Davenham Tutors & Davenham Tuition

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
I am a music passionate friendly & reliable person, who is creative in exploring new teaching methods. I enjoy meeting new people. I am an honest motivated person, well organised and trained to teach people of different age groups. I had a proper musical training by my guru thus have a wide range of musical skills which are required by a performing artist.

I hold two bachelors degrees; one from Akhil bhartiya gandharva mandal (music university in india) and another on from nagpur university. I have performed on various platforms across india and uk. Currently based in Cardiff-Penarth.

Teaching Experience:
7 years of teaching experience.

Tutoring Approach:
All practical and theoretical approach while teaching Indian classical music. Voice culture training and use of meditation in music.

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Personal Description:
Trained actor/singer. Good communication skills at all levels. A self-motivator with good interpersonal, interviewing and management skills. A 'people person' who believes in bringing the best out of others.

Reliable, responsible, honest and keen to improve subject skills and knowledge all the time. A person who can work to time constraints and adapt to change as required with an engaging character, able to build effective rapport with groups and individuals.

A positive thinker who believes in integrity, respect and fair play who can learn from his own (and other people's) mistakes, turn setbacks to an advantage and avoid stress. An effective listener who can interpret discussion and provide constructive, tactical feedback.

Teaching Experience:
Please note I don't teach Computer Studies or Programming Languages. I specialise in Microsoft Office with some general knowledge on building/setting up home PC's and networks.

An ICT teacher with 15 years experience in an FE college specialising in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Outlook) Internet Explorer and Windows, delivering primarily to adults but all ages welcome.

I delivered ECDL, DiDA and many other courses/units over the years and always to a high standard. Students have included the unemployed, corporate clients, mums returning to the workplace, 16-18s and all manner of the employed.

I have: been a programme area leader for adult learning and a manager of an IT centre, run in-house training for staff, been a tutor to the NUT and the NHS and have built/maintained PCs on the side.

I am also a qualified Internal Verifier and Assessor. A full CV is available on request.

Tutoring Approach:
The personal progression of the student is as important to me as their knowledge and skill in the topic. It is very much the 'teach a person to fish' mentality, and I relish watching a person grow in confidence as they appreciate the underpinning skills that the logic of computer use is built upon.

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Personal Description:
My aim is to help each student reach their potential through individually tailored lessons designed to make learning enjoyable. I have a strong belief that for people of all ages, learning can be fun, and if you relish the process, you are much more likely to learn something!

Every lesson includes the use of several workbooks, learning diagrams, reading books, learning games and rewards (for younger students) ranging from stickers to special prizes for the hardest workers!

I also believe that a hugely understated part of any teachers role is to give a student confidence, as when belief is established, the student's results tend to rapidly improve as well. Therefore my extremely enthusiastic approach to tutoring is vital in building a students confidence and skyrocketing upwards in levels.

There is nothing I enjoy more than seeing a student achieve what they set out to do, be it a particular grade they need to obtain or a skill they need to develop.

Teaching Experience:
For over thirteen years I have been teaching English, Literacy and Reading from my own home. I have an Honours Degree in English Language BA (Hons).

Tutoring Approach:
Exam Results

GCSE English

(Grade on the left is the student's grade before lesson one, grade on the right is the confirmed GCSE result)

GCSE English (2023)

1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 6 (B+/A-)
1 student from a 5 (C+/B-) ----> 9 (A**)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 6 (B+/A-)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 4 (C)

GCSE English (2022)

2 students from a 4 (C) ----> 7 (A)
2 students from a 3 (D) ----> 6 (B+/A-)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 5 (C+/B-)
1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 4 (C)
1 student from a 1 (F) ----> 3 (D)

GCSE English (2021)

1 student from a 4 (C) ----> 6 (B+/A-)
1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 5 (C+/B-)
2 students from a 4 (C) ----> 5 (C+/B-)
1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 4 (C)
1 student from a 1 (F) ----> 3 (D)

GCSE English (2020)
All exams were cancelled due to the pandemic

GCSE English (2019)

