Arisaig Tutors and Arisaig Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a PhD mathematician, with a special interest in applied mathematics and statistics. I worked for some years in University departments as a tutor and then lecturer. More recently I have worked for almost two decades in industry as a mathematician at a prestigious research centre in Cambridge. I am familiar with many aspects of secondary education through my children who both completed their A levels at Hills Road 6th form college. My son has just begun reading Economics at London School of Economics while my daughter obtained a first class honours degree from Oriel College Oxford.
I have succesfully tutored a large number of A level students in both Mathematics and Physics from a wide variety of Sixth form colleges in the Cambridge area. I also teach International studnets who wish to gain entry to the UK University system.
My approach is interactive and encourages the student not to underestiante thier own ability. My experience is that many students are more talenetd in Mathematics than they realise themselves; the key is to gain the confidence to grow and develop to achive your goals.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught Mathematics and Physics, to A level students from a wide variety of Sixth form Colleges in the Cambridge area. I have also taught International students from many different countries but especially China. I also have particular experience of teaching Mathematics to people whose primary interests lie in Business studies and in Engineering. I also gained valuable insight into adult education when I taught adult part-time students.
I have also provided tutorials for students with many different requirements including A level and undergraduate Physics & Mathematics courses and, for example, GMAT Mathematics prep for MBA entrance exams.
I am self-employed as a private tutor and employed as a University Foundation tutor in Mathematics and Statistics at Cambridge Regional College and previously at Bell School Cambridge.

Tutoring Approach:
The details of the correct approach vary from one tutee to another, but the principles remain the same. I seek to establish the student's ability within the context of a given aim and to then set realistic objectives.
I think that most students have more mathematical ability than they themselves believe; this can be brought out in a positive fashion once negative stereotypes are discarded. Also the application of mathematics to the real world can be exciting and profitable.

Parental Comment
Hi Brian,

I hope you're enjoying the Summer break.

I just wanted to let you know that Kalen has a A* for maths and an A for further Maths. He's very pleased with this and on behalf of him I'd like to say thank you so much for all your help.

Overall he got A*A*AAB and is off to Warwick to do a general engineering course.

Thanks again Brian,

Suneela


STUDENT COMMENTS
August 2018

Dear Brian,
I have just received my results and wanted to let you know that I have an A* in A level maths !!!! I am very happy thank you for all your support and help I couldn't have done it without you!

Kind regards,
Alice B :-)
September 2018 (from Durham University student)
Hi Brian,
I just thought I would let you know, that with your help, I went from a 30 to an 85 in my retake. Thank you so much for all your help.
Kind regards,
Jake

Dear Brian. I found our tutorials very helpful and feel much more able to hit the ground running when I return to Oxford. I will be sure to recommend you to anyone else I know in need of tuition.
Peter N, returning undergraduate.

Brian helped me to revise my university maths before starting an MSc course 10 years after completing my undergraduate degree. He was patient, non-judgmental of my rusty abilities, and gave useful examples of mathematical problems to help explain some very difficult concepts. He is very reliable and a pleasure to work with. I would have no problem recommending Brian to others and would certainly see him again for further tuition should the need arise.
David C, returning graduate student

Another parent comment
Brian is helping my daughter who attends Hills Road with both physics and maths and she has just had her fifth session. This is the first time with have engaged with a personal tutor so really wasn't sure what we were doing and started out with some trepidation. We soon were able to ensure that the hour we spent with Brian was really productive and useful. Brian has been really helpful and and this has increased my daughters confidence and knowledge which is exactly what we were hoping for.

New student comments
I'm just emailing to tell you that my physics unit 2 exam went quite well. There were only a few small questions that I couldn't answer. I will tell you my result when I get them on the 14th of August. I must thank you for helping me over the past few months. I really have no clue how badly these exams would have gone if you did not help me. Thank you so much for your help.
Calum M AS Physics student.

