Kensington French Tutors and Kensington French Tuition

Personal Description:
With nearly 15 years of online and in-person tutoring French Common Entrance/13+, Westminster Challenge, Winchester entrance, GCSE, IGCSE, A-level, Pre-U, and SAT, I`m a 50-year old graduate of the excellent University of Sussex languages course with a First Class Honours degree in French and Russian. I lived for four years in Paris where I mastered the language and the accent!

I have also acted in plays in French, taking on the role of Alphonse in a production of The School for Wives, and touring to schools abroad to perform in front of students learning French elsewhere in Europe.

I like to stay abreast of French culture and society, read Le Figaro everyday, and regularly watch French TV news and discussion shows.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored students at all levels, from 13+ entrance exams, including the Westminster Challenge, to most UK exam boards at GCSE, IGCSE and A-level, and I have also helped prepare students for their SAT in French and the DELF exam. I've taught adults who are complete beginners, or have some vague memories of what they learned at school, as well as helping several students gain entry to Westminster School via their Challenge exam

Since the switch to mostly online teaching, I have become an expert in making the most of the resources available, particularly the collaborative tools provided by Google, among others, which are particularly good for working on exercises and explaining grammar in a clear, helpful way.

Successes from the last (2019-20) academic year included: an two As at A-level, and two 9s at IGCSE, as well as entrance to Winchester College via their own exam.

For A-level students, I have already taught Camus's L'Etranger, Françoise Sagan's Bonjour Tristesse, Joseph Joffo's Un Sac de Billes, and Zola's Thérèse Raquin, and am very familiar with all the other set texts. Au Revoir Les Enfants, Intouchables, Entre Les Murs (The Class) and La Haine are the films I am best acquainted with from a teaching point of view.

Here are some comments from a few previous students - originals available on request.

'We could not have asked for a better result - A*s! He got full marks for the reading paper. Thanks so much for all your help, and patience.' - Margaret (parent of home-schooled GCSE student)

'Henry won a scholarship to Westminster. Exactly what he was aiming for." (Leslie, student's mother)

`Thank you so much for all your patient hard work - you taught her exactly the right stuff and there is no way she could have done it without you! I really didn`t think it was possible to teach the whole year 7 curriculum in a week but somehow you managed it. Tiffin Girls is one of the top state schools in the country and rather competitive. Chatting to the other parents outside the exam, most of the competitors went to good independents or had been tutored over a long period of time. You really knew not only what to teach but how to teach it, which shows you have exceptional skills.` - Anoushka (pupil`s mother)

`Just thought I should let you know I got an A! Thanks for all your help` - Helena (A-level student)

'I ended up with an "A"... thanks for all your help, both my spoken papers improved, over my previous efforts.' - Philip, mature student sitting AS and A2 French

Tutoring Approach:
It is important to tailor lessons specifically to a student's needs, but my general method is to engage him or her at a level just above their 'comfort zone'. Learning is about challenging yourself to do better, and it is crucial for a tutor to be supportive and encouraging, and also to keep the bar high.

Lessons can be conducted entirely in French, or in a mixture of English and French. I can work alongside a student's existing course (that is, from a textbook a student is already following), or we can use course books that I recommend.

Where the level allows, I like to draw upon material from contemporary sources such as French news magazines.

For "conversation classes", I find it is useful to base the discussion on an article or a book to help build vocabulary, and also think that incorporating grammar instruction (where appropriate) can be a good idea.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello!
My name is Catherine, I am a 21 years old French girl studying International Relations at London School of Economics (LSE)
I enjoy new challenges, I am really adaptable, open minded and easy going.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring students for the past three years and they ALL are at least on a high 2.1 at University.

I have been working in the Language Centre at Leeds Uni for the past two years.

I have also been tutoring a French Teacher from Leeds University on French Politics, Culture and Literature

In June 2009 I was a Matron in an English boarding school.

Tutoring Approach:
If you already have some interest for French, I will be the one who will help you make your way right to the top

Teaching is something I really love doing. I will be happy to help you improve your grammar, pronunciation, orthography, as well as teaching you about the very rich french culture and Politics. The cultural side is indeed the part I love to speak about (as a lesson or just randomly) because I believe learning a language is not only learning its grammar.

I am specialised on tutoring people who already have some basis of French (From A Level to fluent).

