Ensuring safety in tutoring: how Discover & Be protects your child from the risks of unregulated tutors
/A recent BBC article has brought to light some alarming issues around the safety of children being taught by unregulated tutors. The article points out how some platforms fail to implement adequate checks, leaving children vulnerable to potential risks. As a tutoring agency we take the safety of our pupils, their families and our staff extremely seriously. We feel it is important to respond to the points raised in the article and explain how we ensure the highest standards of safety for your child.
The BBC article reveals the darker side of the tutoring industry, where a lack of proper regulation can expose students to tutors who haven’t undergone thorough vetting. This is a serious concern, as it puts children at risk of encountering unsuitable or even dangerous individuals. Many online tutoring platforms, for example, operate with minimal oversight, failing to conduct comprehensive background checks or relying on automated processes that are not always reliable.
How Discover & Be sets the standard for safety
At Discover & Be, the safety and well-being of your child are our top priorities. Unlike some of the unregulated services mentioned in the article, we take extensive steps to create a safe and secure learning environment. Here’s how:
1. Comprehensive DBS checks for all tutors
We understand that trust is essential when it comes to your child's education. That's why we conduct thorough Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks on every tutor we employ. This process ensures that all of our tutors have been vetted for any criminal history or records that might make them unsuitable to work with children. We don’t rely on self-reported information or basic automated checks – every tutor's background is rigorously reviewed to meet the highest standards of safety. We require ALL our tutors to be DBS checked at an enhanced level (which is different to and more thorough than the basic check). A basic check is fine if an adult is, for example, working with your child in a group setting, perhaps with other qualified adults or parents around, eg a playgroup setting. In our opinion, any tutor left on their own with a child should have an enhanced DBS check.
2. Personalised application processing
At Discover & Be every tutor application is personally processed by our experienced team to ensure we only hire tutors who meet our strict criteria. This means reviewing their professional background, qualifications and references to ensure they are not only skilled educators but also individuals of good character. We take the time to meet and interview each tutor in person to assess their suitability for working with children.
3. In-person tutoring for added security
Unlike many online services, our tutoring takes place in person, often in familiar settings like your home. This face-to-face approach not only enhances the quality of education but also provides additional safety for your child. You, as the parent or carer, can meet and interact with the tutor, ensuring transparency and peace of mind. Of course, there is a place for online tuition - as the pandemic showed - and it can sometimes be a preferable option. Again, we have specific guidelines (for both tutors and pupils/parents) for ensuring optimum pupil safety during any online tutoring sessions.
4. Ongoing monitoring and feedback
Our commitment to safety doesn’t end once a tutor is hired. We maintain regular contact with parents and guardians to gather feedback and ensure that each child is comfortable and thriving in their learning environment. Our team is always available to address any concerns promptly, providing continuous support throughout your child's tutoring journey.
Why safety matters in tutoring
Choosing a tutor is about more than finding someone who can teach a particular subject; it’s about finding a mentor who can positively influence your child's education and personal growth. Safety and trust are the foundations of a productive learning relationship. By ensuring that all tutors are thoroughly vetted and qualified, we help create an environment where your child can learn confidently and comfortably.
Our promise to you
At Discover & Be, we promise to go above and beyond to ensure your child’s safety and well-being. In an industry that is increasingly moving online, we are committed to maintaining a personalised, human approach that prioritises your child's security. Every tutor is carefully selected, every lesson is designed with safety in mind, and every parent is kept informed and involved.
The BBC's recent article is a timely reminder of the importance of choosing the right tutoring service. With so many options available, it’s crucial to pick a provider that puts safety first. Discover & Be is proud to stand out in this regard, offering a trusted and secure alternative to the unregulated options out there. Your child's safety, education and growth are our top priorities, and we are dedicated to providing a tutoring experience you can trust.
If you have any questions about our safety policies or would like to learn more about our in-person tutoring services, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.