Frenchs Forest mum Linda O’Hare has reshaped the local tutoring landscape, offering personalised one-to-one education through Tutor Doctor Northern Beaches. With over 50 tutors supporting students from Year 3 to Year 12, the business is meeting the growing demand for academic support, particularly in Maths and for students with learning differences.
A Pandemic Pivot Becomes a Tutoring Success Story
Ms O’Hare’s journey into tutoring began as a career change prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously working in corporate strategy, she sought a more fulfilling and flexible career. This led to the establishment of Tutor Doctor Northern Beaches. A business dedicated to providing customised tutoring solutions for students struggling with confidence, study skills, and academic challenges.
Her approach is based on personalised matching. Ms O’Hare ensures each student is paired with a tutor who suits their learning style, academic needs, and personality.
One-to-One Tutoring Making a Difference
Unlike group-based tutoring programs, Tutor Doctor offers individualised learning at the student’s home or a local library. Parents must be present during sessions. All tutors undergo rigorous screening, including a Working With Children Check.
Ms O’Hare’s selection process is stringent—only 10% of applicants succeed in becoming tutors. Each tutor specialises in specific academic levels, from primary school to HSC preparation. Common subjects in demand include Math, English, and study skills, with parents often seeking support due to declining student confidence or gaps in classroom learning.
Rising Demand for Specialised Learning Support
Tutor Doctor has seen increased demand for students with ADHD, ASD, dyslexia, and other learning challenges. Many of these students struggle in traditional classrooms due to the fast-paced nature of lessons and large class sizes.
Students with ADHD, for example, often find it difficult to focus in a busy classroom environment. Having one-to-one attention allows them to engage with learning in a way that works for them.
Another significant factor driving demand is a nationwide shortage of Maths teachers, with parents concerned about their children falling behind. Maths is one of the most requested subjects for tutoring, as struggling students tend to avoid it, creating a cycle of disengagement.
Building Confidence, One Student at a Time
Parents of students who have received tutoring through Tutor Doctor have reported remarkable transformations. Many students who initially struggled with core subjects have improved their understanding and confidence.
For Ms O’Hare, the most rewarding aspect of the business is seeing students go from dreading a subject to excelling in it. Some parents have expressed immense gratitude after their children achieved better-than-expected HSC results or moved into advanced Maths classes after previously struggling.
Her own children, in Years 6, 10, and 12, also receive tutoring, demonstrating her firm belief in its benefits.
A Growing Future for Personalised Tutoring in Frenchs Forest
With more families turning to tailored learning solutions, Tutor Doctor Northern Beaches continues to expand its services. The structured approach—assessing each student’s goals, matching them with the right tutor, and providing ongoing support—ensures long-term academic success.
As demand rises, Ms O’Hare remains committed to offering high-quality tutoring that empowers students to reach their full potential. Whether supporting students through HSC preparation, special needs education, or foundational learning, her business is proving that with the right guidance, every student can thrive.
Published 20-Feb-2025
