Anxiety Tutors Command £250/Hour in Exam Prep

Tutors are commanding premium rates, with some charging as much as £250 per hour to assist children struggling with anxiety and special educational needs (SEND) during school entrance exams. This surge in demand reflects a growing parental need for support in emotional regulation, confidence-building, and coping strategies, extending beyond mere exam techniques.

The tutoring landscape has shifted significantly, with parents increasingly viewing these services as essential rather than optional. This is partly due to the competitive nature of school admissions, where overseas students are also vying for places. Tutors are now often engaged earlier, sometimes for children as young as Year 2, offering a gentler, psychologically informed approach influenced by the wellbeing focus that emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Specialized tutors are becoming more prevalent, with parents seeking expertise in areas like confidence coaching and interview skills, recognizing that schools may lack the capacity to provide such dedicated support. Organizations are championing unorthodox teaching techniques, focusing on the psychology of young people, and helping them understand their neurodivergent traits, build confidence, and advocate for their needs by reframing differences as strengths. This holistic approach includes creating 'psychological safety' and leveraging nature to lower stress levels, crucial for adolescents navigating immense pressure from social media, exams, and societal expectations.