Duckhole Tutors & Duckhole Tuition

Personal Description:
Hello! I am 47 years old, originally from Denmark and moved to the UK 20 years ago for my degree. Before teaching, I worked as a monkey veterinary technician in the US, conducted my Masters research on crop-raiding macaques in Indonesia, and helped to run a volunteer expedition in the Amazon. After a couple of years of teaching in secondary school as a Science and Spanish teacher, I heard the call of the wild again and travelled for a year through Mexico and Central America. I now feel very settled here in England and am raising two beautiful daughters, as well as a menagerie of animals, including chickens, guinea pigs, and a dog.

I have an up to date enhanced DBS.

Teaching Experience:
I completed my teaching degree in 2007 at Canterbury Christ Church University. I trained in two very different types of schools.. a private Catholic boarding school and a comprehensive high school, which gave me the experience to engage students of different abilities and backgrounds. I also received training to teach EAL and SEN students. My teaching qualification is in Science, but as a fluent Spanish speaker I also teach Spanish to both adults and children in schools and private tuition. I teach Maths, Biology, and Spanish up to GCSE level. For 8 years, I worked for a private company teaching young people in residential care, and after that at a private school for girls. I have since decided to leave mainstream, and now alongside my private tuition, I teach at a democratic learning community where yoga and meditation are taught hand-in-hand with a topic based curriculum. My teaching experiences are very diverse, and I love having had influence from a variety of styles of education, but what gives me most satisfaction is working with students 1-1.

Tutoring Approach:
Students, young and old, don't like subjects they don't think they can succeed in. My approach is to break down material, relate it to everyday life and interests, and positively reinforce all the way to build up confidence. I am stubborn (!) and I don't give up until it's mastered.

Subjects

Personal Description:
After completing my D.Phil from the University of Oxford, I worked for 7 years as a Senior Biologist for a small drug discovery company where I was responsible for screening new drug targets in tissue models for human disease. Over the years I've had so many comments from students/colleagues about my ability to break subjects down to ease understanding, and coupled with my passion for science and sharing that with others I decided to change career and become a full-time science tutor. I've never looked back!

I am also a freelance examiner for Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) - examining is invaluable to my role as a science tutor and to the development of my students' abilities in preparation for their examinations. It has taught me to understand the very specific focus of each syllabus as a whole, to read for the specific aim of relevant text, and to concentrate not just on surface comprehension but to expand science beyond basic skills.

I have many hobbies but particularly enjoy outdoor pursuits including: sailing, mountaineering, climbing, mountain biking and running. Most of my free time though is spent with my wonderful husband and beautiful tots!

Teaching Experience:
During my time researching at Oxford, I tutored an array of students in Biochemistry, Biology, Genetics, Human Science and Medicine.

I have vast tutoring experience at both GCSE, AS/A2 level covering all UK exam specifications, including IB.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring style is informal, working with each student to improve their approach to learning whilst maintaining motivation. At the end of the day, learning should be fun!

I usually charge a very small travel fee to cover the cost of fuel.

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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:
I am native Spanish speaker and a qualified and experienced Spanish teacher.

I offer Spanish lessons for all levels and purposes.

For GCSE, A-Level, DELE, IB, 11+, 13+ my student`s grades have been equal or above their target grades. This is because I prepare my lesson`s according to each student`s needs using a range of resources to cover all aspects of the language learning: Listening, speaking, reading, writing and grammar.

For adult learners who are interested in using the language in real life situations in countries where Spanish is spoken, I adapt my teaching to cover life situations in which they will use the language abroad.


For A Level I cover all the books theater plays and movies within the curriculum: La casa de Bernarda Alba, Crónica de una muerte anunciada, Como agua para chocolate, Réquiem por un campesino español, La sombra del viento, La casa de los espíritus, Rimas, Las bicicletas son para el verano, El otro árbol de Guernica, El coronel no tiene quien le escriba, El laberinto del fauno, Ocho apellidos vascos, María, llena eres de gracia, Volver, Abel, Las 13 rosas, La lengua de las mariposas and any other.

I offer enjoyable lessons to all levels and I offer extensive out of lesson support providing my learners with activities to do in their free time and recordings of words for them to practice their pronunciation. I also give them links to web pages to further develop their knowledge of the language.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching Spanish for more than 15 years.

