APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions.
Here, Karren gives advice to a worker who wants to know how to start a side-hustle as a tutor to earn some extra income for her family.
Q) I work part-time in a call centre and would really like to develop a side hustle to earn a bit more money for me and my family.
I have a degree in English literature and wondered whether, if I read up on GCSE requirements and the syllabus, I could offer my services as a tutor.
How do I go about this?
Do I need an official inspection or a DBS check?
And do requirements differ if I go to other people’s homes or if the kids come to mine?
Shelly, via email
A) Starting a side hustle as a tutor is a great idea, especially with your background in English literature. Research the GCSE English syllabuses, so you understand current requirements.
Websites for exam boards such as AQA and Edexcel provide details, past papers and resources that you can use to structure lessons.
While not legally required for all tutors, I would advise a DBS check, so parents feel more comfortable hiring you.
This is especially important when you’re working with minors and parents you don’t know.
Public liability insurance is optional, but a worthwhile investment, as it will cover you for accidents and injuries while a child is under your supervision, as well as legal costs and any compensation claims.
Once you’re prepared, create a simple website or a profile on tutoring platforms like Tutorful and MyTutor, where you can highlight your qualifications, experience and subjects you specialise in.
Use community boards, libraries and social media groups to advertise your services, and encourage satisfied students and parents to refer you to others and provide testimonials.
