Tutor Archives | CocoTutors

How to Get Your First 5 Students as a New Tutor

Cho Miriam — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 14:35:08 +0000

How to Get Your First 5 Students as a New Tutor

Breaking into the tuition industry in Singapore can feel overwhelming at first – especially when you’re just starting out and don’t have any students yet. But don’t worry. With the right strategies and mindset, you can secure your first 5 students faster than you think.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get your first few tuition assignments – even if you have no experience. These methods are based on what actually works in Singapore’s competitive tuition landscape.

Why It’s Hard (and Normal) to Struggle at First

Most new tutors start with no track record, no testimonials, and little confidence. Parents want reliable, experienced tutors – and that’s hard to prove when you’re just starting.

But here’s the good news: there are many ways to build trust quickly and get your first tuition students—without faking qualifications or underselling yourself.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your First 5 Students

1. Join Tuition Assignment Platforms and Telegram Channels

One of the fastest ways to get tuition students in Singapore is by registering with local tuition agencies that offer assignment matching. Look for platforms that post jobs in real-time.

Recommended options:

Telegram channels like CocoTutors Assignments
Local agencies such as CocoTutors, SmileTutor, Champion Tutors, TuitionAgency.SG
Online marketplaces like Carousell (under the Tuition category)

💡 Tip: Set up Telegram notifications so you can apply for assignments instantly. Being the first to respond significantly increases your chances.

2. Offer a Trial Lesson or Lower Intro Rate (Strategically)

Check the industry average for tuition rates in your target level and subject that you are planning to teach at. Parents would also be comparing costs and hourly rates of tutors.

When you’re new, reduce the parent’s risk by offering a:

First lesson free (only if they confirm 4 more)
“Introductory rate” for the first 2 weeks

Avoid underpricing yourself long-term—this is only to help you build your first student base.

✅ Use this pitch:

“As I’m currently expanding my tuition portfolio, I’m happy to offer a trial lesson at no cost. If you’re happy with the session, we can proceed weekly.”

3. Leverage Word-of-Mouth via Personal Networks

Many beginner tutors overlook this, but friends, family, ex-schoolmates, and even neighbours are often your first potential clients. The lowest hanging fruit are relatives, nephews or nieces that are still in the schooling system

Steps:

Create a simple, honest WhatsApp message about your services – most importantly on your qualifications and grades for PSLE / O Levels / A Levels
Send it to personal contacts and ask them to forward it
Post it on your IG stories, Telegram status, and Facebook

4. Build a Basic Online Presence (Even If It’s Just an IG Profile)

You don’t need a full website yet, but having a social profile or online listing where parents can view your background, rates, and availability builds trust.

Minimum you should include:

Your teaching levels (e.g. PSLE Math, Secondary 1 English)
Qualifications (be honest)
General location (e.g. available for home tuition in Bishan & AMK)
Proposed hourly rate (i.e. S$50/h)

5. Ask for Reviews and Referrals Immediately

Once you teach even 1 student, politely ask for a short testimonial or review. Use that to secure your next few students.

📍 Review example:

“Patient and clear in explaining PSLE Math topics. My daughter is already showing more confidence!”

Then, let the parent know:

“If you know anyone else looking for a home tutor, I’d be grateful for a recommendation.”

This type of direct ask works especially well in Singapore’s tight-knit parenting circles.

Bonus: Avoid These Common Mistakes

❌ Waiting too long to apply for assignments
❌ Pricing too low for too long
❌ Relying only on one platform
❌ Not customizing your tutor bio or application message

The tuition industry moves fast – being proactive and persistent matters more than having perfect credentials.

Summary: The First 5 Students Are the Hardest – Then It Snowballs

Here’s a recap of the key actions to take:

Join tuition Telegram channels and respond fast
Offer trial or short-term discounts
Tap into your existing personal networks
Create a simple online listing or Instagram profile
Ask for reviews and referrals from Day 1

Once you have 1-2 students, it becomes much easier to get the next 3-5, and then grow steadily from there. You can even choose not to rely on tuition agencies, and take students on purely from referrals (word-of-mouth)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I get tuition students in Singapore without experience?
A: Yes. Many parents value reliability and consistency more than formal experience – especially for primary-level tuition.

Q: Do I need to register a business to be a home tutor?
A: Not if you’re operating as a freelance tutor. But if you’re starting a tuition agency or matching service, ACRA registration is recommended.

Q: How long does it take to get my first student?
A: Most new tutors get their first student within 1-3 weeks if they actively apply for assignments daily. For CocoTutors, assignments are much easier to get as they have a smaller tutor database.

The post How to Get Your First 5 Students as a New Tutor appeared first on CocoTutors.

How to Be a Better Teacher in Singapore?

Miriam — Sat, 03 Jun 2023 14:01:32 +0000

How to Be a Better Teacher in Singapore?

In the high-achieving society of Singapore, the role of tuition teachers is integral to supporting students’ academic success. Teachers are in a pivotal position to boost student performance, making their role critical in shaping future generations.

Teaching is also a very lucrative career in Singapore. You would be a successful and rich teacher if you are good at teaching and producing results (See: How Much Can You Actually Make From Tuition). Establishing a connection with your students forms the cornerstone of effective teaching.

However, Parents have often switched tutors if their child has not improved after one semester. Here are some tips to be a better teacher in Singapore:

1. Understanding Your Students

Building Rapport

Building a relationship with your students goes beyond knowing their names. Do you understand their hobbies, their dreams, their fears? Understanding these aspects can help you tailor your lessons to their interests, increasing engagement. After all, who wouldn’t want to learn math through their favorite sport?

Learning About Individual Learning Styles

Just like how no two snowflakes are the same, no two students learn the same way. Understanding the unique learning styles of your students can enable you to cater to their specific needs, making learning more accessible and enjoyable.

