What are the non-academic impacts of private tutoring? Voices from A-level students in UK urban schools

Abstract

Private tutoring is a growing industry globally. Past research into the effectiveness of private tutoring has proved inconclusive. Studies dedicated to the non-academic implications of private tutoring are scarce. Using a mixed-method approach, our study examined A-Level students' experiences of private tutoring and their perceptions of benefits and drawbacks to additional tuition. The participants (N=26) were students from various UK urban schools who had used private tutoring during their A-Level studies. The study found that students generally felt private tutoring had a positive impact on their education and wellbeing, with many reporting increases in confidence and motivation. However, the additional workload and financial burden of tutoring had a negative impact, particularly as the frequency of private tutoring lessons was increased. Results also indicate that the availability and affordability of private tuition can create an unfair disadvantage for students from less affluent backgrounds. Based on these findings, the paper highlights the needs for governments to consider non-academic impacts of private tutoring, as well as issues related to the distribution of educational resources and provision of equal educational opportunities for all students. Implications for schools, parents, and students are included.