Terms of Service

1. About These Terms

These Terms of Service ("Terms") constitute a legally binding agreement between you ("Client", "you", "your") and My Private Tutor Online Limited ("MPTO", "we", "us", "our") regarding your use of our tutoring services.

2. Company Information

3. Our Services

3.1 Tutoring Services

We provide premium private tutoring services including:

• Academic Tutoring: KS1-3, GCSE, A-Level, IB, University entrance
• Specialist Preparation: 11+, 13+, Common Entrance, Oxbridge applications
• Professional Skills: Study skills, exam technique, interview preparation
• Online Learning: Live video sessions via secure platforms
• Face-to-Face Tuition: In-home or neutral venue sessions
• Group Classes: Small group and bootcamp programmes

3.2 Service Standards

• All tutors are graduates of Oxford or Cambridge universities
• Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks for all staff
• Professional indemnity and public liability insurance
• Comprehensive safeguarding policies and procedures
• Regular progress monitoring and reporting

4. Booking and Scheduling

4.1 Initial Consultation

• Free 30-minute consultation to assess needs and match tutors
• Detailed academic assessment and goal setting
• Tutor selection based on expertise and personality fit
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lifestyles

4.2 Session Booking

• Sessions must be booked at least 24 hours in advance
• Regular slots can be reserved on a weekly basis
• Emergency sessions may be available subject to tutor availability
• International clients may book across different time zones

4.3 Cancellation Policy

5. Fees and Payment

5.1 Pricing Structure

• Standard Rate: £[X] per hour for GCSE/A-Level
• Premium Rate: £[X] per hour for Oxbridge/Medical/Law preparation
• Specialist Rate: £[X] per hour for specific exam preparation
• Group Sessions: Discounted rates for 2-4 students
• Package Deals: Discounts available for block bookings

5.2 Payment Terms

• Payment due within 7 days of invoice
• Accepted methods: Bank transfer, credit/debit card, PayPal
• International payments via Wise or similar services
• Late payment charges of 2% per month apply
• All prices include VAT where applicable

5.3 Refund Policy

• Unused sessions refunded within 30 days of purchase
• No refunds for completed sessions unless service failure
• Partial refunds considered for extenuating circumstances
• Processing time: 5-10 business days

6. Student Conduct and Expectations

6.1 Student Responsibilities

• Attend sessions punctually and prepared
• Complete agreed homework and assignments
• Treat tutors and staff with respect and courtesy
• Maintain confidentiality regarding other students
• Follow online session etiquette and guidelines

6.2 Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

• Provide accurate information about student needs
• Ensure suitable learning environment for sessions
• Communicate promptly regarding schedule changes
• Support student engagement with learning process
• Maintain payment obligations and schedules

7. Tutor Standards and Conduct

7.1 Professional Standards

• Maintain highest standards of professional conduct
• Arrive punctually and prepared for all sessions
• Provide regular progress updates and feedback
• Respect student confidentiality and privacy
• Follow all safeguarding policies and procedures

7.2 Safeguarding Commitment

8. Technology and Online Sessions

8.1 Technical Requirements

• Reliable internet connection (minimum 10 Mbps)
• Compatible device (laptop, tablet, or desktop)
• Working camera and microphone
• Quiet, well-lit learning environment
• Updated browser or app installation

8.2 Platform Security

• Sessions conducted via secure, encrypted platforms
• No recording without explicit consent
• Password-protected session access
• GDPR-compliant data handling
• Regular security updates and monitoring

9. Intellectual Property

9.1 Our Materials

• All teaching materials remain property of MPTO
• Students may use materials for personal study only
• No reproduction or distribution without permission
• Copyright notices must remain intact

9.2 Student Work

• Students retain rights to their original work
• We may use anonymised work for marketing (with consent)
• Academic records maintained for educational purposes
• Progress data used for service improvement

10. Privacy and Confidentiality

We take privacy extremely seriously, particularly given our prestigious clientele. Please refer to our comprehensive Privacy Policyfor detailed information.

10.1 Confidentiality Commitment

• Strict confidentiality regarding all client information
• Enhanced privacy protection for high-profile families
• Non-disclosure agreements signed by all staff
• Secure handling of sensitive personal data
• Discreet service delivery and communications

11. Limitation of Liability

11.1 Service Limitations

• We provide tutoring services, not guaranteed academic outcomes
• Success depends on student engagement and effort
• External factors may affect academic performance
• Our liability limited to fees paid for defective services

11.2 Exclusions

We exclude liability for:

• Indirect, consequential, or punitive damages
• Loss of profits, reputation, or opportunity
• Third-party actions or decisions
• Force majeure events beyond our control
• Student non-attendance or lack of engagement

12. Insurance and Professional Indemnity

13. Complaints and Dispute Resolution

13.1 Complaints Procedure

1. Initial Contact: Raise concerns with your tutor or our support team
2. Formal Complaint: Submit written complaint to complaints@myprivatetutoronline.co.uk
3. Investigation: We will investigate within 10 business days
4. Resolution: Written response with proposed resolution
5. Escalation: Independent mediation available if required

13.2 Alternative Dispute Resolution

If we cannot resolve your complaint internally, you may use:

• Educational mediation services
• Consumer dispute resolution schemes
• Professional body complaint procedures
• Small claims court for financial disputes

14. Termination

14.1 Termination by Client

• 14 days written notice required
• Refund of unused pre-paid sessions
• Outstanding invoices remain due
• Return of any borrowed materials

14.2 Termination by MPTO

We may terminate services for:

• Non-payment of fees
• Breach of terms or conduct policies
• Safeguarding concerns
• Repeated cancellations or non-attendance
• Inappropriate behaviour toward staff

15. Force Majeure

We are not liable for delays or failures due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including:

• Natural disasters and extreme weather
• Government restrictions and lockdowns
• Internet or technology failures
• Transport strikes or disruptions
• Health emergencies or pandemics

16. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms are governed by English law and subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts. International clients agree to English law and jurisdiction for all disputes.

17. Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms to reflect changes in our services or legal requirements. We will notify you of material changes by:

• Email to registered users
• Notice on our website
• Updated effective date

Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of new terms.

18. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect.

19. Contact Information