Anstruther Tutors & Anstruther Tuition

Personal Description:
Hi.
I am a Teacher of Bulgarian Language and Literature.
I am a Tutor of Media and Semiotics Studies.
I've got MD of Bulgarian and Russian Language and Literature.
I've got MD of Art- Management (New European Theatre Models).
I've got Drama for Education Training in Royal National Theatre (London).
I am PhD Student of Semiotics and Advertising Analyser.
I am a writer and scriptwriter with publications.

Teaching Experience:
I have got a Qualified Teacher Status in the UK-Teacher Ref. number 1030661/ 26 June 2009.
I've got Pedagogical Qualification from the High Institute of Pedagogy in Bulgaria and more than 19 years working experience as a Teacher of Bulgarian, Russian and German, Principle of School, Principal of Orphanage and Manager of a Drama Theatre.
I've got more than 27 years experience of acting, drama training and directing, working with different groups of students from Schools, Universities, Woman Drama Society and Military Service Drama Group.
I've got experience of Producing and Presenting Radio Shows, Live Culture Show and Public/Business Culture Events and Festivals in the UK and abroad.
I've got experience of Drama training for Education, Religious Studies, and Human Values and Drama training for Team Work, Professional goals and Business Management.

Tutoring Approach:
I love to share my knowledge, skills and ideas and I am happy to give support to people who are learning, self-developing, and trying to do their best as part of the society.
I always create a positive, cheerful, and relax atmosphere for my students to achieve better results.
We will start by defining the picture of your current knowledge, the task you are given, what do you expect to achieve and what you are struggling with.
I am supporting my lessons with examples from international folklore, history and lifestyle.
Media, drama,religious studies and semiotics we will analyse from structural, symbolical, psychological and post-modern prospects.
As well as increase your knowledge, as a student of mine, you will dramatically improve your ability to interpret text, adverts or characters, and also express their thoughts, views and opinion in essays ( or presentations)with an impressive structure and rich language.
You will have all my support using different channels - face to face, on line or on the phone.
Everyone I have thought so far has achieved high marks on their projects.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I like being a teacher and I get true enjoyment from sharing my knowledge and skills with new learners, making them realize how easy learning can be and how much actually they do know already. I like helping young people enjoy learning and making learning easy for them. I am patient and adaptable and easy to talk to. I always discuss the needs of my new pupils very carefully and aim to build their confidence in the subject. As an Examiner with a well-known Board, I am able to help my students to maximise their potential using targeted revision and exam techniques.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a teacher for many years. I have always wanted to be a teacher. I have worked in several schools now, gaining experience from working with a variety of learners of various ages and learning styles. I have worked within the requirements of more than one exam board, therefore I am quite familiar with all exam formats. I have been a tutor also for 10 years with very good results. Students do like me within first session, gaining confidence and self reassurance that they are capable of a lot already. Only some issues need re-addressing, building on their prior knowledge. I work as an Edexcel and SATs expert examiner. I am recommended as a tutor by Emmanuel College and Cardinal Hume School in Gateshead, as both schools know me well. Among other teaching positions I have been a classroom teacher at Lord Lawson School in Birtley and Whitburn School in Sunderland. I have worked as an intervention teacher (one to one teacher) in a few schools already, due to my extensive experience gained along the past years.

Tutoring Approach:
Within the first session, I discover the individual needs of my learners, their strengths and weaknesses. Then I devise a plan to address the whole programme of study within the number of weeks available, so no topic is ignored. I work simultaneously on exam requirements, but also on skill development, skills that the student can benefit from, outside the boundaries of a specific exam format. Students find themselves forgetting the time, often engrossed in their work, mentally challenged and stimulated. I set short homework at times, so that students can practise independently on those skills they develop with me, being reassured that they can transfer those skills further. I do provide learning materials which I do personalize for each student. I am very likable and I do make young learners be at ease within minutes of meeting them.

