SINGAPORE: An eye-catching advertisement for a live-in English tutor posted by a family on the upscale Orchard Road has ignited widespread conversation across social media platforms.

The enticing offer promises a monthly salary of S$6,000, along with holidays and meals—a package that has raised eyebrows and sparked curiosity among many.

Initially shared on the Premium Tutors Assignments’ Telegram channel, the ad was quickly pulled. However, it found new life when a TikTok user, @Linglingd0ng, showcased a screenshot of the post this past Sunday (Sept 22), captioning it as 'the craziest thing' she saw that weekend. The post has since garnered over 313,000 views, showcasing the intense interest surrounding this tutoring opportunity.

Job Requirements and Speculations

The ad specifies that the family seeks a bilingual tutor proficient in English and Chinese to assist their eight-year-old child with homework, primarily in English. However, details regarding job security appear vague; the ad mentions 'As required' under the 'Duration and Timing' section, leaving many wondering about the clarity of the employment terms.

Commenters on TikTok expressed eagerness to apply, with multiple individuals exclaiming, 'Sign me up!' Yet, amidst the excitement, some raised concerns regarding the high expectations that may accompany the role. One commenter speculated that while the child might be struggling with English, the parents could be aiming for a tutor who meets British standards or has a strong accent.

Legitimacy and Concerns

As speculation swirled, opinions about the legitimacy of the advertisement emerged. While some questioned if the ad is a genuine offer from a wealthy family, others warned that it could potentially be a scam. 'If it’s too good to be true…,' one user pointed out, expressing skepticism over the lavish pay.

Moreover, a few netizens cautioned that the attractive salary might be masking additional responsibilities, such as supervising meal times, helping with bathing, or even household chores like cooking and cleaning. Another TikTok user humorously urged someone to apply and report back on the real nature of the job.

What Does 'As required' Mean?

Questions about 'As required' led some to speculate whether this could translate to being on call around the clock, 24/7. One commenter crunched the numbers and noted that if this were the case, the tutor would be earning around S$8 per hour—a stark contrast to the initial allure of the offer.

Comparative Tutoring Rates in Singapore

So, how does this position compare to the average tutoring rates in Singapore? Typically, tutors charge anywhere from S$25 to S$120 per hour, depending on their qualifications and experience. Notably, there are no official certifications required to be a tutor in Singapore, and many who take on tutoring roles come from various professional backgrounds.

Conclusion

As this intriguing advertisement continues to spark debate, it raises essential questions about expectations, responsibilities, and the ever-competitive educational landscape in Singapore. Will anyone brave enough to apply share their experience, or will this remain a tantalizing mystery? Stay tuned!