Ballymena Tutors and Ballymena Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a confident and enthusiastic person; with a pleasant attitude towards children. I have a 'ready-to-learn' personality and willing to gain both practical and theoretical experience in the Foundation stage learning programme and several other professional developments in Private Tutoring in Mathematics. I make the teaching and learning process a pleasant experience for my students and myself.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked as tutor with both kids and adult from age 5-40years both in the UK and Nigeria. CV will be attached if allowed

Tutoring Approach:
Practice qestions to be given after thr explanation and student tokeep practising them until they are confident in themselves that they are able to face any mountain of questions.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm Pauline, and I specialise in French and biology. It sounds an odd combination, but read on and I'll tell you more.

For French: I'm half French, complete with both British and French passports. I am fluent in the language, having started with "survival French" at the age of five to yell at my cousins, and then studying it at both GCSE (A* grade) and A-level (A grade). I go to France regularly and enjoy reading news articles in French. For lessons, I usually mix in reading, speaking, listening and grammar, as well as some history, geography and French current affairs to bring it to life. I am also available to practice speaking French, to improve your accent. I can teach both students for exam prep and adults if you're going to France and need some help with asking for directions and a coffee/glass of wine!

For biology: I again studied at GCSE and A-level and then did three degrees in the general field of biology! My PhD was in biomechanics so I specialise in anatomy and physiology, exercise science and cardiovascular; but feel free to contact me and we can discuss what you need. I can even teach plant science! A common request is to go through past papers: often, students have a good knowledge of the subject but find it hard to answer exam questions, especially AQA. My specialty is in exam technique, helping you to understand the questions and what they're really asking for. I have a large bank of past papers and questions of all shapes and sizes that we can go through.

I'm patient and friendly and use a flexible approach so you learn at your speed. Having obtained my PhD, I can relate to students and the specific pressures they face. I am DBS checked and can supply references on request.

Lessons are £30 per hour per person and £50 for two hours, including travel in and around Newcastle. There will be a small charge to cover my fuel for a longer drive, but I'm happy to discuss.

I may not be the cheapest but I'm experienced, reliable, friendly and flexible - I'd rather be good than cheap!

At the moment I am quite near full capacity but give me a shout and I'll do my best to help.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring since 2008, working with a variety of ages and in a range of topics from French tuition to sports coaching. I have taught over 40 students, both school students and adults, and have excellent references.

Tutoring Approach:
I will work closely with you to achieve your goals, if that's to improve in the subject for its own sake, to pass an exam or even to be able to order in French at a restaurant. During the first session we'll agree on a timetable and set specific goals. We'll set aside a few minutes during each subsequent session to assess our progress. I am patient, friendly and reliable and above all I love teaching!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a qualified teacher of English with many years of study, research and training in some of the world's top universities. My qualifications include a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in English Literature and the Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) in English. My Initial Teacher Training covered all aspects of English and all abilities in the 11-18 age range. My interests, of benefit to many students especially at university level, include Critical Theory, Classical Literature, and African Literature. I have guided many students doing research and proof-read their dissertations. I have also taken the official training for one-to-one tutors rolled out by the government to complement classroom teaching. I have been marking GCSE English Language and Literature exams for a number of years and served as Team Leader for the June 2013 exam series with Edexcel. Additionally, I mark A Level English Literature for OCR. In fact, I recently received certificates from OCR and from the Joint Qualification Council which oversees exams in England to recognise my contribution to examining. I am a specialist in the new (2017) GCSE curriculum with experience of teaching both the AQA and Edexcel exam board versions.

Teaching Experience:
My first teaching appointment came in 1988 in Cameroon where I taught English and African Literature, becoming an A Level examiner for the Cameroon GCE examination board in 1990. I moved to England in 1991 where I later took the Initial Teacher Training (ITT) leading to the PGCE and QTS, finishing my last year as Education Student of the Year in my university and receiving a national commendation for the quality of my work. I have since taught in different schools in Kent and Medway, preparing students for exams such as Functional Skills, IELTS, GCSE, A Level, IB and AEA. I have also given one-to-one tuition to looked-after teenagers under a government scheme as well as taught in a secure unit for which, in addition to enhanced disclosure CRBs, I was vetted over a six month period. My first long-term (over 3 months) supply position involved teaching GCSE English, A Level English Literature, and the IB. Most of my teaching has been in selective (grammar) schools. I have also given English lessons in my local community as part of an outreach programme organised for speakers of other languages by my church where I teach Bible Studies also. For the last few years I have always had KS3 to KS5 students whom I tutor privately. These students have have usually achieved or exceeded their target grades at GCSE and A Level.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to establish the needs of the students and carefully review all available assessment records. If the student is preparing for a special exam such as the GCSE, I would start by ensuring that the student is aware of the full requirements of the exam and establish a clear plan to cover these. Alongside any such programme, I believe in incorporating the fundamentals of English grammar which are sometimes overlooked in formal teaching settings. I like to build a good rapport with the student so that they are comfortable revealing possible areas of weakness that we could turn into strengths. I ensure that the student is given a clear structure for each exam task and then test the student to ensure that they are able to apply the strategies in exam conditions.