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Personal Description:
I am an Open University graduate having completed an BA(Hons) degree. I chose my own programme of study which consisted of French,English Language Studies with GCSE/Standard grade Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. After my degree, I undertook an A-level/Higher Grade Maths course and GCSE/Standard Grade level Latin course to keep my study skills fresh and updated whilst complimenting my degree.

Prior to this, I under went a City and Guilds in Delivering Learning which taught me the vital skills required to be able to plan and construct lessons. In conjunction to this, I have also achieved my Level 1 certificate in British Sign Language.

Teaching Experience:
I have done work with Borders College based in Galashiels where I taught adult evening classes in Mandarin Chinese, Italian and French, which I love. Seeing my students grow and learn is one of the main reasons why I entered the tutoring and teaching profession.

In addition, I have taught French to various ages ranging from Primary right through to Adult in various capacities. Furthermore, I have taught English as a Foreign Language which was a brilliant experience as it gave me a valuable insight into how people learn not only English but languages in general.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring comprises of friendliness and patience. Having studied at home for my degree, I understand the importance of a structured and warm learning environment. My motto has always been "There is no such thing as a stupid question". If you do not know the answer then the only way to find the answer out is to ask the question, whether it is for the first or tenth time. As I am so passionate about French and English along with reading and writing skills, I feel that lessons with me will be a positive, exciting and worthwhile experience.

I have always strongly believed that education is available to everyone, regardless of past experiences. The only thing that I feel matters when it comes to learning is a want to learn, if you have that then anything is possible.

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Personal Description:
Hello, my name is Angel, I am a qualified teacher of Psychology and Languages (Spanish and French). I have a BSc in Psychology, an MA in Psychoanalysis and Philosophy, an MA in Languages and Translation, an MA in English Literature, and a Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training. In my free time, I enjoy running, walking my dog and going to the cinema.

Teaching Experience:
I have 25 years of experience in teaching language (Spanish, French and English) and psychology, and have worked in a number of different schools and language institutes, from primary and secondary schools to corporate language training centres and universities (Université de Paris 8, Université Panthéon-Assas, Université de Paris Sud in France, Newcastle University in London). I have also worked as a Lecturer in Psychology at Bromley and Orpington College, South Devon College in Paignton, DLD College London, Birkbeck University, and Arden University.

I prepare A level and GCSE students for the following exam boards: AQA, Eduqas, OCR, Edexcel, CIE, WJEC.

I share files and resources with my students for their classes and revision. During my lessons, besides covering all the topics, I focus on exam techniques and past papers.

I also prepare students for university examinations in Psychology and Spanish.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is tailored to my students' needs and level. For languages, I have a number of adult students who want to improve their language skills with a view to travelling or working abroad. My main focus in language tutoring is on communication: my classes are designed to recreate real-life situations in which the foreign language is required. My classes include role play to recreate these situations. I also have experience in preparing students for official examinations, and business and academic needs. I always take the time to discuss your requirements with you to work out a programme that will best suit your needs and your particular interests.

For students preparing external examinations, my classes are based on the exam specification and exam skills. Depending on the student's requirements, we revise and cover content as well as practising structured essay writing and exam skills.

For my classes, I provide all the material myself, all included in the price per hour.

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Personal Description:
I am a native French tutor with over 20 years experience in training, coaching and lecturing.
I am currently the official tutor for Newstead Wood grammar and I also support a number of students from Bromley High school and Sevenoaks school. I have received consistent high level of positive feedback from parents and teachers alike and am passionate about teaching, ensuring my students get the highest marks and making it into a fun and rewarding experience.

Testimonials

I am currently studying A level French and I am very pleased to be able to say that my French has improved more than I ever thought it would since starting tuition with Michel. In just over one month, I have improved by two whole grades, which has been evident from mock exam results in class at school. I thoroughly enjoy my lessons with Michel because I do not feel embarrassed to ask seemingly simple questions, which I feel I cannot ask in my class at school.
E. H. - Bromley

My daughter who is doing A level French was really struggling before we found Michel. He has really motivated her and has made lessons more interesting . She has 2 hour lessons but she is surprised how quick the time goes. I would highly recommend Michel. I can see he gets pleasure helping his pupils make progress. My daughter`s accent has also greatly improved with Michel`s help.
Mrs G - Croydon

I`ve just received my results and I`m very happy to tell you that I got an A for my French I-GCSE. Thank you for all your help because it really made a difference! - G - Bromley

Hi Michel,
Thank you for your help. I got A* in my French oral! - C. Sevenoaks School

I just wanted to say thank you so much for all the sessions, they really helped me get a high grade for speaking and an overall A. Thank you so much - S - Orpington

I have enjoyed Michel`s teaching immensely. I would very much recommend Michel to other students- he`s really quite adaptable and has used some creative approaches to teaching which was really helpful for me.
Karen C. - London

Teaching Experience:
Over 20 years tutoring, coaching, including seven years classroom based training. Currently teaching all ages from beginners to advanced, city professionals including a number of GCSE and A Level students.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to use a great variety of methods, videos, conversations, audio recordings in my French lessons to speed the learning process and keep my students as entertained and engaged as possible.