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Personal Description:
I am a native Chinese. My first language is Mandarin. I graduated with Honours Degree in English. I had been an English Teacher in China for 13 years before I moved to Scotland. I have lived in Scotland for 14 years. I am an experienced language teacher, and I am enthusiastic and friendly. I can tutor pupils of different levels.

Teaching Experience:
I had 13 years of experience of teaching English in an university in China. I also taught Mandarin in a Chinese School in Stow College of Glasgow. I have been a private tutor of Mandarin for over 4 years.

Tutoring Approach:
I can make learning a fun and enjoyable process by using different approaches to suit the varied needs of the learners.

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Personal Description:
I want everyone to enjoy the ability to communicate with each other in English to make friends, do business together and to feel confident wherever English is spoken.
I have been made welcome by so many people from many nationalities all round the world and love the excitement of communicating with people from all walks of life.
I enjoy teaching face to face and online and to tailoring conversation and lessons to the ability and objectives of the student or students.
I am married with a family and am comfortable teaching all ages although I prefer teaching adults and young adults (16 upwards). I teach general English and specialize in IELTS preparation.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught in Europe and Asia. For six years I lived in France teaching one to one and small groups. I returned to the United Kingdom in 2012 and live and teach in the Brighton area. The last two years have been spent teaching at Varndean College, Brighton preparing Chinese students for A levels and University entrance as well as normal individual teaching work,

Tutoring Approach:
Learning a language should be both fun and serious. If my students are preparing for examinations then a concentration on course work with homework will be important.
If students prefer to develop their social conversational ability then there may be less emphasis on grammar and more on the use of English in everyday social or business situations. Each potential student is asked to complete a simple questionaire to give me a picture of their ability level and what they want to achieve.
I teach one to one or small groups (normally no more than 8 students). Price reductions for two students or more
Most online teaching is on a one to one basis using Skype.

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Personal Description:
I am the mum of two children and step mum to three more. I home educated my two children from when they were 12, and helped them to get 16 IGCSEs and GCSEs between them. One has since gone on to university following A levels at sixth form college, and the other has graduated from an art and design diploma with D*D*D*, the highest grade possible.

I have a degree in geography and topographic science, and I am very flexible when it comes to helping students to understand what they are learning.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring since 2008, when my son left secondary school to begin home education. Since then I have taken him, my daughter and three of their friends through eleven different subjects at GCSE level. Most were the harder IGCSEs, while a few were GCSEs.

Once they had moved on to sixth form college I began tutoring other children, both home educated and in the schooling system. I have successfully worked with a wide range of ability levels, from students who came for tutoring because they were afraid that they were going to fail in every subject, to A* students. I have a comprehensive knowledge of the syllabi of most subjects, particularly those in which I offer my tutoring services, and can flexibly work with students at any stage of their education up to GCSE exams.

In the past few years I have been working with students who have dyscalculia (whether officially diagnosed or not), and have had considerable success in helping them to pass their maths GCSEs.

Tutoring Approach:
I help students to find the places where they are stuck or not understanding, and first work with those. It often happens in school that students miss a key explanation, whether through absence or simply through the teacher not ensuring that they have fully understood before they move on, and from then onwards the effects of this will multiply. If they can put good foundations in place then they find that they understand far more than they thought they could, and they can build on this more quickly and easily than they ever thought possible.

My philosophy is that if the student hasn't understood what they are being taught, then it is up to me to find more ways of explaining it until they do. I am happy to work with home educated and school students, for extended periods or for just a few sessions leading up to the exams.