Provide Regular Feedback

Offer constructive feedback to your students, highlighting their strengths and areas for improvement. Regularly assess their progress through quizzes, tests, or assignments. This feedback will help them understand their weaknesses and motivate them to work harder. (See: 15 Important Study-related Goal Setting with Students)

Manage Time Effectively

Make sure you allocate sufficient time for each topic or concept within your lesson plan. Be mindful of time constraints and ensure that you cover the necessary content without rushing or leaving any gaps.

Apply for tuition assignments by joining our Telegram Channel @CocoAssignments! You can view and apply for tuition assignments directly without registering.

2. Enhancing Your Teaching Skills

Understand the Curriculum

Familiarize yourself with the specific curriculum and syllabus followed by the students you are teaching. Stay updated with any changes or updates in the curriculum and be well-prepared to cover all the necessary topics.

Plan Your Lessons

Create a detailed lesson plan for each session, including objectives, teaching materials, and activities. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you cover all the necessary content within the allocated time.

Use Engaging Teaching Methods

Incorporate interactive and engaging teaching techniques to capture the students’ attention and make the learning process enjoyable. Utilize multimedia resources, hands-on activities, and group discussions to enhance their understanding and participation.

Embracing Continuous Learning

Invest time in upgrading your skills and knowledge. Attend seminars, engage in professional development courses, or even take up an advanced degree. The more you learn, the more you can teach.

Harnessing Technology in Teaching

Digital literacy is not just for the students, but for teachers too. Harness the power of technology to make your lessons more interactive and engaging. Plus, wouldn’t it be fun to see a physics concept come to life through a virtual simulation? (See: Will Teachers Be Replaced by Technology?)

Apply for tuition assignments by joining our Telegram Channel @CocoAssignments! You can view and apply for tuition assignments directly without registering.

3. Being Adaptable and Flexible

Altering Teaching Methods for Different Students

What works for one student might not work for another. Therefore, being flexible in your teaching methods can allow you to reach all your students effectively. Ever thought of turning a boring history lesson into a riveting story session?

Staying Current with the Singaporean Education System

The Singaporean education system evolves constantly. Staying abreast of the changes ensures you’re always prepared to guide your students effectively.

4. Providing Extra Value

Striving for that extra mile can make all the difference in your students’ educational journey.

Fostering a Positive Learning Environment

An encouraging, positive learning environment stimulates a student’s mind and motivates them to perform better. Remember, your enthusiasm is infectious!

Encouraging Student Feedback

Feedback is a two-way street. By encouraging your students to provide feedback, you can identify areas of improvement and become a better tuition teacher. After all, isn’t that what we’re striving for?

Communicate with Parents

Establish good communication with the parents of your students. Keep them informed about their child’s progress, areas of improvement, and any concerns you may have. This collaboration will create a supportive learning environment for the student.

Alternatively, you can also prepare for common interview questions that Parents ask, based on our list of questions.

Conclusion

By embracing continuous learning, understanding your students, being adaptable, and striving to provide extra value, you can elevate your role as a tuition teacher in Singapore. Remember, every small step you take towards improvement has a significant impact on your students’ educational journey.

Apply for tuition assignments by joining our Telegram Channel @CocoAssignments! You can view and apply for tuition assignments directly without registering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I connect better with my students?
You can connect better with your students by genuinely showing interest in their lives. Learn about their interests, hobbies, and aspirations. Use this information to make your lessons more engaging and relevant. Regular communication, such as feedback and casual conversations, can also foster a stronger connection.
What resources can I use to improve my teaching skills?
There are numerous resources available to improve your teaching skills. Professional development courses, online seminars, educational blogs, and teaching forums are some places to start. Additionally, you can consider earning advanced degrees in education or specific subjects you teach.
How important is technology in teaching today?
Technology plays a vital role in contemporary education. It can make lessons more interactive, cater to different learning styles, and facilitate easier access to information. Digital literacy is now a fundamental skill, and incorporating technology in your teaching practices can help prepare students for the digital world.
How can I keep up with changes in the Singaporean education system?
Staying updated with changes in the Singaporean education system requires consistent effort. You can subscribe to newsletters from the Ministry of Education, participate in teacher’s forums, attend educational conferences, and engage in regular professional development activities.
How can I create a positive learning environment?
Creating a positive learning environment involves fostering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space. Encourage open communication, appreciate students’ efforts, provide constructive feedback, and promote collaborative learning. Maintaining a positive attitude and showing enthusiasm can also greatly contribute to a positive learning environment.

The post How to Be a Better Teacher in Singapore? appeared first on CocoTutors.

How Can I Get Students to Make Payments On Time?

Miriam — Thu, 04 May 2023 04:00:10 +0000

How to Get Payments on Time from Parents as a Tuition Service Provider

Late payments from parents can be frustrating for tuition service providers, especially when you have already delivered your services.

It is essential to implement the right strategies to ensure timely payments and keep your tutoring business running smoothly.

Communicate Payment Expectations

One of the most effective ways to avoid late payments is to communicate your payment expectations upfront. This includes outlining your fees, payment methods, and payment due dates. Be clear about what happens if payments are not made on time and what late payment fees might be incurred.

Weekly / monthly payment
Cash / bank transfer
Payment in advance / post completion of lessons

Offer Flexible Payment Options

Offering flexible payment options can help parents meet their financial obligations and improve their likelihood of paying on time.

This can include installment plans, online payment options, and other payment methods. Make it easy for parents to pay you by providing multiple payment options that suit their needs.

PayLah / PayNow / bank transfer, etc.
Payment at the end of every lesson

Establish Payment Agreements

Establishing payment agreements with parents can help you avoid misunderstandings and ensure timely payments. This should include a written contract outlining the services you will provide, the fees, and the payment schedule. Be sure to have both parties sign the agreement to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Setting clear payment terms and policies can help avoid misunderstandings and confusion when it comes to payments. Make sure to communicate your payment policies to your students before starting any lessons. You can include payment terms in your contract or agreement, such as payment due dates, acceptable payment methods, and late payment penalties. This will help to set expectations from the outset and reduce the likelihood of payment delays. (See: Sample Payment Terms)

Set Reminders and Follow-ups

Sending reminders and follow-ups to parents can help ensure timely payments. This can be done through emails, phone calls, or text messages.

