Shefford Tutors and Shefford Tuition

Personal Description:
I have tutored a variety of GCSE, A-level, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students, as well as young adult and adult learners for over 30 years.
I HAVE A LONG-ESTABLISHED PROVEN TRACK-RECORD OF DELIVERING SUCCESS FOR MY TUTEES!
MY KEYNOTE RESULTS ARE:
1. my tutee L.W.(Egham):
~ Sat AQA Hist A2 Unit 3 Opt.B (HIS3B) The Triumph of Elizabeth 1547-1603 in June 2013: RESULT 88%. A*

2. my tutee T.S. (Guildford):
~ Resat AQA Hist AS 1041 Unit 1 Opt.A (HIS1A) Crusading Movement & the Latin East, 1095-1204 Jan 2012: RESULT 86%. A (Original Mark June 2011 = 68% B)
~ Sat AQA Government & Politics GOVP2 Unit 2 "Governing Modern Britain" in Jan 2012: RESULT 88%. A*

3. my tutee M.Y. (Horsell):
~ Resat Edexel AS Unit 2 (6H102A) Brit Depth Stud; Opt.A1 - "Henry VIII; Authority Nation & Religion 1509-1540" in Jan 2012: Result 90% A* [original mark 68%]

4. My tutee A.C. (Knaphill):
~ Resat Edexcel AS Unit 2 Opt A (6H102A) "Henry VIII; Authority Nation & Religion 1509-1540" in Jul 2011: Result A* (90%) [original mark June 2010 = 69%].
~ Sat A2 Unit 3 Opt A JUL 2011: Result A* (100%). ~ OVERALL A-LEVEL RESULT: A* [351/400]

~ I am a well-established academic historian and have published many books and articles.
~ I am a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and have been a member of Council of the Society of Army Historical Research.
~ During 2004-2008 I was chariman of the Prestigious Templer Medal Historical literary prize selection Committee. ~ Over the past 20 years I have had a wide variety of tutoring, teaching and lecturing posts in the field of history and military history.

~ My tutorial style is enthusiastic and engaging, and is tailored to the individual needs of the student.
~ I can use my expertise to enhance a tutee's essay writing and exam technique, their analytical and writing skills, and their coursework, to maximise the impact of their answer's on the examiner.

~ I have a valid CRB and MOD Security Clearance.

Teaching Experience:
Teaching Assistant, History, King's College University of London (1992-94)
Assistant Lecturer, History, King's College University of London (1995-96)
Associate Lecturer, Dept of European and International Studies (1995-96)
Senior Lecturer, Ministry of Defence (1996-present)
Tutor in History/Politics for Home Tutors, London (1990-1997)
Tutor in History for Premier Student Conferences (2004-2005)
Tutor in History/Politics for UK Tutors, First Tutors GCSE, AS/A2, Undergarduate (2008-present)
Tutor in History (Independent) at GCSE, AS/A2, Undergraduate, Graduate & Doctoral Level (1991-present)
Tutor/Lecturer in History, various American University Summer Schools (2001-2009)
Visiting Lecturer in History, The University of Birmingham (School of Continuing Adult Studies)
External Examiner, University of Wolverhampton (2004-2008)
External Examiner, University of Birmingham (2009-)
Examiner for Edexcel (2005)
Student seminars in History:
The University of Wolverhampton; The University of Salford; The Universty of Birmingham
I am a Parent Governor at the local primary school (2009-)

Tutoring Approach:
I will hone your essay writing/question answering skills so that your responses have the maximum impact on the examiner.
I will respond to the student's individual needs.
You will get a carefully structured approach that suits your abilities and individual objectives.
I aim to make learning fun.
You will get considered feedback to help you develop your skills.
I will, if required, develop your essay writing skills so that you obtain better marks with whatever subject-matter knowledge you possess.
I will, if required, develop your analytical skills.
I will, if required, develop your background knowledge and subject-matter understanding.
I wil, if required, assist with revision programmes.
I am flexible with regard to frequency, timing, duration and scope of individual sessions.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a qualified PGCE Post Compulsory Education graduate and a photographer. I am flexible, enthusiastic and eager to gain further teaching experience whilst aiding students with their photographic development. Through my work experience and my PGCE, I have found within myself a determination to succeed in any task I am a part of, and I have proven myself to be both reliable and professional.

