Hillfields Tutors & Hillfields Tuition

Personal Description:
I am currently experienced in Science, English and History predominantly, and am fluent in 3 languages, with a basic knowledge of some European languages.

I have also been involved in setting up a Limited Company which aims to provide academic resources to students in Higher Education (at University level).

My work experience in the healthcare, higher education and training business sectors over the last 13 years has also given me the opportunity to develop a range of teaching / training styles that will suit most learners very well.

Teaching Experience:
Over 9 years experience, delivering 1-2-1 tuition to students aged predominantly 6-18.

Most common subjects taught - English / Maths / Science (up to GCSE). Also worked extensively with adults in the local community, training people in basic computing skills relevant to their specific needs.

For those interested in Business Studies, or how to set up your own business, I can offer lessons on these topics as well, including topics on where to go to get your funding, and how to market yourself effectively (including networking) etc.

Below is a more complete and comprehensive list of subjects which I am able to teach. All subjects can be taught from primary level, up to the level specified, and can also be taught as Adult Learning classes - unless otherwise stated.

Biology - GCSE
Business Related - All
Chemistry - GCSE
Citizenship - All
Combined Science - GCSE
Computer Studies/ICT - A Level
Craft and Design - 11-14
Drama - GCSE
Earth Science - GCSE
English - A Level
English (Foreign Language) - All
Entrance Exams - KS3
Film Studies - KS3
French - 11-14
Geography - GCSE
German - 11-14
History - A Level
Life Science - All
Maths - 11-14
Physics - GCSE
Politics - All
Psychology - GCSE
Reading and Writing Skills - All
Religious Studies - A Level
Sociology - GCSE
Urdu - 11-14

Tutoring Approach:
I follow the National Curriculum, with set lesson plans for each tutor session.

We will follow a learning plan that will run alongside school teaching. I do not help with school homework on a regular basis. Instead, I use the time I spend with each student, to improve their areas of weakness, so that they can do their homework and coursework / assignments with confidence themselves.

Lesson 1 is always a discussion of what the student / parents wish to achieve, along with an assessment of the students current capabilities. If you would like the first lesson to be more productive, I can send the assessment to be completed before the first class. The assessment will need to be returned at least 24hrs before the first planned lesson so I can look it over and plan my teaching approach for the student.

Teaching styles / tools:
- Each lesson will have a starter discussion about any areas of concern in school - I will make notes and plan to work on those areas in the next lesson.

- We will then work on a mini-project together, which will help the student to learn and develop a range of skills that he/she can then use in their own coursework / homework assignments.

- For subjects which involve reading, the student will be given homework to read a chapter / section for discussion at the next class.

- For Maths / Science, there will be worksheets which the student will need to complete on his/her own after lesson.

- If at any time there are any questions / concerns from the students or parents, I am more than happy to spend part of the lesson in discussion about these with you.

- All lessons are taught in an informal and positive / open-discussion style. But in order to make lessons successful and get the most out of your learning plan, please ensure that there is somewhere quiet to work, and that you have all of the required equipment / stationery beforehand (i.e. pens / pencils / eraser / ruler / calculator / notebook or note paper etc).

- It would also be useful to have internet / wifi set up, to use either with your own computer, or with mine to access online resources.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
All student details are kept confidential and you can be assured that no personal information will be shared with anybody else. However, I may ask permission to use student's work as an example of how to achieve highly in assignments / homework, with other students. Again, all personal details would be removed.

The minimum time per lesson is 1 hour per week for regular bookings.

Semi-Intensive courses can be booked at 2+ hours per week with prior agreement.

Intensive 2-4 week courses can be booked with daily lessons close to exam times. These have very limited spaces available and would include longer classes if need be, depending on how the student performs during our initial assessment.

Intensive courses are also very useful for students wanting to pass grammar school entrance examinations or prepare for other specific exams and assessments.

Lessons can also be taught online, via Skype or Google Hangouts. All prices are reduced for online tutoring - please contact me for further information.

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Personal Description:
I was born and raised in Barcelona by a Spanish father and a French mother. I developed a strong interest in languages from a very young age as I learnt three languages as a child; Spanish, French, and Catalan at school. My mother who is a French teacher inspired me with her passion for teaching to further my studies to become a language teacher.

I am a patient and encouraging teacher.

I obtained a Certificate of Teaching Languages to Adults at Goldsmiths University in London and completed a teaching placement at the Instituto Cervantes in London.