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Personal Description:
I am a native speaker and I have lived and worked in England for over 25 years.

Teaching Experience:
Extensive teaching experience,teaching all levels and all ages.I am an experienced tutor ,with over 25 years experience working as a private tutor.I have taught primary school-age children,students preparing GCSE and A-Level exams - focusing on speaking and listening skills and I have extensive experience as a Lifelong Learning Tutor teaching adults from beginner to advanced level.I also prepare adult learners to the DELF examinations.

Tutoring Approach:
I ensure my lessons are tailored to the needs of the learner and very enjoyable-learning French can be fun! Please note that I now only offer online tuition via Skype or Zoom.

Subjects

Personal Description:
About Me. I'm now taking on a small number of private students, as my university commitments have settled. I currently lecture at the University of Salford and have over 28 years of teaching experience. I'm a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, a Visiting Lecturer at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, and also teach in São Paulo, Brazil. I've worked extensively in higher education, including as an assessor for university teaching qualifications and an external examiner for several universities. Over the years, I've been nominated by my students for "Best Teacher" and "Best Postgraduate Supervisor" on multiple occasions - something I'm incredibly proud of. I completed my PhD in Rheumatology in 2009 and began private tutoring in 2008. I offer individual tuition in Biology, Science, PE, Study Skills, and other health and medical-related topics. I also love teaching science to children and helping students build confidence in their learning. Before moving into education, I worked as a Chartered Physiotherapist in the NHS for 13 years, including three years as Physiotherapist for the England Women's Football Team. It was a privilege to represent my country and work with such talented athletes both at home and overseas. I'm also an internationally published author, having written and edited nine textbooks, now translated into eleven languages, covering subjects such as anatomy and academic writing.
Please note:
I cannot tutor current University of Salford students due to a conflict of interest.
While I'll do my utmost to help every learner succeed, I cannot write assignments or guarantee grades.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring privately for over a decade. I began teaching in a professional capacity whilst working in a hospital environment where I became a Clinical Educator for undergraduate Physiotherapy students from Universities in the region. This role involved teaching and training undergraduate students within hospitals. Eventually my enthusiasm for teaching overtook that of my day job and I began teaching at Salford University on a part time basis, becoming a full time member of staff within the School of Health Sciences in 1996. I am the longest serving member of staff in the department and enjoy my job, and the interaction with students, as much now as when I first began teaching. Please note that if you are a student at the University of Salford I will be unable to offer private tuition due to a conflict of interest. Also please note that if we commence tutoring that whilst I will do my absolute best to help students, I cannot write assignments for students or guarantee a specific score or grade.

Teaching at a university entails a range of teaching methods including lecturing to hundreds of students, small and large group seminar-based sessions and a mix of theory and practical skills. Since 1998 I have been the Year One tutor which involves a pastoral element as many students are having their first experience of independence away from friends and family.

As a private tutor both in my own home, I mainly focus on one-to-one tuition, which I find hugely rewarding as I am able to dedicate unwavering attention to the tutee and their chosen subjects. I have experience teaching students from diverse backgrounds and ranging in age from 14 years to 50 years.

In 2009 I won the first ever Teaching Excellence Award at Salford University, and the following year was nominated for the Times Educational Innovative Teacher Award - both nominated by my students, a fact of which I am extremely proud.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a friendly and informal approach to teaching, as I believe a relaxed environment is most conducive to learning, regardless of the subject or age. However, I am aware that private tuition is a serious commitment, and there must be a clear structure to the sessions. I am familiar with the syllabi for OCR, AQA, and Edexcel for GCSE, A-level, and degree courses. The first session will include an informal discussion with parents/tutee to gain an understanding of the tutee's requirements and to explain my role and how I can aid learning. The tutee largely dictates the structure of the sessions, including the subjects they wish to focus on and their preferred learning style, which can be discussed during the first session. As the student develops, the structure can be adapted accordingly.