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Personal Description:
When I was a boy I was taught by people who were larger-than-life characters who dominated the classroom. They made clear to us boys what was expected of us and that if we didn't make the effort we would simply not achieve the rewards.

As a teacher, I share the same ethos. I expect pupils to follow my lead and work to the best of their ability.

I spend a lot of time reading and thinking.

I think it was George Bernard Shaw who said that 2% of people think, 3% think they think and 95% would rather die than do any thinking at all!

Sadly, I think that over the last thirty years dumbing down and inflated grades have shown how accurate Shaw's assessment was.

I see my role as one of reversing the tide of apathy and mediocrity and encouraging pupils to value themselves as individuals each with unique potential.

I finally achieved my educational potential because I came to see intellectual growth as the only sure path to happiness and fulfilment.

Helping pupils reach the same understanding about their full intellectual potential is my vocation and the foundation on which I build all my one-to-one tuition relationships.

Teaching Experience:
After teaching in the UK Primary and Secondary sectors as well as managing English and History departments in three international schools overseas, I now devote my time exclusively to private tuition.

My experience includes 12 years teaching English and History to GCSE and A level in the UK secondary system and eight years teaching the same subjects to the same levels in international schools in Italy, Egypt and Kenya.

During this time I have always had a number of students on my books for home tuition to provide extra help in Primary, Secondary and University level subjects.

My English GCSE students last year all achieved A-C grades and my A level History student achieved an A (predicted C after Year 12) and is now at university. In previous years, my A level History students have never achieved less than a C and in 2014, I had a student who reached A* and is now studying the subject at Exeter University.

Tutoring Approach:
My experience has led me to believe that one-to-one tuition is the best way to educate pupils. It brings them to the realisation that the whole point of education really is to set us free. It's not easy for a student to discover this when confined every day in a class of 30 or more others! Learning to think independently as an individual, and to read and write fluently enables pupils to participate fully in society, to achieve their full potential and thereby become happy, confident adults. Once the student is enthused and inspired by a tutor to think for themselves there is only one way forward.

I like to encourage pupils to develop independent thinking and logical analysis. Too many schools are teaching the children WHAT to think when they should be teaching them HOW to think. Naturally, many pupils become disengaged and even some of the most talented are simply going through the motions rather than actually studying. This lack of motivation together with highly inflated grades means that many of our youngsters are leaving school with minimal reading and writing skills. Indeed, few now have the aptitude for doing much reading, thinking or writing at all.

I like to build up the student's confidence by establishing their strengths first. Thereafter I identify weaknesses and gauge the student's awareness of them and motivation to put them right. Above all, I encourage my students to read widely and with full concentration. My best students learn to read closely and publish their reviews on Amazon. Aside from the huge adrenaline run, the boost in confidence and proficiency students get from seeing their writing in print is awesome to behold!

To put it simply, when they're reading they start succeeding!

Homework set weekly by me will always involve reading, thinking and writing. My feedback will always concentrate on reinforcing the idea that the writing process never ends with the last full stop. I expect students to read back their work to ensure that their writing communicates their meaning clearly and fluently. Editing with the focus on making the right word choices, organising sentences with the words in the right order and structuring longer writing assignments into coherent paragraphs are all priorities schools are increasingly neglecting thereby greatly hindering the life chances of their pupils..

Once the student and I have agreed which areas need improvement we use lesson time to extend the student's competence and skills by undertaking thinking and written assignments that allow the student to develop these.

Weekly homework set will advance and reinforce the skills the student has been encouraged to bring to the lesson.

