Downpatrick Tutors & Downpatrick Tuition

Personal Description:
- qualified ex-secondary MFL teacher (PGCE, QTS obtained), familiar with and taught Mandarin Chinese GCSE specifications (AQA and Edexcel), A Level Chinese specifications at UK secondary schools. My students have great exam results.
- Native Mandarin and Taiwanese speaker, Excellent communication skills
- Experienced Mandarin Tutor. I worked with pupils at different levels: pre-School/ KS1- 5/ FE/ HE/ adults/ retired/ business Chinese/ tourism Chinese, including those with SEN and from diverse cultural background using English as an additional language)
- Freelance translator (television programmes subtitles, between English and Mandarin Chinese)
- Freelance interpreter (legal/Immigration)
- Experienced in tailor-making and delivering one-to-one tutoring lessons
- Knowledge of traditional Chinese/Taiwanese culture, politics, history, geography, society and current pop culture. Also able to combine the above with Mandarin learning/teaching
- Patient, reliable and honest
- mentored PGCE student teachers, Early Career Teachers.
- conduct and co-lead research projects with IOE (Institute of Education, University College London), on Content and Language Integrated Learning, 2021 to date. Co-presented the research results at 2 international academic conferences in 2023.

Teaching Experience:
- Mandarin Teacher at University of Leeds (Sep 2008- May 2011), a private school in north Wales (Y7 and Y9, complete beginner group/individual and GCSE preparation, 2011), a grammar school on the Wirral (2015- 2020, Y7- Y13, including GCSE/A Level preparation), and a comprehensive state school in Liverpool (2020-2023).
- Author/proof-reader of online Mandarin course contents (targeting KS2, KS3, and GCSE learners); Online Mandarin Tutor (KS2 learners and GCSE candidates. One of my pupils was accepted by a Chinese undergraduate course as her first choice for Sep 2014 entry, because of my lessons); eLearning Specialist advising the management team regarding VLE/ LMS and providing training on online teaching for fellow teachers (all above under this bullet point: between Jun 2012- Jun 2014, employed by a private company in north Wales)
- freelance one-to-one Tutor of Mandarin, face-to-face and online
- University Lecturer in Audience Development in Taiwan
- University Lecturer in Arts Management in Taiwan
- University Lecturer in English in Taiwan
- Tutor of English (adult/primary/secondary level, face-to-face, individual and groups) in Taiwan

Tutoring Approach:
- Use real-Life scenario for examples and conversation practice
- Integrate Culture into language acquisition
- Offer Business/Leisure/Travel/Conversation Mandarin Lessons
- Offer Pin-Yin and Phonics; Simplified and Traditional Mandarin characters
- Lessons are tailor-made to suit different levels from beginners to advanced Mandarin speaker
- You can choose to get trained in Listening, Speaking, Writing or Reading skills, or a combination of these four
- Deliver lessons in English-only, Mandarin-only, or a combination of English and Mandarin
- Devise different learning methods/ activities/ content for each individual learner to suit their own confidence, Mandarin abilities and learning targets/ motives.
- Encourage students to participate in their own learning process actively by creating an interactive and friendly learning environment.

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Personal Description:
Cliché: music is my passion. I am an experienced musician who gigs regularly around the North East, South West/East and South Wales. I have played in many bands over the years on saxophone, piano/keyboard and clarinet ranging from traditional, classical orchestras to jazz big bands and funk bands. I am versatile in many genres frequently gigging with my own band, a jazz sextet as well as open nights and headlining bands as the lead player. My main performance work includes (but is not limited to) recording, touring and gigging with London based rock and roll group Hannah Rickard and the Relatives. Other works include composition for film and theatre as well as several music qualifications up to degree level, having graduated from The Univeristy of Sunderland with a BMus Honours degree in Jazz, popular and commercial music in 2013.

Teaching Experience:
I gained the majority of my experience in tuition teaching beginners before I moved to the North East. This was on saxophone, clarinet and piano with all students having great success in both ABRSM grade exams and in pubic performances.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a very laid back person but push people to be the best they can be. I am free to travel to most areas of the North East and surrounding areas and do not directly require the student to come to me - this can change week to week as necessary. All student preferences are catered to with the student guiding the musical material for the lessons with structured input.