Subjects

Personal Description:
PHOTOGRAPHY TUITION
I hold a PhD in Art and Communication with Photography as my field of specialism and a PGCE teaching certificate in Post Compulsory Education.
At the same time I am a practising photographic artist with an interest in abstract photography. I have a comprehensive understanding of contemporary photographic practices and of theoretical approaches to the subject, and also have a strong technical grounding both in traditional and in digital processes. I am experienced in all stages of the development of photographic projects, from early conceptualisation through to printing and exhibiting.I have exhibited nationally and internationally in both solo and group shows. My selection for the Bloomberg New Contemporaries 2008 Exhibition in Liverpool and London is one highlight among them.
As an artist and teacher I insist on the highest professional standards and I emphasise clear and direct communication and honesty throughout.
With 10 years of experience I offer private lessons to photography students and any other individuals who would be interested in 'how to'/technical skills sessions or in developing a photographic body of work and would be in need for some expert advice.
I am passionate about photography and about teaching everybody to learn how to `see` and `think` creatively through the lens of a camera but also without it!

GREEK LANGUAGE TUITION
I am a Greek native speaker coming originally from the beautiful island of Crete. I have been living in England for the last 16 years and I have been teaching privately for the last 10 years. I hold a PhD in Art and Communication and a PGCE teaching certificate in Post Compulsory Education. These qualifications provided me with a very good command of the English Language. I am very capable of playing between Greek and English and can help English speakers have a wonderful experience of my native language.
I offer private tuition of Greek lessons tailored to your individual needs.
I welcome all to explore the magic of Greek language and discover a huge variety of English words that come from a Greek root.

Teaching Experience:
TEACHING EXPERIENCE:
2013 -current Evolution Arts Adult Education Photography Tutor
2010-current Freelance Photography Tutor
2009-current Freelance Greek Language Tutor
2009-2016 Phoenix Brighton Adult Education Photography Tutor
2009-2010 Photography Lecturer in FE and HE courses, Northbrook College
PGCE Placement
2009 Artist assistant facilitator in workshops led by Jane Fordham in
Fabrica Gallery Brighton
2006-2013 UCA Maidstone Visiting Lecturer


UNDERGRADUATE/POSTGRADUATE PASTORAL SUPPORTt:
Have provided study support in private sessions for BA, MA and PhD students in both practical and theoretical aspects of their study


MENTORSHIP / PROJECT SUPERVISION:
Have been a mentor to adult learners guiding them towards the development, presentation and/or exhibition of their photography projects


CURATORIAL PROJECTS (acting as curator after supervising student projects):
2018, Evolution Arts Students Photography Show Case curated by Eva Kalpadaki, Brighton Photo Fringe 2018

2014, Abstraction|Reality|Process, CAC Gallery, Brighton Photo Fringe 2014, Brighton

2010, slash|line|bloom|fuzz|time - Abstract Encounters, Brighton Photo Fringe at Café Delice Gallery, Brighton


MEMBERSHIP OF PROFESSIONAL BODIES:
Society for Education and Training (former IfL- Institute for Learning) Member MSET AF001692

DBS CERTIFICATE:
Enhanced Certificate issued on 4 February 2019

SAFEGUARDING CERTIFICATE:
Safeguarding Children Level's 1 & 2 course of 2 CPD Points

Tutoring Approach:
As a teacher I insist on the highest professional standards and I emphasise clear and direct communication and honesty throughout. My lessons are tailored to your individual needs depending on the specific type of learner you are, your learning rythm, the frequency of our sessions etc. My aim is to give you the necessary support you need to achieve your goals that you set by making the most of your potential.