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Personal Description:
I am a native French speaker, born and educated in Paris, but I have been living in England for over 30 years and married an Englishman. I graduated from the Sorbonne University with a view to teaching English there but when I came to England as a French assistante. A year later, having completed my Master's degree I cam back to settle in England and soon qualified as a French teacher. I have been working in that capacity until 2012 when I retired from full-time teaching to dedicated myself to private tuition. I am thus very experienced at all levels consider myself an extremely dedicated teacher, eager to see the students progress and enjoy learning about French culture at the same time as they improve their command of the language. I believe that the most efficient way of learning other than total immersion is the one to one approach which has often allowed me to enable the students willing to invest the extra time to progress exponentially, get motivated and achieve their potential.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught French and English to adults (managerial staff and trainees) in the private sector, in small groups and individually.
Subsequently, I have taught French from KS3 to KS5, full-time on permanent contracts for nearly 30 years in total. At the same time I have tutored my own son to passing his French G.C.S.E. with the top mark in the country, and his French A Level with flying colours. As a result he is now reading French at Oxford University and he continues to call on my expertise whenever needed. A few years ago, one of my A Level students whom I tutored privately obtained the top marks in the country in every module of the Edexcel exam. I am extremely experienced in coaching students to success in their G.C.S.E. and A Level French exams and the overwhelming majority of my students systematically achieved their potential or better. For over 10 years I took on virtually all the A Level French teaching at my last school and have always acted as teacher-examiner for both G.C.S.E. and A Level. This year 2017 all the students I prepared for Oxbridge achieved the grade required to fulfil their conditional offer.

Tutoring Approach:
First, I assess what each student is aiming to gain from the private tuition, whether it be coaching for written and/or oral examinations, building confidence in communicating within a given context, improving pronunciation,mastering the finer points of grammar, studying French literature etc. I also quickly evaluate the level and ability of individual student through gentle probing and questioning. I go on to prepare an appropriate programme of study and gather material such as PowerPoint presentations, tailor made practice exercises, Past Papers, relevant websites, use visual and aural aids to add interest. I set homework and can give feedback on line between lessons to maximise efficiency of personal contact time. Basically it all depends on what the student wishes to achieve.Because I know the subject so well I can be extremely flexible and can instantly fine tune my approach according to the need of my student at any given moment. Thanks to my long experience I have become extremely responsive to the all-important feedback

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Personal Description:
Bonjour! I am a French National, originally from Beauvais ,a beautiful medieval town , 80km north of Paris.
A graduate from Amiens University with a BA in English Literature & Civilization, I also studied Fashion Design & Illustration in the international Paris American Academy.

I trained and worked in London for several years, before moving to N.Ireland.
In search of calm and beauty, we now live near peaceful meadows, a mere 5 minutes drive from Banbridge, a 20 minute drive from Newry and 40 minutes from Belfast.

I constantly marvel at the multitude of walks by the sea or mountains, close to our house. With children and dog in tow, what better way to capture the beauty of life.

Not to forget the great pleasure to be able to divide my time between French Tuition and my love of Painting : "La belle vie" !

Teaching Experience:
I began teaching as a French Language Assistant, in the North of England. In the 90's , I moved to London and worked in two secondary schools. I taught 11-16 yrs old pupils, as well as being in charge of GCSE exam preparation.

Until recently, I worked in a Grammar School in N.Ireland and took great dedication in preparing my A-Level Students for the final year examination. I endeavoured to instill in them confidence with oral practice, while providing extra help with the completion of their discussion.

Immersing my Students with French Culture and insightful knowledge about French life and way of thinking, have proved greatly useful to their studies. It helped them understand French Literature with greater clarity, especially when books, such as "L'etranger " by Albert Camus, were placed into historical and social context.
Having studied French literature at A-Level and as a module within my degree in English literature, I am well versed with the subtleties of the French language for essay writing.


Students benefit greatly from my cultural knowledge as a French Native and are able to understand the topics in their curriculum with a depth that can only be provided by a French National. My expertise with the French language is equally wide ranged : from formal /literary written or spoken French to casual and daily modern French.
As I understand the evolution of French as a modern language, I am able to advise Students with the appropriate use of wording, in various social or cultural contexts.


Alongside school, I continued with my Home Tuition Practice and I now exclusively teach privately. From GCSE, A-Level or University Students, I strive to cover all aspects of the curriculum.
As part of my teaching method, I regularly include intensive grammar revision with explanation, and exercises followed by oral practice to cement knowledge.

With my many years of experience, I have successfully devised my own teaching material. Thus creating a list of unusual expressions to maximize my Students exam results. Further notes have been compiled for difficult topics such as the environment and other topics to increase their knowledge.
Students' pronunciation has also benefited from techniques I developed throughout the years, to help them understand the difference in sounds.

