I was wrong.

When my child’s grades started dropping, I knew we needed extra support. I live around Ebute Metta, so I wanted someone close by. Not just for convenience, but for consistency. Lagos traffic can turn a one hour lesson into a three hour frustration.

Here’s what I did differently after my first mistake.

1. I stopped choosing based on “who is available”

The first tutor I contacted was recommended by a neighbor. I didn’t ask enough questions. I just assumed if someone else used them, they must be good.

After two weeks, I noticed my child was memorizing answers but not understanding concepts.

That’s when I realized proximity is good, but competence is better.

2. I asked for proof, not promises

The second time around, I asked specific questions:

• What curriculum do you teach, Nigerian or British?

• Have you prepared students for exams like WAEC or Common Entrance?

• Can you do a short assessment before starting?

• What is your teaching method for weak subjects?

A serious teacher will answer confidently and clearly.

3. I requested a trial class

This changed everything.

During the trial lesson, I observed quietly. I watched how the teacher explained topics. I paid attention to whether my child felt comfortable asking questions. I checked if the tutor was patient or easily irritated.

That one hour told me more than any referral could.

After my experience, these are the warning signs I will never ignore again:

🚩 They avoid assessments

If a tutor is not interested in testing your child’s current level, that’s a problem. Good teaching starts with understanding gaps.

🚩 They focus only on finishing topics

Some teachers rush through schemes of work just to say they’ve “covered” it. Your child needs understanding, not speed.

🚩 They are always late

In a place like Ebute Metta where movement is predictable, constant lateness shows poor planning and lack of seriousness.

🚩 No structure

No lesson plan. No progress tracking. No feedback. Just random teaching.

🚩 Your child dreads lesson time

This one is important. If your child suddenly becomes anxious every lesson day, something is wrong.

I found a tutor who:

• Lives within Ebute Metta, so consistency is easier

• Gives monthly feedback

• Sets small tests after each topic

• Explains until my child truly understands

Within a term, I saw improvement not just in grades, but in confidence.

If you’re searching for a lesson teacher in Ebute Metta, don’t rush the process. Ask questions. Observe closely. And trust your instincts.

The right tutor won’t just improve scores. They’ll change how your child feels about learning.