Alness Tutors and Alness Tuition

Personal Description:
I am an experienced chemistry teacher and A-level examiner. I have been a private tutor in chemistry and maths since 2002 with excellent results and consistently good feedback. All students are welcome, whether working towards first-time examinations, resits, or needing support and confidence through the course. As well as teaching and supporting all areas of A-level and GCSE chemstry, I spend time with students on study skills, revision technique and exam technique. These are areas which are sometimes given little attention in schools but are central to student's success and the development of their potential.

Teaching Experience:
Both my private tuition and work as a teacher have benefitted from my work as an external examiner for AS chemistry, on-going since 2004. This gives me an invaluable insight not only in terms of subject knowledge but also towards exam preparation and technique. I can therefore assist with a variety of extremely useful tips and pointers towards revision and taking exams, including, for example, key word-pairs guaranteed to improve answers.

I am frequently commended for explaining concepts very clearly with relevant examples.

Private tutor (chemistry, maths) - 16 years
Chemistry and maths lecturer - 12 years
External A-level chemistry examiner - 14 years

Tutoring Approach:
I am friendly and approachable, encouraging queries and questions whenever they arise. I adjust my pace to suit each individual learner and design a tuition plan according to each individual's personal strengths and weaknesses. I use questioning techniques as part of my teaching in order to help students express themselves and develop both their thinking and understanding of chemistry. I also help with both revision and exam technique and this is incorporated into my teaching as well as discussed separately.


I am happy to tutor both individuals and groups of 2-4. I recommend 1hr teaching sessions for GCSE and 1 - 1.5 hours for A-level. I provide past papers and other materials as necessary and can do longer or more frequent lessons around exam time, if required.

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Personal Description:
I am a mature person and have had a large family and enjoy working with young people.

Teaching Experience:
Have twenty years experirnce in teaching and tutoring for Reading Borough and West Berkshire Councils. Have worked in primary schools and am currently teaching GCSE students English, Maths and Science. Also have extensive experience of SEN teaching and working with ASD students.

Tutoring Approach:
Thorough, patient and successful.

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Personal Description:
I am a motivated, organised and friendly young woman. I love working with children and I am passionate about sport. I want to become a teacher and I am currently working as a classroom assistant at a high school. I am mainly in maths supporting foundation and higher curriculum at key stage 3 and 4 . I received an A at maths at GCSE and understand the curriculum fully. I studied Sport Science with Coaching at Northumbria University. I have had substantial experience in numerous schools and with a range of departments. I am very capable of working one on one with children and also with groups of children.

Teaching Experience:
I have had work placements at Haydon Bridge High School teaching P.E to ages 13-18 for a period of 6 weeks, then assisting various classes for 75 hours over 4 months. I undertook several roles; teacher, clasroom assistant, organiser of fixtures and one on one tutor. I also returned to Haydon Bridge High school as a volunteer, assisting in P.E lessons.
I am currently emplyed as a classroom assistant at Queen Elizabeth High school. My main role is to work with one or two children with Special Educational Needs within the classroom supporting their learning. I may also have to work with a whole class, supporting all the children. It is vital for my role that I understand and can teach the curriculum, as I may have to work outside the classroom with the child and will need to tutor them in that subject area. The majority of the students I am currently working with have made progress since I have been put with them and other students are asking to be placed with me or for me to put on revision sessions for them.

Tutoring Approach:
Every child is unique. They each have their own way of learning and have different abilities in a variety of areas. This can not always be addressed within a school environment, as it can be difficult to differentiate the topic which is being taught to a large number of pupils. I understand that each child will work at a different rate therefore my rate and style of teaching will alter to suit the student. I believe that tutoring is about guiding a child to find their own way towards an answer and not making them follow your way as they may not understand the process which you have followed. I can also comprehend the amount of work which students are having to complete weekly, thus I would not supply them with a large workload alongside their normal studies.

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Personal Description:
My name is María. I´m a enthusiastic and motivated teacher willing to help you to learn everything you want to know about Spanish language and culture. I believe in a practice-based learning. I think every language is alive and we shouldn't learn it as a dead theory.

I also teach English as a foreign language.