Beside school and academic achievements,I have had the privilege to teach many Adult Beginners who were retiring to France. For this purpose, I devised entire courses best suited to assist their individual needs. Each course was aimed at giving them a good grounding for the language and to constitute a vital building block for daily French life. In other words "a survival guide".

My French skills have also been very productive with translations and drafting of documents for French Banks, Builders, Water or Electricity Companies. Moreover my work has included important phone calls to France, prior to my retired Students departure which smoothed their transition abroad.

Each experience with a new Student has a uniqueness. It is always an immense delight to see the progress accomplished on whichever path they choose.
Most rewarding as a Tutor is to see my Students develop fluency and authenticity with the French language while appreciating its full beauty.

Tutoring Approach:
Needless to say that I teach French in a pleasant and relaxed manner.
Being flexible, I take into account the various needs of my Students and areas they wish to improve. Consequently, I patiently work along them using my own teaching material or coursework they need help with.
Furthermore ,once I have devised the best course to improve their skills ,I create their own individual material to support their progress.The lessons are well structured to take into account deadlines such as completion of written presentation and mock oral exam.

I strive to establish a peaceful environment conducive to learning and will encourage or praise my Students, for every progress made, after each tuition. My principal aim is to instill trust in their abilities. With gentle guidance I help them express themselves with growing confidence, while enjoying the language. Not only are the tuitions enjoyable, they are equally highly productive and successful.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My passion for teaching started in 2008, having qualified as a teacher at University in Madrid. After a pedagogic practice in an Secondary Bilingual School I moved to France, where I have recently graduated in French and Spanish Linguistics.

Last year I finished a master's degree in French Applied Language in the Sorbonne University and the Paris Trade Chamber, where I trained in didactics of Specific French (business, scientific, hotel trade, etc).

I'm a very enthusiastic teacher, able to find the talent hidden in every student.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience includes two years as a Modern Foreign Language teacher with Learnissimo, training individual from different sectors (enterprises as Danone, Tompress), three years in Primary and Secondary schools and a six months internship in the French Institute in Madrid.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching method for is based on tasks and the PPP paradigm (presenting a subject, practicing by repetition, matching or filling and producing in the context of a particular task). This approach allows the students to learn by practicing in their real communication situations and to progress in a very short time!

The type of materials I use are generally design by myself, using authentic documents as reports, conversation recordings, emails, hand outs and I also use general linguistics and grammar manuals and essays to support my research

Using a task-based approach, you will be focusing in particular missions and I will give you the tools to accomplish them and I will be designing a individualized programme from your personal or professional targets.

Basically, this is a very practical methodology based on learning by doing.

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Personal Description:
I am a native Arabic speaker from Lebanon with french as a second language.
I have a Degree in Law from the Lebanese University.

Teaching Experience:
I have 3 years of teaching experience, teaching students at high school in Lebanon, and over 10 years of online or from home tutoring. I taught Arabic and French to students at all levels.

Tutoring Approach:
Speaking, reading, grammar* and writing are part of the Arabic and French lessons. The lessons are tailored to the student's needs and wishes. Ensuring students are learning and understand the lessons with pleasure.
*Arabic Grammar including iierab (إعراب).

Subjects

Personal Description:
Having completed my first degree in French and German at Oxford University in June 2013, I returned to Belfast to complete first a MA in Medieval History, and then a further MA in Translation Studies.

At the same time, I began building up a portfolio career as a freelance tutor and translator, allowing me to live out my passion for language, literature, and culture (alongside digger manuals, pharmaceutical texts, and other oddities) on a daily basis.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience dates back to my undergraduate years. At Oxford I gained two years' experience with Jacari, a charity that teaches English to local children of a different mother tongue. I also provided tuition to students of GCSE history in local Oxford schools.

I spent my year abroad teaching English to pupils aged 10 to 19 at a German grammar school, and have since instructed a number of tutees of ages 8 to 65+ in English Language, French, German and Italian.

I can also provide help with Oxbridge entrance examination and interview preparations for languages, English, and history, as well as general advice for personal statements.

Tutoring Approach:
This variety of experience has taught me the importance of varying my teaching approach according to the needs and interests of the pupil.

While I keep a keen eye on the intended curriculum or goals at all times, I am used and open to changing from more formal to more informal (i.e. games-based) tutoring methods as appropriate.