Subjects

Personal Description:
English language tutor, with more than 10 years of teaching experience in Latin America and US. Have taught high school, university, and business classes at large corporations. In addition to conversation lessons, I assist students with their business and academic writing. Have become engaged in online tutoring during the past 4 years. Am currently tutoring students online in Europe and Asia-- mainly adults but some children also. I possess a variety of recognized and widely used material for both General English and Business English.

Teaching Experience:
July 2005 - April 2012
English Teacher, London
Taught in-company English classes at BRANCA FRATELLI, (American Forum ), BREA
SOLANS & ASSOCIATES ( Auditing Services, Tax Advice, Transaction Advisory Services,
Transfer Pricing, Consultancy and Assistance in Conflict Resolution ), and taught high school
student ( TOEFL and First Certificate )

May 2003 - June 2005
English Teacher, Columbus, OH
Taught business English at SIDERAR, steel company, BREA SOLANS
& ASSOCIATES ( Auditing Services, Tax Advice, Transaction Advisory Services, Transfer
Pricing, Consultancy and Assistance in Conflict Resolution ), Allergan, Inc ( US Pharmaceutical Company ), and Law firms.

January 2000 - May 2003
English Teacher, Buenos Aires
Prepared spanish speaking students transferring to american universities.
Helped students with TOEFL SAT and GRE exams and taught English on a private basis.

March 1999 - December 1999
English Teacher, Highlands School, Columbus, OH
Taught English Literature to elementary and secondary students. Course work emphasized
Literature comprehension and Listening.

August 1998 - December 1998
English Teacher, British Cultural Center of Buenos Aires
Taught buisiness english to CFO's at publicly held companies such as YPF, Perez Companc,
IBM. Responsabilites included the teaching of business english focusing on financial english
and preparation of financial statements for presentations. Duties entalied preparing argentine
transfer students to take SAT and TOEFL exams.

Education:
NYU, New York
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, 1986 - 1990

Language Skills:
Absolutely bilingual in Spanish and English

English Teaching Certificates:
Celta, University College London, 2010

Tutoring Approach:
English language tutor, with more than 10 years of teaching experience in Latin America and US. Have taught high school, university, and business classes at large corporations. In addition to conversation lessons, I assist students with their business and academic writing. Have become engaged in online tutoring during the past 4 years. Am currently tutoring students online in Europe and Asia-- mainly adults but some children also. I possess a variety of recognized and widely used material for both General English and Business English.

I teach professional interpreters, English teachers, lawyers, and numerous other advanced-degreed 2nd language speakers who have had 10-16 years of English in schools, but who have not yet mastered the English communication skills.

Having grown up in US with argentinian parents, I am perfectly bilingual in Spanish and in English, therefore i can understand the kind of issues you might stumble into when going from one language to the other one. I also have a lot of experience teaching pronunciation and intonation.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a former humanitarian worker with a keen interest in philosophy, politics, feminism, and political economy.

I love teaching 1-on-1 and take a holistic approach to helping students. That means that I can help you with both the technical academic things you are struggling with such as planning a research project, writing an essay or dissertation, or public speaking, as well as mental blocks like self-confidence, procrastination, anxiety, and mental health. Using a holistic approach means that we can discover the root cause of whatever is holding you back from being able to excel, develop strategies to overcome these obstacles, and help you become more a confident and independent student.

I have just completed my PhD thesis as part of a fully-funded doctoral candidate in Political Philosophy, during which time I was supervised in equal parts by FINO (The Northwestern Italian Philosophy Consortium, University of Turin) and the University of Vienna.

Teaching experience:

* In 2024 I was a Visiting Lecturer in Contemporary Political Philosophy, teaching first- and second-year BA philosophy students at the University of Hertfordshire.

* In 2022-23 I taught first- and second year BA students in the Government Department at the London School of Economics and Political Science. The course I teach is an Introduction to Political Theory (from Plato to Fanon).

* I have also given lectures to Master's students in Philosophy of Technology on algorithmic pricing.


My doctoral research project is a Normative Analysis of the Political Economy of Algorithmic Pricing.

Postgraduate studies:
PhD, Political Philosophy, 2020-2024

MSc, Merit in Political Theory from the London School of Economics and Political Science (2015).
Dissertation on the moral dilemmas related to Artificial Intelligence; received a Distinction.

