💼 Tutor Salaries in South Africa: How Much Do Tutors Earn?
Hiring a tutor can make a huge difference in your child’s academic success, but how do you know what to pay?
Whether you’re a family looking for the right support, or a tutor setting your rates, this updated guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
💰 Average Tutor Salaries in South Africa
Tutor rates vary based on experience, subject, and hours worked. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Hours Worked Per Week | Monthly Earning Range |
|---|---|
| 2 hours per week (1hr × 2 sessions) | R1,400 – R1,600 |
| 8 hours per week (2hrs × 4 sessions) | R3,500 – R4,500 |
| 12+ hours per week (3–4 sessions/day) | R6,000 – R7,000+ |
📌 Typical hourly rate: R180 – R250/hour
💡 More hours = slightly reduced hourly rate
🌍 Regional Salary Variations
In urban areas like Cape Town or Joburg, tutor rates may sit on the higher end due to demand and cost of living.
In smaller towns or rural regions, the average rate may be slightly lower — but always consider experience and qualification over location.
🗺️ Tutor Salaries by Region
| Region | Average Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| Cape Town | R200 – R250 |
| Johannesburg | R200 – R230 |
| Durban & coastal areas | R180 – R220 |
| Smaller towns | R150 – R180 |
💼 What Makes a Great Tutor?
Families often ask what qualifies someone as a “high-calibre” tutor. Here’s what we recommend:
✅ At least 1 year of formal tutoring (not just helping friends/family)
✅ Subject-related studies or certification at tertiary level
✅ Passion, patience, and a child-friendly approach
✅ Strong communication and consistency
🚗 Do Tutors Get Petrol Reimbursement?
No — petrol is not reimbursed for tutoring roles.
Tutor rates are designed to include transport. This is different from au pairs, who may be paid separately for driving duties.
👩🏫 What Do Tutors Actually Do?
Tutors only assist with academic support. They do not help with:
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Driving children
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Meal prep or errands
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Housework or babysitting
Their focus is purely on learning and school support.
📅 When Are Tutors Usually Available?
Tutors tend to be:
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Aged 18–28, often students themselves
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Available after school, usually from 3pm or 4pm
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Available during holidays if discussed in advance
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Not employed full-time in other roles (in most cases)
📆 Contracts & Scheduling
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Most tutors work on a 3–6 month contract
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A signed agreement helps outline the rate, expectations, and lesson frequency
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Tutors are often available during school holidays for catch-up sessions or exam prep
✨ Pros of Hiring a Tutor
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Personalised, one-on-one support
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Flexibility around your child’s needs
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Focused help in specific subjects like Maths, English, or Science
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Improvement in confidence, grades, and academic independence
🎓 Want to Become a Tutor (or Sharpen Your Skills)?
If you’re thinking about becoming a tutor — or you’re already tutoring and want to stand out — we highly recommend our Tutoring or Homeschooling Course.
✅ Learn how to support students effectively
✅ Build confidence in structuring lessons
✅ Boost your chances of being hired (and earning more)
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve, our course gives you the tools to succeed.
👉 Explore the Tutor Course or have a look at the Homeschooling Course.
(Get certified and you’ll be added to our global job portal — apply for jobs locally or abroad)
🔍 How to Spot a Great Tutor (and Avoid Red Flags)
| ✅ Green Flags: Great Tutors | ❌ Red Flags: Proceed With Caution |
|---|---|
| Clearly explains how they’ll support your child’s learning | Vague or generic answers about their methods |
| Has strong subject knowledge and real experience | Only has experience helping friends or family |
| Polite, punctual, and professional | Arrives late or disinterested |
| Offers ideas for supporting your child at home | Avoids feedback or seems unapproachable |
| Can provide references | Hesitant to provide contactable references |
🧠 Choosing the Right Tutor for Your Child
Look for someone who:
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Specialises in the subject your child needs help with
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Matches your child’s learning style
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Has a schedule that aligns with your availability
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Can offer proof of success — like testimonials or references
🗣️ 10 Questions to Ask in a Tutor Interview
| Interview Question | What to Look for in Their Answer |
|---|---|
| What subject areas do you specialise in? | Matches your child’s needs and level |
| How do you structure a typical session? | Clear plan, tailored to the student |
| What experience do you have with this age group? | Real-world examples, formal tutoring |
| How do you adapt your teaching for different learners? | Mentions flexibility, observation |
| What outcomes have you helped past students achieve? | Confidence-building, improved marks |
| What do you do if a child is unmotivated? | Tools, encouragement, patience |
| Are you familiar with the school’s curriculum? | Yes, and examples of past use |
| How do you measure progress? | Uses reports, feedback, assessments |
| What are your availability and cancellation terms? | Flexible, but professional |
| Can you provide references? | Yes, with contact info if needed |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a contract?
Yes — always. It sets clear expectations and protects both sides.
Can one tutor teach multiple kids?
Not at the same time. If you have more than one child, book separate sessions.
What about school holidays?
Many tutors work during holidays — it’s a great time for revision and exam prep.
Does informal experience count?
Only formal tutoring (paid or volunteer) is considered when setting rates. Helping family doesn’t qualify for premium pay.
📝 Final Thoughts
Tutoring can transform a child’s confidence and performance. Whether it’s weekly maths support or prepping for final exams, the right tutor is an investment in your child’s future.
If you’re a family looking for a qualified tutor, create a family profile and start connecting with top-rated tutors near you.
If you are a tutor: create your childcare profile.
