How to draft a tutoring contract

A tutoring contract is your most important professional tool for preventing misunderstandings. It’s a formal agreement that protects both you and your clients by clearly defining services, fees, and expectations. To get started, you must create a document that clearly states what you will teach, how much you charge, your payment schedule, and your rules for cancellations.

What to Include in Your Tutoring Contract

A good contract doesn’t need to be full of complicated legal language; it just needs to be clear and fair. Think of it as a user manual for working with you. Make sure you cover these essential sections:

• Parties Involved: Include the full names and contact details for yourself (the tutor) and the parent or guardian responsible for payment. It’s also good practice to name the student being tutored.
• Tutoring Services: Be specific about what you are providing. State the subject(s), the length of each session (e.g., 60 minutes), and the agreed frequency (e.g., weekly on Tuesdays at 4 pm).
• Fees and Payment Terms: Clearly state your hourly rate or the price for a block of lessons. Explain when payment is due (e.g., monthly in advance, within 48 hours of the session) and what payment methods you accept (e.g., bank transfer).
• Cancellation Policy: This is one of the most important clauses. Specify how much notice a client must give to cancel or reschedule a session without being charged (24 or 48 hours is standard). Also, state what happens if you need to cancel a session.
• Location and Method: Clarify where the tutoring will take place. If it's online, mention the platform (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet). If it's in person, state the address.
• Obligations: Briefly outline what each party can expect. For example, you will provide tailored lessons and progress updates. The student is expected to be punctual and prepared for the session.
• Termination of Agreement: Explain how either you or the client can end the tutoring arrangement permanently, including the required notice period (e.g., two weeks’ written notice).

Tips for a Professional Contract

• Keep it Simple: Write in plain, straightforward English. The goal is for everyone to understand the agreement easily.
• Use a Template: You don’t need to start from a blank page. You can find many free tutoring contract templates online. Just be sure to read through and adapt it to fit your specific services and policies.
• Always Get it Signed: An unsigned contract isn’t enforceable. Make sure the parent or guardian signs and dates the document before the first paid session. Provide them with a copy and keep one for your own records.

A clear contract shows clients that you are organised and professional. It builds trust and provides a solid foundation for a positive and productive tutoring relationship.