Frequently Asked Questions About Tutoring at Rethinking Mindsets
Choosing the right tutoring support is an important decision. This page answers common questions about how tutoring works at Rethinking Mindsets, including enrolment, session structure, communication, and policies, so families can make informed decisions with clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tutoring and Enrolment
Choosing the right tutoring support is an important decision. Here you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about enrolment, sessions, payments, and how our one-on-one online tutoring builds confidence and clarity for families.
Enrolment and Getting Started
Tutoring begins with a complimentary introductory session. This allows families to meet their child’s educator, experience our approach, and assess whether ongoing support feels appropriate. If families choose to proceed, tutoring can usually begin shortly after a suitable session time is confirmed, subject to availability.
The introductory session is a short, focused meeting designed to help families and students experience our approach and assess fit. During the session, your child meets their educator, engages in guided learning activities, and we observe how they approach tasks, respond to challenge, and engage with support.
After the session, we take time to reflect on your child’s learning needs, strengths, and current pressures. We then outline recommended next steps, including whether short-term or ongoing support may be helpful. There is no obligation to continue. Families are given space to consider the information and decide whether to proceed.
No. Rethinking Mindsets does not use lock-in contracts. Families begin with an introductory session and confirm ongoing tutoring only if it feels appropriate. Plans are reviewed over time and adjusted as learning needs change.
Sessions and Scheduling
Tutoring sessions typically run for 50 or 80 minutes, depending on the agreed plan. Session length is discussed as part of the enrolment process and selected based on your child’s learning needs, focus, and capacity for sustained engagement.
Session frequency varies depending on a student’s needs. Some students benefit from short-term support during periods of increased demand, while others benefit from consistent weekly sessions over time. Frequency is guided by professional teaching judgement and reviewed as needs change.
We understand that occasional scheduling changes are sometimes necessary. Sessions can be rescheduled with sufficient notice, subject to availability. Where possible, we work with families to support reasonable changes while maintaining consistency for students.
Cancellations made without the required notice may be charged in full. Full details are outlined in our Payments and Cancellations Policy.
Yes. Holiday tutoring is offered at selected times throughout the year and is available to current or returning families. Holiday sessions are designed to support consolidation, preparation, or confidence-building in a calm and manageable way. Availability is limited and varies by term.
What We Teach and How
Rethinking Mindsets provides tutoring in English and mathematics, with additional support for executive functioning, study skills, and learning organisation. Tutoring is aligned with the Australian Curriculum and responsive to state and school-specific expectations.
Progress is monitored through ongoing observation, educator reflection, and regular communication with families. Rather than relying on generic metrics, educators track engagement, confidence, learning behaviours, and curriculum understanding over time. Progress updates are shared to keep families informed and aligned.
Homework or follow-up tasks are assigned selectively and only when appropriate. The focus is on supporting meaningful learning and confidence, rather than adding unnecessary workload. Any additional tasks are discussed with families and used to reinforce learning between sessions when helpful.
Tutoring may include support with school-based tasks when helpful, particularly where homework highlights gaps in understanding or organisation. The primary focus remains on developing skills, strategies, and confidence that students can apply independently.
Rethinking Mindsets does not offer test-preparation or coaching programs for selective entry exams. Our focus is on building strong foundations, confidence, and learning skills that support students within their current school context. Families seeking exam-specific coaching may wish to explore specialist providers.
Tutor Fit and Communication
All sessions are delivered by qualified educators with teaching expertise, strong curriculum knowledge, and current Working With Children Checks. Our team has experience supporting a wide range of learners, including students in high-expectation environments, those managing school transitions, and capable learners who benefit from tailored guidance.
Wherever possible, students work consistently with the same educator to support trust, continuity, and effective learning relationships.
Fit is an important part of effective tutoring. If a family has concerns about fit, this is discussed openly. Where appropriate, adjustments can be made to support the student’s learning needs.
We provide regular updates through session notes and direct communication. Families receive feedback on academic progress, engagement, and confidence so you can see how tutoring is supporting your child. Communication focuses on clarity and alignment rather than volume.
Families can contact us with questions, updates, or relevant information. We ensure communication is clear and consistent, and that important information is shared with educators as needed to support your child’s learning.
Payments, Cancellations and Policies
Invoices are sent via email. Payment options include PayID, direct transfer, or credit card (surcharges apply).
Sessions can be rescheduled with sufficient notice, subject to availability. Cancellations made without the required notice may be charged in full. Full details are outlined in our Payments and Cancellations Policy.
Sessions finish at the scheduled time. If a student joins late, we use the remaining time as effectively as possible, but missed minutes cannot be extended or refunded. If a student has not joined within 20 minutes of the scheduled start, the session is recorded as a no-show and charged in full.
Additional Information
Yes. We are experienced in supporting families accessing Defence Education Assistance Scheme (EAS) and DVA programs (VCES and MRCAETS). We guide families through the required forms and ensure tutoring meets provider requirements. Some families receive funding through Defence or DVA schemes. However, private tutoring is generally not covered under NDIS plans.
Yes. We are a registered Child Safe organisation, and all our online tutoring sessions meet Australian Child Safe Standards. Every educator holds a current Working With Children Check.
Yes. All tutoring sessions are delivered online and available to families across Australia, including NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA, TAS, ACT, and NT, as well as regional and remote communities such as Lord Howe Island.
Students need a reliable internet connection, a computer or tablet with video and audio capability, and a quiet workspace. Headphones, a microphone, and access to learning materials such as schoolbooks, notebooks, or reports are recommended for the best experience.
Families receive a short guide before starting to help with setup and preparation.
