The elder boy has a non-verbal learning disorder and the younger one has some Dyslexia and speech difficulties. While it is not required that the tutor be formally qualified in NVLD or Dyslexia, it is essential that they have experience working with learning difficulties, and be prepared to receive further training while in post. The tutor will need to be open to new approaches, and to strategies with which they may be currently unfamiliar.

The tutor must be able to help with all school subjects, to supervise homework, and to make sure that daily class work is understood and processed. Just as important will be to help with time-management and study skills, such as those required for exam preparation.

It is expected that the there will be around 19 hours tutoring per week during term time, between 5pm-9pm Monday-Thursday, plus one weekend morning from 10 am. (An alternative timetable might be: three weekdays from 5pm-9pm and two weekend mornings from 10 am.)

In addition the tutor may be asked to help the client before the children return from school, or in the evenings, up to a further 12 hours per week. Considerable flexibility in this respect will be required so that the children’s long school hours and busy extra-curricular interests can be accommodated.

The tutor must be a positive, supportive, friendly and enthusiastic person, someone with creative energy and fun. All long-term appointments are based on an excellent relationship with the children, and it is especially true in these circumstances. The ideal tutor will become involved in family life and activities.

The tutor must be fit and sporty, and enjoy soccer and basketball. Through these sports, and through other games and puzzles, many of the skills that will be needed by the boys can be developed.

For the normal working week, in NW London, the tutor will be responsible for their own travel arrangements and expenses to and from work. If the tutor incurs any expenses while carrying out duties for the client – such as meeting the boys from school – the tutor will be reimbursed these costs. A full clean driving licence is clearly a requirement.

The tutor will have 6 weeks paid vacation per annum, usually during term time. The tutor will be given Christmas off, but should expect to work during the Easter and summer holidays.

The tutor should expect to accompany the family on vacations, usually to France. (A good command of French would clearly be an asset). Private accommodation and all travel expenses will be covered. During these holidays, the tutor’s working time will be more like 40 hours a week, Monday-Friday.