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.
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.
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.
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.
