How to run a great first online tutoring lesson

Spend the first few minutes finding out where the student is stuck and what they want to achieve, teach one useful thing, and finish by agreeing a plan and a time for the next lesson. The student should leave having made visible progress.

Before the lesson

Ask for the topic, exam board and any recent work. Test your connection and screen sharing a few minutes early.

The first ten minutes

Say hello, then ask the student to show you something they found hard. Listen to how they explain it. This tells you where to start.

The middle

Teach one thing well. Let the student try a problem while you watch, then step in only where they get stuck.

The end

Summarise what was learned, set a small piece of practice, and agree when you will meet next. Finishing with a plan is what turns a trial into regular lessons.

Frequently asked questions

How long should the first lesson be?

Use the length you have agreed. Many trials are shorter than a regular lesson, so plan one clear topic.

What do I need for an online lesson?

A quiet space, a reliable connection, a camera and microphone, and a way to share written working such as a tablet or shared whiteboard.

What if the student is shy?

Ask open questions, give them time and let them attempt a problem before you explain.

Start your first live session

Book a short video call with someone who has done it. Find a helper on Wizelp.