Teaching Experience:
Creative Practitioner/Seasoned Tutor at Pedestrian
April 2014 - Present
I deliver lessons in art and music to students who are at risk and have been removed from mainstream education. I also deliver bespoke creative workshops to young people and adults across the city.

Freelance Photographer at Leivers Photography
October 2012 - Present
Self employed commercial photographer. Specialising in workshop delivery/tuition, weddings, portraiture, live music, theatre and events photography.

Contributing Photographer at Counterfeit Magazine
June 2011 - April 2014 (2 years 11 months)
Included on a list of contributors that provided live images of bands and artists for Counterfeits' online publication. It required me to work quickly in intense shooting environments with varying, ever changing lighting situations.

Learning Support Assistant at Doncaster College
March 2011 - April 2014 (3 years 2 months)
I gave support to students that had a variety of barriers to their learning on both a one to one and group basis. I assisted with basic spelling and grammar whilst ensuring students were organised and began to take responsibility for their own development. Using a range of resources and strategies I helped develop students' organisation and planning skills. I was also entrusted to act as a reader and scribe in exam situations for a number of students.

In house photographer and archivist. at The Lantern Theatre
August 2011 - August 2013 (2 years 1 month)
Responsible for capturing images of all productions, rehearsals and the theatre to be used for promotional material and press releases. I also maintained the image archive to ensure other theatre staff could access past images easily.

Photography (Evening Tutor) at Doncaster College
January 2012 - July 2012 (7 months)
Responsible for the delivery of three units of study over ten weeks that enabled learners to develop a basic understanding of Digital Photography, Photoshop Techniques and Darkroom Practice.

Introduction to Digital Photography, Evening Class Tutor at Barnsley College
September 2011 - January 2012 (5 months)
Tasked with delivering a self built course of study to adult learners over a time frame of fifteen weeks. The course was designed to introduce students to the basic techniques of DSLR camera operation, successful image capture and image editing.

Photographic Assistant at India Hobson Photography
July 2011 - July 2011 (1 month)
In July 2011 I assisted the photographer India Hobson during a shoot at Sheffield cathedral for 'The White Room Bridal Boutique'. My main duties were to assist with the lighting set ups and selection of shooting locations within the cathedral.

Stills Photographer at Ebony Cage Productions
September 2010 - September 2010 (1 month)
Produced and edited a number of production stills on the set of the short film 'Trail of Crimson'. A number of the final images were ultimately used for internet based promotional material.

Trainee Photography Tutor at Coleg Gwent
November 2009 - June 2010 (8 months)
Responsible for the teaching and development of a group of first year BTEC National Diploma Photography students whilst studying for my PGCE qualification.

Stills Photographer at Bottle Green Productions
April 2010 - April 2010 (1 month)
I produced and edited a number of production stills on the set of the short film 'To Shine'. Some of which were ultimately used for web based promotional material and the printed DVD cover.

Teaching Assistant at Springboard Centre
April 2009 - July 2009 (4 months)
Classroom/teaching assistant in a Pupil Referral Unit providing GCSE level education for pupils that had been excluded from mainstream education settings. The students possessed a range of learning and behavioural difficulties.

Student Mentor at Falmouth University
October 2006 - July 2008 (1 year 10 months)
Responsible for a group of six first year BA (Hons) Photography students to help them to settle into their first year at university. This took the form of both one-to-one and group meetings with my mentees, whilst also offering technical support and general advice to all students on the first year photography programme.

Creative Steps Summer School Mentor at Falmouth University
June 2006 - June 2008 (2 years 1 month)
Acted as a mentor for a group of Widening Participation students as they took part in activity days around the Falmouth area.

