5 months' progress on average; "more likely to make an impact if it is additional to and explicitly linked with normal lessons". (EEF)
- Group size: the smaller the better, with a noticeable drop in effectiveness once groups go above six or seven. (EEF)
- Who gets tutoring: 29% of secondary pupils in England and Wales have had private tutoring at some point, rising to 45% in London; 23% of pupils from the worst-off households compared with 30% from the best-off. (Sutton Trust, 2026 report)
When tuition is most worth it
- Your child has a specific gap (times tables, reading fluency, a GCSE topic).
- A key assessment is coming: SATs, 11+ or GCSEs.
- Confidence has dropped and they need a calmer place to ask questions.
- School has flagged that they are working below the expected standard.
When it may not be
- If it replaces sleep, play and rest; little and often usually beats long sessions.
- If it is not linked to school or to clear goals.
- If the child has no specific need - consider short-term support instead.
How to judge whether tuition is working
Ask for an initial assessment, agree two or three goals, and review them after a set period (for example a half term). Look for school reports, test scores and your child's confidence.
Is small-group tuition worth it compared with one-to-one?
The EEF says both are effective, and that the cost-effectiveness of small groups "indicates that greater use of this approach may be worthwhile". At Learning Cubs, standard groups have up to 6 children at £10 an hour, and 11+ groups have 4 at £15 an hour. See how much tuition costs.
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Frequently asked questions
Is tuition worth it?
For children who need targeted help, the evidence suggests it is: the EEF estimates small-group tuition adds about four months' progress over a year and one-to-one about five months.
Does small-group tuition work?
Yes. The EEF finds small-group tuition adds about four months' progress on average, and is most effective when targeted at a child's specific needs.
Is 11+ tuition worth it?
It can help children become familiar with the test format and close gaps, but every child is different. A free assessment helps you decide.
How long does it take for tuition to work?
It depends on the child and the goal. Agree clear goals at the start and review them after a set period, such as a half term.
How many children have a tutor?
The Sutton Trust's polling found 29% of secondary pupils in England and Wales have had private tutoring at some point.
