Pre-School Years & Nursery

At this stage, a private tutor creates rich learning experiences through play, exploration, and gentle guidance. Rather than formal lessons, they focus on building confidence, curiosity, and foundational skills like language development, early numeracy concepts, and social interaction. Our tutors help children develop the joy of discovery that becomes the foundation for all future learning.

We believe children are never too young to benefit from quality educational support, but the approach must be completely age-appropriate. Before age 4, we focus on play-based learning rather than formal instruction. If your child shows curiosity, enjoys stories, or asks lots of questions, they’re ready to benefit from gentle, nurturing educational experiences.

Sessions are entirely play-based and child-led, lasting 45-60 minutes maximum. Our tutors bring carefully selected materials – books, games, art supplies, building blocks – that encourage natural learning through exploration. Activities might include storytelling, singing, creative play, or nature exploration, all designed to feel like wonderful playtime.

Gentle preparation can begin around 18 months before the assessment through natural play activities that develop the skills schools look for – listening, following instructions, social interaction, and basic cognitive abilities. However, we strongly advise against formal preparation before age 3, as this can create anxiety and resistance to learning.

Our Early Years tutors undergo our most rigorous selection process. Beyond academic qualifications, we look for individuals with specific early childhood experience, natural warmth with young children, and understanding of child development. All undergo enhanced DBS checks, and we observe them interacting with children before selection.

Early Years tuition works best in familiar environments, so we typically come to your home where your child feels most comfortable. We can also provide tuition in gardens, local parks, or child-friendly venues. The key is creating a relaxed, pressure-free environment where natural learning can flourish.

While nurseries focus on group activities and social development, private tuition offers completely individualised attention tailored to your child’s interests, learning style, and pace. Our tutors can follow your child’s curiosity in the moment – spending longer on activities they love or gently introducing new concepts when they’re most receptive.

Sessions typically last 45-60 minutes, but we’re completely flexible based on your child’s attention span and engagement. Some 2-year-olds thrive with 30-minute sessions, while engaged 4-year-olds might enjoy longer periods. Our tutors are skilled at reading children’s cues and ending on a positive note.

If you’re considering independent schools with 4+ entry, it’s worth understanding the timeline and requirements early. However, the best preparation at this age is simply nurturing your child’s natural curiosity, confidence, and love of learning. Schools look for happy, engaged children who can separate from parents and interact positively with others – qualities that develop naturally through quality play-based experiences.