I combine language teaching with my other passion, music. I regularly perform at events with a Swing and Latin Jazz band.

Teaching Experience:
I began tutoring for Uk tutors in 2013 and enhanced my knowledge of the Spanish and French GCSE and A-levels exam board requirements and methodology.

I have been tutoring full time since 2016 and have taught a number of Spanish and French GCSE and
A-level students who have subsequently successfully achieved top grades in their language exams.

I am currently preparing several students for AQA, Edexcel, IGCSE Cambridge boards and teach Spanish A-level lessons at Southover Partnership, a leading special needs school in London.

Tutoring Approach:
Spanish/French GCSE and A-level: My lessons involve analysing the exam topics and reinforcing all the essential aspects of the language; Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing. I use up-to-date language resources to meet the different exam board requirements and language objectives.

Spanish/French adult learning: My lessons are tailored to suit individual student's needs. My objective is to help my students to achieve their personal goals for learning a language.


I will help you to develop your conversational skills and reinforce the grammar and vocabulary to converse in any setting. I offer general Spanish lessons and business lessons.

I also offer online lessons via Skype. These one-to-one video lessons are
dynamic and highly beneficial for students who need flexibility within their schedule and/ or who live outside my one-to-one teaching area.

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Personal Description:
Professionally qualified (DfES number RP 04/31188).

I am a musician, qualified primary teacher (QTS) with a Master's degree in Education, Pets As Therapy volunteer, founder and facilitator at Meta for learning CIC.

My interests in education are in Open Learning, Outdoor Learning, Animal Assisted interventions, Blended learning and helping learners build international links.


As part of a distance-learning Masters degree in association with FUNIBER and the Universidad de León, I carried out an ethnographic action research project using a democratic approach called Community Language Learning. In this approach there is no syllabus or textbook to follow. It is the learners themselves who determine the content by means of meaningful conversations.
It incorporates translation, transcription and recording techniques.

When I am not working I love volunteering, practising ice skating or track cycling with my daughter and also growing an edible garden !

Teaching Experience:
I was born in Madrid where I trained as a primary teacher and classical musician (cello and chamber music).

I worked in Escuelas de Musica in the outskirts of Madrid which are inclusive socially-minded music schools where I taught cello lessons and support the development of the String Department by assisting during orchestra rehearsals. Both adults and children of all ages are welcome to take lessons.

Shortly after moving to the UK I started a part time job teaching Music to 5-7 yo children at the Rowans Prep school in Wimbledon alongside studying a Mater's and working in Adult education- I carried out a 2-year ethnographic action research project at St Luke's centre in Islinghton.

I then applied to a position in Esadst London and started working for Children's language services teaching at several primary schools in Tower Hamlets. My roles were to deliver the MFL primary curriculum; coordinate the implementation of new initiatives in schools ie use of the European Portfolio for language Learning which was being developed between the Council and universities, provide class teachers with CPD training; undertake tasks such as EAL First Language assessments.

After taking maternative leave I trained to become an online tutor and worked part- time for Own Tutors, Clapham.

In 2019 I founded a learning community Metaforlearning Cic where I run Self-Manage Learning programmes for young people.

In my tutoring work I am reliable, flexible and experienced. I have been working in the UK, Ireland and Spain and have experience in exam preparation for the Spanish internationally recognised DELE junior and DELE for adults; Spanish GCSE, IGCSE, Spanish A-LEVELS with AQA, OCR and EDEXCEL exam boards; and IB ab initio and Language B international qualifications. In the past I have prepared young cellists for 1-8 ABRSM performance grades.

Tutoring Approach:
Students set their own learning goals and I assist them in order to map the neccesary learning to achieve them and also by working at the level that they feel comfortable with at each stage of the process.

With young learners I make use of VR, AR and gamification for enhancing engagement in language learning.

If your enquiry is regarding learning for either improving wellbeing, traveling or living in a Spanish speaking country then we will be looking at different learning objetives and skills than for example an enquiry regarding accessing an university of your choice.

I have wide experience supporting international students in understanding and preparing to access Universities in the UK.

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Personal Description:
I am a college lecturer (Abingdon & Witney College) with extensive experience teaching both Russian and Art.
I am very happy working with little ones as well as adults and believe that learning should be enjoyable and make my classes varied, challenging and stimulating.