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Personal Description:
I have cisco webex software, zoom and skype, and am also DBS cleared

I am a highly experienced, enthusiastic and very versatile optical engineering senior lecturer/researcher, who gained a PhD from the School of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, City University, London, UK in "Fibre optical temperature and strain sensors using fluorescent techniques" for measurement applications using the fluorescence generated from rare earth-doped optical fibres (e.g. Er3+, Yb3+, Tm3+ etc.). I also possess very good experience and knowledge of industry, with excellent complimentary skills gained from higher education - in particular industrial measurement, forensic analysis, quality control and statistical analysis. A BSc first degree in forensic science is combined with a further specialist MSc in engineering metrology and topped with a PhD in photonics - making for good, broad-based, multi-disciplined measurement science and analytical capabilities right across the scientific spectrum. I have a proven high degree of personal motivation, and am capable of working on my own initiative or equally as part of an effective team. In addition, I am able to communicate very well at all levels of hierarchy, with excellent skills developed in scientific report writing (journal papers, periodicals, book chapters etc.) and oral presentation (conferences, lecturing etc). I have over 50 publications to date in my field: 20 journal papers, 22 conference papers, 2 articles, 4 book chapters and other major works.

PhD thesis title:

"Fibre optic sensors based on fluorescence lifetime techniques for temperature and strain measurement"

Thesis submitted for examination for the degree of
Doctor of Philosophy
at
City University
School of Engineering

November 2002

Abstract

The author presents a thesis based upon the use of the fluorescent properties of rare earth doped materials. The thesis commences with a review of the current fibre sensor technology in the field, with special emphasis on those sensors designed for temperature and strain measurement. The use of the physical phenomena of fluorescence produced from rare earth doped optical fibre for temperature measurement is then introduced and explained in more detail, particularly with regard to utilisation of the fluorescence lifetime technique in such sensing, which is then compared to the other fluorescence-based methods for measuring temperature.

The recently discovered small strain sensitivity of the fluorescence lifetime is then introduced as a theoretical candidate for potential application to simultaneous temperature-strain sensing, using two different doped fibres in a single sensing element, and subsequently state-of-the-art temperature-strain discrimination techniques are then explored for the purposes of exploitation to dual measurement.

Results achieved from using the fluorescent lifetime approach for a range of rare earth materials are then presented, followed by further results obtained from combining the lifetime technique with Fibre Bragg gratings (FBGs) for the first time. Also, the irreversible effects upon FBG performance after exposure to long-term high temperatures are explored.

Finally, there is a summary of the work presented in this thesis and the author's opinions on achievements made. Current trends in fluorescence lifetime-based sensing are discussed, both commercially and academically, together with projected work for the future.


DECLARATION: I certify that the above information contained in this CV is both accurate and truthful.

regards, DR DAVID.

Teaching Experience:
tutor in electronics, City University, London ≈ 4 yrs

Applied optics lecturer at University College Jubail, KSA ≈ 1 yr

undertook 1 yr PGCE Science (secondary) at Brunel University, Uxbridge, UK (taught in local secondary schools)

Lecturer in nanoelectronics on MSc Nanotechnology and MSc Innovative Technology at BITE ≈ 2 yrs

UK private tuition experience (various subjects) ≈ 20 yrs

was senior lecturer/researcher in Electrical and Electronic Engineering in both Malaysia and Thailand: I have spent the last 6 yrs teaching Fibre Optic Communication Systems, Fibre Sensors and photonics, and Optical Communication Systems to Masters level; + supervision of many undergrad, masters and PhD project students.

I was awarded a prize of £1000 from the Worshipful Company of Scientific Instrument Makers (SIM), London in February 2000 to pursue my PhD research work:

Extra information:
Additionally, I can confidently programme in Sigmaplot, Excel, Tablecurve, MATLAB, Optisim, Multisim, Zemax, COMSOL, LABVIEW, Agilent Vee and all similar optical design software packages to control instruments, acquire data, analyse data, simulate and model.

Tutoring Approach:
serious,concientious,assessing continuously the students needs, receiving feedback, individual approach
setting quizes, tests, mock exams
either individual or small/large groups taken

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Personal Description:
I have been teaching drum and percussion semi-professionally since 2010. Outside of teaching, I perform semi-professionally in variety of genres including Pop, Rock, RnB, Jazz, Fusion, and Gospel, in large venues across Surrey and London. I have extensive experience of working alongside top industry professionals, and have undertaken studio, session and live television work.

I also hold a Degree in Professional Music Performance for the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford.