Teaching Experience:
I'm a qualified teacher with a Spanish-teaching title recognized by University of Barcelona and International House World Organization. I also have a Masters in teaching secondary and languages education (PGCE) and a Bachelors in Fine Arts. I have experience working in secondary schools and adult education in the UK.

I think Art and Language are very close to each other, both of them play an important roll in the world's communication system and in the development of society. Art&Language are pure culture and a very important thing in the development of children too.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that teaching Spanish is much more than teaching a bunch of grammar rules, it's teaching our art, gastronomy, our understanding of life… in short, our culture.

I use a communicative approach to the language, so grammar is always in context and at the service of real communication skills.

I focus on the objectives and needs of each student or small group. In the first lesson I will give you a level test and a content negotiation where you can tell me what grammar and cultural topics you are more interested in and how you prefer to learn them. You are the protagonist of your own education!

To teach in the best possible way I use a wide range of activities that I prepare to fit you.

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Personal Description:
Hi, my name is Valentina and I am Italian. I have been living in the UK since 2002. I am a very friendly, reliable, approachable person, but professional and trustworthy at the same time. I am very honest and I work very hard to achieve my targets. I am sure I can help you to achieve the results that you are looking for and, with my support, learning something new will be just a positive and enjoyable experience!

Teaching Experience:
Since 2003 I have been giving lessons to students of any age; my students are usually preparing university exams or interviews, GSCE, A-levels, business people, or anyone else who needs an extra support to achieve better results. I also run private courses to prepare students to school exams, as internal and external candidates; I work with all the major exam boards (AQA, Edexcel, Cambridge...) as private tutor, but also in the most well known private schools in Surrey and South East region.

Tutoring Approach:
My lessons are very well planned in advance and delivered with confidence. I will make sure that your learning level will go up lesson by lesson! After a first assessment, I will prepare a tuition plan and the learning process will start. The positive results will come very soon!

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Personal Description:
I am a Professional Tutor with over 30 years of experience in teaching French, Russian, English as a Foreign Language (ESOL, IELTS) at Universities, Colleges, Schools and privately.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 30 years of experience in teaching French, Russian, English as a Foreign Language (ESOL, IELTS) at all levels: from the beginners up to the advanced. I am also preparing students for exams in academic IELTS.

Tutoring Approach:
I am teaching all the aspects of the language: speaking/listening, reading/writing. My teaching is grammar based as without the knowledge of grammar it is impossible to make up correct sentences. I am using authentic materials in all the languages I teach. There are a lot of activities resulting in improving speaking skills. My students always get higher results at the exams than they were initially hoping for. There is always a good rapport with the students. The students get all the help they need. My lessons are always well structured, lively and meet students' satisfaction.

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Personal Description:
A qualified teacher with a bachelors degree from the University of Warwick. A hard-working dedicated teacher of Maths currently head of faculty in one of the most successful schools in Nottingham.
Guaranteed to achieve the best possible results for all different boards in:
- GCSE
- AS, A2, A Level, etc.

My preference is for online tutoring but please get in touch if you'd like to discuss this further.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 10 years experience teaching maths in secondary schools in the Nottingham area. I'm currently the Head of mathematics at a very successful secondary school in Nottingham.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that for tutoring to be effective, the student must be motivated and have a desire to spend the time doing it. I take quite a relaxed approach and respond to the needs of the student dealing with any problems or difficulties understanding as they arise.

I prefer to work through a number of examples with the student addressing any misconceptions that may exist, before supporting them toward independent practice of questions around a given topic.

Above all, I want to create a relaxed atmosphere where the student can reach their full potential.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Penny and I'm glad you've stopped by!

I'm an encouraging, patient tutor helping unsure or low-confidence learners build skills at a steady pace. My lessons are collaborative, warm, supportive, and low-pressure - ideal if you want reassurance and extra encouragement to cheer you on, and if you value human rapport over fast-paced drills and strict targets.

GCSE:

With my experience as Head of Languages at a secondary school, I'm well-placed to help students with French and German GCSEs, focusing on the essential skills and success criteria - whether you want to grow in confidence or receive clear guidance on working towards higher grades, all without the pressure.