Additional Information

I prefer to teach in my own home
Thanks very much for viewing my profile.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a bilingual (native Russian) educator with extensive experience teaching Science, Maths, and Russian across various levels, from nursery to adult education. Currently, I teach Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and advanced Maths at a small independent school in Bedfordshire.

I specialize in Maths and Science and have a particular interest in working with students with special needs and autism. I offer intensive GCSE exam preparation, with proven results such as helping a student improve their grade from 5 to 7 in just two months through focused sessions.

I hold multiple teaching qualifications, including an MA in Education (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), which I obtained in 2022. I have also worked as an examiner for AQA in GCSE Chemistry and have experience supporting students with challenging behaviours and special educational needs.

My approach incorporates sensory stimuli to enhance engagement and reduce transitional times, based on my dissertation research into educational motivation for teenagers with challenging behaviours. I am passionate about leveraging students' natural interests to drive positive changes in behaviour and academic attitudes.

Teaching Experience:
I have extensive experience teaching Maths, Science, and Russian, both face-to-face and online. I employ various student engagement strategies to ensure a productive and enjoyable learning experience.

I began teaching Science in 1989 in Siberia. Since then, I have taught students of various ages and, after moving to the UK, expanded my teaching to include Russian. I also founded and ran a Russian language school for over 11 years, where I developed and tailored curricula to meet individual needs. The teachers I trained in my school are now making an impact in schools across the UK.

Maths: I teach Maths at various levels, from primary to GCSE. My approach focuses on building a solid understanding and confidence in the subject.

Science: I have been teaching Science since 1989 in different countries. In my most recent role at a private behavioural school, 90% of students initially expressed a dislike for Science, but 60% ended up eagerly attending my classes.

Russian: I teach Russian to a wide range of age groups, from 3-year-olds to 76-year-olds. I use diverse techniques tailored to each student's age, learning style, and schooling level to boost their confidence and maximize their potential.

SEND: I have a strong interest in teaching students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), sensory issues, and challenging behaviours. I aim to equip all my students with the skills needed for employability and adaptation to the working environment.

Tutoring Approach:
My goal as a tutor is to cultivate a deep understanding and confidence in each student. I adapt my teaching methods to meet their individual needs, learning styles, and abilities. I aim to inspire independent thinking by incorporating real-world examples whenever possible. I typically start with familiar topics to build confidence and gradually progress to more challenging material. Additionally, I use questions and homework to continually assess and reinforce understanding.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a very experienced senior architect and interior designer, and diploma in teaching from The Coventry City College (PTLLS) I'm experienced in Spanish lessons for many years in the UK and in Spain, I am self-motivated, extremely punctuality, inspirational, work effectively within a group and private if require. I am a confident, fun person with a clear understanding of students needs. I enjoy motivating people and use a pro-active and manage different teaching style.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience in Spanish language is more than 10 years long. I deliver Spanish classes in Spain for foreigners in Madrid and Malaga, and here in UK, I deliver classes for different organizations and private academies, like. Coventry Research centre for the Blind People, Open Hands, Sacred Hearts Foundation and The language academy "Sunflower Languages" in Rugby.

Tutoring Approach:
All classes allowing students to learn in a relaxed environment and is proven to be the most effective way of language learning. If you feel daunted by the thought of learning Spanish in a large group, my sistem is for you. Small or private class size allows for attention to the individual student, more active participation for each student and therefore better and faster language learning.
I always organice many different activities, (spanish cinema, shoping, reading,invite spanish people to mantain conversation with the students, and many extra out-door activities)

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Personal Description:
Since 1995, I have been teaching mathematics. About 3 years ago I moved from London to Canterbury and have been teaching at Canterbury Steiner School as well as Canterbury FE College. I have many years experience delivering the Mathematics GCSE and A-level courses. I consider it an integral part of the course that the students develop their exam techniques during the course.

