Tutors
blt follows a rigid framework for registering all of its tutors.
We undertake a number of checks on all applicants before they can register with us. Around 70% of our applicants are turned away, as they do not reach our stringent requirements; this ensures that our tutees will always receive an experienced, highly qualified tutor, with a proven track record, who is passionate about the language(s) they teach and/or the educational service(s) they provide. All tutors must have DBS Enhanced Disclosure before they are fully registered.
Our registration framework comprises interview, documentary checks, DBS Enhanced Disclosure checks, reference checks and an ongoing monitoring process.
Interview
We interview all applicants to discuss the qualifications they hold and the tutoring experience they have. blt requires all applicants to hold a degree in the language(s) they tutor with First Class Honours (1st) or Upper Second Class Honours (2:1) and/or to have Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Where applicants wish to provide ESOL/EAL services, we require the DELTA/Dip TESOL qualification. All applicants must demonstrate extensive knowledge and practical experience of any exam specification(s) they tutor. Applicants must also display a genuine passion for the language(s) they tutor and/or the educational service(s) they provide. If an applicant is successful at this stage, we invite them to complete a registration form.
Documentary Checks
Once the registration form has been received, the applicant’s personal details are checked. We request copies of the applicant’s passport, degree certificate(s) and CV. All of the documents are inspected and if they reach our requirements, the applicant’s professional referee and personal referee are contacted.
DBS Enhanced Disclosure Checks
All of our tutors must have DBS Enhanced Disclosure*. If a successful applicant does not have DBS Enhanced Disclosure, an application is made. The Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) is responsible for vetting applications for people who want to work with children or vulnerable adults.
*The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) merged in December 2012 to become the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
References Checks
We request two references for each applicant: one professional reference and one personal reference. All of our tutors come from a teaching background and so we ask that an applicant's professional referee be able to provide insight into how they work and interact with learners. The personal reference provides additional information regarding an applicant’s character and ability. In particular, we look for evidence of passion for the language(s) an applicant teaches and/or the educational service(s) they provide, as well as ambition, flexibility, patience, an eye for detail and professionalism.
Ongoing Monitoring
Once an applicant has successfully registered with blt, we monitor the quality of their tutoring on an ongoing basis. To this end, we advise all tutees to submit regular tutee feedback. This rigid application process seeks to ensure that the quality of our services consistently exceeds expectations. We work closely with our tutees and tutors so that if any concerns arise, we are able to put a new tutor in place, if necessary.
For more information on how our tutor registration process works, please contact blt on 01202 280507 or click here to email us directly. To arrange a bespoke tutorial, please click here. If you are a prospective tutor interested in working with blt, please click here.