Teaching Experience:
I have gained experience in teaching adults and younger students both in a formal context (I taught in schools and for university degree courses) and less formal (evening and leisure courses). My philosophy over 20 years in teaching, is to produce lessons that excite and inspire. I have an enthusiastic style and my lessons are delivered using a variety of the latest learning techniques.

Since 2012 I have taught Russian at all levels and exam preparation for GCSE and A-level. I prepare students for the A-Level exam through an intense course, certainly that is necessary for an A or A* grade. However, of course, it depends on the knowledge base the student has.
I constantly train and update my learning and am relentless in seeking new and varied materials for reading, listening, and writing language.

This is one student's comment:
"It is with heartfelt thanks that I turn to you to express my appreciation for all the efforts that you have invested in my preparation. Your knowledge, patience and support have been key in helping me achieve my goal of getting an A* in Russian at the A-level exam. With your help, I got into the desired university, which was one of my main dreams. Your lessons, advice, and faith in me helped me overcome all difficulties and pass the exam with excellent marks."

Tutoring Approach:
Tutoring is tailored to suit individual needs and pace, to make learning enjoyable and rewarding. I am a friendly, calm and patient tutor who believes that an open and relaxed atmosphere is essential for successful learning. At the same time, clearly defined goals have to be set, worked towards and reached during each lesson.

I always seek to make my classes challenging and stimulating, drawing upon as wide a range of learning skills and strategies as possible. I promote activities, games and practical exercises focused on student's needs.

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Personal Description:
Fully qualified teacher with over 20 years' experience | Full-time A-level and GCSE Economics tutor | 12,000+ hours of online tuition to over 400 UK and international students | Economics degree from Liverpool University, plus top A-level grades | 10 years in advertising and an online business owner | Based in Bristol, married with 3 adult children | Passionate about helping students improve grades, increase confidence, and reach their potential

Teaching Experience:
I taught economics in secondary schools for over 10 years, but I am now a full-time tutor. I typically tutor 40 to 50 students across an academic year, and they consistently perform above expectations; for example the majority of my 2026 students achieved at least a grade B, with several gaining an A*. However, my main focus is adding value, and all my previous students have improved at least one grade since I began working with them. Indeed many have improved by 3 or more grades. I teach all the major exam boards (International Baccalaureate, Cambridge International, Edexcel, Edexcel International, AQA, Eduqas, OCR and WJEC) and am an experienced economics examiner. I also have a current CRB.

Tutoring Approach:
I will always begin by discussing my tutee's individual requirements and areas of the syllabus they would like to focus on. Students may ask to recap concepts and theories that aren't fully understood, however in my experience most require help with exam technique, and how to translate their knowledge into a high grade answer. I therefore place a great emphasis on guiding students through the process of answering past paper questions, across all topic areas. In our sessions I will help with essay structure, illustrate how to use higher order analytical and evaluation skills, and crucially, how to apply an answer to information in a case study, or how to bring in real world examples.

Over the years I have taught an increasing proportion of students online, so that currently about 90% of my tutoring is done this way. I use Skype/Google Meet/Zoom and Google Docs, which students can also access. This makes the sessions as interactive as meeting face to face, and it also means I can tutor students from anywhere in the world (I have taught people in South Africa, China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Spain, France, Serbia, Russia, Montenegro and Bermuda). I always encourage students to provide feedback so that they receive maximum benefit from their teaching.

Below are some testimonials from past students:

"Ian is the most exceptional and professional tutor we have worked with during ten years of home-educating my son. From the outset, Ian exceeded every expectation. Within just a few sessions, my son was genuinely enjoying Economics, which says a great deal about Ian's engaging and encouraging teaching style. Ian is polite, punctual, friendly, professional and deeply committed to his students' success. I recommend him without reservation. We are incredibly grateful to have found him." Mrs L Compton - Northampton

"Ian tutored my daughter prior to her A Level exams in the summer of 2024. She had been predicted a B grade, but needed an A for her university offer. Ian covered content as well as exam technique with her, they also worked through past papers together and Ian on request would mark some of her written work. My daughter achieved an A☆ in economics… This was beyond her expectations, and we are extremely grateful for Ians tutoring and guidance." - Mrs De Simone - Cambridge

"My son initially struggled with the subject gaining an E grade in his mock exams but with Ian's help he managed a grade B in his AS level and attained an A grade in both A level papers. This was a huge improvement over the two years and I doubt it would have been possible without Ian's help, both with weekly tutoring and the all important pre-exam revision days. Ian's approach was personalised and intensive and my son's needs we're concentrated upon fully. Ian was always punctual and organised and struck up a good relationship with the whole family. I would happily recommend him." Mrs W - Redland, Bristol