Teaching Experience:
I have about 20 years experience teaching GCSE annd A level mathematics. I also have several years experience teaching maths to primary school children.

Tutoring Approach:
To engage my students I always aim to create an inspiring, supportive and dynamic teaching environment. This motivates the students to enjoy the course and to feel confident enough to express themselves during the lesson.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Experienced, qualified and patient tutor of Spanish in Cambridge.

I offer Spanish tuition to students of all ages and abilities, including preparation for GCSE oral and written examinations.

Whether you are studying Spanish at school, for business fluency or simply for travel and leisure I can provide a structured learning approach which is also fun.


About me:

I am originally from Argentina and have spent 10 years living and working in Spain, Germany and the UK.

I am a qualified Teacher of Spanish as a Foreign Language from the Cervantes Institute in Munich and have taught Business Spanish to companies in Germany, as well as a teacher at La Dante and Cactus Language Schools in Cambridge.

I am happy to teach at your home or other suitable locations around Cambridge.

I have a full current DBS check.


Please contact me and I will be happy to provide more information.




Maria

Teaching Experience:
WORK EXPERIENCE
TEACHING SPANISH
11-2018 / currently // Spanish Teacher. Individual and group classes for adults. La Dante European Cultural Centre, Cambridge, UK.
• Grammar, pronunciation, composition, spelling, vocabulary, and dialogue.
• Exercises and correction.
• Creation lesson plans.
• Preparation activities in the classroom.
• Organization of teaching materials.
• Language improvement and reinforcement tasks.
• Student evaluations

09-2017 / 03-2018 // Spanish Teacher for business. Individual and group classes for adults. Kunz & Kunz Haus, Munich, Germany.
• Speaking, listening, reading and writing in a business context.
• Business communication tips for International travel to Latin America.
• Spanish technical language in sales and marketing and customer service.
• Business rules and regulations in Latin America.

01-2017 /06-2017// Spanish Teacher. Individual and group classes. Schülerhilfe, Munich,
Germany.
• Grammar, pronunciation, composition, spelling, vocabulary, and dialogue.
• Exercises and correction.
• Student evaluations.

FINE ARTS
02-2014 / currently // Teacher and Art Assistant. Artist Joaquín Fargas and Maimóides University
• Teaching educational workshops about Art, Science, and Technology in primary and secondary schools and in universities.
• Supporting and solving conceptual research projects to students and artists.
• Art Research for art projects.

Tutoring Approach:
I'm a teacher that's trained in identifying problems specific to the way yours Spanish and adapt the lessons to turn those weaknesses into strengths! I take each of the skills needed in the exam, look at how the skill works, why it's important, start with simpler examples before working up to exam level examples.

Through this step by step approach, we work together to build up your confidence for not only the exam, but also for a life afterwards using Spanish more naturally day to day. I will never rush you through any of the skills and only move onto the next part of the practice. Your pace matters as I'd like you to enjoy the classes, and not just learn from them.

Subjects

Personal Description:
こんにちは
Hi, I'm Yuki, I'm a native Japanese speaker living in the UK for over 25 years.
I have experienced teaching all levels of Japanese from beginner through to advanced;
I'm truly passionate about teaching the language and culture.
My online sessions are tailored specifically to you and your goals.
Please feel free to message me with any questions.
ありがとうございます。
どうぞ、よろしくおねがいします。

Teaching Experience:
I developing in broadening students' skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Many students enjoy learning all aspects of the language and cultural topics,
so I prepare tailored exercises before each lesson.

Course & Levels

Beginner Level:
Student use the "Genki" textbook, start making sentences quickly.
I've completed an online course on effectively using this textbook.
Additionally, I participate in a monthly online Japanese study group with a Japanese teacher.

Intermediate Level:
After completing "Genki 1 & 2" students move on to the "Intermediate Japanese Across the four language skills Quartet" to improve conversation, listening and natural expressions.
This prepares them for advanced-level studies.