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Personal Description:
I am of french nationality, i arrived in bristol 7 months ago. I have spent my whole life in france, passed my A level, studied carpentry and passed my exam successfully. I practiced english for 6 years at school, and i am now completely bilingual. I read a lot in english and i am very ineterested in languages in general. Since i arrived in England, i have been working as a waitress in a restaurant ( Poco on stokes croft ), and i would like now to work as a tutor to help children and people learn french the best way possible.

Teaching Experience:
Back in france, i have been helping children doing their lessons, not only in french, but also in all the other subjects. I have never been " teaching", but i am very good in communication and working with children and people.

Tutoring Approach:
I am willing to give my best to help people learning french and helping them in the understanding of the language. The communication and being patient must be my priority.

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Personal Description:
I am a qualified and experienced French native speaker / language tutor with over 20 years' experience teaching French across all levels at the local university and helping GCSE and A level students to achieve the highest possible grade

Teaching Experience:
In addition to my work as a university lecturer, I have tutored since 1989 many students of all ages and backgrounds ranging from business people, holidaymakers in France, French property owners to GCSE/A level / Open University students who need to prepare for their oral & written examinations

Because of the lockdown I have moved to online teaching/tutoring
I have regular Skype / Zoom sessions with my university /GCSE/ A level students and adult learners

I usually email over worksheets or learning materials [past papers/ newspapers articles, audio files] in advance so that the students can familiarise themselves with the lesson structure and content. All skills [listening and speaking, reading and writing can be practised


Consultation lesson offered for free

Tutoring Approach:
Friendly, relaxed and focused
I tailor my lessons around the student's individual needs/ interests and objectives.
I have a wide range of learning resources [grammar worksheets, topic-based vocabulary lists, AQA, Edexcel and WJEC past papers..] and interactive activities to cater for different learning styles and help students develop their confidence and achieve their full potential. I aim to make learning French a rewarding and enjoyable experience

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Personal Description:
I am a vibrant passionate Italian, French and English Teacher. I am strongly committed in delivering outstanding teaching, supporting learners and motivating them.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching for 20 years, delivering:
- classes to pupils aged from 14 to 18 as a State teacher in Italy,
- individual tuition / group classes to pupils, students, professionals, adults
- individual tuition / group classes for certification purposes to pupils, students, professionals, adults in English (Cambridge ESOL certificates from A2 to C1 level), DELf-DALF (Alliance française certificates from A2 to C1 level), FIT and Start (Goethe Institut, FIT 1 and FIT 2, Start 1 and 2)
- individual / group classes for entrepreneurs (French and English)
- individual/group tuition for national competitions, job interviews,....
- degree thesis in English and French.

Tutoring Approach:
Being passionate of research, innovative methodology, communication I have developed my own methodology enabling students to speak and write from the very first lesson.
I have a true passion for pronounciation which enables learners to easily understand and produce well built answers.
I have develped my own methodology for listening activities and pronunciation skills from my experience as an interpreter (simultaneous, consecutive, chuchotage).

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Personal Description:
Welcome! A freelance tutor and singer, I give "Personal tuition in the right key". I can help you get the highest grades in exams, and study in the "key" that best suits you. Like the right song choices, I often inspire my students to succeed.

- Which subject(s) do you teach?

French, Spanish, Latin, Ancient Greek, English as a Foreign Language, Creative Writing, Singing, Oxbridge Interview preparation.

- Tell me about your qualifications.

Master of Studies in European Literature (Spanish) from Exeter College, Oxford University;
Master of Arts in Classics and Modern Languages (French) from New College, Oxford University;
PostGraduate Certificate in Education and Qualified Teacher Status from the Department of Education, Oxford University;
Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera (Spanish Diploma) from Salamanca University, Spain;
Advanced Certificate in Careers Education and Guidance from Canterbury Christ Church College;
Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (Level 5, CELTA equivalent, 140 hours) from EDI and i-to-i Volunteering.
Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts ("Working for 21st century Enlightenment")

- Where do you teach?

I teach online via FaceTime and/or Skype from my home and at students' homes. I live in Abingdon, in Oxfordshire, in the UK, and am prepared to drive up to c30 miles from home if online lessons are not possible, to include nearby towns such as Oxford, Wantage, Bicester, Henley, Reading, Newbury, Thame, Wallingford, Marlow ... I teach pupils online anywhere in the world, latterly in UK towns such as Northampton, Cheltenham etc. and abroad in Hong Kong, Russia, Kazakhstan ...