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Personal Description:
I have taught students from countries with widely different cultural aspects, and also have experience of teaching those with learning difficulties. As a result I am an enthusiastic, hard working and culturally aware teacher who plans each lesson with an aim to support and motivate students.

Teaching Experience:
I have 8 years teaching experience, I taught in Peru, Vietnam and the UK both privately and in schools. I am familiar with all types of testing and analysis. I create interactive and re-usable materials, which are useful additions for all levels of learning, which I use for both English and Spanish classes.

UK:

2011- 2020 (EFL - English) - Private Adult Tutoring - Academic, Business & Casual.
2011 (EFL - English) - Burlington School - Ages 14+ to - Levels (KET, FCE, CAE, CPE)

Vietnam:

2007 - 2010 (EFL - English) - American Academy - Ages 6+ to Adult - All Levels
2007 - 2010 (EFL - English) - VUS School - Ages 12+ to Adult - All Levels (FCE, CAE, IELTS)
2007 - 2010 (ELE - Spanish) - Home Tutoring DELE L1 & L2

Peru:

2006 (EFL - English) - Instituto Nova - Ages 8+ to Adult - All Levels

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching approach is all about your comfort and goals.

I can help you with any problem areas that are slowing your learning or confidence in English. I offer all kinds of lessons from 'Conversational' to 'Business' or 'Examinations'.

My first lesson (40 min) is FREE @ my home in Wandsworth, I think it's fair to offer a FREE lesson first, so you can RELAX without thinking about costs.

What courses do I teach?

1. Academic

Exam Preparation for:

• Cambridge: KET (Key English Test), FCE (First Certificate), IELTS, CAE (Cambridge
Advanced).

• Trinity: ISE (Integrated Skills), SELT (Secure English Language Test)

• ETS: TOEFL iBT (Internet-based) & PBT (Paper-based)

2.Business

• General: Meetings & Conference Support, Negotiations, Presentations, Telephone &
Email Support, Marketing & Sales skills.

• Business English Exams: BEC Vantage & Higher and BULATS.

3. Conversational & General English

• Conversational: Pronunciation & Fluency Development, Social Grammar, Phrasals &
Idioms.

• General English: Combined Skills (Pronunciation & Speaking, Reading, Writing,
Grammar and Listening.)

4. Wine Industry: Cultivation, Production & Trade + WSET Exam Preparation.

5. Medical: OET (Ocupation English Test) for Nursing & Medicine

Professions:-

• Dentists
• Healthcare Assistants
• Midwives & Maternal Support
• Nurses
• Paramedics
• Pharmacists
• Receptionists
• Radiologists

Popular Medical Language Skills:

• Medical English: Phrasing & Terminology
• Writing: Patient Reports, Care Plans & Mentorship Assessments etc.
• Communications & Presentation Support for when 'on review'.

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Personal Description:
I am an Anglia Ruskin Graduate in Communication, since graduating I have been perusing a career in Teaching Assisting. I am passionate about arts and crafts which I have been able to apply to the Brownie Club I co-run. I am experienced in working in a busy out of school club where I have gained valuable experience being responsible, entertaining and educating young people.

Teaching Experience:
I currently volunteer as a teaching assistant at a city primary school, where I have a multitude of responsibilities including small group work & offering alternative provision for students who are unable to participate in main activities.

Tutoring Approach:
I can provide a structured work time table given different needs and time frames for your child. I am patient and understanding and provide clear and well thought out examples and explanations. I am a sociable,kind, good humored person who is well loved by the children I work with.

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Personal Description:
Thank you for looking at my profile.

I want to see young people thrive within the learning environment and achieve the best of their ability.

In my previous school I was subject leader for drama. Writing the schemes of work for key stage 3 and 4 (GCSE). Leading the department, monitoring progess, scaffolding learning and applying independent learning plans for students to ensure that they reach their full potential.

The recent class that I taught for GCSE achieved 70% 3 levels of progress and over and 30% 2 levels of progress, beyond the national average.

I believe the key to learning and retaining information is for the student to believe in themselves and their knowledge.