Undergraduate studies:
BA(Hons), 2:1 in Middle Eastern Studies and Arabic from Cambridge University (2010). Included modules in history, politics, anthropology, literature, and religious studies, as well as Arabic language.
I speak the Levantine dialect (Syrian, Lebanese, Palestinian, Jordanian) as well as the Iraqi dialect, and have lived and worked in Syria, Jordan, Iraq, Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and Iraqi Kurdistan Region.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored undergraduate and Master's-level students who need help writing essays or dissertations in the following humanities subjects:

Anthropology
Political theory, Feminist theory
Political science
Political economy, History
International Relations, Conflict studies, Humanitarian studies
Sociology, Gender studies

Tutoring Approach:
I provide detailed editing to help you improve both your written style and content. I cover everything from grammar and citations to structure, methodology, and line of argument. I give you resources to continue improving your academic writing even after we finish working together. These will equip you to continue working on things we will cover, such as stylistic conventions both in academic English generally as well as those specific to different social science disciplines. I also coach you in how to plan your research, how to structure a paper, building a line of argument, effective use of primary and secondary sources, and how to write an engaging and compelling paper.

I start by writing detailed comments in Track Changes, then talk you through the issues so that you can not only improve your paper or dissertation, but also learn how to write in a clear, confident, and persuasive style. Ideally, if there's enough time before the deadline, I go over another draft once you've addressed the comments. This back-and-forth ensures the very best final product in your authentic voice, and that the process has been a valuable learning experience for you.

I will also give you the opportunity to discuss personal hang-ups that might be impeding your ability to work well. I am not a therapist, but I can discuss personal issues affecting your studies, and direct you to helpful resources to address underlying issues like anxiety, procrastination.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced tutor that enjoys tutoring children and have made a difference to the lives of numerous students who were struggling before but under my guidance have achieved their full potential and excellent grades.
I am working full time in a London Borough of Ealing school at the moment.I am a very patient and a caring tutor
who can motivate and encourage the strengths of the learner.I tutor from the purpose built study at the back of my house where I have all the resources.I am CRB checked and can provide evidence of all my qualifications and references from previous students and parents about my tutoring skills.

Teaching Experience:
I have more than 20 years of teaching experience where I have worked with varied age ranges.I have also worked with special educational needs children.I have experience of the different exam boards so can give exam practice according to the mark schemes to get the best results.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is based on the individual's needs.I assess the pupil first and then cater the lesson accordingly based upon individual needs.The lesson progresses according to the pace of the learner.I differentiate and meet the needs of the pupil.I break the information up into easy steps for some or go straight to the next step for others depending on the student.I praise and motivate the pupil and enhance their confidence.
After teaching a certain topic I also provide a piece of homework to reinforce knowledge.There is continuous on going assessment so that I am aware which topics need more practice.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a native English speaker. I enjoyed my work as a private ESL/ESOL tutor, but since I have retired, I mainly only undertake proofreading and giving advice on assignments for work or college, that a tutee may need.

Teaching Experience:
I am a fully qualified English tutor holding a Cambridge CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults)
I have ten years experience teaching English in Further Education Colleges across Kent. I have also taught in English Summer Schools and accommodated students from abroad, in my own home, teaching them English and introducing them to English culture by taking them on excursions to places of interest in London and Kent.

Tutoring Approach:
During the first lesson I will assess my new student in order to place them at their correct level of English language acquisition. Thereafter, I can provide lessons appropriate to that level, taking into account their idividual learning needs and learning style.
I am very patient and aware of how it feels to be learning a foreign language as I have studied both German and Spanish as an adult. I like to ensure my students feel comfortable and at ease in their learning as I feel that they will progress more easily and quickly if they are confident that they will be encouraged and helped at all times along the way.

Subjects

Personal Description:
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A DEDICATED, PROFESSIONAL AND EXPERIENCED PRIVATE TUTOR?

I am a highly experienced and successful private tutor in English language and literature, with over 40 years teaching experience in secondary and further education.

I have been a private tutor for the past 10 years, and find it extremely rewarding to continue to use my expertise to support students preparing for challenging English qualifications, which are so vital for success in life.

This is what my most recent private tutee's mother has to say about my support for her son, who has just completed his GCSE English language and literature exams:

"Isla is a wonderful, dedicated tutor and I really couldn't have wished for a better tutor for my son's GCSE English. Isla's lessons are extremely well-planned, resourced and delivered, and she has created an excellent method of teaching which helped my son to engage and focus on his preparation for the exams. Most importantly, however, was the strong teacher/pupil relationship that Isla built with my son. From the first lesson, my son had great respect for his tutor, valuing her feedback and acting upon the advice given. I realised after the first tutorial that Isla's teaching style is perfect for today's students. Thank you so much Isla for your guidance, We are grateful for all your help!"
Mrs PD, Grantham, July 2024
Footnote: this tutee who has dyslexia gained a level 6 in both English Language and Literature.