2 students from a 2 (E) ----> 6 (B)
1 student from a 4 (C) ----> 7 (A)
1 student from a 1 (F) ----> 5 (C+/B-)
1 student from a 5 (C+/B-) ----> 8 (A+)

GCSE English (2018)

1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 6 (B)
1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 6 (B)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 5 (C+/B-)
1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 4 (C)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 4 (C)

GCSE English (2017)

1 student from a 3 (D) -----> 6 (B+/A-)
1 student from a 4 (C) ----> 7 (A)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 4 (C)
1 student from a 1 (F) ----> 3 (D)

GCSE English (2016)

1 student from a U ----> B
1 student from an E -----> B
1 student from a D ----> C
1 student from a C -----> A*

GCSE English (2015)

1 student from a U ----> C
2 students from an E -----> B
1 student from an E ----> C
1 student from a D ----> A*
1 student from a D -----> B
2 students from a D ----> C
1 student from a C ----> A*
1 student from a C ----> A
1 student from a C ----> B

GCSE English (2014)

4 Students from a D ----> C
3 Students from a D ----> B
2 Students from a D ----> A
1 student from a C ----> B

Year 6 SATS

(Grade on the left is the student's grade before lesson one, grade on the right is the confirmed SATS result)

Year 6 SATS (2020 & 2021)
All exams were cancelled due to the pandemic

Year 6 SATS (2019)

2 students from below expectations ----> expected standard
1 student from expected standard ----> above expectations

Year 6 SATS (2018)

1 student from below expectations ----> above expectations
1 student from below expectations ----> expected standard
2 students from expected standard ----> above expectations
1 student from below expectations ----> below expectations

Year 6 SATS (2017)

1 student from below expectations ----> above expectations
2 students from below expectations ----> expected standard
1 student from expected standard ----> above expectations
1 student from expected standard ----> expected standard

Year 6 SATS (2016)

1 student from below expectations ----> above expectations
2 students from below expectations ----> expected standard
3 students from expected standard ----> above expectations
1 student from expected standard ----> expected standard

Heckmondwike Grammar Entrance Tests

10 students passed
3 students failed
76.9% pass rate

QTS (Qualified Teacher Status)

8 students passed on their first attempt
1 students passed on their second attempt
0 students failed
100% pass rate

Recent Testimonials:

Ellen (10)
Year 6 SATS

Ellen was described as just below the expected level for English. We also felt her spelling was often poor and she struggled with extended writing. The main thing we have noticed is Ellen's confidence, attitude to learning and overall happiness: the improvement is immense. Ellen has now adapted a 'can do' attitude and revels in articulating what she has learnt with David. David is incredibly enthusiastic and positive, an approach that has really worked with Ellen. Speaking as a teacher, it is also clear that he understands the amendment procedures for Key Stage 2 and therefore every minute of every lesson is preparing Ellen for success. Ultimately my daughter loves to attend David's lesson and loves learning now!

Score: 10/10

Jack (16)
GCSE's

Jack's mock results were an E in English Language as well as a D in literature and he wanted to do Economics A level which required a B grade in his final GCSE. Jack had two hours of tuition per week from January to May. He enjoyed going (this surprised me as he hated English before the sessions) and had a new found likeness for literacy. He received a B in both language and literature and can now do A level economics. Jack related very well to David- this made learning easier for Jack and he obtained the grades he needed. His teachers at school noticed a marked improvement in his work when he was having tuition.

Score: 10/10

Oliver (6)
Year 2

Oliver was falling behind in Math's and English. I am very happy to say that his confidence and his ability to retain what David teaches him has improved greatly. His teachers at school have also commented on his marked improvement and he now feels a sense of achievement in everything he does- he also speaks of making David proud. David was/is exactly what I was looking for. Oliver doesn't seem to think about his lesson as lesson, he genuinely enjoys spending Saturday mornings at David's as he now really wants to improve himself! Wow!!!

