Frequently Asked Questions

  • My child can read but doesn’t understand what they read. Can you help with that?

    Yes. Many students can read fluently but struggle with comprehension. We focus on teaching students how to think about what they read, not just decode words.

    My child struggles to put ideas into writing. Is that something you work on?

    Yes. We help students organise their thoughts, structure sentences and paragraphs, and express ideas clearly and confidently in writing.

    Do you help children who lack confidence in English, even if they’re not failing?

    Absolutely. English confidence plays a big role in classroom participation, assessments, and overall learning. We work with students who need confidence building as well as academic support.

     My child dislikes English. How do you handle reluctant learners?

    We take a calm, patient approach and adjust sessions to suit the student’s interests and level. Our goal is to reduce pressure and help students feel more capable and engaged.

    Will you follow what my child is doing at school, or do your own program?

    We primarily support what your child is learning at school, while also filling gaps and strengthening skills where needed. This ensures relevance and steady progress. 

    How do you handle students who are ahead of their class in English?

    For students who are ahead, we extend learning by:

    • Improving writing quality

    • Developing stronger vocabulary

    • Encouraging deeper thinking and comprehension

    Do you correct my child’s work during sessions?

    Yes, correction and feedback are part of learning. We correct work in a supportive way that helps students understand why something needs improving.

    Can you help my child prepare for classroom assessments or tests?

    Yes. We help students understand assessment expectations, practise skills, and feel prepared rather than anxious.

    How long does it usually take to see improvement in English?

    Progress depends on the student’s starting point and consistency. Many parents notice improvements in confidence and understanding within the first few weeks of regular sessions.

    Do parents receive updates about how their child is going?

    Updates can be provided when needed. We are always happy to discuss progress, strengths, and areas for improvement.

  • My child memorises science but doesn’t really understand it. Can you help with that?

    Yes. A big focus of our science tutoring is helping students understand concepts, not just memorise facts. We explain ideas in simple terms and help students connect concepts together.

    My child struggles to explain science answers in words. Is that normal?

    Very common. We help students practise explaining scientific ideas clearly, which is essential for tests, assessments, and NAPLAN-style questions.

    Do you help with scientific vocabulary?

    Yes. Science has its own language. We work on understanding and correctly using scientific terms so students feel more confident in class and assessments.

    My child finds science confusing compared to maths or English. How do you approach this?

    We break science topics down into small, manageable parts, use examples the student understands, and revisit concepts until they feel clear and confident.

     Do you help with school assignments and projects in science?

    Yes. We support students with understanding assignment requirements, organising their ideas, and improving the quality of their responses — without doing the work for them.

    Is science tutoring useful if my child is already doing okay at school?

    Yes. Science tutoring can help students:

    • Strengthen understanding

    • Build confidence

    • Improve how they answer questions

    • Develop curiosity and critical thinking

    Do you help with NAPLAN science-style questions?

    Yes. While NAPLAN focuses mainly on English and Maths, we help students practise interpreting data, diagrams, and explanations, which supports scientific thinking and exam skills.

     How do you help students who say “science is boring”?

    We make science more relatable by connecting topics to real-life examples and explaining why concepts matter. Engagement often improves once students start understanding the content.

    Can science tutoring help with overall school performance?

    Yes. Science develops reasoning, comprehension, and problem-solving skills that support learning across other subjects as well.

  • My child understands maths in class but freezes during tests. Can you help with that?

    Yes. Many students understand concepts but struggle under pressure. We help students practise applying skills confidently and develop strategies to approach questions calmly.

    My child memorises steps but doesn’t understand why they work. Is that a problem?

    Yes, and it’s very common. We focus on helping students understand the reasoning behind methods so they can apply skills to different types of questions.

     Do you help students who are behind in maths foundations?

    Yes. We identify gaps in understanding and rebuild foundational skills step by step, without overwhelming the student.

    My child makes careless mistakes. How do you address this?

    We work on slowing down, checking work, and understanding where mistakes come from, helping students improve accuracy and confidence.

    Do you teach shortcuts or tricks?

    We teach efficient strategies where appropriate, but only after students understand the concept properly. Understanding always comes first.

     Can maths tutoring help students who say they “hate maths”?

    Yes. A lot of maths anxiety comes from confusion or repeated difficulty. As understanding improves, confidence and attitude often improve as well.

    Do you help with worded maths problems?

    Yes. We help students learn how to break down worded problems, identify key information, and decide which strategies to use.

    Is maths tutoring only for struggling students?

    No. We also support students who want to extend their learning, work ahead, or improve problem-solving skills.

    How do you support NAPLAN maths preparation?

    We help students understand NAPLAN-style questions, practise problem-solving, and build confidence applying skills under exam conditions.

     How long does it usually take to see improvement in maths?