(You can see more reviews in my testimonial section below.)

MORE ABOUT MY TEACHING EXPERIENCE:

After I retired from the full-time teaching post I held for 23 years, I decided to continue teaching by becoming a private tutor, because I love teaching.

Formerly, I taught Key Stages 3, GCSE and A Level, and in my work I had an excellent track record for enabling my students to achieve their academic potential; my school pupils achieved consistently good or excellent GCSE and A Level grades and this has continued to be the case with my private tutees.

I love my subject and I am a rigorous teacher dedicated to raising standards of literacy through my teaching of English language and literature, and to the educational and personal development of young people more widely. Reading and writing skills are vital to success, and I want to empower my tutees by helping them to acquire those essential skills.

As well as teaching my academic subject, I was a sixth form personal tutor ( Years 12 and 13) in my school for 18 years, monitoring my students' academic progress, and guiding and mentoring those applying to university, assisting with UCAS applications and personal statements, or helping tutees plan for a gap year or for employment - a role which I found particularly fulfilling. I am available to support UCAS application personal statements. I get on very well with all my students and oerhaos especially those aged 16 - 18.

I also have experience of teaching in further education and have taught mature students from different cultural backgrounds.

I have also supervised sixth form students taking the AQA Extended Project Qualification. I greatly enjoy one - to-one tuition.

TUTORING EXPERTISE

In my long teaching career, I have built up extensive subject knowledge and teaching expertise, which I can adapt to students ranging from 11 years to adult, and taking exams with various examining boards, with my main focus as a private tutor being on GCSE and A Level.


A selection of TESTIMONIALS

I love working as a private tutor, helping my tutees to gain confidence in essential reading and writing skills and to achieve exam success.

In addition to the one above, here is a selection of testimonials from former tutees and their parents:

GCSE:

"When my daughter was about 14 it became apparent that she was really struggling with English. She had other difficulties going on that had made the subject very difficult for her. Her main problem was she didn't know how to approach answering questions and didn't understand how to structure an answer. We realised the importance of getting our daughter extra support, not only for her English Language and English Literature GCSE but as a foundation to other subjects and her future in life. We were very lucky to find Isla, who had experience of the exam board that we were using and many years teaching experience. She worked with my daughter on a weekly basis, through Year 10 and Year 11; Isla always planned our sessions and she covered all areas of the curriculum across both English GCSE subjects. By the time my daughter came to take her exams she was really prepared and had a new found confidence. I know that whatever her results are they will be better than they would have been. Do not hesitate to get support from Isla, she will work flexibly with you and listen to your needs."
Mrs LC, Stamford, July 2022
Update following exam results August 25 2022: this tutee is very pleased to have achieved a level 5 ( strong pass) in GCSE English Language and a 4 ( standard pass) in English Literature.

"My son was really struggling to get any motivation to study either English literature or language in both the first and second year of his GCSE course and so I made the decision to get him some support and contacted Isla to help him. Over a period of about 12 months Isla steadily helped Josh to work through the syllabus and both supported him and stretched him in order to help him maximise his potential. In his finals Josh received a solid B in both subjects and has gone on to study A level literature. I have no doubt he would not have achieved this without Isla's ongoing help and support."
Mrs M.M. Rutland , 2018


" Our son needed help to raise his GCSE English grade from a C to a B. We are so pleased that we found Isla to help him. He thoroughly enjoyed the sessions with Isla, which were paced at just the right level for him. He produced homework each week which was marked before his next session. He responded well to Isla's teaching methods and worked a lot harder than he had at school. Results day was brilliant - he gained an A grade. Fantastic! We would recommend Isla wholeheartedly."
Mrs J R, Rutland, 2017

Isla has helped both of our boys this year - one with his Personal Statement for his University application and one with his Dissertation for his degree. Both boys found Isla very easy to work with, approachable, friendly and very knowledgeable. Both boys have now moved on to University and work - both having benefitted from Isla's fantastic help.
Mrs J R Rutland, 2019