Student preparing for the JLPT:
Preparing for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) engage in reading level-appropriate books,
practicing sentence patterns, reviewing vocabulary and kanji, and mock tests.

Travel Japanese Focus:
Learn practical Japanese for your trip - greetings, restaurants, shopping, transport and asking for help.
Pronunciation is corrected so you can be understood clearly by native speakers.
Start at least 3 months before your trip to build confidence and enjoy a stress free experience in Japan.


Fees:
-Individual lessons - £30/hour
-2 students - £20/person
-3 students - £17/person
-4 students - £15/person

Getting Started:
Lessons are conducted online via Zoom.
Free short trial lesson to check your level and goals.
Please share your current level, learning goal, and availability.
I'm happy to answer any questions and look forward to helping you enjoy learning Japanese.

Tutoring Approach:
My sessions are tailored to you.
You decide what you want to learn, how quickly you want to achieve your goals and which areas you want to target.
I use worksheets and other materials, and track your personal progress.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Build understanding, transform grades! Qualified Teacher & 1st Class Maths Specialist | Former Head of Maths providing Expert Maths education at KS3, GCSE and A-level (15+ yrs experience).

If you're looking for tuition that is focused, effective, and grounded in years of successful classroom leadership and results, I would be delighted to help. Many families' reviews reflect the positive impact of this approach, with all 5 star reviews across multiple platforms.

A recent review:

"Chris has tutored both of my children at GCSE and A level and I cannot recommend him highly enough. After moving from Canada we discovered there were significant gaps in their understanding of math due to the different curriculum and methodologies. Under Chris' tutelage both of my children have gained in confidence and were able to achieve amazing results. My youngest son's success at GCSE was such that the head of his Math's department said he had never had another student make such progress (he went from a grade 6/7 to a 9 in Maths and a 4/5 to an 8 in Further Maths). Chris has continued to teach him during A levels and he just achieved an A in his mock exam."

Teaching Experience:
Throughout my career, I've supported students across the full ability range, from building confidence at KS3 to helping students secure Grade 4 or Grade 9 at GCSE, and enabling high achievers to earn an A* in A-level Further Maths. I've taught and led Maths, Further Maths, and Statistics across KS3, GCSE, and A-level, giving me both deep subject expertise and a clear understanding of how to teach complex ideas effectively to every learner.
My experience as Head of Maths reflects more than subject mastery; it demonstrates a secure understanding of the curriculum and exam requirements across a range of courses. I know how to make learning efficient, targeted, and purposeful. I tailor each lesson to the student's starting point and use a broad range of high-quality resources to ensure the time is productive.

Over the years, I've taken on a range of Teaching and Learning responsibilities, including roles such as Head of Maths, Head of House, and Intervention Lead. These experiences have given me a strong, whole-school perspective on how students learn across different classes and year groups, as well as deep insight into how individuals and small groups develop mathematically.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that true mathematical understanding comes from mastering each topic in depth and revisiting key skills regularly. My approach ensures that students explore every concept thoroughly, working through a wide range of variations so their knowledge becomes secure and adaptable.

With most schools adopting a 'mastery' approach in Mathematics, this method is especially valuable at A-level, where the complexity and demands of exam questions have increased significantly - but it is still valuable at other levels.
In the lead-up to exams, I find that working through past papers is particularly effective. This not only strengthens familiarity with exam-style questions but also reinforces core material and highlights any areas needing further attention. Past-paper practice is essential for helping students perform confidently at the required standard.

If you're looking for focused, supportive Maths tuition that builds real confidence and mastery, I'd be delighted to help. Feel free to get in touch with any questions or to arrange your first session - and if you're not happy with the first lesson, it's completely free from me. I want to ensure you get valuable learning from the time spent.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a specialist GCSE and A-Level Japanese tutor. Over the past six years, I have written full textbooks for both exams, alongside an original beginners' grammar textbook. My students consistently perform excellently in their exams, benefitting from an extremely targeted approach, covering each of the GCSE and A-Level grammar points, topics and tasks in depth.