Student Ambassador at Aim Higher Peninsula Scheme
December 2006 - July 2007 (8 months)
After a weekend long training period I became eligible to run art workshops and taster days in higher education institutions and schools for Widening Participation students around the South West region.

Teaching Assistant at Falmouth School
November 2006 - July 2007 (9 months)
Helped the class teacher with the running of the A-level photography course, offering advice to students concerning their practical work. I also delivered technical demonstrations and presentations relating to students projects.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a patient and calm approach to tutoring preferring to act as a facilitator to my students development guiding them along the way to ensure they feel responsible for their own learning. I am able to deliver tuition in both film and digital based camera techniques. I also have a wide range of experience using traditional darkrooms and software programs such as Photoshop.

Through my own photographic education I have collected a large range of text books and resources that students are welcome to utilise for written assignments and I have developed a number of teaching resources to aid students with research techniques and the composition of essays.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi! I'm Nick, a 46 yr old graduate of Oxford University, where I studied French and German, and a postgraduate of the University of Manchester, where I obtained a Masters and Doctorate in English. I currently teach GCSE English in my institution, and also work in a university part-time.

At the moment I prefer online teaching, which I can do via Zoom, Skype or maybe other platforms.

Teaching Experience:
I always really enjoy teaching individual pupils at GCSE and A-level. I've had some great results in the recent exams - very proud of my pupils doing well, privately and at my school, and feel that I helped them achieve their best. I'm now looking to take on some more.

I have been teaching English in Higher Education since 2004. During this time I also taught an A-level student English on an individual basis, as extra preparation for Oxbridge entry - the student gained a place at Oxford. I've also taught two summer schools for visiting American students at the University of Manchester, and a first year university student privately last year.

I've been doing online teaching also over the last six months - there are real benefits!

I have experience with AQA syllabuses in French GCSE and English (Literature) GCSE and A-level (Gothic and Pastoral), and also OCR French.

I also worked for some years in the retail/hospitality sector, where I was an induction trainer, and had some involvement with NVQ assessment.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe the most important thing in teaching is to create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, where students are not afraid to ask any questions. I like to avoid overt formality, and make the teaching as enjoyable as possible. I'm very encouraging and positive, but within this will always offer constructive criticism when it's needed. I make sure sessions end with clear goals about what students need to do to improve - clear and achieveable goals, that I will check your progress with. I enjoy teaching a great deal, and will push you to achieve your very best.

For under 16s, I have a programme for teaching English, French, and German. This includes conversation, grammar, composition, and working with literature suited to the pupil's age range. It's flexible and pitched to any age and ability between 11 and 16.

I can offer teaching remotely - which I prefer at the moment.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a native Chinese speaking fluent standard Chinese Mandarin and English, and have taught Chinese Mandarin for over 18 years in Birmingham, and currently work part time for a local mainstream school in UK.

I am also an experienced English and Maths tutor and a certified 11+ teacher and have a very good success rate with all of my pupils for passing 11+ tests, successfully grabbed places in local grammar schools and private schools, and achieving higher GCSE grades.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught Chinese Mandarin for over 20 years to students from different countries with diverse linguistic backgrounds in UK. I have experience in teaching Chinese at various levels including GCSE, A level and HSK. I currently work part time for a local mainstream school in UK.

I am also an experienced English and Maths tutor and a certified 11+ teacher and have a very good success rate with all of my pupils for passing 11+ tests, successfully grabbed places in local grammar schools and private schools, and achieving higher GCSE grades.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a patient, passionate and dedicated female teacher and have a track record of helping students achieve top grades and dramatically improve their attainment. My lessons are tailored to meet each student's need, interesting and motivating.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have been speaking Spanish for over 30 years and have a passion for the language, for Spain and the Spanish culture.

I have visited Spain every year since I was eight and regularly visit friends across the country and members of my family who live near Valencia.  I spent a year of my degree studying, living and working in Northern Spain, at the University of Salamanca.  I regularly update and improve my own language and teaching skills and most recently attended an intensive week's teaching and learning course in Málaga . 