-Guildford College Of Higher And Further Education - 6 Years
-Guildford Adult Education - 6 Years
-Surrey Adult Education - 6 Years
-Time For Talking (GCSE and A-Level Exam Support) - 3 Years
- Freelance Spanish Tutor To adults - Sweden - 4 Years

Tutoring Approach:
In my opinion learning a language should be an enjoyable experience so I have that as a priority when planning my lessons.I also take into account the learner`s needs and their preferred learning style and prepare the lessons accordingly. It is very rewarding for me to help learners reach their expected results.

I help the learners solid grammar base that will allow them to express themselves in Spanish, both in writing and speaking as well as understanding what is written or said.
I adapt to the learner`s preferred learning style and methods. I am very friendly and easy to follow.

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Personal Description:
I'm a 40 year old part time teacher of geography. I have been teaching geography for 19 years. I have experience of teaching ks3, GCSEs and A-Levels. I'm passionate about helping students to learn about the world we live in. I have a proven track record of making significant improvements to students exam preparation and ultimately their final grade outcome.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked in three school in my 19 years, each time leaving for promotion from head of geography to head of faculty, to assistant head. Now that I have found children I work part time which gives me the best of both worlds. I have experience of teaching and tutoring at GCSE and A-Level in all major exam boards (AQA, OCR & Edexcel)

Tutoring Approach:
I find the best approach is to listen to the student in what they believe are their strengths and areas for development. Then through a range of diagnostic assessments I help identify the gaps in their knowledge, understanding and skills. I then use a variety of resources, relying heavily on past exam questions to quickly bridge those gaps and widen and deepen subject knowledge.

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Personal Description:
My philosophy is embedded in valuing children to increase well-being and their intrinsic motivation to develop and learn. I support children in reading, writing and phonics from 3 years and throughout the primary phase through purposeful, engaging and interactive activities.
I hold a First-Class BA Hons degree in English and graduated as a mature student whilst raising three children and working part time. This achievement was celebrated by the Open University in their publications, in the local press and I was asked to speak on local radio. I went on to gain a Post Graduate Certificate of Education with Qualified Teacher Status and studied English as a special interest area; gaining an A grade pass at master's level for my research into promoting and developing children as readers. I also write children's poetry and have had several poems published.

Teaching Experience:
I am a raising attainment adviser for a local authority and have been involved in borough wide school improvement for several years. I have developed outstanding teaching practice and leadership skills throughout Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. I am an experienced EYFS Leader and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Coordinator and a Specialist Leader of Education for Early Years. As an Assistant Headteacher, I have supported other teachers and been a Newly Qualified Teacher mentor and performance appraiser. I have worked across EYFS, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 as an English and Reading Leader and have introduced new curriculums with improved outcomes in phonics and reading and writing across key stages and in statutory assessments.

Tutoring Approach:
I tutor from a purpose built, dedicated learning environment which is fully equipped with high quality resources. The resources I use are tailored to your child's needs and learning style to make them feel motivated and encourage a 'can-do' attitude. There are also private waiting facilities adjacent to the room for parents or carers wishing to stay during tuition. I ensure that I thoroughly assess each child so that teaching and learning is bespoke to their next steps. This allows for maximum progress and the best results possible. I have a very positive attitude and my intention to make children feel like 'experts' encourages them to succeed. I have a real passion for English which comes through my teaching and learning and enjoyment and celebration within lessons are at the core of what I do.

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Personal Description:
I am a PhD student at the University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire. My research is about extracellular vesicles and virus infection. I am working as a Scientific demonstrator at the University of Hertfordshire.
Biology is one of my favourite subjects. I used to teach Zoology and Botany to undergraduates in India. I have very good communication skills. I have a potential to make my students feel comfortable and confident in their studies. Currently I am doing a PhD in Molecular Biology at the University of Hertfordshire, after completing Masters in Molecular Biology(2018) from the University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield. I completed my Masters in Life Sciences from St.Xavier`s, Mumbai, India(2015). I have my Bachelor`s degree in Life Sciences from India (2013). Moreover, I have been working in a Diagnostic Lab-Spectrum Healthcare, Mumbai,India. I like to share my knowledge and information. Arts is also one the factors which made my teaching and learning skills improved. I am an Indian Classical singer with four nationally qualified exams.
I also did my internship at National Institute of Research in Reproductive Health, Mumbai, India under the guidance of Dr.Deepak Modi and PhD student who was working in Male Infertility.
I am familiar with the UK curriculum.