I am fluent in Japanese and Spanish and offer a unique teaching style, based on 14 years' experience teaching in the UK, Japan and Spain; Japanese study at the highest level (Cambridge University - Double First Class BA / Doshisha University Kyoto - JLPT N1), Communication and Teacher training at Royal Academy of Music (MA Distinction / LRAM Licentiate to Teach) and 20 years' experience working with children and young people in childcare and academic settings.

I currently live in Barcelona and offer online sessions, making use of my own interactive teaching platform.

Teaching Experience:
I have been working as a private tutor for 14 years in the UK, Japan and Spain. Since 2020, I have focused exclusively on Japanese, and in particular the GCSE and A-Level exams. This has allowed me to develop an exceptionally strong exam programme, guiding my students through each step of their chosen exam, regardless of their starting level of Japanese.

I hold a BA (double first-class) from the University of Cambridge (Japanese, 2014) and graduated with the highest results in my year, alongside a national prize for best Japanese dissertation. During my degree, I passed the highest level of the JLPT Japanese Proficiency test (N1 - business level) whilst studying at Doshisha University, Kyoto. After graduating, I went on to volunteer in rural Japan for a year, before entering the Royal Academy of Music, London, to study Performance and Teaching (LRAM, MA, RAMDip - distinction). I began teaching privately in Japan in 2013, and have taught internationally ever since.

Whilst I now focus exclusively on Japanese language and University applications in East Asian studies, over the past decade, I have taught a wide variety of subjects: Japanese, Oxbridge / University Entry, Musical Theatre and Drama, Presentation Skills and Public Speaking, EFL, 4-plus, 7-plus and literacy lessons. I have worked with children as young as two in formal tutoring settings (4-plus examinations / EFL / literacy) both in-person and online, and have extensive experience working part-time in childcare centres, caring for children from just a few months old.

Tutoring Approach:
I offer the only textbooks available specifically following the GCSE and A-Level Pearson Edexcel specifications. Textbooks cover each grammar point of the chosen exam in detail, alongside extensive materials exploring each of the different themes and topics (GCSE) as well as in-depth materials guiding students through the Research Essay and Set Works (A-Level).

I offer support regardless of your current level of Japanese. Classes can be adapted both for students who have never studied Japanese before, as well as for those who already already have some level of Japanese: learners taking Japanese classes at school who feel they need extra guidance, or heritage speakers of Japanese who need to formalise their language skills before taking a GCSE or A-Level exam.

GCSE
My GCSE course consists of three parts. Depending on your level (beginner - native speaker) the course can take 6 months - 4 years. Firstly, students cover each grammar point of the Pearson Edexcel Specification. This is often the longest part of the course, and is suitable for all students, even those not wishing to take a final exam.

We then move onto applying the vocabulary and grammar learned to the GCSE Specification, using my online textbook and interactive learning platform.
The textbook has 5 theme modules. Each contains:
- A full vocabulary list, colour-coded into Foundation and Higher Tiers, alongside further optional vocabulary.
- A full kanji guide, split into kanji to learn to read, and those to learn to write.
⁠- Comprehensive guides to building thorough answers to each specific sub-topic (e.g. Family, Directions, School Rules, Charities, Jobs, Environmental Issues and so on).
- A breakdown of Speaking Exam prompts for each topic (e.g. pros and cons of social media, online shopping, taking a gap year and so on).
- Extensive annotated example paragraphs in the style of writing paper answers, focusing on the theme's sub-topics.

Finally, we focus on exam techniques and exam preparation. I support students to feel confident in each of their papers, spending extra time and developing additional materials and guides for each individual student, to help them conquer any weaker areas of study.