Consider using automated software to send reminders and follow-ups automatically, saving you time and ensuring consistency.

Be proactive with late payments

Even with clear payment terms and policies, some students may still be late with their payments. When this happens, it’s important to be proactive and follow up with your students.

You can send reminders or reach out to them to discuss the reasons for the delay and agree on a payment plan.

Late Payment Fees

Including late payment fees in your payment agreement can encourage parents to pay on time. Be sure to outline these fees clearly in the contract, so parents know what to expect if payments are not made on time.

Send Invoices Promptly

Sending invoices promptly can help avoid confusion and ensure timely payments. Use invoicing software to streamline the process and send invoices immediately after services have been provided.

Be sure to include all relevant information, including payment due dates and late payment fees.

1st lesson: $120 (3 Jan, 5-7pm)
2nd lesson: $90 (10 Jan, 5-630pm)

Build Relationships with Parents

Building relationships with parents can improve the likelihood of timely payments. Be approachable, communicate regularly, and provide excellent customer service.

Consider offering incentives or discounts for early payments to encourage parents to pay on time.

Conclusion

Getting paid on time as a tuition service provider is crucial for maintaining a steady cash flow and ensuring the smooth operation of your business.

By communicating payment expectations, offering flexible payment options, establishing payment agreements, sending reminders and follow-ups, including late payment fees, sending invoices promptly, and building relationships with parents, you can increase the likelihood of timely payments and avoid the hassle of late payment collection.

FAQs

What should I do if a parent is consistently late with payments? A: You should first remind the parent of their payment obligations and offer to work out a payment plan if necessary. If the problem persists, you may need to consider discontinuing services until payment is received.
We had a previous case where a tutor gave 18 lessons to the student without collecting payment, and to date the parent has not paid up.
Can I charge interest on late payments? A: Yes, you can charge interest on late payments. Be sure to include this information in your payment agreement to avoid any misunderstandings.
What should I do if a parent refuses to pay? A: If a parent refuses to pay, you may need to take legal action. Consult with the police and small claims tribunal to determine the best course of action.
Can I waive late payment fees for certain circumstances? A: Yes, you can waive late payment fees for certain circumstances, such as financial hardship or other extenuating circumstances. However, be sure to establish clear guidelines for waiving late payment fees to avoid any misunderstandings. In most cases, if a payment is already due and has incurred late payment, we find that parents would even be more likely to not pay back the prinicpal.
What should I do if a parent disputes a payment? A: If a parent disputes a payment, try to work out the issue amicably by reviewing the payment agreement and discussing the problem with the parent. If the issue cannot be resolved, you may need to seek legal advice.

In conclusion, as a tuition service provider, getting paid on time is essential for the smooth operation of your business. By communicating payment expectations, offering flexible payment options, establishing payment agreements, sending reminders and follow-ups, including late payment fees, sending invoices promptly, and building relationships with parents, you can increase the likelihood of timely payments and avoid the hassle of late payment collection. By implementing these strategies, you can focus on delivering quality services to your students and growing your business.

The post How Can I Get Students to Make Payments On Time? appeared first on CocoTutors.

Why You Should Give Tuition While Waiting for University

Miriam — Sat, 21 Mar 2020 10:19:34 +0000

After graduating from Junior College, students usually wait for 9 months before entering University. It’s 2 years and 9 months if you are a guy (National Service).

During this long wait, many students take up odd jobs such as waiting at a cafe, admin jobs, etc, to earn a little bit of money to spend during their University years. The wiser students will take up tuition jobs.

Why?

1. Your critical thinking ability will still be active

Upon entry into University, most undergraduates (especially guys) will feel brain dead due to the lack of use during the 2 years in National Service. By providing tuition on the side, their minds will be kept active, better preparing them for University.

The material you are teaching might even be relevant in their course of study in University. Many courses in NUS, NTU, SMU all have primer modules. Primer modules are the basic requirements of the Major, and usually is based on Junior College knowledge – e.g Statistics and Probability, Math.

All students have to take Primer Modules, concurrently with their academic modules. Content taught in the Primer module are assumed to be known when doing your Major, so when you need a little bit more time to freshen up your content from Junior College – before you know it, you might be lacking behind in your syllabus.

Most people say that the A Levels will the toughest examination you will face in your entire academic life. People say that because they have not entered into University.

Reality: University examinations is like having the A Levels every 4 months (13 weeks + 3 study weeks = 16 weeks).

Packed with project assignments, due dates, submissions, labs, students have to ensure they are ready for their finals (5 different modules) at the end of the 16 weeks. It is like learning and mastering 5 different subjects in 16 weeks.

And on top of your school work, you have to balance your social life (new friends, new environment) and the vastly different learning landscape.

Now imagine struggling with the concepts you have mastered in Junior College.

Although the main reason why A Level graduates take up tuition assignments is for income, the added benefit that not many know is the retained knowledge from Junior College.

Additionally, there is the current flexibility of giving online tuition, instead of physical lessons at the tutee’s place.

2. You can continue giving tuition even in University

Doing part-time (odd) jobs such as waiting at a cafe, admin jobs, can’t really sustain you through University. The little amount of part-time job/intern pay will probably only last you for a year.

However for Tuition Assignments, students usually teach well into their University years, with some graduating University to become a Full-time Tutor.

Many undergraduates only take up tuition jobs when in their University years, hence being at a disadvantage when compared to their more experienced peers who started earlier.

Parents are more likely to choose experienced tutors over inexperienced ones. So once you have your first student, you will be able to get your second, then third, then fourth.

Find Tuition Assignments | CocoTutors’ Tuition Bot

If you are considering giving home tuition, browse for open and available tuition assignments by heading over to join our Telegram Channel @CocoAssignments (Guide on How to Apply for Assignments).