"Matt only got an E grade in his February A2 mock exam and the school predicted he would get a C grade at A2. With the significant assistance from Ian, Matt achieved an A* at A2. In his other two A levels, Matt achieved Bs (he also had tutors for these). There are several reasons why Ian made the difference: 1.Being taught on Skype. Matt was initially very apprehensive about being taught on Skype rather than in person. But Skype proved really beneficial. Firstly it enabled Matt to fit in tuition at times that would just not have been possible if travel had been involved. Secondly it enabled Matt to have additional lessons when he had spare time. 2.Focussing on how to structure essay answers. The school just didn't put anywhere near enough emphasis on this crucial area. 3. Essay marking. A key aspect of A2 is exam practice. We paid Ian for essay marking which meant that Matt was effectively maximising his time with Ian. 4. Not accepting mediocrity. The school said that Matt should not retake his AS exams as he had a good B grade. Ian said he should retake as he could do better. 5. Providing positive encouragement. Matt has always lacked belief in himself and Ian gave Matt the confidence that he could achieve a good result.
We would strongly recommend Ian as an Economics tutor" Mr P - South Gloucestershire

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Personal Description:
In the ten years I've studied bass I've gained a B-Tec National Diploma in music and music tech from Tauntons College and a Higher Diploma in music performance from the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford where I am also studying for a Degree in music performance. This education fuels my passion for my instrument, and with such a huge variety of influences to choose from I couldn't see myself doing anything else.

Teaching Experience:
As a new tutor i have limited teaching experience however; during the course of my studies for my degree i have on many occasions had the opportunity to take on the role of the musical director of a performance. As a musical director i have had to think of different ways of explaining a task to my peers and have gained relevant teaching experience in the process.

Tutoring Approach:
I have found the best way to tech someone a new subject is to try and relate the subject to something the student has an understanding of or an interest in.

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Personal Description:
Bonjour! My name is Samantha and I am from Bordeaux, a region famous for its wine. I am a qualified and experienced teacher. I have been living in the UK for many years and, after working in different roles in the educational system, I decided to undertake a French teaching qualification. The course was really stimulating and learning about pedagogy was particularly interesting. I have enjoyed teaching ever since.

Teaching Experience:
I have over ten years experience teaching on a one to one basis as well as small group from the very young to adults face to face or online. I am familiar with the curriculum for French GCSE and A Level.
I also teach University students, supporting them with grammar and conversation.
I have experience teaching French to adults from basic knowledge for holidays up to advanced level.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor lessons to what the student requires. I respect each student`s pace of work and way of learning and try to help them to fulfill their potential.
I make lessons interesting, stimulating and adapted to my clients' needs.
I am aware that tutees have different learning style and therefore I offer a variety of exercises.
I use different materials such as videos, images, magazines, music and the latest Course books from L'alliance Française as well as my own creation.
I empathize with my students because I had to learn English myself. Therefore, I know it can be difficult to learn a foreign language and even frustrating at times but also very rewarding. That is why, I make students aware of their progress on a regular basis.
I love teaching and I have had some very good feedback from my students. I am a friendly, patient and approachable person.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Maddalena, I am Italian and I have moved to London from the Italian Alps. I have been travelling and l living in different countries since I was 18. I love staying outdoors, hiking ans skiing. I like nature and its slow pace. I practice yoga and meditation and when I am not teaching I am a body therapist. I love connecting with people and I am a very good listener and observer.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching for the last 16 years, since I graduated from college. I studied Foreign Languages and Literatures (English and Spanish) and I have a post-graduate Master in Teaching of Italian as a Foreign Language.
I have experience with students of all ages, from primary school to adults, and also with dyslexia. I have been teaching one-to -one and group classes, both as self employed and public schools' teacher.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to get to know my students and discover their interests in order to tailor the lesson around those, because I think that motivation and curiosity for the subject are essential for an easy and succesful learning.
I try to create a relaxed and informal environment when I teach so that my students feel at ease and overcoming some blocks ( "I don't like this subject!"; " I hate my teacher!"; " I have taken so many courses and I still am not able to talk") becomes easier.
I combine speaking with grammar with listening to songs and audios, watching videos and movies; and whenever it's possible I include games in my lessons.
I really enjoy teaching and my students can feel it!