- Describe your arrangements for online tutoring.

I use Skype or Apple FaceTime. The video feed can be switched off at my student's request, or if it degrades the sound quality. Tests and exercises are sent to the student and returned to me for marking by email.

Teaching Experience:
- What kind of experience do you have?

Two years teaching Scholarship Latin and Greek in a local prep school (Cothill House);
Previously spent 25 years in the classroom in independent and state schools in the UK, France and Peru, teaching all ages;
Sometime Head of three academic departments (one of which I founded at Abingdon School);
c10 years one-to-one private tuition to all ages, latterly often online or through local agencies.

- Do you have an up-to-date DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service, formerly CRB) Certificate?

Yes - fully listed on the DBS update site.

- Where and with whom did you train?

University of Oxford, New College and Exeter College;
University of Oxford Department of Education;
Salamanca University;
Christ Church College Canterbury;

- Do you belong to any professional organisations?

I am a member of the General Teaching Council, the Association for Language Learning, sometime Chair of the Oxford Education Society, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and the Academy of St Cecilia.

Tutoring Approach:
"David has been tutoring our son via Skype for the last year, since his Spanish teacher said she did not want to put him in for GCSE Spanish as she thought he would fail. David has been marvellous with coaxing and coaching him and giving him confidence. Just the one to one attention has been hugely beneficial, and the bonus that "tech"� was involved, and that there was no time lost in driving to and from lessons has been a real godsend too. David is incredibly supportive and encouraging without being at all patronising, and really strikes the right balance to get the best out of his students. Can recommend unreservedly."
Mrs F, Gloucestershire,

"Our son has flourished under David's tutelage; the balance and content of homework and classwork has been very carefully gauged and enabled our son to progress rapidly, with great enthusiasm for his studies. The weekly reports David submits have been of immense value to us as parents trying to support our son's learning, as has the clear structuring, marking and regular review of work." Dr M. and Mr E.

"David has provided my daughter with an excellent grounding in Spanish prior to her starting the subject at school. He has guided her through the basics in a clear, thoughtful and well-informed way and has formed a very good relationship in which she has felt engaged, supported and motivated." Mrs W.

"My two children (ages 9 and 10) have progressed rapidly in their French learning with David. His lessons with them are focused and thorough, and his approach is patient and clear. He has great enthusiasm for languages and significant experience in teaching them, which show through in his lessons. My children both very much enjoy their lessons and are even happy to do the homework! David is also very helpful in working with us to find the best ways to support their learning between lessons. " Jenny T

"Dear David, Thank you so much for all your help and guidance when I applied for the Chaplaincy. It was good, too, to see you there when I went for interview" Revd. Michael P"

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Personal Description:
I am an extremely well qualified and experienced teacher of modern languages. I worked in many schools in the UK and for the most part as head of MFL. I also worked in China and Germany teaching English. Since retiring from full time teaching I have been teaching private lessons. I have extensive knowledge of the GCSE and A level courses and I have been very successful with my students. On average their grades have improved by at least two from their mock exams.

Teaching Experience:
I started teaching after leaving university when I went to China and worked for a United Nations Development Project. I then worked for a private language school in Germany. I became a qualified teacher and worked in several schools in Essex. I quickly worked my way up the ranks and became Head of Modern Languages. My last full time position was as Head of MFL at Medina College on the Isle of Wight. Since then I have been successfully teaching private lessons to students aged 5 to adults.

Tutoring Approach:
I use a variety of techniques adapted to my student's needs. I like to make my lessons fun and interactive. I follow the syllabus closely in the case of exam students and make sure that students are confident in all four skills. I elicit information from the students rather than just teach them how something works. By using this method students are more likely to retain the knowledge. I am happy to teach students individually or in pairs or groups.

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Personal Description:
Qualified, experienced, patient tutor
An outstanding practitioner, as evidenced in inspections and lesson observations.
I have had extensive training in supporting students with special educational needs. I am able to tailor approaches and resources to suit the individual needs of every pupil.

Teaching Experience:
27 years Headmistress Primary and Secondary School, retired.
15 years private tuition experience.
35 years teaching experience.

Tutoring Approach:
27 years' experience, including as Head Of Department and Headmistress.
Qualified teacher and subject specialist.
I am supportive, warm and encouraging in my approach.