We have many home tuition assignments all over Singapore, for all levels Primary, Secondary, Junior College available for you to choose from.

The post Why You Should Give Tuition While Waiting for University appeared first on CocoTutors.

Guide: Tuition Assignments Telegram Bot @CocoAssignments

Miriam — Sun, 15 Mar 2020 09:03:19 +0000

With the newly introduced @CocoTutorsBot in January, applying for assignments has been made much smoother and seamless for our current and potential tutors.

Tutors can now apply for assignments, update and check their Tutor Profile through our bot. To apply for assignments, tutors can browse for assignments on our Telegram Channel @CocoAssignments, and apply just by clicking on the “Click to Apply” button.

After filling in the relevant details, your application will be logged by our system.
Subsequent verification of qualifications and experience will be required if you are shortlisted by the Parent.

Guide on How to Apply for Tuition Assignments

1. Go to our Telegram Channel @CocoAssignments to source for Home Tuition Assignments in Singapore.

2. Press “Click to Apply” when you find an assignment you would like to take up!

3. You will be directed to our Tuition Assignment Bot @CocoTutorsBot. Press “/start” to Apply for the Tuition Assignment.

Before you can apply for the private tuition assignment, you have to Update your Tutor Profile in our database (if it’s your first time using)

4. Press “Update Profile” and key all your relevant information

If you would like to make any edits, you can edit by selecting any button, and you will be prompted to edit. If you would not like to make any edits, just simply copy and paste back the previous entry.

(Make any edits to your Tutor Profile using our Tuition Bot)

5. Once you have filled in all your details, you can press “Show Profile” to review your Tutor Profile before submitting your application. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts for your Tutor Profile.

Take note that all information provided in the application will be submitted directly to the Parent – make sure to be professional and succinct in your Portfolio, the Parent may not read everything if it is too lengthy!

For more information on how to make a great Tutor Profile, please refer to our guide.

6. When you are ready to apply for the tuition assignment, press “Apply“

7. Type your preferred rate, timeslots, as well as start date.

If the tuition assignment has indicated a preferred timeslot and/or rate, do take note that if you stray away from the rates and timings, you will have a lower chance of being selected by the Parent.

8. If at any time you change your mind to apply, you can select the “Cancel” button to cancel your application.

9. When you are ready, press “Confirm” to confirm your application for the tuition assignment!

Once you see this confirmation message that you have successfully applied for the assignment, your application has been recorded in our database.

How do you know if there is any Progress?

If you are shortlisted by the Parent, our coordinators will be contacting you personally to liaise further.

Verification of qualifications and experience will take place during this period!

If you did not receive any updates after 1-2 weeks, it would likely mean you did not get selected for the assignment.

There are many reasons as to why you are not selected:

1. Parent changed their mind
2. Another tutor was selected
3. You did not meet the preferences/criteria in the assignment
4. Your Tutor Profile is not detailed, yet succinct enough

Here are some steps you can take to maximise your chances of being selected for an assignment.

Feedback

This tuition bot is newly developed and may be filled with bugs and glitches. If you face any problems while using the Telegram Bot, please feel free to contact us @CocoTutors (+65 9177 9055)

Please refer to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, for usage of the Telegram Bot.

The post Guide: Tuition Assignments Telegram Bot @CocoAssignments appeared first on CocoTutors.

How to Apply for Tuition Assignments?

Miriam — Thu, 28 Feb 2019 18:28:07 +0000

After applying to be a Tutor with CocoTutors, you may be wondering how to apply for tuition assignments.

Here below is a guide not only on how to apply for tuition jobs, but as well as the following:

1. How to properly Apply for Tuition Assignments
2. How to increase chances of getting selected by Parent
3. What information do I require

By following the steps provided above, you will be guaranteed to have the highest chance of being selected for an assignment. (See: How Much Can You Actually Make From Tuition?)

1. How to Properly Apply for Tuition Assignments

For tuition assignments, we disseminate through the following Channels:

1. Telegram Channel – @CocoAssignments (most updated)
2. Whatsapp Group (only for Registered tutors)
3. Instagram – @CocoTutors (delayed)
4. Facebook – @CocoTutors (delayed)

You can view and apply for tuition assignments in our Telegram Channel/Whatsapp Group.

Tuition Assignments are updated with the above format, in both our Telegram Channel and Whatsapp Group.

All tuition details are provided in the message:

– Exact location (Postal code)
– Level & Subject
– Tuition Frequency (no. of lessons/week, no. of hours per lesson
– Preferred Timeslots
– Any special request from Parent

Below the tuition details for the assignment, is the standard application format which is provided for every assignment.

(a) Applying for Assignments

If you see an assignment you are interested in taking up, you can contact our agents directly (+65 9177 9055) with the application format:

———————————–

Assignment code:
Are you a Registered Tutor: Y/N
Full name, NRIC:
Age, Gender, Current position:
Qualifications:
Experience:
Rates, timeslots:

———————————–

If you are a registered tutor (on our website), you will only need to provide:

Assignment code:
Rates, timeslots:

Your application is successfully received if our agents respond with “Alright! We will update you should the Parent wish to proceed.”

2. How to Increase Chances of Being Selected by Parent

Most often Parents will look at your Qualifications and Experience, when deciding a tutor.

Your Tutor Profile you sent above (application format) is what the Parent sees when we send in a few Tutors for them to choose.

Look at your Tutor Profile.

If you were a Parent, would you hire yourself? If not, improve it and add details such that it appears more appealing and shows your capability.