PGCE Secondary Drama

QTS

Teaching Experience:
I have a great amount of experience within the educational system. I have worked with a variety of students. Special needs students in both primary and secondary school settings. I have done a vast amount of work with pupils with self-esteem issues and challenging behaviour. In addition, working with gifted and talented students.

I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching key stage 3 and GCSE English. I understand the challenges of this subject and how students may need extra support to excel.

I have taught Drama to both GCSE and A-level students, I have supported students through course work and controlled assessment.

I have worked in various schools in Sheffield and Birmingham.

I am currently teaching in a Sheffield secondary school.

I have worked with primary school children, building confidence and challenging behaviour. In addition literacy ( children with dyslexia).

Tutoring Approach:
To work with the student on identifying the areas in which their are struggling to reach their full potential and why. Whether it is because they are struggling to understand or they lack in confidence in the particular subject. I would then work with the student to build the gaps in their knowledge and build confidence through interactive and individual learning. A combination of both styles of learning secures knowledge and the belief that the student has the knowledge.

The students progression will be monitored through continual assessment.

The student will also be a part of self-assessment to recognise their own needs and development.

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Personal Description:
Hi. My name is Saif and I presently work as the Assistant Head of Science responsible for Chemistry at a school in London. I teach sciences at KS3, KS4 and deliver the 'A' Level Chemistry curriculum at KS5. I read Medicinal Chemistry at University College London and completed a PGCE in Science upon graduation. I studied Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Mathematics at 'A' Level and achieved very strong grades in all four subjects.

Teaching Experience:
I presently work as the Assistant Head of Science responsible for Chemistry at a school in London. I teach sciences at KS3, KS4 and deliver the 'A' Level Chemistry curriculum at KS5. I am now in my fourth year of teaching in a secondary school, having received successful school lesson and OFSTED observations. This has allowed me to progress rapidly and reach the position in which I am now. Whilst at University, I was regularly involved in helping young people with their studies through charities and other voluntary companies.

Tutoring Approach:
As a practising teacher, I am aware that all pupils will have their individual needs. That is why my approach will always vary depending on the needs of the pupil. However, generically speaking, we will need to work together to identify areas of weakness and then address those specific issues in order for progress to be made.

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Personal Description:
Welcome to you in my profile!

I am Marwa, a native Arabic speaker from Egypt. I have over 13 years of experience teaching Arabic language and Holy Quran for non-natives. I used to dive in this amazing language to taste its beauty and discover its treasures. This passion led me to change my career as a software engineer to be an Arabic teacher. And it was the best decision I ever had. Teaching Arabic is not just a job for me, it is a life where I can share my passion and guide others to live, love and learn Arabic language. It is also a window to the world so that we can share our cultures and better understand humanity. As well it is my great pleasure to support others and help them achieve their goals in learning Arabic language.

I teach Modern Standard Arabic, Colloquial/Spoken Arabic, Quranic Arabic and The Holy Quran. I teach all levels (Novice- Beginners- Intermediate- Advanced) and all ages (children and adults), online, one to one and in groups. I always try to be the ideal teacher that I wish for myself. Thanks to my long experience as a teacher and also as a language learner, I understand the challenges of learning a new language, the qualities and skills a true teacher should have, and how important it is to put myself in the student's shoes to see their point of view and think in their native language.

I am a fluent English speaker, very patient, supportive, encouraging, motivating, inspiring, active, organized, calm, flexible, friendly and passionate. I enjoy reading, exercising, walking outdoors, learning French and new skills, developing myself, and participating in charitable activities to help those in need and bring joy to their hearts. I have a YouTube channel where I create videos to help Arabic language learners.

Teaching Experience:
I have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Ain Shams University (2003-2007), and during my undergraduate studies I was working as a journalist and writer for a popular Egyptian magazine. During my 5 years of experience in software testing and quality engineering, I was also doing my second undergraduate degree (2009-2012) so I got a BA in Arabic Language and Islamic Studies from Cairo University, where I also got a certificate to teach Arabic as a foreign language in 2012. Also I wrote many short stories and novels. And I won the best short story award from the Egyptian Writers Union in 2009.