"Knowing her for roughly around two years, I found Isla to be a very professional, sincere, caring and accommodating teacher who has a passion to deliver the best she can offer. With no love for literature at all, my daughter struggled with GCSE English specially the literature where she would get C/low B compared to her other subjects. We were really concerned and wanted to push up her grade in English. That's when Isla came in as a great help. She quickly picked up and addressed the areas of concern and gave enough advice and support on revision techniques preparing her for the exam.. My daughter got a 9(A*)in Eng language and a 7(A) in literature in GCSE. In my daughter's own words: "Isla has been absolutely instrumental in boosting confidence within me without which I couldn't have asked for this result. No doubt - we highly recommend her."
Mrs P, Peterborough, 2017

"Isla provided excellent support during Year 10 and 11 to our daughter in relation to her GCSE studies in both English Literature and Language. This complemented her learning at school and enabled focus on those areas where extra support or explanation was needed. Isla was very flexible in her approach, tailoring her lessons to our daughter's needs and providing additional support on the run up to the exams themselves. Although our daughter isn't continuing her English studies at A Level, Isla is going continue to provide support in relation to essay structure and comprehension in the subjects she has chosen to study. We would highly recommend her."
Mrs R M, Leicestershire, parent of GCSE pupil, 2015

A LEVEL:

Isla is a very dedicated English Literature teacher. I saw the benefit of her lessons from the outset! Isla is reliable and meticulously organised as she always had the session planned which allowed us to make the most of every lesson. I am very grateful to have found Isla as I not only gained a clearer understanding of the books taught, but also my confidence in exam technique improved immensely due to Isla's support. I highly recommend Isla, she is a very kind person as well as an incredibly devoted teacher. Thank you Isla for your guidance and support.
DD, Grantham, September 2023
Footnote: my tutee DD gained a grade B in English at A Level and A grades in Mathemarics and Economics . She decided to take a gap year and is now studying for a degree in Economics at LSE.


"Isla has been a wonderful tutor for my son, and was able to support him enormously in all aspects of his AQA A level English Literature. Isla is very knowledgeable and thorough in her approach and assisted with his research and planning for his coursework, and with close study and revision of the challenging texts my son studied over the course of the 2 years, until he took his final exams in June 2019 . She also supported him in developing and writing his personal statement for UCAS, which resulted in excellent offers of university places. My son found Isla to be very approachable and very easy to work with as her teaching style is friendly, patient and clear, and she was also open to scheduling extra sessions when needed to fit around his studies. Isla"s support has been invaluable and has enabled my son to achieve a good set of A Level grades, including a creditable grade English Literature, and he is now settled into his first term at one of the top universities in the country, studying Economics. We would have no hesitation in recommending Isla as a private tutor.."
Mrs J.M., Leicester. October 2019

We turned to a private tutor because our daughter received a disappointing result in her first year of A Level English, but she knew she could do better and wanted to go to a first class University to study English. Her coursework had been excellent and most of her homework was good, too, but her exam technique was less secure. Isla definitely made a difference. She is a nurturing teacher who interacts with the student really well. Isla gave good advice about preparing for the exam paper and gave support in revision of the various texts, which boosted our daughter's confidence. Having achieved the necessary entry grades, our daughter is now at Newcastle University starting her degree course and wants to keep in touch with Isla."
Sally S, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, parent of A Level student, 2016

"As someone who wanted to pursue English at university, my grade C at AS Level was not good enough, so during Year 13 we found a private tutor to help me with my A Level English Language and Literature course. Isla put lots of time into helping me come out with an overall high grade B. She gave me wonderful advice with my creative coursework and really enhanced my knowledge of the two plays I was studying for my written exam. I am so grateful and will continue to keep in touch with Isla as I enter my degree course at Newcastle University for English Literature and Creative Writing."
Emily S, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, A Level tutee, 2016

Update from Emily S, Peterborough (above) received June 27 2019:

"I wanted to send you a quick email to let you know that I have received a First Class Honours from Newcastle University in English Literature and Creative Writing!
I am really thrilled as I wasn't expecting it!
You were a real help to me and my time with you was the beginning of me finding my feet with poetry; I went on to write a creative portfolio of poetry instead of a dissertation and received a mark of 75 for it.
So this is just to say, thank you very much!! "


"Isla has helped both of our sons this year - one with his Personal Statement for his University application and one with his Dissertation for his degree. Both boys found Isla very easy to work with, approachable, friendly and very knowledgeable. They have now moved on to University and work - both having benefitted from Isla's fantastic help."
Mrs J R, Rutland, 2018

I assisted a former GCSE resit tutee in his final year at university . This email arrived from his mother to tell me about her son's graduation:

Just to let you know that XXX got a 2.1 in his Sports Psychology degree!
We are very proud of him.
Thank you so much again for all your help and support.
June 2021

Teaching Experience:
I have been a private tutor for 9 years. Private tutoring enables me to stay in touch with young adults and to continue to use the teaching skills I have developed over a long and successful teaching career.