(a) Model Tutor Profile

Below is an example of a Tutor Profile that is always selected by Parents:

(name revoked): 23, M, NUS Y3 Undergraduate
– Qualifications: PSLE 250
O Levels – 7 Distinctions, A1 for EMath, A1 for AMath
A Levels – 5 Distinctions, A for H2 Math
– Experience: 2 years tutoring experience, specialise in teaching Lower & Upper Secondary Math.
Taught 1 O Level AMath student from C6 > A1, Sec 3 AMath from D7 > A2.
Currently teaching 2 Sec 4 O Level students
– $40/h, weekends

(b) Tutor Profile Improvements

From the above example, here are the following improvements you can make to better your chances:

– For Qualifications:

1. State number of Distinctions obtained (O Levels, A Levels)
2. State Grade obtained for Subject you are applying for
3. State any Academic Achievements – awards, competitions

– For Experience:

1. State Number of Years of Tutoring Experience
2. State Grade Improvements for previous students (F9 > A1, in 6 months)
3. State how many students currently (if any)
4. Describe teaching style
5. Add in if materials will be provided

By following the above format, as well as reasonable tuition rates, you should be getting an assignment really soon. (See: If You Do Not Have This, Don’t Be a Tutor)

3. What Information do I Require?

When applying for assignments, our coordinators will request for the following information for verification of credentials:

1. Academic Result Certificate (O Level, A Level)
2. PDGE/DipEd – if you are an MOE School teacher
3. Feedback from past/current students – if we require more verification on your capability

If you follow our steps above when applying for assignments – you will definitely get an assignment real soon.

Considering giving Tuition? Register as a Tutor now!

The post How to Apply for Tuition Assignments? appeared first on CocoTutors.

If You Do Not Have This, Don’t Be a Tutor

Miriam — Sun, 17 Feb 2019 19:07:38 +0000

Horror Stories of Tutors are all around.

Ask any Parent or student, and they will surely have experienced/heard a few stories of nasty tutors, or just tutors that can’t teach in general.

We, as Parents, all want to avoid engaging that tutor that is unable to produce results.

However, there are many factors outside tuition that affect the child’s ability to produce results:

– Whether they Self-Study (effectively)
– Constant Practice outside of tuition
– Exam Stress, the list goes on

For this article, we will be focusing on reasons why Tutors are unable to produce results – excluding external factors mentioned above.

Tutor’s Qualification

For most cases, the reason would be quite simple: Tutor is Underqualified.

Check the Tutor’s grades for the subject(s) they are teaching. Did they get a Distinction?

One of our main philosophies is that: If the Tutor did not get a Distinction, how capable are they to teach others to get a Distinction?

More often than not, it is true especially for Part-time Tutors.

The tutor will not know the intensity and rigour needed to get a Distinction, nor have any valuable study tips/skills to impart to the tutee.

i.e Tutor Ben himself got a B3 for O Level AMath. How capable is Tutor Ben to teach the tutee to get an A1 for AMath? Tutor Ben is missing something crucial that A1 AMath tutors can provide.

Of course, there are a few exceptions (mentioned further below) to this rule, but in general – Tutors that did not get a Distinction are not fit to be a Tutor.

Our Guarantee

At CocoTutors, we only send Tutor Profiles with Distinctions for subjects they teach (some exceptions mentioned below).

Most of our tutors have multiple Distinctions, some are Top Students (more than 6 Distinctions in OLevels, perfect 90 Rank Points in ALevels).

We believe that Tutors have to set a good example – Distinction, for the subject(s) they would like to teach.

Obtaining a Distinction for a subject, means that you possess the content mastery and expertise required for the syllabus:

A basic requirement of ours before you can teach someone officially. Whether you are effective or not, that comes later.

Exceptions

However, here are some exceptions whereby Tutors are fit to teach despite not getting a Distinction:

– Many years of tutoring experience
– Good track record of producing results
– Parent’s goal is to improve from fail to pass, not to get a Distinction

Different Parents have different requirements, some want their child to get an A* for PSLE, some just want to pass for OLevels.

1. Years of Tutoring Experience

Tutors with over 5 years of tutoring experience are more than fit to be tutors.

Usually tutors in this category are either University Graduates, or Full-time Tutors specialists. (See: Part-time Tutors, Full-time Tutors or MOE teachers)

Over their extensive period in tutoring, they have taught many students which provides them with the credibility that they are able to teach well.

2. Good Track Record

Effective tutors are the ones most Parents are looking for – ones that have produced results in the past.

Despite having their grades not backing them up, their past track record of students under their guidance proves otherwise.

With testimonials from their students such as:

“From Pass to A within 3 months”, or “80% of my students get a Distinction”; surely you can trust their guidance and teaching methods.

It must be due to exam stress, or other external issues that have caused them the Distinction, in the past. (See: How to Request for Tutors)

3. Goal is not a Distinction

Quite a few Parents get a tutor only at the last minute.

Their son/daughter usually is in a very bad shape academically – borderline/failing, and it is only a few months left to PSLE/O Levels/A Levels.

Many of them understand that grades will not miraculously improve to a Distinction within the short period. (See: How Much Does a Tutor Cost?)

With so much knowledge/content gaps to fill, the Parents’ goal for tuition would usually be to pass, or to improve to a B.

For this case, tutors that did well but did not get an A, would be qualified to teach as well. Responsibility on the tutor is especially high, since often times we receive comments from Parents that they struggle with the harder questions.

Don’t Be a Tutor, If You Did Not Get a Distinction

In general, if you did not get a Distinction for the subject you would like to teach, do not be a Tutor.

Chances are, you will have a very hard time getting a tuition assignment as you will be competing with tutors that have Distinctions.

And more often than not, Parents will pick the Distinction tutors over you.

Considering to be a Tutor? Register as a Tutor now!

The post If You Do Not Have This, Don’t Be a Tutor appeared first on CocoTutors.

Tutoring Guide 101: How to Become a Tutor in Singapore

Miriam — Fri, 25 Jan 2019 19:28:20 +0000

97% of students in Singapore have had a tutor – and it’s no surprise.

Singapore has one of the best Education standards around the world (PISA), and there’s a lot of pressure on students to maintain it and score well to enter top courses in Universities.

With the tuition industry worth estimated to be over $1 billion, there has never been a better time to join the profession. Tutors are in high demand, and being a Full-time Tutor can be quite lucrative. Some tutors have reported to make as much as $1 million per year!