Why choose me?
100% success rate in helping pupils get into their first choice schools, including Cheltenham Ladies' College, Haberdashers', St Paul's and Westminster College.
I provide expert private tuition for 11+, 13+, GCSE, A-level and International Baccalaureate examinations.
I am experienced at teaching pupils of all ages between 7 - 18.

Testimonials

Wendy was recommended to us by a colleague for her excellent quality of tuition. She has an extensive knowledge of the GCSE syllabus for literature and language and has considerable experience in the field. She is reliable and has a great work ethic. She has enabled my son to reach his potential and is able to focus on points of weakness, build confidence and motivate him into writing essays, which he did not enjoy or do prior to Wendy. Wendy has tailored her approach to teaching him in how to answer questions for the best possible outcome. His improvement in English has helped him progress in other subjects and is now looking at higher grades in History and RE due to a more articulate approach to answering questions. Less importantly my son has enjoyed his English lessons and always looked forward to them.

S, Chesham, Bucks

Wendy has been such a blessing for my daughter, completely turning around her expectations with regards to her academic ability and hugely affecting not only her English results but all her other subjects. Now, thanks to Wendy, she has the right tools to construct an essay. Her marks have improved by two grades across the board. Wendy is a wonderful and inspiring teacher and I just cannot recommend her highly enough.

Rachel, Amersham, Bucks

Lovely Wendy is the most amazing and caring tutor I could ever wish for. She deserves a medal for her work and her students are so motivated in these crazy times it is wonderful to know my son is being so looked after. He enjoys every lesson.

Lucy, South Heath, Bucks.

I highly recommend Wendy. Her long experience, personal approach and carefully planned English lessons have been incredible for over two years now. She also provides excellent feedback following each session and takes time to stay close to parents to gauge how and where she can add most value. I am happy to email or speak to other parents about how she has helped us!

Sarah, Great Missenden, Bucks.

I am so delighted we found Wendy to help with my son's preparation for his GCSE in English Literature and French to A level. I thoroughly recommend her tutoring services. She is consummate and professional and well prepared for each session with a myriad of printed materials to support the lesson. She is knowledgeable about her subject and importantly about what the examiners are looking for in assessing examination answers. She is also friendly, approachable and has a rare gift for imparting her understanding and enthusiasm for literature. My son positively looked forward to both English and French studies with her - something sadly he never felt at school. He now looks forward to University with every confidence

Tokeer, High Wycombe, Bucks.

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Personal Description:
First-class graduate of the University of Cambridge, I have tutored professionally since January 2023 and have worked in secondary schools in the UK between March 2017 and July 2018 full-time, working supply between February 2023 and July 2024.

I have tutored 4 students thus far, from Year 10 or 11 until their GCSE exams. My students have had great successes: my first student climbed 2 and 3 grades in their English GCSEs, passing them and allowing them to move on to sixth form without resits; another student achieved 8s in both English GCSEs, way higher than expected, and climbed grades over time in Maths; whilst another student also passed GCSE English Literature first time, with a Grade 4, well above his initial starting grade when we began tutoring.

My secondary school experience includes time as a full-time Cover Supervisor (March - July 2017), full-time Learning Support Assistant including sole teaching of KS3 SEN Literacy classes (September 2017 to July 2018), as well as supply LSA, Cover Supervisor and Exam Invigilator work.

I work with whoever, whatever your current grade, and I always aim to listen and understand who you are and what works well for you. Perhaps you're creative and into drawing; perhaps you are more analytical; perhaps you want to cover the basics. I always ensure my teaching is bespoke - I pay attention to what works and what does not.

My references attest to my good nature and personable qualities, as well as real results in helping students improve their grades.

At a fundamental level, any student of mine will tell you I am reliable, engaging, caring, fun, honest, and, equally, challenging and encouraging. I also offer a reasonable rate compared to other tutors in the area.

Please get in touch with any queries. I can tutor online, in person, and, within a certain distance, at your home.

Best wishes
Laurence,
Brighton and Hove

Teaching Experience:
- Private Tutor since 2023
- Full-time Cover Supervisor (March - July 2017)
- Full-time Learning Support Assistant including sole teaching of KS3 SEN Literacy classes (September 2017 to July 2018)
- Supply LSA (February 2023 - July 2024)
- Supply Cover Supervisor (September 2023 - July 2024)
- Exam Invigilator work (2023 and 2024 exam seasons)

Tutoring Approach:
- Person-centred
- Engaging and fun
- Reliable and caring

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