I have a passion for watching people develop as foreign language speakers and have been privileged to share my enthusiasm for the language and culture across a range of ages and abilities -  from 5 years old to 70+ covering all levels from tourist, conversational, GCSE, A-Level and International Baccalaureate.  

Teaching Experience:
I have a degree in both Spanish and Teaching and have been teaching the language in colleges, primary and secondary schools for almost 10 years.  I am a co-author for the new CGP GCSE Study Guides and workbooks. I am also an examiner for the International Baccalaureate Course. 

Tutoring Approach:
I offer 1-2-1 Spanish tuition online.  I teach all ages from beginners to A-Level students; whether you are a total beginner, did Spanish at school and are looking at getting back into the language or are an advanced speaker wanting to hone your language skills. My strength is in working with you to create a tailored, relaxed and fun session. I will design a course with only you in mind.  I ensure your lessons have a balance between the four skills of speaking, reading, writing and listening. We will work at your pace.  Whatever your personal goal, we will achieve it.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have studied Mandarin Chinese for past four years at university, including one year spent living in Hangzhou, China, and have continued studying in my freetime over the past year since graduating. I have recently decided to continue my education, and have been accepted at SOAS University in London.

Teaching Experience:
During my undergraduate degree I would help classmates to grasp a better understanding of Chinese grammar after class, particularly with features such as BA and BEI structures.

During my year abroad in Hangzhou, China, I briefly tutored children at a school called English Alive, which focused on children from 2-11 years old.

As well as tutoring children, I would often tutor other students who were learning English and Chinese at the same time, and help them with proof reading and spell checking.

At the beginning of 2019 I began tutoring outside of university. One student was a Chinese lady learning English, and the other was an English lady undertaking a Chinese course on the Open University. I can proudly say that both have improved, and on the official course my student earned a 1st.

Tutoring Approach:
My classes will be entirely focused on the needs, goals and capabilities of the student. Before lessons start, I like to correspond with my students to know exactly what they want without using the paid-for lesson time. The main factors I would want to determine would be the number of classes per week, the skillset priorities (speaking and listening, reading and writing, or all equally), and to what level my students would hope to study.

I would provide the textbooks and have plenty of resources to recommend to my students for further study.

My classes are usually an hour long. We tend to start with reviewing the previous lesson's key points and homework, before moving onto vocabulary development, often with flashcards. We then move onto grammar, where two-three grammar points are introduced depending on the level of difficulty. We then review a passage written in Chinese characters, pinyin, and English; any unfamiliar words are highlighted and noted, and the learned grammar points are explained thoroughly in the context of the story/passage. We then practice reading and pronounciation by reading out the passage.
At the end of the lesson we have listening practice in the form of funny, relevant videos spoken in slow, clearly spoken Chinese.

The unfamiliar characters are listed, and given to the student for homework, which is usually something along the lines of "create a sentence using each word. One unfamiliar word per sentence."

Games are included, as are movies, tv shows, cartoons, etc.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a native, well qualified and Spanish teacher. I'm very dynamic and flexible and will adapt to your needs, situation and objective.

Teaching Experience:
During my career I have had the opportunity to teach languages to a broad age range from 3 year old kids to adults.

Tutoring Approach:
I aim to motivate students in asserting their inner strengths and abilities and discovering what really inspires them and to introduce it in my lessons. I also aim to make students become more indepedent in their learning process. Lessons will be dynamic and fun and will make you want to learn the language. I'll adapt to your need and own pace butwill make sure that I always give you a push to work hard.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Nurturing and calm individual who has experience working with early years upto high school age in a classroom setting. Degree in disability and inclusive practice.
Based in Cheshire and currently working in a primary school.

Teaching Experience:
Qualified TA for 10+ years. Huge amount of SEND experience, working 1:1, general class support, interventions and whole class PPA teaching.
Also taught first aid to children and adults for many years

Tutoring Approach:
Flexible approach depending on needs of the learner. We must build up a good working relationship and form the trust to get the best from them.