If you are considering it, the following guide outlines the steps one takes to become a tutor, reviews teaching certifications and provides insight into being a tutor.

What Does a Tutor Do?

Tutors provide additional academic help to students, outside of the classroom. They help students to improve their grades, understand difficult concepts, develop study skills, and get ready for major examinations, such as the PSLE and O Levels.

They are subject specialists, with the expertise to deal with students of different learning capabilities. (See: How Much do Tutors Earn)

Steps to Becoming a Tutor

1. Graduate from Polytechnic/Junior College

Tutors need at least an A Level certificate or a Diploma to work with students.

Anything less than that (O Level), most Parents will choose not to engage you as their tutor. Students that have went through JC have a way higher chance of getting assignments.

2. Complete University & Education

For individuals with a Bachelors’ Degree from a local university in a high demand field, such as English, Mathematics or the Sciences, can expect higher pay as there is more demand for well-qualified tutors.

3. Volunteer to Provide Tuition

Non-governmental, non-profit organisations, child-care centres and churches, regularly look for volunteers to provide tuition to the needy, less privileged students.

Potential tutors can volunteer in these organisations to gain some tutoring experience, and a feel of how to teach.

4. Earn Tutoring Credentials & Track Record

Once you have your first few students, it is incredibly important to ensure that you provide adequate support to the tutee, that they improve significantly, mostly up to a Distinction.

Enhancing your credibility as a tutor and building up your track record will differentiate you from the rest, as you are able to provide feedback/recommendations from your past students.

5. Advertise Services & Set Rates

Proven track record proves your credentials as a successful and effective tutor. You can request for higher rates as you have proven methods to secure the Distinction for students.

At this point, most of your students will come from word-of-mouth, tuition agencies, and advertising on different platforms.

Tutoring Certification

There is no official certification needed to be a tutor in Singapore. Most tutors come to the profession from another field, such as Education, Accounting, Business, Research (Science) etc.

If you wish to pursue a certificate to improve your credentials, from an accredited institution:

NTU-NIE Teaching Program

Under NIE, there are teacher training certification, mainly Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE), and Diploma in Education (DipEd). Both programs are entirely focused on training individuals to become NIE-Certified, MOE School teachers.

Obtaining a PDGE (degree program) under Teaching Scholars Programme will allow teachers to teach in Secondary Schools or Junior Colleges, depending on their specialisations. MOE School teachers command the highest rates when they move on to provide tuition.

Masters in Education (NIE)

Another programme offered by NIE is the Masters in Education. There are various specialisations such as Special Needs, and etc. This certification is less recognised, as teachers need not have a PDGE/DipEd, to proceed to the Masters program.

Tutors in this category mostly do not have any teaching experience in MOE Schools, and are not counted under the category of MOE School teachers. The program mainly focuses on teacher preparation, teaching the fundamentals of working with students.

Few Things You Need to Know Before You Sign Up

If up to this point, you are still considering being a tutor, there are a few things you need to know before you commit your time to giving tuition.

1. You Don’t Have to be an Expert

You might be afraid of giving tuition as you may have forgotten everything you’ve learn in the past.

It’s a surprise just how much you remember when you look at the steps of obtaining the answers! It’s far more important that you’re passionate about the subject – the syllabus and proficiency in teaching the subject will come naturally, very quickly.

2. Tuition is a Service: Hospitality

Ultimately, it is not about the lesson plan, nor the materials you prepared.

You need to focus on making the tutee feel comfortable.

No matter how well you think you can teach, they need to be able to trust you.

Every child is different, and every child will have different needs and requirements. Fail to understand this principle, will make your life that much tougher.

3. Be Patient

Different students have different needs. Some process and understand information faster than others. Part of your job is to be patient and provide the encouragement to push through.

Most of the time, Parents engage tutors as their child is genuinely struggling.

The extra help and support will mean a lot to them, and it’s up to you to provide it. Lack of encouragement or unfair punishments is a sign of bad teaching, and will land you in hot soup.

4. Learn How to Teach

New to teaching/giving tuition? Teaching can be quite a daunting task if left unprepared. It will take some practice to get the hang of it, so here are some things you should prepare for lessons:

– Lesson plan (topics to go through)
– Notes/extra materials
– Assessment books
– Examination papers

5. It will get Stressful

During examination periods when preparing for exams, the job is stressful and busy.

There’s a lot of pressure on students to succeed, but there’s even more pressure on you to make them succeed.

When the students show little or no improvement after a while, Parents will also start to pressure you, questioning if your methods are effective or not.

6. It is Incredibly Rewarding

Despite tuition being stressful at time, tutoring is incredibly rewarding as well.

The feeling when all your hard work has paid off when the child gets the Distinction both you and the tutee have been working for; all those hours spent doing assessment books and correcting them; the smile on their Parents’ faces.

There are many positives and negatives to being a tutor in Singapore – it is certainly no easy task. If you like kids, and enjoy teaching, you’ll definitely enjoy tutoring.

Considering becoming a tutor? Register now!

The post Tutoring Guide 101: How to Become a Tutor in Singapore appeared first on CocoTutors.

“Alright! We will update you should the Parent wish to proceed”

Miriam — Sun, 18 Nov 2018 02:56:33 +0000

How many times have you heard this phrase being pushed to you, but not receiving any updates afterwards? How many times have you applied for assignments, but still not assigned to even one successfully?

But why? My credentials are solid – A’s for the subjects that I am applying for, and I even have past tutoring experience! Why am I still not getting any assignments?

Don’t be disheartened, you will receive an assignment soon. Don’t stop trying!

Yes yes, your Tutor Profile is great.

However there are many other factors, some out of your control, that affect whether you get selected for the assignments. Parents, Agents, Rates, and your Tutor Profile, are the key determining factors that will be explained in the sections below.

“Alright! We will update you sho-JUST GIVE ME THE ASSIGNMENT.

1. Parents

4 in 10 Parents that requests a Tutor, choose to not engage a home tutor in the end.

