Feedback is a central part of the tutor–student relationship and one of the main ways that tutoring helps students make progress. Clear, constructive feedback helps students understand what they are doing well, where they are making mistakes and how they can improve. It also builds trust, because students can see that the tutor is paying close attention to their work and is genuinely interested in helping them move forward.

During lessons, feedback is often given in the moment. Tutors may comment on how a student is approaching a question, gently correct misunderstandings and praise effective strategies as they happen. This immediate feedback helps students adjust their thinking straight away, rather than repeating the same mistakes in future work.

Tutors also provide feedback on written work, homework and practice questions. This might include marking answers, adding short written comments, suggesting model answers or talking through common errors together. Good feedback is usually specific and practical, focusing on what the student can change next time – for example, showing working more clearly, organising an essay more effectively or checking key steps before moving on.

Feedback is not only about pointing out errors. Personal tutors also highlight strengths, notice small improvements and recognise effort. This balanced approach helps students develop a more accurate and confident view of their abilities, rather than focusing only on what they find difficult. Over time, students begin to understand what “good work” looks like and how to move closer to it.

In many cases, tutors also involve students in the feedback process. They might ask the student to reflect on what went well, identify where they got stuck and suggest what they could try differently next time. This helps students become more independent learners who can review and improve their own work, rather than waiting for someone else to tell them what to change.

Feedback can also be shared with parents, especially for younger students. Tutors may give a brief verbal update at the end of a lesson or send occasional messages or emails outlining progress and next steps. This helps parents understand how their child is getting on and how they can support learning between lessons, for example by encouraging certain revision techniques or practice routines.

Overall, effective feedback turns tutoring from a series of separate lessons into a more continuous learning journey. By offering clear guidance, encouragement and next steps, tutors help students see their progress, stay motivated and develop the skills they need to succeed in class and in exams.

If you’d like your child to receive regular, personalised feedback through one-to-one tutoring, you can enter your postcode in the search box to request a free list of local and online tutors.