Subjects

Personal Description:
¡Hola!
My name is Susana and I am originally from Madrid. I am such a passionate Spanish tutor with over 7 years of teaching experience, providing Spanish lessons to complete beginners to advanced students.

Before moving to the UK, I completed a four-year Bachelor's degree in Early Years Education in Alcalá de Henares University (Spain).

Teaching Experience:
My work experience goes from working as a nursery nurse to work as a Spanish Assistant in secondary schools assisting GCSE and A-Level Spanish students.
I have been working with completely beginners, GCSE and A/Level students and advanced students.

While in the UK I also studied for and obtained my C1 Cambridge Advanced certificate for fluency in English.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to adapt to any student requirement. Anything you want to improve; I will be happy to help you with. Don't worry if your Spanish is not great, I'm here to help you, anyone can learn a language.

As a speaker and student of various languages myself (ex Welsh student), I know that learning a new language isn't always easy and presents many challenges. For this reason, I like to share my own experience and learning tools with students to get over those hurdles!

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I am Ana, the founder of a company. It was created from my own passion for languages and entrepreneurship. I am here to help you to learn Portuguese in line with your desired pace and previous experience of learning languages.

Teaching Experience:
I have attended João de Deus University in Lisbon and I also hold a QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) recognised by the National College for Teaching and Leadership UK. João de Deus was a poet and pedagogue whose teaching methods I have adopted in my practice. I work as an Examiner for UK examination boards: Cambridge Assessment International Education & Pearson Edexcel UK.

Tutoring Approach:
I am here to expand your language skills, help you to speak confidently and to achieve your true potential. Positive minds, positive vibes! Learning a language does take time, so be patient and have fun!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am Simon, a dedicated tutor specialising in Functional Skills English and ICT. With a background in coaching, person-centered therapy, and alternative education, I bring a holistic approach to tutoring that focuses on both academic success and personal development.

Teaching Experience:
I bring over 20 years of experience in personal development coaching, therapy, and alternative education to my tutoring practice. My background includes working with diverse individuals to help them overcome personal challenges, build confidence, and achieve their goals. In my role as an alternative education tutor, I specialise in Functional Skills English and ICT, focusing on students who thrive outside traditional learning environments. My extensive experience in coaching and therapy allows me to integrate therapeutic techniques into my teaching, providing a unique, holistic approach that supports both academic success and personal growth.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is deeply personalised and student-centered. I integrate therapeutic techniques to help reduce anxiety and build confidence, ensuring that each session is tailored to meet the unique needs of the learner. I focus on creating a supportive environment where students can grow academically and personally.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi! I'm David and I'm a year 13 student having just graduated from St Paul's School London and finished A levels and looking to go on to study Mathematics at either the University of Cambridge or Imperial College London next year, with 4 A* predicted and 9s in 11/11 subjects at GCSE. I really love Maths and Physics and so I naturally have spent lots of time trying to understand the entire A level syllabus, to the point where I'm now confident I could teach it and anything below that to absolutely anybody, and would love to be able to help those who want to improve their grades. I have had the most wonderful teachers during my time at school and so I am now confident that I can transmit any concepts and ideas lucidly to any of my tutees.

Teaching Experience:
I've tutored previously in St Mary's Ukrainian School for a period of 6 months, where I tutored GCSE Maths and brought up three peoples' grades from a 7 to a 9, a 6 to an 8 and a 6 to a 9 respectively. Although I had to stop the tutoring due to other commitments the students that I tutored said that they would absolutely have continued if I had had the availability, and it heped me understand more where people struggle and how to best help them with their studies.

Tutoring Approach:
Of course I think the question volume is important but beneath all of that I think that you need to have a comprehensive understanding of the subject in order to build confidence for the actual exam so I might use various questions as examples (which I'm very well versed in having just finished A levels) but if it's clear that there's a fundamental gap in understanding I'll address that first before teaching them how to do the questions.

Subjects