PRIMARY:

I bring learning to life with interactive, hands-on activities, using a fun and dynamic online platform that goes beyond the typical learning tools. With digital infographics, quizzes, games, puzzles, videos, storybooks, and role-play, students have an engaging and immersive learning experience.

ADULTS:

I help learners progress from absolute beginner to intermediate level (CEFR A1-B1). I focus on learners **up to B1**, to gently build confidence with the foundational essentials - whether handling chats in shops, restaurants or at work. B1 is a great milestone and you'll be able to handle most everyday interactions with ease.

I'm best suited to learners who are open to practical, thoughtful ways of learning, using simple strategies and small daily habits to build confidence and overcome anxiety - making language learning efficient and enjoyable for those who appreciate guidance and insight.

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I offer French, German and Italian lessons, with flexible pricing from £36 to £60 per hour, tailored to suit your needs. 30 and 45-minute lessons also available.

Having also lived in France, Germany and Italy, I bring a global perspective to tailor lessons to different learning styles and cultural contexts. Speaking four languages (French, German, Italian and English) while learning three more (Swedish, Polish and Arabic), I know how rewarding, but scary, language learning can feel. I therefore focus on helping learners feel comfortable and encouraged every step of the way, without the pressure.

With the right support and steady practice, you'll be surprised how quickly you can reach your goals.

Teaching Experience:
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

- Qualified Modern Languages Teacher & Head of Modern Languages (PGCE secondary French & German)
- 12 years' languages teacher and tutor experience
- GCSE exam preparation for AQA & Edexcel
- BA in European Languages (French, German & Italian)
- TEFL with Distinction
- Fully DBS checked
- Excellent track record - More information can be found on my website

Tutoring Approach:
OUR NEXT STEPS:

Recognising that each learner is unique, we begin with a setup session (20-60 minutes, £20) to discuss your needs. This is an opportunity to see if we're a good fit before moving forward with lessons.


Step 1 - Your Goal Setup Session (20-60 minutes, £20) - Required.


Step 2 - Lessons.

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For companies seeking staff language training, progress reports are available upon request.

Take the first step and get in touch. I'm excited to help you achieve your language goals :)

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Some wonderful words from my students and their parents:

"I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone thinking of booking sessions with Penny to do it and do it now! As a trained actor, I came to Penny with a very unique request. Having very little knowledge of speaking German…. within a week we had a monologue translated, memorised and ready to present to an audition panel. Not only did Penny help me reach my goals but she gave me the upmost confidence to get there. I'm certain I would not have got there if it was not for Penny's support and extra efforts to help me achieve them. Not only that, but her teaching has most definitely inspired me to continue with my language learning. I would 100% recommend working with Penny. Don't hesitate - she is one of the best!!" Adult learner.

"Penelope has been very professional, organised and engaging . My son enjoys his lessons and has started to develop interest in German within first few lessons". - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Miss Penelope is a wonderful teacher. From the very first day she motivated my son to study French more. She is very punctual and professional. Just after one month my son's French has improved significantly. Exactly what I wanted." - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Penny is an excellent communicator and teacher. She is very supportive and is always enthusiastic. We are very pleased how well she is able to explain aspects of the German language and is always engaging. We are very happy to recommend her." - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Penelope is a professional German tutor; she tailors the teaching material so that it fits the student's needs. I had German lessons with her for over three months now and I feel my language skills have improved significantly. I also add that She has a nice personality and her classes are really enjoyable. I definitely recommend Penelope to people seeking to improve their language skills in a structured manner!" - Adult learner.

"Lovely tutor. She makes my daughter relax and actually enjoy learning German / French. I highly recommend her." - Parent of a Year 9 student.

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Personal Description:
I have over 5 years experience tutoring all ages and levels. I have excellent experience with AQA (GCSE & A-Level), and Edexcel, and CIE IGCSE (GCSE) exam boards. In regards to my own studies, I have a first class degree in French and an MA in translation studies. I take great care to listen and understand your needs, aims, learning style, and interests to help you achieve your goals.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 5 years experience in personal tuition and I lived for a year in France during my degree and did the British Council assistant ship 2012/2013 in 3 primary schools teaching English. On the back of that I also did some extra one to one tutoring.
From my own experience I think it is important to follow the tutee's needs, and work on those first. I always try to follow the student's lead and tailor sessions as much as possible. For all students I will always try to provide a balanced well-rounded session with a main theme or objective for the session. However, I do like to let the lesson flow and follow your learning speed and style. It's always great if something crops up organically particularly with grammar - it's much easier to see it in practice!

