Frequently asked questions

Who, exactly, am I going to be tutoring?
Does a learner meet with a staff member before meeting with their tutor?
Where will we meet?
I’d like to help, but I’m not a teacher.
I’m interested in tutoring, but am I qualified?
I wouldn’t know HOW to help someone learn English.
How much of a time commitment am I looking at?
What kinds of things will we be working on?
Are there resources for me to use?

Who, exactly, am I going to be tutoring?

We will train you to work with Adult Basic Education learners or English as a Second Language (ESL) learners who need your help. Our learners are adult men and women of all ages, nationalities, economic and social backgrounds

Does a learner meet with a staff member before meeting with their tutor?

Yes. A member of our staff interviews each learner prior to accepting him or her into the program.

Where will we meet?

You and your adult learner will agree to meet at a mutually convenient location. Many tutors and learners meet at local libraries.

I’d like to help, but I’m not a teacher.

You do not need a teaching background or to know another language to be a tutor. All you need is a desire to help. We don’t use an academic approach; instead, in our 18-hour tutor training workshop, we show you how to use every day, practical material as lessons for your English learner.

I’m interested in tutoring, but am I qualified?

You simply need to read, write and speak English fluently.

I wouldn’t know HOW to help someone learn English.

You’ll complete 18 hours of training before meeting your adult learner. We’ll show you how to use every day, practical materials as lessons. Don’t worry. You’ll be ready and we’re always here to help.  

How much of a time commitment am I looking at?

You’ll be asked to meet with your learner 1-2 hours a week. Tutoring can fit into your schedule.

What kinds of things will we be working on?

You’ll become familiar with your learner’s goals, and can base your tutoring sessions on them. You might start by helping the individual manage everyday tasks like writing a grocery list, navigating  job ads or understanding a medicine label, and you’ll progress from there.

Are there resources for me to use?

Yes! We have proven resources and tools for our tutors, along with ongoing training opportunities.

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