Beyond the classroom: What to expect if you haven’t taught before

Are you passionate about making a difference to young people’s lives but worried that you don’t have a background in teaching? 

It’s a common concern, but at Action Tutoring, we’re here to equip you with everything you need to become an effective and impactful tutor, even if you’ve never stepped into a classroom as an educator before.

No teaching experience? No problem!

The myth that you need a teaching degree or extensive classroom experience to be an effective tutor is one we love to bust! While professional teaching skills are invaluable, our model is designed to leverage your subject knowledge, patience, and desire to help.

If you have a good grasp of English or maths, can explain concepts clearly, and genuinely want to support pupils, you already possess the core qualities we look for. We understand that stepping into a tutoring role might feel daunting at first, but our comprehensive support system ensures you feel confident and prepared.

Comprehensive, easy-to-digest training

Every new volunteer participates in our Initial Tutor Training session before (physically or virtually!) stepping into a school. This engaging, two-hour online session covers all the essentials:

• • Safeguarding: Understanding how to create a safe and supportive environment for pupils.

• • Tutoring best practices: Practical techniques for guiding pupils through concepts, asking effective questions, and fostering engagement.

• • Resource utilisation: How to make the most of our tutoring workbooks (spoiler: brain teasers, session structure and activities are all laid out for you).

This initial training is designed to give you a strong foundation and build your confidence before your first session.

But the learning doesn’t stop there! 

During your tutoring programme, you’ll also receive access to our “Bright Ideas” training sessions – short online videos, each taking up to 30 minutes to complete. These quick, digestible modules help you continuously develop your skills as a tutor, offering further tips and strategies for effective pupil support.

Introducing your tutor workbook: tutoring made easy

One of the biggest concerns for new tutors is often “What do I teach?” At Action Tutoring, you’ll never have to worry about planning sessions. We provide curriculum-aligned workbooks, meticulously developed by our curriculum specialists and former teachers.

Take a look at our workbook library on YouTube:

These workbooks are at the heart of every session. They are:

• Curriculum-aligned: Directly linked to the National Curriculum for both English and maths, ensuring relevance to what pupils are learning in school and need for their SATs or GCSEs.
• Comprehensive: Each session is clearly laid out, guiding you through activities, explanations, and practice questions.
• Equipped with answers: Yes, your tutor workbook includes the answers, making it easy for you to check understanding and support pupils effectively!
• Adaptable: Whether you’re volunteering face-to-face with physical workbooks or tutoring online using adapted digital slides, the core content and structure remain consistent.

With these ready-to-go materials, your time is freed up to focus on what you do best: connecting with pupils, patiently explaining concepts, and building their confidence.

Dedicated support: you’re never alone

Beyond training and resources, you’ll have a dedicated support network every step of the way. For each tutoring programme you’re accepted to, you’ll have a designated programme coordinator. Think of them as your go-to person on the ground:

• They will introduce you to the school environment (for in-person programmes) and explain procedures.
• They are on hand to answer any programme or tutoring-related questions you might have.
• They provide ongoing guidance and support throughout your commitment, ensuring a smooth and rewarding experience.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see our tutors, many of whom start without any teaching experience, grow in confidence. Volunteers are never alone on their tutoring journey, and we’re always here to help you get the most out of your tutoring experience.”

Suzie, London Programme Coordinator

For online tutors, we also offer technical support to ensure you’re comfortable with our user-friendly platform. 

Ready to take the leap?

Your passion for equity in education, combined with Action Tutoring’s step-by-step training, comprehensive resources, and dedicated support, means you can make a real and lasting difference in the lives of disadvantaged young people. You don’t need to be a teacher to be an incredible tutor – just a desire to learn and inspire.

Action Tutoring is a national education charity whose mission is to level the academic playing field by offering free tutoring to pupils whose families otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford it. A pass in maths and English opens doors to success in secondary school, and further education, training and employment after that.

Ready to take your first step? Find out more about volunteering or apply today and join our incredible community of volunteers.