A-LEVEL
I support both students moving from GCSE to A-Level study, as well as heritage speakers of Japanese aiming for a qualification to formalise their skills. Depending on your level, A-Level study can take 6 months - 3 years.

The A-Level course contains:
- Lessons on each A-Level specification grammar point (+ revision of any forgotten GCSE points)
- Vocabulary and kanji lists for the four A-Level themes and their sub- topics.
- Comprehension materials further exploring the theme and sub-topics.
- Full analyses of selected Set Works (Spirited Away; Kitchen; Mado-giwa no Totto-chan).
- Guides to preparing, researching and writing the Research Essay.
- Guides to planning, structuring and writing the Set Works Essays.
- Multiple example essays for the selected Set Works and for each Research theme.


NON-EXAM TRACKS
Alongside the targeted exam textbooks, I write original materials for all my learners from beginners onwards, offering a smooth transition for students from newcomer level through to their next steps, whether that be a formal exam (GCSE, A-Level or JLPT) or not. All lesson content is adapted to suit the needs of each individual student.

For those who do not wish to focus on a UK schools' exam, I support students looking towards N5-N3 JLPT exams, using a variety of original materials and multi-lingual textbooks.

Finally, of course, many of my learners are taking Japanese classes casually for personal or professional development, without aiming for formal exams. I adapt all lessons to the needs and wishes of my students, and can support learners with any goal, at any stage of their journey with Japanese.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Dr John-Henry, FRHistS, FSA, FRSA

Former Assoc. Prof. at Durham | Experienced teacher | Published novelist

I'm a full-time, professional tutor with a unique breadth of experience and expertise across a two-decade career:

• Former Associate Professor at Durham University
• Former Teacher at a top London independent school ("Excellent" rated)
• Fellow of the Royal Historical Society
• Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts
• Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries
• Honorary Research Fellow at Durham University
• Published novelist of historical fiction
• Archaeologist and active academic researcher

I love combining the joy of one-on-one tutoring, seeing students grow and learn, with my life-long passions for history, politics and literature.

For me, tutoring does not stop with passing exams, vital as that is. Just as important is learning how to push intellectual boundaries, encourage creative thinking, and expand the imagination. I want my tutees not just to realise their full potential at school, but to be ready for the challenges that await them beyond.

I take on a limited number of tutees so that I can tailor my approach to each tutee's specific needs, with concrete targets and an approach that will engage, challenge and inspire. I prepare bespoke resources carefully prior to lessons as well as detailed feedback on written work (this is all included in my fee - I will never charge for anything outside contact time). Please get in touch to ask me about my availability.

One of the great things about my varied career track has been the chance to live and work in other countries, with all the mind-expanding experiences that brings. Before my doctorate I also worked as a professional archaeologist. Over the years I have pursued historical and archaeological research in the USA, Mexico, Austria, Germany, France, the Netherlands and the Republic of Ireland.

TESTIMONIALS

"My child went from a predicted D to achieving an A in one year. John gave her confidence, a much better understanding of core concepts and an enthusiasm for the subject. All delivered in a clearly structured digestible way with kindness and patience. I would highly recommend his tutoring skills." - Parent of A Level Politics student

"John was the perfect tutor, helping my son to reengage with English after he lost some confidence based on feedback from his school teachers. My son managed to improve his GCSE grade from 6s at the begginng of the year to 7s in his mock exams to 9s in the final exam. To say we are over the moon is an understatement." - Parent of IGCSE English student

"Thank you so so much - I'm thrilled that I came so far in history - from a C to an A*!! It's such a relief I'm getting into where I want to go on my own merit and I'm so so grateful to you again." - A Level History student

"John has tutored my daughter during the Sixth Form and helped her success in gaining an offer to study PPE at Oxford University. In Politics, particularly, he has boosted her confidence and provided invaluable coaching on exam technique. Because he was so knowledgeable and great at explaining, he also engaged her in discussions on topics which she had otherwise struggled to embrace and understand. Also his manner and kindness helped her to enjoy and flourish from his teaching. He is an excellent tutor, and we are very grateful for all his teaching and expertise." - Parent of A Level Politics student