    This depends on consistency and starting level, but many students begin to feel more confident within the first few weeks of regular sessions.

  • My child speaks Arabic at home but can’t read or write it well. Can you help?

    Yes. This is very common. We focus on strengthening reading and writing skills while improving grammar and structured language use.

    My child understands Arabic but struggles to speak confidently. Is this normal?

    Yes. Many students understand more than they can express. We work on building confidence in speaking through guided practice and repetition.

    Do you teach formal Arabic or spoken Arabic?

    Our focus is on Modern Standard Arabic, especially for school and VCE students. Speaking practice is included to support overall language confidence.

    Is Arabic tutoring suitable for complete beginners?

    Yes. Arabic tutoring is suitable for complete beginners, including young children, school students, and adults.

    How do you support students who attend weekend Arabic schools but still struggle?

    We reinforce core concepts, clarify gaps in understanding, and provide individual attention that may not be possible in large class settings.

    My child mixes Arabic and English when speaking or writing. Do you address this?

    Yes. We help students learn how to structure sentences properly in Arabic and gradually reduce reliance on English.

    How do you support VCE Arabic students differently from younger students?

    VCE students receive targeted support focused on exam requirements, structured practice, and strategies for managing workload and assessments.

    Do you help with Arabic oral preparation?

    Yes. We support students with pronunciation, fluency, and confidence for oral assessments, including VCE Arabic.

    Can adults learn Arabic even if they’ve never studied it before?

    Yes. Adult sessions are tailored to individual goals and learning pace, whether for conversation, reading, writing, or personal development.

    How long does it usually take to see progress in Arabic?

    Progress depends on consistency and exposure. Many students begin to feel more confident within a few weeks of regular practice.

  • Is VCE support only for students who are struggling?

    No. We support students at all levels, including those who are doing well but want structure, guidance, and strategies to perform at their best.

    When should students start preparing for VCE?

    Support can begin as early as Year 10. Early guidance helps students build strong habits before the workload increases in Years 11 and 12.

    Do you help students manage the VCE workload and pressure?

    Yes. We help students plan their study time, manage subjects effectively, and avoid burnout by creating realistic and structured study routines.

    Do you help students understand what VCE expects from them?

    Yes. Many students struggle not because of content, but because they are unclear about expectations. We help students understand how to approach tasks, assessments, and exams strategically.

    Can you help students who feel overwhelmed or disorganised?

    Yes. Organisation and structure are a major focus of our VCE support. We help students break tasks down, prioritise work, and stay on track.

    Do you help students who want to maximise their ATAR?

    Yes. We support students with:

    • Effective study techniques

    • Time-management strategies

    • Exam preparation methods

    • Planning across subjects

    Our goal is to help students work towards the highest possible ATAR for their ability.

    Is VCE support the same as tutoring?

    Not always. VCE support focuses on how to study, how to plan, and how to perform, alongside subject-specific help where needed.

    Can VCE support be combined with subject tutoring?

    Yes. Many students combine VCE support with subject tutoring for a more complete and strategic approach.

    Do parents receive updates on progress?

    Updates can be provided when needed, and we are happy to discuss progress, strategies, and areas for improvement.

    Does VCE support help with life after Year 12?

    Yes. We help students think ahead about subject choices, study pathways, and post-school planning to reduce uncertainty and stress.

  • Is NAPLAN preparation separate from regular tutoring?

    NAPLAN preparation can be:

    • Integrated into regular tutoring sessions, or

    • Focused on more closely in the lead-up to NAPLAN

    The approach is tailored to the student’s level and needs.

    Do you teach to the test or focus on skills?

    We focus on building core skills that support both NAPLAN performance and overall school success, rather than rote test practice alone.

  • Do you complete homework for students?

    No. We guide and support students to understand and complete their own work, helping them learn rather than rely on answers.

    What if my child doesn’t understand the homework at all?

    That’s exactly what homework support is for. We break tasks down, explain concepts clearly, and help students approach the work with confidence.

    Can homework support include multiple subjects in one session?

    Yes, as long as the subjects fall within what we offer. Sessions are structured to use time effectively without overwhelming the student.

    My child rushes homework or avoids it completely. Can you help with that?

    Yes. We work on organisation, focus, and approach — helping students learn how to manage homework calmly and efficiently.

    Do you help students prepare homework for assessments or projects?

    Yes. We support students in understanding task requirements, organising ideas, and improving the quality of their work — without doing the work for them.

    Is homework support suitable for high-achieving students too?

    Yes. Homework support isn’t only for struggling students. It also helps high-achieving students refine their work and maintain consistency.

    Can homework support help build independence?

    Yes. One of our goals is to help students become more independent learners, so over time they rely less on help and more on their own skills.

    What if there is no homework one week?