During my 13-year journey, which has started in October 2012 and is still ongoing, Alhamdulillah, I have been fortunate to teach more than a thousand people from different countries of the world. I would really like to thank each and every one of you for your trust in me, the precious time you have shared with me, and the way you have enriched my life and helped me become a better teacher and a better human being. I can't forget my youngest student, the beautiful four-year-old girl, when she told me "I love you, Marwa"; my oldest student, the wise eighty-year-old man who shared impressing life lessons with me; the man who, ten years after I taught him, contacted me again so I teach his children; the lady who wrote a wonderful short story in Arabic; the one who wrote a beautiful Arabic poem; the student who I have helped to become an Arabic language teacher; those who I have taught from scratch till they have reached fluency; those who shared with me the most beautiful moments of their lives when they reverted to Islam and said the Shahada for the first time with me; those who shared with me their own dreams and how difficult they were and then a few years later contacted me to tell me with great joy that their dreams had come true; and those who have been very close to me.

Alhamdulilah I am very pleased and proud to say that I have taught school, high school, and university students and different professions such as teachers, translators, diplomats, journalists, doctors, nurses, engineers, developers, managers, businessmen, researchers, lawyers, accountants, consultants, officers and artists. I have trained two actors from USA and Australia in their roles to pronounce some Arabic phrases perfectly. I have also trained an Arab-American astronaut on the Arabic-language interview she had to do with a popular channel. I have been chosen to teach an ambassador's son and another ambassador's children. I am proud too that I have taught many new Muslims and a lot of who are interested in learning and understanding Quran and Islamic studies. I have also taught many people who enjoy traveling to Arab countries and love their cultures. I have helped a lot of people in their professional lives such as those who work with Arabs or have Arab clients, and those who work in Arab countries. I have also helped a lot of people in their personal lives, such as those who have an Arab husband or wife or Arab friends or family. As well, I have translated a lot of articles, papers, research papers, and the interfaces and contents of some websites and applications into Arabic. And I have edited and proofread some of the Arabic articles in different topics for some newspapers and magazines.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that every student is unique, so I create a customized and well-structured course according to my students' level, needs and goals. I also support my students and help them to practice the language skills (writing, speaking, listening & reading). Some like to focus more on speaking and listening, others on grammar, and others on reading or writing, so my role is to cover and meet their needs, focus on the required skills and guide them along the way to achieve their goals in learning Arabic language. I also use a wide range of learning materials and give different activities for homework assignments. And I do a small revision in beginning of each lesson and give tests frequently. I also like to share with my students some aspects of Arabic culture, customs & traditions.

It is my pleasure to be your guide in the amazing journey of learning Arabic. Let's start it!

Thank you for reading my profile!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am 54 years old and I have been a self employed tutor for over five years. I live in Nelson and always travel to the homes of my students. I have taught students from 8 years of age to adults and all ages in between. I love tutoring my students, because it is teaching in its purest sense without all the pressures of teaching in school.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching since 1989. I have taught in local secondary schools, including more than 10 years in a school in Burnley. I have worked in primary schools on a supply basis. I have a great deal of experience in teaching pupils and students with educational issues, pupils with statements of SEN, both behavioural and educational. I have a proven record of boosting grades at both GCSE and Key Stage 2 SATS. More recently I have tutored and mentored pupils studying for their 11 plus exams particularly for Clitheroe Grammar School.

Tutoring Approach:
When tutoring my students, it is crucial to establish a relationship with not only the student but the rest of the family. This helps establish a relaxed, and workmanlike atmosphere quickly so that progress can be made quickly. I spend the first few lessons establishing specific areas that need attention within the subject/s I am teaching. I am very well resourced with both text books and worksheets specifically designed for each student. I am well prepared for the new GCSE Maths syllabus and provide text books for pupils taking the 11+. I set homework by negotiation, and try to mark it before the next lesson, distance and time constraints allowing. Where possible I try to liaise with my student's teachers in school, but this can prove difficult.

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Personal Description:
I am a self-employed music teacher who has been working in numerous schools across north-east England for over 10 years. Currently, I work alongside two music companies delivering music workshops in primary and secondary schools, and as of the 2023-2024 school calendar I deliver lessons to 10 schools on a weekly basis.