Score: 10/10

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Personal Description:
My interests include reading widely, playing chess and going to exercise classes such as metafit and bodypump. In terms of tutoring l believe in trying to motivate my students and getting to know them and take an informal approach in what is a one to one teaching programme . I find that students respond better in a more relaxed atmosphere in their own home environment.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching for twenty five years but now work part time in the English dept in Jordanhill school in Glasgow . Hence depending on the day l could tutor during the day rather than after school hours if required. I have taught CFE at all levels including BGE(broad general education) national 4, national 5, and Higher. I have been involved in tutoring at all levels and try to provide a tutoring experience tailored to each individual according to their particular needs.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to teaching involves a thorough revision of RUAE(close reading)using a variety of textbooks and also pass papers for practice in preparation for external assessments. Writing skills would also be developed for a variety of writing purposes such as imaginative, argumentative and persuasive essays for national 5 and Higher level folios. The critical essay element of English courses will be explained and skills in this area developed via practice aided by detailed notes and planning sheets on the studied texts. The Scottish text section of national 5 and Higher will be be covered In detail with regular exam practice on the set text.

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Personal Description:
Approachable, patient and thorough tutor with an outstanding feedback record stretching back to 2009. I am a qualified Chartered Accountant, working as a financial accountant at a large property and casualty insurer in the City of London. My Father was a Mathematics teacher in London for nearly forty years, which is most likely where I get my boundless enthusiasm for these subjects from! I work very hard to make the delivery of subject material as clear, interesting and precise as possible. Rather than just spoon feed a formula, I go back to first principles and explain in simple terms why a particular piece of theory works and where it came from. However, I do not just talk constantly and let the student sit idle. Success in Maths, Accounting and Economics requires problem solving skills, so in order for the sessions to be beneficial I need the student to engage with me and to attempt questions (with my supervision) when they have enough accumulated knowledge to do so. I fully understand how stressful school/university can be and as such the sessions are not intended to be "just another school lesson", or to put vast amounts of pressure on students: the ultimate aim is to develop a strong working rapport whereby the student feels comfortable, secure and can feel a sense of achievement from their work.

*** Feedback testimonials from previous students/parents can be provided as far back as 2009.

*** I teach Sixth Term Examination Papers (STEP I, II and III) and AEA also ***

*** AVAILABLE TO TEACH IN SUMMER HOLIDAYS***

*** TEACH ONLINE OR IN PERSON, EITHER AT STUDENT HOME OR MINE ***

Teaching Experience:
I have 17 years worth of private tuition experience teaching Mathematics, Business, Accounting and Economics courses that begin at Key Stage 3 (Years 11-14), through GCSE, AS & A2 level to first and second year university courses in accounting, mathematics and economics. Whilst at university I also volunteered to take part in weekly workshops where students could come and ask questions in a relaxed, informal atmosphere about homework or problems that they simply were unable to make any headway with.

I teach the following courses for GCSE, A Level and University:

Mathematical Methods (Core / Pure)
Advanced Mathematical Methods (Core / Pure)
Statistics
Decision Mathematics
Mechanics - A Level only
Microeconomics
Macroeconomics
Development Economics
Labour Economics

I am well versed with all the requirements of the major UK examination boards, as well as an understanding of what universities are looking for in exams and coursework.

For those of you that are interested in becoming an Actuary or indeed would like some tuition for the exams set by the Institute of Actuaries, I am able to teach the following courses: CT1 - Financial Mathematics, CT3 - Probability and Mathematical Statistics, CT4 - Models, CT7 - Economics.

For those of you that are studying Accounting & Finance, I teach the following courses:

Financial Reporting
Financial Accounting
Taxation
Management/Cost Accounting
Corporate Finance
Business Law

I am well versed with the requirements of the major UK boards for ACA and CA, such as Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW) and Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS).

I also teach AAT (all Levels), ACCA and CIMA courses.

The above list is not exhaustive so if require assistance with another course please do not hesitate to contact me for more details.

