How to choose a good online teacher for any subject: a parent's checklist

A good teacher changes how a child feels about a subject. A poor match, on the other hand, wastes money and can turn a child off learning. With so many online options, how do you choose? This checklist works for school subjects, languages, music and hobbies.

Before you search: know what you need

Write down four things.

1. The goal. Catch up, stay ahead, prepare for an exam or enjoy a hobby?
2. The level. Class, board and where your child is now. A short test or a chat shows the gaps.
3. How your child learns. Do they like talking, drawing, practising alone or being challenged?
4. The practical limits. Days, times, internet, a device and budget.

The 10-point checklist

1. Trial or demo class. Never commit before your child has met the teacher. Watch how the teacher talks to your child, not just the content.
2. Experience with the subject and board. Ask which boards and classes they teach. A CBSE Class 9 science teacher and an ICSE one prepare differently.
3. Teaching style. Do they explain with examples, ask questions and check understanding, or just lecture? The best teachers make the child think.
4. A clear plan. Ask what the first month looks like and how they will find gaps.
5. Progress you can see. Short quizzes, simple reports or parent updates. Avoid vague promises.
6. Communication. How quickly do they reply, and how do they handle questions from parents?
7. Flexibility. What happens when a class is missed? Can the schedule change at exam time?
8. Honest about results. A good teacher explains what is realistic and does not guarantee marks, ranks or fluency.
9. Transparent fees. Ask for the full cost in writing, including any extra charges. Be careful with large advance payments.
10. Safety. Classes should run on a reliable platform at the agreed time, with the parent able to listen in. Read our online class safety guide.

Group class or one-to-one?

• One-to-one: personal attention and flexible pace. Good for catching up or for a child who is shy.
• Small group: friends to learn with and a lower fee. Good for confident children and subjects that benefit from discussion.
• Large batch: the cheapest option, but with less attention. Check how doubts are handled.

Red flags

• Guarantees of marks, ranks, selection or fluency.
• Pressure to pay for a long course immediately.
• No trial class, or refusing to let you see how the teacher teaches.
• Pushing the child to chat or contact outside the agreed platform.
• Unclear fees or changing terms.
• Criticising the child instead of explaining and encouraging.

Questions to ask the teacher

• How would you find out what my child already knows?
• How will you explain a topic if my child does not understand the first time?
• How do you give homework and feedback?
• How will I know my child is improving?
• What is your policy on missed classes and changes?

How we do it

We work with a network of around 500 teachers across subjects. Instead of asking you to search and compare, you tell us the subject, class, board and what feels hard, and we match a teacher who teaches that subject to your child's age and level. We confirm the schedule and the first session with you before anything is booked, and we do not promise marks or ranks. Browse all subjects or read about maths teachers to see how it works.

Common questions

How many trial classes should I try?

One is a good start. If you are unsure, try a second teacher before deciding. A good fit matters more than speed.

How long before I see progress?

That depends on the subject and the child. Look for confidence, better understanding and steady habits within the first month, and for results over a longer time.

Is one-to-one better than a group class?

Not always. One-to-one suits catching up and shy children. Small groups suit confident children and subjects with discussion. Choose by your child's need.

How do I know the teacher is qualified?

Ask about their experience and the classes and boards they teach. Observe the trial class. Qualifications help, but teaching skill matters even more.

What if my child does not like the teacher?

Say so early. A good provider will change the teacher or the approach. Do not wait for months.

This guide is general information. For exams, follow your school, teacher and official exam board, and use your own judgement about what suits your child.