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching style is nurturing, humourous, and easy-going. I believe in creating a safe learning space where students feel able to explore and ask questions without feeling silly. After all, there is no such thing as a silly question. I believe humour and laughter helps us learn, and I never want any students to feel pressured and forced into following a strict scheme of work. Even if you are studying for an exam, learning should still have some element of enjoyment.

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Personal Description:
I have a doctorate in Mechanical Engineering (PhD), with years of first hand experience in satisfactorily engaging and supporting students as I attempt to demystify and tear down barriers (or challenges) in different subjects areas. I am passionate and enthusiastic at teaching Mathematics, Physics, Engineering related modules and Computer related modules including programming as I create an empowering environment for students while demonstrating empathy, pastoral care and patience at all times. I have gained an extensive knowledge base to enable me deliver an outstanding knowledge transfer process to stimulate curiosity, interaction and connection with students in their respective subjects of interest. I have successfully tutored students at GCSE , A levels and BEng programs. Again, I have lectured at College and University level on Science and Engineering related subjects while promoting equality, diversity and inclusivity at all times. In addition, I have excellent communication skills and ensure I offer bespoke teaching and learning that is tailored to the student's needs or requirements. Furthermore, I am fascinated at the opportunity to engage in problem solving, critical and analytical thinking. Hence, I am happy at the prospect to coach, mentor and offer pastoral care to others as I help resolve a challenge and put a smile on a face.

Teaching Experience:
I have hand on experience of engaging in pedagogical activities especially in a 1 to 1 session. I have applied active student teaching and learning styles to facilitate learning in different areas and support learners in:
-Mathematics
-Physics
-Applying productivity software including MS office suite including MS Excel for statistical thinking
-Computer modules: coding and programming using MATLAB, Python and Java
-Mechanical Engineering modules: Mechanics, Fluid Dynamics, Thermodynamics, Structural Analysis and Design using different Computer Aided Design software including SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, Fusion 360 as well as Ansys
-Report writing (essay, coursework report and dissertation)
Thus, I have supported diverse students in different subject areas to excel in their examinations with outstanding grades. I have lectured at University of Greenwich International College, Northumbria University and Coventry University as well as volunteered with Action Tutoring in supporting disadvantaged children with their learning. My experience enable me manage and meet the expectations of my students as I deliver a robust and standard explanation in different subject areas.

Tutoring Approach:
Typically, I elicit learning from my students by finding areas of the topic they find difficult, lack confidence and find challenging. Then, I facilitate engagement by starting my lesson from there as I clarify concepts, misconceptions or difficulties. I signpost and support the students by exploring and exposing them to the basic fundamentals of the subject. Then build their confidence in tackling related questions. Thus, empowering the students to gain a deeper insight in understanding the easy approach to learning as well as becoming competent, confident and successful in the subject of study.

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Personal Description:
Third year University of Glasgow student, studying Geology, with electives in chemistry, calculus and astonomy. In my spare time I enjoy getting outdoors, reading and sewing!

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored GCSE level chemistry and maths for two years, and worked with young people up to the ages of 16 at summer camps.

Tutoring Approach:
I strongly believe that the best method of learning is practice. I personally like making mindmaps, flashcards and doing plently of practice questions, as these are methods of active recall which is proven to be the best revision method. I find I learn best when I make mistakes, and then I am given guidance on how to fix them, which is how I will aim to teach.

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Personal Description:
I am a hardworking and enthusiastic part time pure Maths PhD student. My research involves applying geometry to problems that originate in physics. Over the years I have gained a lot of studying and tutoring which has allowed me help many students achieve their academic goals.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 1000 combined hours as a Maths tutor at GCSE, A-level(or equivalent) and university level, and I am an expert in exam technique.

Tutoring Approach:
Maths is all about practice. In our tutorials we will be working on practice problems together to improve solving skills, consolidate knowledge but also to build confidence. We will also constantly have an eye for exam technique and making sure you get all the marks you deserve.

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