Tutoring Approach:
During the first session I present a short questionnaire that I ask the student to fill in (honestly!) in order for me to assess their individual learning styles (right brain vs. left brain, use of visual stimuli etc), so that I can respond best to their needs. Every lesson will begin with an outline of the subject content and the intended aims. The key to success in maths and economics is to do it! With that in mind, the vast majority of lessons will entail methodically working through problems and exam style questions to ensure my students are as well prepared for their modules as possible. However, exam success isn't the only concern; I want to nurture and develop a genuine love for Mathematics, Accounting, Business and Economics; one that will encourage the students to read widely and explore new avenues of thought.

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Personal Description:
I am qualified tutor/teacher of English as a Foreign Language, currently teaching ONLINE only via Zoom or Skype. I also tutor primary students and feel passionate about improving every student's level of English. I can prepare you for Cambridge English exams.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching English to all ages for many years. I hold group lessons and private lessons. I do EXAM prep for Cambridge FCE, PET, CAE. I also teach Business English, do interview preparation and CV support. I currently teach at two language schools, as well as privately.

Tutoring Approach:
My main aim is to improve your confidence as your ability grows. I am known as a relaxed, approachable teacher and I feel passionate about teaching English to every level. I have travelled and learned other languages, and understand that experiencing a new culture is difficult in many ways. So my lessons are about cultural experience as much as words and language.

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Personal Description:
I am currently a science teacher at a secondary school.

Teaching Experience:
I have 10 years of private tutoring experience and 5 years of teaching experience at secondary school level.

Tutoring Approach:
Teach the way students want to learn - not how teachers prefer to teach.

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Personal Description:
Hello. We've taken the traditional guitar class and turned it on its head with a range of lessons, courses, jams and events that have entertained and developed thousands of guitar players, just like you.

We aren't just about scales, theory and solitary practice (although we do encourage all of those things) We're about the magic that happens when musicians meet.

Everything we do is done from our bar/music venue. We also stream all of our classes so that people all over the world can still take part.

All our learners get to know each other. Our purpose-built venue in East London is our hub where we host classes, run events, serve food and drinks and make musical connections.

See you in a session soon.

Teaching Experience:
Thomas has over a decade of experience teaching guitar to a range of learners - from experienced musicians looking to fine-tune their skills, to visually impaired individuals, to students just taking their first steps on their guitar journey. He has taught in schools, prisons, on boats and in the street. Thomas has delivered over 7,000 hours of classes to over 2,000 people.

Tutoring Approach:
Learning through the music that you love. A focus on theory and the more academic side of things, as well as on confidence in performing, writing your own music, playing with others, and harnessing the joy of making music. We run a range of courses and one-off teaching events - we can help you find one that is perfect for your level and interests.

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Personal Description:
Hi, my name is Iman. I am Egyptian and a native Arabic speaker with 16 years of experience in teaching Arabic. I teach both Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and Egyptian dialect, and I also have experience in setting and marking exams for both.
I tailor my lessons according to the students' needs so that they can get the best results.
Usually, I begin my teaching by assessing the students and discussing their objectives. From there, I discuss with them my tailored course plan.

I believe that teaching language and culture are inseparable. I include the cultural background of the Arabic language during my teaching as it helps the student connect more with the language and helps them master it in a logical way. It also raises a lot of interesting discussions including about the equivalents of certain cultural phrases in English.

Teaching Experience:
Currently, I am a freelance Arabic and Egyptian dialect teacher. I have been teaching since 2007 and I have taught students of all ages ranging from 5 to adults. I have also taught all levels, from complete beginners to advanced.

When teaching children, I like to make the lesson as engaging and interactive as possible, using games, songs, flashcards, coloring pictures and roleplays.

For adult students, I rely mostly on authentic materials from a wide range of media such as songs, talk shows, and news outlets, as well as materials that I have created myself.

I have experience in teaching at all skill levels and adjusting my materials according to the student's specific requirements:
Reading: range from basic words to articles
Writing: ranges from texts to emails and essays
Listening: ranges from basic children's stories to news reports and documentaries
Speaking: ranges from basic general day-to-day conversation to discussing any preferred topic and debate and job interviews in Modern Standard Arabic or dialect whilst always practicing pronunciation.