I greatly enjoy one to one tutoring and my students feel supported and more confident about facing their exams. My tutees tend to be students who are struggling with the subject and have been predicted lower grades than they need. Sometimes there is a specific issue such as spelling, or a student might struggle with a particular aspect, such as reading, or with a particular set text, or with how to write essays and exam answers that will earn high marks. Without exception, my tutees improve their standard and often go in to achieve very creditable grades that enable them to move to the next stage of their school career, or gain the university place they want.

In my last full-time teaching post, which I held for 23 years until my retirement in 2014, I taught English Language and English Literature throughout the school: to pupils aged 11-14 at Key Stage 3, to pupils taking GCSE exams, and to sixth formers taking AS and A level English.

At GCSE and AS/A Level my pupils have obtained consistently excellent results. I have taught a very wide range of set texts for literature and have taught courses by different exam boards, such as Edexcel, OCR, AQA, and the CIE IGCSE.

My school teaching often involved one-to-one sessions with pupils who needed extra support and I have taught those whose attainment in the subject is modest, as well as higher achievers in English.

Other teaching experience includes teaching for a total of 7 years full and part-time in further education colleges, and I have also taught English as a foreign language for the British Council in a Middle Eastern country.

Because I love teaching and supporting young people in their intellectual development, I can't bring myself to stop completely, I have been tutoring privately since retiring from full time school teaching, and I currently tutor students ranging from 14 to 18, assisting with preparation for GCSE and A Level exams. I find it hard to say no to anyone who asks me, so I am busy, but like it that way because I never see teaching as a chore or "just a job."

I have been tutoring students following a range of different GCSE courses and examining boards, including Edexcel IGCSE,mCambridge IGCSE, and AQA GCSE courses, both language and literature qualifications, and also the Edexcel combined A Level Language and Literature, and also Edexcel English Literature . My tutoring role includes assisting my tutees with close study and revision of a wide range of set texts, demonstrating my adaptability in quickly grasping what different exam techniques are required. I have also given advice and support to students in higher education, pursuing English degrees.

My private tutees gained English language and literature grades that exceeded their school teachers' expectations in the 2015, 2016 and 2017 GCSE exams, achieving grades ranging from C (D predicted) to A* (B predicted). In summer 2017 , one of my private tutees achieved a grade A in IGCSE First Language English through working with me exclusively during Year 12 and resitting independently, having achieved only a D in Year 11, which - without improvement - would have damaged his chances of admission to a good university.

Tutoring Approach:
PASSION FOR AND KNOWLEDGE OF MY SUBJECT
I prepare lessons thoroughly and imaginatively, striking a balance between getting through the necessary work - but making it varied, interesting and fun.

I begin by getting to know my pupil, their background, and specific needs.

Often, pupils needing extra tuition lack confidence and self-esteem and I care about addressing that sensitively.

In addition, I plan what needs to be covered: making sure I am fully in the picture with regard to the specific course being followed and the exam criteria, and I use the exam boards' websites to source relevant materials such as past papers and teaching resources.

In my tutoring, I aim to give my pupils more confidence in the classroom and in their written work.

BUILDING A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH MY TUTEES

I always have a clear plan for the session and an aim of what I wish to achieve in the time available.

Equally, I am flexible and nearly always end up adapting my plan to what comes up that day, in terms of what the pupil needs.

I like people and I am a friendly, outgoing person who communicates warmly with a tutee; I greatly enjoy the company of young people and am experienced in putting my tutees at their ease, reducing their anxiety and building their self-confidence, which is vital.

I form friendly, personal relationships with those I teach and am good at listening to them and assessing their needs, and adjusting my strategy accordingly.

A RIGOROUS APPROACH AND DETAILED FEEDBACK
As well as preparing thoroughly, I mark work meticulously and give very detailed and helpful feedback, both in writing and orally. I set relevant work to be completed for the next tutorial, and monitor progress closely; I stay in regular contact with my students and/or their parents via email and phone.

MY COMMITMENT TO YOU
You will find me a hardworking, and sympathetic tutor committed to the interests of my tutees; my aim is to help you to achieve your full academic potential in the subject and gain exam success. I see your progress in English in the context of the whole school or college picture and as part of your personal development. I often stay in touch with my pupils as they move on in life and take a keen interest in how they are getting on. I always treat my tutees with respect, kindness and understanding.

