Key stage 1 maths

At Key Stage 1, pupils are introduced to the foundations of mathematics, including counting, number bonds, basic addition and subtraction, place value, simple multiplication and division, shapes, measurements, and time. These early years are crucial for building a strong understanding of numbers and developing problem-solving skills.

However, some children may find certain concepts challenging, such as grasping number relationships, understanding word problems, or remembering basic number facts. Without the right support, these struggles can affect their confidence and progress.

A private maths enrichment tutor can offer personalised support tailored to your child’s learning style and pace. Tutors use engaging methods like games, visual aids, and hands-on activities to make maths fun and easier to understand. They also focus on reinforcing what’s taught in the school curriculums, addressing any gaps in understanding, and building a solid foundation for future learning.

Having a private tutor at this stage can significantly boost a child’s confidence, improve their attitude towards maths, and help them feel more prepared in class. With one-on-one attention, children receive the support they need to thrive and develop a positive relationship with maths early on.

Key stage 2 maths

At Key Stage 2, children build on their early maths skills and tackle more complex concepts such as larger number operations, fractions, decimals, percentages, multiplication and division facts, as well as geometry, statistics, and problem-solving. This stage focuses on developing fluency, reasoning, and the ability to apply maths in different contexts.

Many pupils may struggle with the jump in difficulty, especially when it comes to multi-step word problems, understanding fractions and decimals, or retaining multiplication tables. Without targeted support, gaps in knowledge can grow and impact overall confidence.

A private maths tutor can provide focused, one-to-one support that targets a child’s specific needs. Tutors often use practical examples, visual resources, and step-by-step guidance to simplify tricky topics. They tailor their teaching to suit the student’s pace and learning style, helping them to overcome obstacles and strengthen their core understanding.

The benefits of a maths tutor at Key Stage 2 are far-reaching. Not only can it boost academic performance, but it also builds confidence, encourages independent learning, and ensures children feel more prepared for classroom work and future assessments, including year 6 SATs. Early intervention and personalised support can make a lasting difference in a child’s maths journey, and can ease their transition into secondary school.

Key stage 3 maths

At Key Stage 3, students encounter a broader and more in-depth maths curriculum. Topics include algebra, ratios and proportions, more advanced geometry, negative numbers, equations, data handling, and problem-solving. This stage is key in preparing students for the demands of GCSE-level maths and developing their logical thinking and analytical skills.

The shift to difficult concepts like algebra or working with complex word problems can be challenging for many learners – so many of the families we work with look to hire algebra tutors. Some may struggle to keep up with the pace of lessons or lack self-belief when applying their knowledge to unfamiliar situations.

A private maths tutor can make a big difference during Key Stage 3 by providing tailored, focused support outside of the classroom that addresses a student’s specific challenges. Tutors break down complex ideas into manageable steps and offer strategies to approach difficult topics with greater clarity. They also help identify and address any gaps in understanding, reinforcing classroom learning while building problem-solving confidence.

Having a personal tutor at this stage not only supports academic progress but also helps students develop a stronger, more positive relationship with maths in the run up to GCSE. 

GCSE maths preparation

GCSE Maths is a significant milestone in a student’s academic journey, covering a wide range of topics such as algebra, geometry, statistics, probability, and number operations. It requires not only a solid grasp of mathematical concepts but also the ability to apply them accurately under exam conditions.

Many students – even advanced learners – experience overwhelming anxiety as exams approach. The pressure to perform, coupled with the complexity of the subject, can lead to self-doubt and panic—especially if there are gaps in understanding or difficulties with time management and problem-solving under pressure.

A private maths tutor can provide crucial support during this time. Tutors help students strengthen their core knowledge while also focusing on essential exam skills, such as:

• interpreting questions carefully
• showing full working out
• checking answers
• managing time effectively

Through regular practice with past papers and mock exams, students become more familiar with the exam format and develop the confidence to tackle questions calmly and strategically.

Beyond boosting grades, a maths tutor can ease anxiety by offering reassurance, structure, and personalised strategies tailored to the student’s needs. This targeted support helps students approach their GCSEs with greater confidence, turning anxiety into motivation and improving their chances of success.

AS and A-level mathematics

AS and A-level Maths represent a major step up in both difficulty and depth compared to GCSE maths. Students explore advanced topics such as calculus, logarithms, coordinate geometry, sequences and series, trigonometry, and more complex algebra, alongside statistics and mechanics. The pace is faster, and the expectations for independent problem-solving and abstract thinking are much higher.

It’s common for students to feel overwhelmed during this stage, especially when previously familiar topics become more complex or when new concepts are introduced rapidly. The pressure of assessments, coupled with the challenging nature of the course, can lead to stress and a dip in confidence—even for capable learners.

A private maths tutor can be invaluable at this level. They offer focused, one-on-one support to help students break down complex problems, understand the underlying concepts, and apply them effectively. Tutors also help sharpen key exam skills—such as interpreting multi-part questions, structuring clear and logical solutions, and managing time under pressure.

Working with a maths tutor allows students to target weaker areas, consolidate classroom learning, and build the confidence needed to face exams with clarity and composure. 

With personalised guidance, students are better equipped to achieve great results and progress smoothly into higher education, or careers that rely on advanced mathematical skills.

Get in touch to find out more about the different levels of tutoring we offer.