Teaching Experience:
I am the founder of a music school specialising in high quality, affordable drum lessons for all ages and skill levels. We are independently owned and operated by a staff of qualified & experienced professional musician-educators.

Tutoring Approach:
I am professional and friendly, helping you reach your musical goals, and to inspire you to reach for new goals that you may never have thought possible.

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Personal Description:
I am a native Mandarin speaker and a qualified secondary school teacher with UK QTS. I completed my PGCE at Goldsmiths, University of London, in MFL (Mandarin). I have also completed Teacher Subject Specialism Training in Maths and have taught KS3 and KS4 Maths in UK secondary schools.

I have experience working in both state and independent schools. I enjoy supporting students of different ages and abilities, from beginners to GCSE and A Level preparation. I am patient, organised and supportive, and I aim to build students' confidence step by step.

I am based near Reading and can travel locally for lessons.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked in both state and independent secondary schools in the UK, taught Maths and Mandarin at KS3 and KS4 level. I have experience supporting students with different learning needs and helping them prepare for GCSE examinations.

Through my classroom teaching and tutoring experience, I have developed strong classroom management skills and the ability to explain concepts clearly and patiently.

Tutoring Approach:
I ensure to focus on each student's strengths and abilities to set up individual study plans.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm David, I have been tutoring GCSE and A-level Chemistry with great success for the past 8 years.

I have experience working with all types of students, from those going for the very highest grades to those who are struggling and need something to boost their confidence.

I would be happy to arrange a discussion before any tutoring takes place to ensure that we are a good fit.

Teaching Experience:
I was Head of A-level Chemistry at a large Yorkshire Academy for 3 years, and a Teacher of A-level Chemistry for 4 years before that.

Tutoring Approach:
Due to currently living abroad, I tutor online, using a dedicated shared workboard and communication software like Skype.

I enjoy working with all kinds of students, and am very good at relaxing and boosting the confidence of my tutees. However I take a rigorous approach to my tutoring and expect a good work ethic from tutees.

I have never had a tutee achieve below their target for university admission.

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Personal Description:
Hi, my name is Michelle.

With 25 years of teaching experience, at local FE and Independent Colleges, I have a passion for film, media and photography and a wealth of experience to share my knowledge with my students and to achieve the best results possible.
I am educated to Masters level, in Design & Media Arts from the University of Westminster and hold a PGCE in teaching certificate, from the University of Greenwich.

Teaching Experience:
I first taught Art and Photography to adult SEN students, as well as teaching City & Guilds Photography evening classes for adults. I progressed to BTEC course co-ordinator and lecturer for two years at Richmond-upon-Thames College, also teaching A level film studies and media.

I became BTEC Media Team Leader at Harrow College teaching Level 2 and 3 in 2004, focusing on vocational aspects such as creating music videos, documentaries, adverts, final major projects, from practical to theoretical. I also co-ordinated and taught the A Level Film Studies course using WJEC specification, teaching a range of film theoretical and practical, from French New Wave, British Film, US film comparisons and World Cinema, with an emphasis on exam practice.

I have taught A level Film and Media at private institutions such as Chelsea Independent college, Duff Miller, and more recently at Harrow College on vocational courses such as the UAL Creative Media course, as well as adult photography courses . I have also worked as a media and literary specialist with SEN learners part time whilst still teaching film/media, improving their literacy, comprehension and grammar.

I have also taught English to adult learners from abroad, correcting their pronunciation and grammar, with general conversations about daily life, culture and news.

Student comments:
"I am a past pupil of Michelle, and consider myself to be extremely fortunate to have had someone of her calibre as a tutor. Her expertise and teaching methods bring out the very best in every individual. Her understanding, patience and personable approach to teaching equates for a student to achieve their very best.'
Cuisle - ex UAL Media student

Tutoring Approach:
I believe all students need the additional support from an individual perspective, tailoring the lessons according to each students' needs throughout each stage of their course and help prepare them for exams and coursework requirements.

This enables my students to reach the highest grades and to progress successfully.