Teaching Experience:
1. Currently working as a Scientific demonstartor at the University of Hertfordshire.

2. Worked as an assistant lecturer for Zoology-undergraduate students for a year.

3. Worked as a private tutor in home country for English language and Biology.

Tutoring Approach:
I love to teach and make my students comfortable with the concepts. I use images and videos to make the concepts clear. I don't allow my students to forget what was done the last by revising everything on the next day. that is my first task when I see the students. I can also have discussions in other languages ( Hindi and/Marathi) to make them understand more clearly.

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Personal Description:
I tutor in mathematics and science (Chemistry and Physics) GCSE (foundation and higher tiers) and to A-level.

I have undertaken chemical research at university and in industry and have also worked as an Environmental Chemist/Consultant advising and training on contaminated land risk assessment, remediation and verification.

I have bachelors and masters degrees in Chemistry from Birmingham University. I am a Chartered Scientist (CSci), a Chartered Chemist (CChem), a Fellow or the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC), a Specialist in Land Condition (SiLC) and a Suitably Qualified Person (SQP) under the UK planning National Quality Mark Scheme (NQMS).

I have an enhanced DBS certificate for inspection as required.

Teaching Experience:
I help younger people as a private tutor towards GCSE and A-levels in Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics (Pure and Mechanics) - either in person or on;ine.

I help students with attaining the grades they need to continue their studies into the 6th form or for entry into their chosen University to study subjects such as mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, chemistry, biomedical sciences, etc. Testimonials are available on request.

I have also mentored graduates on their path to becoming chartered with the Royal Society of Chemistry, the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) and SiLC.

Tutoring Approach:
I provide strategies to help students manage the stresses of exams. This includes time management in exams and methods to maximise marks in exams in such a way to give the student confidence during any given paper.

Primarily, I undertake one-to-one tuition either in person or online. I enjoy working to improve their understanding and learning - giving them confidence to tackle the various aspects of the subject matter with confidence and efficiency.

I focus on their weaker areas of any given subject whilst reinforcing the aspects where they are already comfortable.

If needed I can tutor groups of students when necessary. Please get in touch to make the necessary arrangements.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Personal Description:
I qualified as a barrister in 1993 and have extensive experience in family and civil law. I have an LLB (Hons) 2:1 and an LLM (Merit) from London University.

Teaching Experience:
Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring for many years at degree and A level and have run professional lectures and courses in advocacy, evidence, litigation and ethics. I have lectured on LLB, LLM, BVC and SQE courses and can therefore tutor in the core subjects and family law modules. I can assist with written work and assessments, editing and proofreading dissertations and essays, advocacy training, exam preparation and the bar and solicitors training courses and exams.

Tutoring Approach:
Tutoring Approach:
I believe in teaching to the needs of the individual and being creative in assisting with the learning process. The law is a rewarding career but students face many challenges on their journey. My approach is to help find a path through he exam and learning arena to enable my students to improve their grades, understanding and confidence.

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Personal Description:
I'm a registered nurse and have also worked at Further Education Colleges as a teacher. I always aim to be an inclusive teacher and to establish the learner's needs. I'm available to teach face to face or online.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught BTEC Health and Social Care, and Public Services at Further Education College. I have also taught extensively throughout my nursing career.

Tutoring Approach:
I can offer tutorial support face to face or online, relative to the learner's needs.

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Personal Description:
Hi, my name is Maahi, and I am currently a student at St Dominic's 6th form, studying Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics at a level. I received an outstanding set of GCSE grades and my set of results was even published in the school newspaper. I like helping younger students in any way possible, in year 10, I helped those who have come from foreign countries or have a lower reading level and have difficulty reading to become fluent readers through a 'reading buddies' programme. That was when I realised that I am good at teaching and helping students. After that I tutored the younger children in family and friends and helped them get amazing grades for SAT'S and gcse's and I want to extend this to everyone that wants to receive good grades and achieve their dreams. So now, i want to put my knowledge to some use- hence why i am here.

