How to choose a Tuition Centre? Part I

1. How to choose a Tuition Centre? Part I With so many tuition centres around, it is important to choose a good one. The criteria we are highlighting below is the same, regardless of whether it is a Primary English tuition centre, a Science tuition centre or a Math tuition centre. In fact, it can also be used to choose Enrichment centres as well!

2. Teachers An important criterion to look at is the quality of teachers. Ask if the teachers have the required qualifications. You can always ask them to show you their certificates. Another thing to take note of is whether he or she interacts well with his or her students. Being able to connect well with their students makes learning much easier.

3. Quality of Programme / Materials Does the centre has some teaching methodology? Are they using a tested curriculum? Is the curriculum systematic and progressive? Are there lesson plans? Most importantly, do they have their own materials (i.e. they do not simply photocopy assessment books from Popular). If they can answer ‘yes’ to all of these questions, you can be sure they know what they are doing.

4. Learning Environment A good learning environment is also important. Is the centred packed and cramped? How about other facilities like a study area? You should also look at the décor and upkeep of a centre as to how well the owners maintain it is a sign of pride they have in their own centre. This, in turn, is a reflection of how much effort they put in ensuring their students learn.

5. Track Record Many centres trumpet their good track record. Indeed, you cannot find a centre that does not have good students. However, take a closer look at the track record. We all know the centres that ‘select’ students. Of course, they end up with top students! How about the big centres with a lot of enrolments but few students who do well? All these are signs that the track record of the tuition centre might not be that good.

6. Schedule We can all admit that time is tight for many of our children. The school does take up a lot of time. It is therefore important to check if the centre has classes that meet the child’s schedule. Ideally, they should. If they don’t, don’t just look somewhere else immediately. Look at the other criteria as well. If the tuition centre is good, go and reschedule their other activities. Watch out for Part II to read more important factors you need to consider to choose the correct tuition centre for your child.