I will prepare you and guide you through your course, to help you understand the units you are being taught, check through any coursework before submitting, advise you on using subject terminology to enhance your grades and to check for any mistakes through proof reading. Any assignments set by your school/college/university can be discussed and worked on to develop your skills.

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Personal Description:
I live with my wife in Tooting, London. We have two children, one at Manchester University, the other graduated from Leeds University. I am a keen cyclist, bass guitar player and physics enthusiast!

Teaching Experience:
I have 30 years experience in a Wandsworth secondary school teaching science at KS3 and KS4, and physics from KS3 through GCSE to A level. I have taught AQA GCSE Trilogy Science, AQA GCSE Physics, AQA and OCR A Level Physics and Edexcel BTEC Applied Science physics. As Head of Physics I am responsible for how the curriculum is delivered and also for examination results, for which I have a long track record of success. Outside of this role I tutor students one-to-one at both GCSE and A Level. I am an associate marker for AQA.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to begin with a discussion of what areas of the curriculum to focus on, including subject areas and skills (eg rearranging equations, or long-answer questions etc) together with what learning styles work best - question-based or understanding fundamental ideas, or practicing calculations for example. I will then be able to offer a tailored program of physics tutoring, which we can modify and adapt according to need.

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Personal Description:
Experienced Materials Engineer offering private tutoring for students at primary, secondary, and early university level.

I tutor on line the subjects of Maths, Chemistry, Physics, Statistics and Spanish for the GCSE, A-level, Pre-U, IB and other international exams. Classes are imparted on-line using a digital whiteboard. Everything I write is instantly transcribed onto the screen, with a large number of resources applied. The classes are recorded and shared personally with the student.

Teaching Experience:
 Tutor of Mathematics and Science of GCSE, A-level and undergraduate-level clients. I tutor students of ALL levels with a guaranteed track record of student grade improvement.
 Prepared domestic and international students for entrance exams and applications to top-UK universities.
 Teaching methods used to enable a send student to obtain top A-level grades.
 More than 10 years of experience as a private tutor for pupils at school level. 3 years of experience teaching students at university level.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to learning is a practical one. Solving real-life problems where Mathematics and Science can be applied is the best way for my students understand the far-reaching impact that Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry has on our planet and beyond. Problem solving allows students at all levels to focus on the methods, theories and skills which form the foundations of the scientific method whilst giving them the practical experience needed to tackle problems outside of academia. I have more than 10 years of experience.
My teaching style is very focused on the understanding of course material and exam technique which has proved extremely successful over the years. I make learning fun and efficient by tailoring each lesson to the learning style and interests of the student in order to boost concentration and retainment.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Tom. I'm 25 and have been a professional software developer for 2 years, having finished my undergraduate degree in physics and computer science at Edinburgh in 2023. Since then I've been working full time and have just finished a masters level apprenticeship alongside my work. I used to do tutoring before and at the beginning of uni and really enjoyed it so am looking to get back into it! I've also got a DBS check (issued November 2025) and would be happy to show this if requested.

Teaching Experience:
Aside from my experience at school and uni, I've got experience in tutoring KS3 and GCSE maths, science and Spanish. Whilst at school I tutored one boy from year 8 to GCSE maths, science and Spanish and whilst at university tutored another in GCSE maths science and geography. Both of these were pupils were tutored using a combination of in person and online sessions. I also used to volunteer to do reading lessons at a local primary school and worked part time at young engineers whilst at university, teaching children from 3 to 11 years old the basics of science through lego

Tutoring Approach:
I've found in the past that the best approach to tutoring is to be very positive and flexible. I have never been a super forceful or strict tutor and think that trying to be too overbearing, particularly in sessions outside of or extra to school like tutoring, just makes people perform worse. I will always try and be positive and make sure sessions are not painful for students (as I remember how much doing homework can be a chore!), but equally make sure students are getting the most out of sessions by asking questions of them to demonstrate their knowledge and checking they're confident with what we've done.

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