Teaching Experience:
I received 5 grade-8's in my Gcse's this year, including Biology, Chemistry, physics, maths, english literature, and 4 grade-7's in french, history, further maths, english language. My revision techniques are clearly effective and want to help students who want to learn and set their goals in life. I can also help with giving advice for a levels as I am currently studying biology, Chemistry and Mathematics at a level myself. There are multiple different ways to learn and I can help find the right way to learn for you. After having tutored many of my friends and family in the younger years, I realised that I have a passion for teaching as I can make even the most mediocre thing interesting and understandable. I am open to teaching online virtually, so you don't even have to travel anywhere- all at a reasonable price! Each lesson will be approximately an hour long, whenever at your convenience as long as I can find time on my schedule as well to teach.

Tutoring Approach:
I have previously had experience teaching younger children including cousins, family friends, younger students at my school, other tutoring companies.

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Personal Description:
I'm a high-achieving graduate with a strong background in technology, passionate about both learning and teaching. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I've helped students excel across a wide range of subjects, from Primary Arithmetic and English, through GCSE and A-Level courses, all the way to Undergraduate studies. My extensive knowledge spans core academics, arts, sciences, languages, and admissions preparation, allowing me to tailor lessons that meet each student's unique needs and goals.

I truly enjoy making complex topics accessible and inspiring a love of learning in every student I work with. Technology plays a big role in how I approach education, allowing me to create engaging, tailored lessons that spark curiosity and build confidence. By creating a supportive and engaging environment, I encourage students to overcome challenges, develop critical thinking skills and realise their full potential at every stage of their academic journey.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 9 years of tutoring experience, primarily working online but also providing private in-home tutoring. During my academic years, I volunteered as a mentor and tutor for younger students, which laid a strong foundation for my teaching approach. I have supported students across all age groups from primary and secondary levels to A-Level and university and I'm actively expanding my work with undergraduate learners.

My tutoring has helped many students achieve significant improvements, including successfully gaining admission to private schools through the 11+ exam, and boosting GCSE grades by an average of 4 grades above expectations within six months.

I cover a broad range of topics and themes across multiple subjects and educational stages, tailored to the specific needs of each student. For primary and secondary levels, I teach core subjects including Arithmetic, English, Science, Geography, History, Religious Education, Spanish, and Computing. At GCSE and IGCSE levels, I cover subjects such as Maths, English Language and Literature, Combined and Triple Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Business Studies, Computer Science, Art and Design, Geography, History, Media Studies, Film Studies, Food Preparation and Nutrition, Religious Studies, Spanish, and Accounting.

For A-Level students, I provide tutoring in subjects including Film Studies, Health and Social Care, ICT and Information Technology, Journalism, Media Studies, Modern Languages (Spanish), Technology and Design, and Travel and Tourism. At the undergraduate level, I support academic writing, cinematics, media studies, research methods, and Spanish.

Regarding exam boards, I am familiar with major UK boards such as AQA, Edexcel, OCR, Cambridge IGCSE, and others, enabling me to tailor preparation to the specific syllabus and exam requirements. I also support students preparing for admissions tests such as 11+, 13+, SAT, and UCAS applications, along with TEFL exam preparation.

If there are specific papers or units you need support with, I can provide targeted lessons aligned with those assessments to ensure confidence and success.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is student-focused, flexible, and results-oriented. I understand that each learner is unique, so I tailor my teaching to suit individual goals, learning styles, and confidence levels. Whether students need help mastering core concepts, preparing for exams, or improving academic performance, I adapt my methods to best support their progress. I focus not only on exam success but also on building confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills. I hold a TEFL qualification, which complements my ability to support language learners effectively.

I incorporate a mix of interactive techniques, including technology-based tools, active questioning, step-by-step support and guided practice, and real-world applications to make learning both engaging and effective. I aim not just to improve grades, but to nurture curiosity, independent thinking, and a genuine love for learning. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I know how powerful encouragement and personalised teaching can be in helping students overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

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