With varying reasons such as: “changed my mind”, “confirmed another tutor from another agency earlier on”, to “found a relative to give tuition for free” – Parents are one of the main reasons for your demise.

At the end of the day, tuition is a Service-based business.

Just like how you browse through Deliveroo, foodpanda, and GrabFood to see which one of your favourite restaurants is currently accepting orders – Parents likewise can go to multiple agencies, multiple different platforms/connections to source for the Tutor that fits their exact criteria (mostly budget, which brings me to my next point).

2. Rates

We do get Parents that query us “why is XXX’s rate so high?” on the regular, for some tutors.

Parents are well aware of the average market rates for Home Tutors.

However, we do get the occasional tutors that apply for assignments well out of their range; $40-50/h for Primary-level assignments, with zero tutoring experience. How?
(Point #2 does not apply to Tutors with more than 2 years of tutoring experience)

We understand that some tutors only want to be assigned high-paying assignments from the occasional rich Parents. But honestly the chances are pretty low when you have 5 other tutors with equally, if not better Qualifications than you do.

On the bright side, tuition is also a slippery slope – once you begin, your rates can only go higher and higher as you have more tutoring experience.

We all have to start from somewhere, certainly not at the upper end! (See: How Much You can Actually Make from Giving Tuition)

Of course as much as possible we will push for higher rates, before negotiating and settling for lower rates – but we cannot help you if we are unable to justify your high rates when you have little to zero experience 😉

3. Tutor Profile

You can greatly improve your chances of getting selected by Parents by improving your Tutor Profile.

Remember the format that you have to copy/write manually every time you want to apply for an assignment?

We send the same thing to the Parent, albeit rephrased and formatted better.

Here are some tips you can use to improve your chances instantly:

1. For Qualifications: it is ideal to state number of Distinctions for O Levels & A Levels + relevant grades for subject you are applying for – Parents love numbers.
(e.g Qualifications: School – 7 Distinctions in O Levels, School – 5 Distinctions in A Levels. A1 for E/A Math, A for H2 Math)
2. For Experience: it is best to state number of years of tutoring experience. You can add in grade improvements as well for more credibility.

Usually we will help Tutors construct one when sending to Parents, however if the assignment has lots of applicants, we will just send exactly what you wrote to the Parent. (See: How Parents choose Tutors)

Imagine the Parent seeing this below. As the Parent, would you want to hire the Tutor?

Lee: 22 year old female NUS undergraduate
– Qualifications: ALevels
– Experience: taught Pri Math before

4. Agent

Agents also play a big part for the selection process. They are the ones directly liaising with the Parents, and would know what exactly the Parents are looking for.

Some Parents can be real picky, and have very strict requirements for their tutors (not the usual gender/race requirements only).

Usually this would filter out to a few tutors left – sometimes none, as their requirements are almost impossible to achieve. (See: 5 Signs You are a Problematic Parent)

Also, if there are 5 other applicants with the same background, qualifications and experience but with a significantly lower rate than you do, we will not send in your Tutor Profile to the Parent. (Of course, this only applies to tutors with minimal tutoring experience – less than 1 year)

There is no added benefit that you can provide compared to the other tutors whose rates are lower. Parents will always omit you from their choices anyway.

However the same works both ways – if the assignment has very little applicants, we can bump your rates up a bit ($5-10/h) depending on the Parent.

Other Factors

There are many other factors that lead to no response after “Alright! We will update you should the Parent wish to proceed.”

The factors below are more applicable for everyone – the points listed above mainly addresses Tutors with 0-2 years tutoring experience:

1. Nature of the assignment

Math assignments (Primary and Secondary level) are really popular.

We can have up to 20 applicants for these assignments, 30 if the location is very accessible, right by the MRT.

2. Parent’s preferences (in Special Request)

Most Parents have their preferences for the gender/race/type (Part-time/Full-time Tutor or MOE School teacher) of the Tutor.

If you do not meet their preferences – unless your Profile is really good, most likely you will not be considered by them.

3. Parent’s preferences (not in Special Request)

We also have some Parents that suddenly have their preferences after viewing Tutor Profiles; such as only want Full-time Tutors/MOE teachers, or only want females after further discussion with tutee.

Some even decide to explore Online Tuition and Tuition Centres.

Value-add

One way that Tutors can secure more assignments through recommendations from the Parent (after the first assignment) is by adding value.

Tutors can also value-add to the tuition by providing additional tips on how to get through the Education system smoothly, such as tips for; “Secondary 3 Subject Combination Exercise“, “Tips for Choosing Schools“, “How taking Combined Science Almost Ruined My Future” and etc.

Some Parents may recommend you directly to their friends/relatives afterwards, allowing you to skip the Commission entirely (as it is not through the agency).

Considering giving tuition? Join us as a Home Tutor!

The post “Alright! We will update you should the Parent wish to proceed” appeared first on CocoTutors.

How Much Can You Actually Make from Tuition?

Miriam — Thu, 18 Oct 2018 07:26:49 +0000

Thinking of giving tuition Part-time?

Looking for a career switch? Or just curious how much do tuition teachers earn?

The tuition industry is very lucrative in Singapore, with many stories of Super Tutors that earn over $1 million SGD a year – “Tutors who earn at least $1m a year”.

Of course, the tutors above are very good at what they do. (market tuition rates, 2019)

How Much Can You Make from Tuition?

Hence, for this article, we included an exclusive scoop on realistically – how much you can expect to make, based on our past assignments (See: How to Become a Tutor)

Before we dive into how much Tutors make, we have to examine the factors that WILL affect our monthly income in giving tuition, assuming we are an effective tutor:

How Monthly Income is Affected

1. Tuition Rates

(a) Tutor’s Qualifications & Experience:

Generally Parents will pay higher if you are better qualified – i.e relevant degree in subject you are teaching.

Parents will pay even more for an experienced tutor – rates for Full-time Tutors, MOE School teachers start from $40-120/h.