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Personal Description:
Native Mandarin speaker born and raised in China, systematically educated to a high standard (graduated from primary, middle and high schools). Highly educated, successfully graduated with a couple of academic degrees from top British universities including Imperial College London. Currently working in banking in the city of London.

Teaching Experience:
Many years of one to one experiences with private school students from Tonbridge and Sevenoaks as well as younger kids and mature students.

Tutoring Approach:
I have had experience teaching children from a young age as well as mature students, therefore I am more than happy to customize teaching pace and technique according to the requirement of my students.

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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:
I have 22 years' teaching experience, with an extensive background in UK education (including HE) and international schools. I am a GCSE examiner with a first class in English and Politics - I love English and I want you to love it too! I am passionate about enabling everyone to reach their potential. I specialise in KS3; GCSE/iGCSE English Language and Literature; adults who are returning to education after a break; academic skills for Higher Education; and students who are learning English as a second language.

I have a PGCE and I became CELTA qualified, graded Outstanding in all areas, in 2014. I also have an Understanding Dyslexia qualification. This is a particular area of interest to me and I have taught many dyslexic students who have successfully achieved their qualifications. I teach a wide range of exam syllabuses which include: AQA, Cambridge, Edexcel, Eduqas and OCR.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring online (in addition to my classroom teaching) since 2016 and have helped hundres of students achieve at least their target grade, often 2+ grades higher. I really enjoy what I do and I aim to build confidence and study skills, alongside qualifications. I always assess a student's skills and identify areas of strength, as well as key areas for development.

GCSE student feedback examples from AQA English Lit & Lang, Y11 students. Each student received 1 hour's weekly Zoom tuition for 1 academic year (references available):

'Before Joanna started helping me with my English I was set to fail my English GCSEs, but with her help she helped me become more confident in myself and my abilities with English. She is a lovely, kind, funny person and her teaching methods definitely helped me to get passes in both English literature and language. I honestly couldn't be more grateful for help and her patience in getting me through some very tough months.'

'I finished bottom of my English class at the end of year 10 and Joanna helped me turn things around by moving up 6 entire grades and surpassing most of the other students in my class. Joanna's friendly, knowledgeable approach to tuition has really helped me this year and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her to anyone.'

'Before Joanna I lacked confidence in my English abilities and I was predicted a grade 6. However, Joanna really turned things around for me and I received two 8s in my English GCSEs. I would strongly recommend Joanna as she helped me to feel exceptionally prepared for my exams and I looked forward to her sessions every week.'

Tutoring Approach:
I teach Mondays to Fridays. I can offer tuition sessions of one, two or three hours on a regular basis.
Intensive lessons during the holidays or exam revision is also possible, on request. I can deliver a bespoke course if you would like; please be aware the price is dependent on what you require.

If you would like a quicker response, please let me know:

1. the education stage you are enquiring about i.e. Year 10
2. the exam board you are studying and set texts
3. why you are interested in arranging English tutoring
4. how often you would like lessons
5. when you are available

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Personal Description:
I am an experienced , qualified educator with over 30 years experience in teaching English as a Foreign Language in both the UK and international settings. I am an Assessment Specialist and examiner for two major exam boards in the UK and so specialise in exam skills , training & guiding students to success in speaking , reading , listening and writing .

Teaching Experience:
Throughout my career, I have taught at educational institutions in Europe & the UK as well as being an Assessment Specialist since 1994 . My professional background includes:

Teaching English as a Foreign Language in Greece , both in schools and as a private tutor from kindergarten to exam classes and Business English.

Serving as an assessment specialist for Cambridge University Press and Assessment and English Speaking Board

Supporting relocation clients and professionals in mastering language for work, integration, or study online.

Director of Studies and co-owner at Heritage English, a home stay immersion program.

Teaching English to refugees and asylum seekers .

Online English classes - English Unlimited .

Tutoring Approach:
I create a warm, welcoming environment and build a rapport with students to make them feel comfortable . It is important to encourage active participation & listen to the needs of the student to create a bespoke learning plan.

It is essential to prioritise speaking fluency and build on accuracy by integrating grammatical themes through engaging real life and cultural topics relevant to the student.

Sessions are bespoke in order to fit each student's learning style, pace, and interests to make the learning experience meaningful and memorable .

I have a passion in language and cultural studies to help students succeed in exams , for professional purposes , for families relocating to English speaking countries and students learning English as a personal goal .

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