My main passion is delivering instrumental tuition on a number of instruments which include; electric guitar, acoustic guitar, keyboard, piano, ukulele, and music theory. Outside of the school day I have a wealth of private students whom I visit on a weekly basis to deliver hourly or half-hourly lessons. The majority of these students are between the ages of 5-18 however I do have a number of adult students who I personally love to see get involved in music. Age should never be a deterrent to learning an instrument.

Teaching Experience:
15 years as a private music tutor (Piano, guitar, music theory, and ukulele)
13 years as an ensemble leader The School of Rock & Pop in 5 centres
7 years as a peripatetic teacher for Musicworks in 10 schools per week

Tutoring Approach:
Teaching should always be fun and engaging. I cater each lesson to the interests of the student and teach the key elements of music through songs and practical exercises aimed at the music they enjoy.

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Personal Description:
I studied Japanese at Tokyo University of Foreign Studies and got my undergraduate and graduate degrees in Japan. Having spent 7 years living in Japan, I have level 1 (N1) of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT).  I also have skills in traditional Japanese arts, such as tea ceremony and calligraphy. I want to share my passion for the Japanese language with everybody, from complete beginners to students going to Japan in the near future.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 10 years of experience in private tutoring and teaching at the university level. I have successfully tutored students who got jobs or enrolled at universities in Japan, as well as passed JLPT N5-N3 levels.

Tutoring Approach:
Every student is different. Every student's approach to studying is different. Every student's objective of studying Japanese is different. I take all of it into account, and tailor classes for each student. We will decide on realistic pace and goals, and by combining our efforts will try to achieve them.

I also offer a fast-track Japanese language course - the methodology I was trained with at Tokyo University of Foreign Studies. It is a comprehensive course and you build up the skills in all areas of the language - starting with speaking and listening, then followed by reading and writing. In one year you should be able to have daily conversations (equivalent to JLPT N4), and in two to three years you would be able to comprehend coherent conversations in everyday situations and beyond (equivalent to JLPT N3).

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Personal Description:
Hi,
Im Toby, a professional guitarist based in London offering instrumental and theoretical tuition for all ages and skill levels. With a depth of professional experience completing numerous European tours and recording sessions I can share expertise in all modern genres from jazz to pop.

Teaching Experience:
I have 4 years of diverse teaching experience in both private and in institutional environments, catering to all age groups and skill levels.

Tutoring Approach:
Together we will establish your goals and a pathway to completion. By creating personalised lesson plans catered to your objectives I aim to make every lesson feel unique, finding the best teaching method for every student.

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Personal Description:
I am a highly motivated and accomplished professional who recently completed a master's degree in Banking and Finance. I am actively seeking online tutoring opportunities to share my knowledge and enhance students' understanding of the subject matter. I have an exceptional track record as a teaching assistant at Pattinson Education, where I have skillfully guided student learning and nurtured academic advancement.

Teaching Experience:
I've had the privilege of teaching both in person and online in China, where I've worked with approximately 40 students throughout my career. This diverse teaching experience has provided me with valuable insights into effective instructional methods.

In my in-person tutoring roles, I've cultivated close mentoring relationships with students, allowing me to provide tailored instruction to meet their unique needs and learning styles. These experiences have honed my interpersonal skills and created a positive and engaging learning environment.

Additionally, my online tutoring ventures have broadened my reach, enabling me to connect with students from various backgrounds across the globe. This digital teaching experience has taught me to adapt to evolving educational technologies while providing flexible and accessible learning opportunities.

I'm genuinely passionate about education and dedicated to helping students succeed by imparting knowledge, fostering a love for learning, and empowering them to reach their full potential.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching methodology centers around presenting students with challenging problems to assess their problem-solving approaches. Subsequently, I guide them toward more advanced techniques to enhance their skills. Having studied in China, I've gained exposure to innovative methods that I integrate into my teaching.

Additionally, I emphasize the importance of practicing with past papers. By utilizing past exam papers and providing targeted guidance, I aim to help students achieve a remarkable 90% success rate. This method not only builds their confidence but also ensures they are well-prepared for assessments and exams.

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