(b) Subject(s) you are teaching:

If you are teaching Secondary and Junior College level, you can expect to be earning more than a tutor that specialises in Primary level. (See: market tuition rates, 2019)

2. No. of Days committed to Tutoring

Monthly income is also determined on the number of days you commit to giving tuition.

If you only commit 3 days per week to giving tuition, you definitely will be earning lesser than a Tutor that tutors for 5 days a week.

Usually tutors also commit their weekends (burning their weekends) to tutoring, since many Parents request for weekend timeslots.

However it also means forgoing time spent with family, friends, loved ones – smaller social circle.

3. 1-to-1 Tuition or Group Tuition?

How much tutors make depends on their student turnover rate.

If you are teaching multiple students in 1 timeslot – even though rates may be cheaper for group tuition than compared to 1-to-1 tuition, you can maximise your earnings per timeslot.

i.e 5 student group tuition vs 1-to-1 tuition, 1-to-1 tutor will have to teach 3 timeslots to earn the same amount as group tutor that used 1 timeslot. (See: Home Tuition or Tuition Centre)

Above are the average rates you can expect. Take note that they differ based on each Tutor’s Qualifications, Experience and reputation. (Sample Tutor Profiles)

Here are some exclusive realistic statistics and numbers from our Tutors, retrieved from our database:

Part-time Tutor

Usually these tutors are students (A Level graduates/Undergraduates), or holding a Full-time job elsewhere. Here is an exclusive scoop on one of our Tutors:

One of our tutors, name withheld, a Year 2 NUS undergraduate – P5 Math $35/h, 1 lesson/week x 2h; P4 Math $40/h, 2 lesson/week x 1.5h.

– Total hours spent giving tuition per week = 5 hours
– Total extra monthly income = $760/month

The extra income every month goes a long way when you calculate yearly. Little commitment is required as well – commit to as little as 1.5h/week per assignment.

Full-time Tutor

Full-time Tutors are usually graduates that go into full-time tutoring. This group of tutors are not NIE-trained and certified, and is not to be mixed with Ex-MOE School teachers that are currently Full-time Tutors.

One of our top tutors, a Full-time Tutor that specialises in Upper Secondary level Maths, Physics and Chemistry is consistently closing $45-60/h assignments. Based on average tuition – 1 lesson/week x 2h:

– Total (average) number of assignments for Full-time Tutors = 10-15
– Total monthly income = $3,600-7,200/month

Take note that the above figures assume that all assignments are only 1 lesson/week x 2h. Assignments can range from 1 lesson/week x 1.5h up to 3 lesson/week x 2h.

The main factor affecting Full-time Tutor’s incomes is how many timeslots they can fill. They are limited by the number of students they can take in.

Current MOE School teacher

Current MOE teachers have existing commitments to school, and at most can squeeze in a few lessons on Fri-Sun, maybe even weekday evenings.

However the rates they command are very high, starting from $50/h in primary school up to $120/h for Junior College.

For example, we have 1 current MOE teacher teaching JC2 H2 Math $110/h, 1 lesson/week x 2h.

– Total hours spent giving tuition per week = 2h
– Total extra monthly income = $880/month

The extra income per month for expenditure/savings is $880 for just 2h/week on tuition.

MOE teachers that do not have much commitment in schools/home will be able to take on more assignments.

Ex-MOE School teacher

These are former School teachers, but have since left the Service to do Full-time Tutoring.

This group of tutors command the highest monthly income as they are usually specialists in a single subject – many setting up reputable Tuition Centres charging over $120/h on group tuition.

For these Tutors, they can earn from $5,000 up to $20,000 per month – more established and reputable tutors earning even higher monthly income.

(a) Home Tutor

– Average earnings per assignment = $500-600/month
– Total income from 10 assignments = $5000-6000/month

10 assignments would mean spending just 3-4 hours a day on tuition. Monthly income can be increased greatly if more time is committed to tutoring.

(b) Group Tuition

– Average earnings per student = $60-120/h (depending on level & subject)
– Number of students per group = 5-15 (reputable tuition centres can have up to 20 students together)

Assuming worst case scenario, only 5 students, $60/h, 2 hour lessons = $600 per 2h timeslot
Monthly income from 1 group tuition = $2400/month

As for group tuition, monthly income scales exponentially. From just spending 2h/week on giving tuition, you can earn $2400/month. With more students per timeslots, and more group tuition timeslots, monthly income can scale rapidly upwards to $20,000.

Of course, this can only be achieved after getting your name out there, gaining reputation through word-of-mouth etc, and getting enough students to attend your group tuition – all requires quite a lot of effort and time.

Drawbacks of being a Full-time Tutor

Of course, all roses have thorns just like how being a tuition teacher has it’s drawbacks as well.

With no CPF contributions, ineligible for employee/corporate benefits such as free dental etc, no CPF top up – tutors have to manage their finances very carefully or they will risk having lack of savings for housing or retirement.

They also have to manage the smaller issues such as non-payment by Parents, untimely payment and the likes – problems faced by all freelancers.

Having a smaller social circle is also another drawback, since less time spent with family and friends.

Weekday evenings, nights and weekends usually reserved for social interaction/bonding is used for tuition instead. Tutors also are unable to go on holidays anytime they want, since their schedule have to follow School holidays.

CocoTutors: Home Tuition Agency

Convinced that Tutoring is your next venture? Passionate for teaching, and want to give tuition? Qualified and looking for a Career Switch after hearing how much tutors make? (See: Why You Should Register with a Tuition Agency Instead)

CocoTutors: Home Tuition Agency – Singapore’s one-stop solution for Tuition. We receive up to 10 assignments a day from Parents requesting for home Tuition – rates from $25/h up to $120/h. Join our Telegram Channel to view and apply for assignments (t.me/CocoAssignments)!
Daily updates of tuition assignments are also up on our IG @cocotutors

Alternatively, you can register as a Home Tutor by filling up our Tutor Registration Form.

Register as a Home Tutor now!

The post How Much Can You Actually Make from Tuition? appeared first on CocoTutors.