There are a lot of private teachers which offer their services. Some of them offer some excellent classes, others are not as succesful.

If you chose to take classes with a private teacher, make sure she/ he gives you references. There is no other way to check whether they are reliable.

Paying private teachers in advance is usually not necessary and certainly not recommended.

Advantages of using a private teacher:

• A private teacher is usually flexible than a school. Spanish schools usually have more rules and work a bit more organised.
• Private teachers are usually less expensive. 

Advantages of using a Spanish school:

• Reliable
• More structure
• Usually better quality teaching materials
• You can meet other students