Starting Leaving Cert Grinds in Ireland: The Full Guide

The Grinds Market in Ireland

Irish parents and students spend an estimated €90 million annually on private tuition. Demand spikes in September, January, and March–April. Supply of quality tutors consistently falls short of demand in STEM subjects, Irish, and foreign languages. It's one of the most reliable and immediately accessible side hustles available to graduates and teachers.

What to Charge

Standard 2026 rates for one-to-one grinds:

• General subjects (English, History, Geography): €35–€50/hour outside Dublin, €45–€65 in Dublin
• STEM (Higher Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology): €45–€65 outside Dublin, €55–€80 in Dublin
• Languages (Irish, French, German): €40–€60/hour
• Group sessions (2–4 students): Charge €25–€35 per student — higher total hourly earning for you while keeping it affordable for families
• Online grinds: Same rates, no travel costs, wider reach

Don't undercharge. Parents view grinds as an investment in CAO points — quality and confidence matter more than price.

How to Find Students

• Local Facebook groups: Post in your county or city parent and community groups in early September, January, and March. These are peak booking periods.
• Grinds platforms: Create a profile on TutorFinder.ie, GrindLink.ie, or Superprof.ie. These platforms actively match tutors and students.
• Word of mouth: Your first two students are your best marketers. Ask explicitly for referrals after positive feedback — most parents in a school know each other.
• School noticeboards: Some schools allow tutors to post cards at reception. Ask the school secretary.

Garda Vetting

Garda vetting is not legally required for private one-to-one tutoring — it's a statutory requirement for employees of organisations working with children. However, many parents will ask about it, and having vetting demonstrates professionalism. Apply through An Garda Síochána's National Vetting Bureau (no fee for individuals). The process takes 4–6 weeks. Some platforms (GrindLink, TutorFinder) require vetting before listing.

Declaring Grind Income

Grind income is self-employment income. Deductible expenses include travel to students' homes (mileage at civil service rates), textbooks and course materials you purchase, and a proportion of your phone costs. Net profit under €5,000/year: use Revenue's PAYE simple case. Over €5,000: register for self-assessment and file Form 11.

This guide is for general information. Revenue rules and platform policies may change.