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How to Become A History Tutor

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What is a History Tutor

A History Tutor helps students understand the past and do better in their history subjects. For those who love history and enjoy working with people, it is a great career to explore.

History Tutors work with learners of all ages. Clients range from primary school students to adults who study history for fun. Sessions can take place at home, at a tutoring centre, or online. Many tutors mix this role with jobs in teaching, research, or writing.

Each session is different. One day a tutor might walk a Year 12 student through a practice essay for the HSC. The next, they might help a Year 8 student get to grips with World War One. Tutors tailor every lesson to the person they are teaching.

The best part of this career is the impact tutors have. Watching a student grow in confidence is deeply rewarding. Helping them nail an exam makes all the effort worthwhile. Formal teacher registration is not required to start tutoring. A love of history and a talent for clear explanation are what matter most.

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Career Outlook for History Tutor

History tutoring is a growing field in Australia. Private tutoring as a whole employs around 50,800 people across Australia (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). The sector is growing, with about 2,600 new jobs added each year. Around 77% of tutors work part-time. This suits people who want flexible hours or who mix tutoring with other work such as teaching or writing.

Most History Tutors are under 40, with a median age of 34 (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Women make up about 71% of the tutoring workforce. Demand for private tutoring is strongest in major cities, especially in areas with tough high school entry. Digital tools have made it easier to work online. This has opened the market for tutors well beyond their local area.

The outlook for History Tutors is steady. History remains a core subject in school and university curricula. Students will always need support to meet those needs. Tutors who keep their knowledge current, build strong reputations, and adapt to online delivery are well placed for continued demand.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a History Tutor

Step 1: Complete a degree in History or Education

Enrol in a Bachelor of Arts with a History major, or a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) with a History specialisation. A Bachelor of Arts takes three years full-time at a university. A Bachelor of Education takes four years full-time. If you already hold a bachelor degree in another field, consider a Graduate Diploma of Education (Secondary) instead. This one-year course covers teaching theory, curriculum, and teaching practice.

Step 2: Obtain a Working With Children Check

Apply for a Working With Children Check in your state or territory before you start tutoring. This is mandatory if you tutor anyone under 18. The check is issued by the relevant state authority. Examples include Service NSW, the Department of Justice in VIC, and the Department of Communities in WA. Processing typically takes two to four weeks. Keep the check current, as it must be renewed according to your state’s rules.

Step 3: Gain practical teaching experience

Build your tutoring skills by working as a teaching assistant, volunteering at a homework club, or joining a tutoring company. Aim for at least six to twelve months of regular teaching practice before setting up on your own. This work helps you build lesson-planning skills and learn to handle different learner needs. It also grows your confidence in front of students.

Step 4: Learn the Australian Curriculum and state syllabus requirements

Study the Australian Curriculum (History) at ACARA’s website to understand what students need to know at each year level. Also read the relevant state syllabus from your local curriculum authority, such as NESA (NSW), VCAA (VIC), or QCAA (QLD). Senior secondary students have set content areas for their exams. Knowing the syllabus well is vital for good tutoring.

Step 5: Build your tutoring practice

Start taking on students through word of mouth, a tutoring agency, or by listing your services on an education marketplace. Set a clear rate, note your hours, and set up a simple intake form to check each new student’s needs. Many successful tutors start part-time and grow their client base slowly over one to two years. Connect with local schools to receive referrals.

What does a History Tutor do?

A History Tutor’s day is built around their students. They plan lessons, run sessions, mark practice work, and give feedback. All of this is tailored to where each student is right now. One day a tutor might walk a Year 12 student through a practice essay for the HSC. The next, they might help a Year 8 student understand World War One. Tutors also keep up with the Australian Curriculum and syllabus changes to stay accurate and relevant. Beyond the sessions, many tutors develop worksheets, source readings, and check in with parents. It is a varied and hands-on role where every student brings a new challenge.

Tasks

History Tutors do much more than just teach. They plan, assess, coach, and connect with students and families to make sure every learner gets what they need. Here is a snapshot of what a History Tutor does day to day.

  • Lesson planning: develop tailored lesson plans that match the student’s year level and current curriculum.
  • Running sessions: lead one-on-one or small group sessions on historical topics, events, and essay skills.
  • Marking practice work: review essays, short answers, and practice exams to identify gaps and track improvement.
  • Giving feedback: provide clear, useful feedback that helps students understand what to improve and how.
  • Teaching critical thinking: guide students to look at sources, compare views, and argue a point with evidence.
  • Keeping current: stay up to date with the Australian Curriculum and relevant state syllabus changes.
  • Creating study materials: build worksheets, reading lists, and revision guides to support learning between sessions.
  • Talking to parents: update parents or carers on progress and discuss any areas that need extra attention.
  • Planning for exams: help students with revision plans, exam approach, and time use under pressure.
  • Adapting the approach: change methods when something is not working, so every student can succeed.

Skills for Success

To thrive as a History Tutor, a person needs more than just a love of the subject. Strong skills in clear explanation are key. Tutors need to adapt their teaching style to suit each learner.

Patience goes a long way. Some students take time to grasp difficult concepts. Tutors who stay positive and try new approaches get the best results. Good planning skills help with setting up sessions, setting goals, and tracking how each student is improving. A genuine love of history and care for each student’s success are what make tutors truly great.

Skills & Attributes

  • Strong knowledge of history, historical events, and key periods
  • Clear oral and written communication
  • Ability to break down complex concepts into simple terms
  • Patience and adaptability in teaching methods
  • Critical thinking and analytical skills
  • Lesson planning and organisational skills
  • Ability to assess student progress and give constructive feedback
  • Familiarity with Australian Curriculum history content
  • Empathy and understanding of different learning needs
  • Time management and self-direction (for independent tutors)

Average Salaries

Private tutors and teachers in Australia earn a median $68 per hour (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Pay varies with experience and hours worked. Most History Tutors work part-time and earn between $50,000 and $85,000 a year. Experienced tutors working full-time can earn over $100,000 a year.

min $50 K

max $115 K

av $75 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.