    If there is no set homework, the session can be used for:

    • Revision

    • Catching up on weak areas

    • Practising skills

    • Preparing for upcoming topics

    Do you communicate with parents about homework progress?

    We’re always happy to discuss progress, concerns, or patterns we notice, especially if ongoing support is needed.

  • Why do prices vary by subject and age level?

    Pricing reflects the level of preparation, teaching approach, and support required. For example, early-learning Arabic and VCE support require specialised strategies and additional preparation.

    Why is face-to-face tutoring priced differently from online tutoring?

    Face-to-face sessions involve travel, location coordination, and in-person delivery, while online sessions require fewer logistics. This difference is reflected in pricing.

    Are learning resources included in the price?

    Yes. All worksheets, practice materials, and learning resources used during sessions are included at no extra cost.

    Is there a discount for long-term enrolment?

    Flexible payment options (weekly, monthly, quarterly, or annually) are available. Long-term arrangements can be discussed depending on the enrolment structure.

    Do you offer sibling or family discounts?

    Yes. We offer family discounts for households with 2, 3, or 4+ children enrolled at the same time.

     Are group sessions cheaper because they are less effective?

    No. Group sessions are structured to ensure active participation and support. They offer a collaborative learning environment while still maintaining guidance and focus.

    Do I have to pay if my child misses a session?

    Yes. Sessions are charged because the time is reserved exclusively for your child. Late cancellations and no-shows follow our cancellation policy.

    Is there a joining or enrolment fee?

    No. Elaris Academy does not charge any joining or enrolment fees.

    Can I change my payment plan later?

    Payment plans can be reviewed if circumstances change. Any changes should be discussed in advance.

    Why are prices non-negotiable?

    Fixed pricing ensures fairness and consistency for all families and reflects the quality, preparation, and personalised support provided.

  • Why does Elaris Academy use fixed weekly session times?

    Fixed weekly sessions help students build routine and consistency, which leads to better learning progress. It also ensures each student has a dedicated, reserved time slot.

    Can we choose our preferred day and time?

    Yes. Session times are allocated based on availability. Once a time is confirmed, it becomes the student’s fixed weekly slot.

     What if we need to change our regular session time?

    Time changes can be discussed and are subject to availability. We do our best to accommodate requests where possible.

    Can sessions be paused during school holidays?

    This can be discussed depending on the arrangement. Reserved session policies still apply unless otherwise agreed in advance.

    What happens if my child is late to a session?

    Tutors wait up to 15 minutes. Late arrival may result in a shortened session, as end times remain unchanged.

    What if my child doesn’t attend or join the session at all?

    If a student does not attend or join within 15 minutes, the session is considered a no-show and is charged in full.

    Can we switch between face-to-face and online sessions?

    Switching formats can be discussed depending on availability and scheduling. Consistency is encouraged where possible.

    How far in advance do we need to book sessions?

    Sessions are booked in advance, and availability is limited. Early enquiries are recommended to secure preferred times.

    Can siblings be scheduled back-to-back?

    Yes. Where possible, we try to schedule siblings consecutively to make it easier for families.

    Do sessions run during the school term only?

    Sessions generally follow the school term, though alternative arrangements can be discussed if needed.

  • How do online tutoring sessions work?

    Online sessions are conducted via Zoom.

    A session link is shared before the scheduled time, and students join using a phone, tablet, or computer.

    Do we need to install anything for online sessions?

    Yes. Zoom should be installed in advance. A stable internet connection and a quiet space are recommended.

    What should my child have ready for an online session?

    Students should have:

    • A device with camera and microphone

    • Exercise books, pens, and school materials

    • Homework or schoolwork (if applicable)

    What if there are technical issues during an online session?

    If technical issues occur, we try to resolve them quickly. If issues significantly affect the session, this can be discussed on a case-by-case basis.

    How do face-to-face sessions at the library work?

    Face-to-face sessions are held at a library close to the student. & tutor The exact library is confirmed in advance.

    Do parents need to stay during library sessions?

    For younger students, parents are welcome to stay nearby. Older students usually attend sessions independently.

    What happens if the library is busy or unavailable?

    We select quiet study areas where possible. If a library is unexpectedly unavailable, an alternative arrangement may be discussed.

    Can library sessions be moved online if needed?

    Yes. If circumstances require it, sessions may be moved online with prior communication.

    How early should we arrive for face-to-face sessions?

    Arriving 5 minutes early is recommended to ensure sessions start on time.

    What if we arrive late to a library session?

    The session will still end at the scheduled time. Tutors wait up to 15 minutes before marking the session as a no-show.

     Do you provide materials during face-to-face sessions?

    Yes. Worksheets and learning resources are provided as needed. Students should also bring their school materials.

    Is online tutoring as effective as face-to-face?

    Yes. Online tutoring is structured and interactive. The best option depends on the student’s learning style and availability.