Live group grinds
A group grind is a live class with a tutor and other students at the same level. It costs far less than private lessons, and students often pick things up from hearing other people's questions. At Next Level Learning, Group Grinds are €79 a month for two live Zoom classes a week, with a worksheet and solutions every class.
Groups work well for students who understand the basics but need steady weekly practice, structure and a bit of a deadline. They're a weaker fit for a student who is far behind the rest of the class and needs the pace built around them alone.
1-to-1 lessons
A private lesson is built around one student: their gaps, their pace, their questions. It's the best option for a student who is badly stuck, nervous about asking questions in front of others, or aiming for a particular jump in grade. It also costs the most. At Next Level Learning, 1-to-1 is €219 a month for one private lesson a week.
Grind schools
Big grind schools usually run a fixed term timetable, often a single class a week, sometimes sold as a term bundle. Ask what you actually get between classes, whether there are recordings, what happens if your child misses one, and whether you can leave month to month.
Questions to ask any provider
Can my child get help between classes, or only in the paid hour? Is there a plan of action I can see? Are lessons recorded? Can I see how my child is getting on? Is the first lesson free, and is the monthly price the real price? A weekly hour with nothing in between can leave a student stuck for six days.
Try a group before you decide
Group Grinds come with two free first grinds and no card details, so your child can see what the class is like before you pay anything. If the group turns out not to be enough, you can move to 1-to-1 later.