WHERE AND WHEN TUTORIALS TAKE PLACE
I tutor in my own home where I am set up to receive my tutees in a quiet and relaxed environment with my extensive resources and teaching materials readily to hand. During the pandemic I continued to tutor online and since then have continued to tutor online because my tutees often find it saves then travelling time and fits in with their lives better. I will consider face to face tutoring if this is required, or online only, or a combination of the two methods.

Normally I tutor on weekdays, and aim to complete my tutoring sessions by 7.30 p m but my times are flexible. I prefer not to tutor at weekends because of family commitments, though I can do so by by arrangement, with Sunday morning being a possibility.

I am usually able to tutor in school holidays, when I can offer longer, more intensive revision sessions.

I am always willing to try to fit in with a pupil's/parents' needs.


FEES

My professional fee for an hour is £45 for GCSE and £50 for A Level English and for support with UCAS personal statements.

Fees for other tutoring categories on request.

My fee include include preparation for the lesson, marking of set written homework, the actual intensive contact time with me, and follow-up emails and phone calls.

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Personal Description:
Born in Scotland grew up in New Zealand where I went to Otago University, the oldest in NZ and gained a 1st Class BSc (hons) and a PhD in Physiology.

I then had a research career here in the UK mainly working on muscle development. I can be found in Nature doing that.

I now have time to tutor and a deep knowledge and understanding to impart to students.

Teaching Experience:
I did a lot of Tutoring and Demonstrating during my Honours and PhD and afterwards both in the lab and with undergraduates at my institutions.

I held a Teaching Fellowship at the end of my PhD and gained much insight into how to be a better teacher.

I am good at exam technique and combined mine with my wife's when we taught our daughters.

I can cover Biology in all its school forms; Junior General Science; Physiology; Anatomy and Developmental Biology

Tutoring Approach:
I adjust my teaching to the student, in accordance with how they think and remember and the other subjects they are doing. I will always check that I am not leaving the student behind and they fully understand before moving on. I am good at finding suitable analogies.

I have experience at tutoring people from a number of different countries and cultures. Please do not think I just teach white Europeans.

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Personal Description:
I am Ryan 28 years old and have been Teaching English for the last 5 years I teach all levels from zero to fluent in just 60hours.

Teaching Experience:
5 Years teaching abroad and still teaching abroad. currently working/ Teaching in Thailand.

Tutoring Approach:
feel comfortable and confident do not panic I don't bite.I will teach you however you like

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Personal Description:
Hello! My name is Lincoln, and I am a dedicated and results-driven tutor with a strong academic foundation and over five years of experience supporting students in achieving their academic goals. I completed my Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences at Newcastle University.

Teaching Experience:
I specialise in tutoring Mathematics, Chemistry and Biology from KS1 up to GCSE level. My teaching experience includes both one-to-one sessions and group classes in tuition centres, which has given me a deep understanding of how personalised support can significantly enhance a student's grasp of challenging subjects. My lessons are structured to ensure clarity, engagement, and complete understanding of each topic covered.

I strive to create a positive and motivating learning environment where students feel confident to ask questions, challenge themselves, and develop a resilient approach to their studies. Drawing from my own academic journey, I aim to instil not only subject knowledge but also the habits and mindset necessary for long-term academic success

Tutoring Approach:
Struggling with Maths, Biology, or Chemistry? You're not alone-but with the right support, you can master these subjects and achieve the grades you're aiming for.

My lessons are carefully tailored to suit your individual learning style and the subject you're working on. Whether it's tackling tricky equations in Maths, breaking down complex processes in Biology, or making sense of chemical reactions in Chemistry-I'll adapt the lesson to what you need. We might walk through exam-style questions together or go through past papers-whatever helps you learn best.

Every session starts with checking your understanding of the topic so we can focus on the areas where you need the most support. I don't believe in rushing through the syllabus just to get it done. Instead, I take the time to break difficult concepts into simple, manageable chunks that actually stick.

I also aim to make learning enjoyable and meaningful. I'll show you how these subjects connect to real life, explain things clearly and simply, and keep you motivated every step of the way. With over three years of tutoring experience, I know how to build your confidence and help you improve-fast.

If you're ready to boost your GCSE grades in Maths, Biology, or Chemistry, book a lesson with me and let's get started. One session could be the turning point!

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