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How to Become a History Tutor: Australian Careers in Education

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What is a History Tutor?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a History Tutor?

A History Tutor teaches students about history events, periods, and themes. They work one-on-one or in small groups to build knowledge and critical thinking skills.

History Tutors work with learners of all ages. Clients range from primary school students to adults who want a deeper grasp of the past. Sessions can take place at home, in tutoring centres, at schools, or online.

Tutors plan each session around the student’s current level and goals. They explain complex ideas in plain terms, guide students through research tasks, and help them prepare for exams. Tutors also give feedback on written work and develop study plans tailored to each learner.

This career suits people who enjoy history and helping others learn. It offers flexible hours, strong student bonds, and the deep reward of seeing students grow in confidence and skill.

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Career snapshots For History Tutors

History tutoring is part of Australia’s private tuition sector. That sector employs around 50,800 people across Australia (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Annual job growth runs at about 2,600 new spots per year. Most tutors work part-time, with 77% of the workforce in part-time roles.

The median hourly rate for private tutors and teachers is $68 per hour (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Median full-time weekly earnings are $2,518. A History Tutor’s income depends on hours worked and experience. Pay also varies by whether they work on their own or through a company. The median age across the tutoring workforce is 34, and women make up 71% of the sector.

What will I do?

A History Tutor works with students to build their knowledge of the past. They also help students grow their skills in analysis and written work. Each session is planned around the student’s current level and goals. This might mean passing a class test, improving an essay, or building general knowledge.

  • Plan lessons: develop tailored lesson plans that match the student’s curriculum level and learning goals.
  • Run tutoring sessions: lead one-on-one or small group sessions using discussion, primary sources, and exam practice.
  • Check student progress: use quizzes, essay drafts, and discussion to see where students are and adjust teaching as needed.
  • Give written feedback: review assignments and essays, and provide clear, useful comments to help students improve.
  • Teach study skills: show students how to take clear notes, plan essays, and manage their revision time.
  • Keep up with curriculum changes: stay current with the Australian Curriculum and state-based syllabus needs.
  • Talk to parents: update parents or carers on progress and flag any areas that need extra support.
  • Set and mark practice work: assign tasks between sessions to reinforce learning and track improvement.

What skills do I need?

History Tutors need a mix of subject knowledge and teaching skills. A strong grasp of history events, periods, and thinking methods is the key base. Clear skills in explaining ideas let tutors turn complex content into plain terms that students can follow.

Patience and the ability to adapt are just as vital as subject knowledge. Every student learns in a different way, and tutors who adjust their style to suit each person get better results. Strong planning skills help tutors set up lessons, track student progress, and manage their time well.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong knowledge of history, historical events, and key periods
  • Clear oral and written communication
  • Ability to break down complex concepts into simple terms
  • Patience and adaptability in teaching methods
  • Critical thinking and analytical skills
  • Lesson planning and organisational skills
  • Ability to assess student progress and give constructive feedback
  • Familiarity with Australian Curriculum history content
  • Empathy and understanding of different learning needs
  • Time management and self-direction (for independent tutors)

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.