"John's enthusiasm for the Ancient World is very clear but his ability to understand the needs of his student is what sets him apart from others. John delivers clear and memorable lessons. He takes the time to engage and check M's understanding of the topic in a way which makes him feel more confident about his own abilities. […] John genuinely wants M to succeed. Towards the end of the summer, they will visit the British Museum together and this is an example of John's commitment to his student." - Parent of GCSE Ancient History and Latin student

"I recently got my GCSE results, and I got a 9 in history. I wanted to thank you as your tutoring helped me so much and there is no way I could have achieved this result without your help." - GCSE History student

Teaching Experience:
PROFESSIONAL FULL-TIME TUTOR, 2022-present

I have successfully tutored students of various abilities at GCSE and A Level across a range of subjects and exam boards:

• Classical Civilisation and Ancient History (OCR)
• Latin (OCR)
• History (OCR/AQA/Edexcel)
• Politics (Edexcel)
• English (AQA/Edexcel)

I have expertise in UCAS applications, Oxford HAT and Cambridge HAA and interview technique; since 2022 six of my students have received Oxbridge offers, with many others going to top Russell Group universities

HISTORY AND POLITICS TEACHER, 2020-2023

• ISI "Excellent"-rated independent school
• Taught History at KS3, GCSE and A Level
• Taught Politics at A Level
• Sixth Form tutor (particular strength in UCAS applications and personal statements)
• Detailed understanding of the specifications and marking criteria for English, History and Politics at GCSE and A Level

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF HISTORY, Durham University, 2010-2020

• Taught History lectures, seminars and supervisions at every level (undergraduate to PhD)
• Taught Creative Writing lectures and tutorials at MA level
• Pastoral officer for 1st year undergraduates
• Departmental admissions officer (responsible for accepting/rejecting UCAS applications)
• Multiple academic publications in peer-reviewed international journals, as well as papers at international conferences
• Visiting fellowships at the Austrian Academy of Sciences in Vienna (2009-2010) and Institute for Research in the Humanities at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2015-2016)
• Interviewed as an expert in my field on several BBC documentaries and podcasts, and as a guest speaker at the BBC Radio 3 Free Thinking Festival
• I remain an Honorary Research Fellow of Durham and an active researcher in my field

Tutoring Approach:
TUTORING

My approach is based on empathy, encouragement, and enthusiasm. Often students have great potential in a subject, but for whatever reason lack the confidence to realise it. Other times a student has the confidence, but haven't quite learned the skills they need to reach that elusive target grade.

Wherever they are coming from, as a tutor my first goal is to understand my students and see things from their perspective. Then I provide the structure and support they need to achieve their goal. This might be through weekly essay writing and feedback, talking through tricky concepts, providing curated resources to help their development - in fact, whatever they need to succeed.

PERSONAL STATEMENT ASSISTANCE

My career path has given me unique experience of teaching before, during, and after A Levels. This means I understand the student experience from all perspectives. I have seen the pressures and demands of GCSE and A Level study, and as Sixth Form tutor have guided dozens of students through the UCAS process, including multiple successful Oxbridge applications.

My experience as a Durham University admissions officer taught me that, when it comes to the most competitive universities, the personal statement is very often the deciding factor. My experience as a published author means that I can help my tutees sculpt their perfect application, one that showcases academic skill while bringing out their uniqueness and passion.

Just as important, I understand the transition from school to university, and all the challenges it brings. During my time at Durham University I also served as pastoral officer to first-year undergraduates, which involved helping students make the (often difficult) jump to a new level of independence and academic demands. For tutees about to take their A Levels, part of my approach is therefore to help them prepare mentally and practically for that transition.

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