Tutoring Approach:
I am flexible, and keen to help the students to achieve their goals in learning the language. all my lessons are tailored according to the student's needs.

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Personal Description:
I have a MA in Production Design for Film and Television from Kingston University and a BA Hons in Furniture Design and Applied Arts from Edinburgh College of Art. I have worked in the film and television industry since 2004. I lead large teams of specialist designers, art directors, junior assistants, crafts people and construction teams. And I collaborate closely with other experts within the industry including cinematographers, directors and screenwriters.

A production designer designs the worlds in which the TV Drama or film is set. That includes working with location people to choose locations in which to film - and building sets in studios. It can also involve working closely with SFX teams. The role juggles creative vision with practical project management. It's a collaborative media/ industry and relies heavily on communication skills- visual and verbal.

Teaching Experience:
I've tutored students looking to win a place in art schools/universities and specialist creative high schools. Students looking to better their results at A level, and I've taught larger classes of young adults in university and workshops. I help my four year old with his art and design too : )

Tutoring Approach:
My approach depends on the students needs and I am very flexible. I can work in a very focused way with the students brief on course curriculum. Or more loosely- developing verbal and practical skills for a portfolio for art school/media design or communication courses. I'm down to earth and structured in my approach.

If it's face to face tutoring, I may charge a small fee for travel time/costs dependent on how far away and dependent on whether the session is one or two hours long, etc. Please message me for further details, thanks.

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Personal Description:
I am an Italian art historian with a strong interest in cultural exchanges.

I am a professional, reliable, and punctual tutor who values mutual respect, politeness, and sensitivity in every interaction. I bring a personal and dedicated approach to my teaching, investing genuine care in each lesson, something my students often find engaging and motivating, as well as supportive, helping them feel more comfortable and express themselves with greater confidence.

Having lived and worked in international contexts, I understand the challenges of adapting to different cultures, especially when language can become a barrier to personal and professional growth. I have experienced these difficulties myself, which allows me to approach my students with empathy and awareness.

I particularly enjoy supporting learners who are studying a language with a clear goal in mind, whether for relocation, work, or personal enrichment. I aim to provide not only linguistic skills but also the confidence and cultural insight needed to navigate real-life situations with ease.

Teaching Experience:
I hold an MA in History of Art from the University of Siena and a PhD in Italian Studies from the University of Birmingham. I developed strong expertise in modern and contemporary Italian culture, along with highly transferable analytical, organisational, and communication skills that I apply directly in my teaching and private tutoring.

I have nine years of teaching experience in Italian language and culture at the University of Birmingham, within the Department of Modern Languages. Alongside this, I now offer private tuition tailored to individual learners. I have taught across a wide range of levels, from beginners to advanced, supporting both language acquisition and cultural understanding. My lessons often integrate texts, images, and audiovisual materials, helping students engage with Italian culture in a dynamic and accessible way.

My academic background also informs my tutoring style: I am used to explaining complex ideas clearly and adapting them to different learning needs. Whether you are studying for exams, learning for personal interest, or aiming to improve your communication skills, I design lessons that are structured, engaging, and responsive to your goals.

Tutoring Approach:
I place my students and their well-being at the centre of everything I do. This teaching philosophy promotes engagement, inclusivity, and independent thinking. I place strong emphasis on developing oral comunication, and interpretative skills, while also helping students build confidence, autonomy, and a deeper cultural awareness alongside their language proficiency.

For me, learning is not just about grammar or vocabulary, but about personal growth, confidence, and the ability to communicate meaningfully. I strive to create a positive, welcoming, and stimulating environment where students feel at ease expressing themselves, taking risks, and learning through interaction and shared experiences.

My approach is flexible and responsive: rather than presenting rules in a rigid, top-down way, I guide students to discover patterns and structures through dialogue, practice, and reflection. I encourage collaboration, whenever possible, and active participation, as I believe that learning is most effective when it is social, dynamic, and connected to real-life contexts.

Moreover, I design thematic lessons, such as art and cinema, to make learning Italian more engaging for students with a genuine interest in these areas.

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