Irby Tutors and Irby Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a PGCE-qualified teacher with two Master's degrees, and I also serve as a Cambridge International examiner. My teaching expertise covers Mandarin GCSE (9-1), IGCSE, GCE (A level), HSK, Japanese GCSE (9-1), and JLPT qualifications. I teach my students both on-site and via Zoom for private students.

Teaching Experience:
I teach both Mandarin and Japanese at local independent schools and universities, and I am also an experienced private tutor. I instruct both simplified and traditional Chinese, as well as Japanese, to both native and non-native students, including professionals. Over the past decade, my students have consistently achieved outstanding results in Edexcel Chinese (9-1) and Japanese GCSEs (9-1), earning A* and Grade 9. Additionally, they have excelled with As in A-level Chinese.

I've successfully tutored numerous students who pursued further 'Oriental studies' at Oxford University, completed an MPhil in Chinese studies at Oxford, and Japanese at Leeds University and Cardiff University.

In addition, I possess a strong working knowledge of the national curriculum and am very familiar with the demands and expectations of both state and independent schooling.

Tutoring Approach:
Encouraging, effective, student-centered approach, and developing a love for learning.

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Personal Description:
I am a French native teacher from Paris. I have been living and teaching French in the UK for 17 years.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching French in the UK for 17 years. I worked in a lot in companies when I first arrived in London so did a lot of Business French. I then started having private students who wanted either business or social French. I can also help students prepare for their GCSE or A level or any other exams.

Tutoring Approach:
I am friendly, patient, reliable and will teach French to suit your individual needs (exam preparation, conversation, business, etc...)

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Personal Description:
I am Japanese and a trained language teacher located in Bearwood, Bournemouth. I've been teaching all different levels at Bournemouth University as well as private individuals. Online lessons available.

Teaching Experience:
I have experiences in teaching languages for more than 20 years. So far, all my students who took JLPT exam (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) have been successful.

Tutoring Approach:
I appreciate the complexities in learning a new language and my lessons are always fun and enjoyable. I also teach Japanese culture, custom & manners.

Example Style of Courses:
Private Lessons
Group Lessons
Various Levels - Beginner, Intermediate & Advance
JLPT Exam Course
Travel Japanese
Business Japanese
Brush up Courses
Short Term
Long Term
Weekdays & Weekends
Day Time & Evenings
Face to face lessons
Online lessons

Fees:
Private Lessons - £35 per hour
Group Lessons - negotiable

The style of courses can be flexible and designed to suit your needs.
Teaching materials are included/provided.
Translation service is also available and the rate is negotiable.
References are available on request.

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Personal Description:
I am a highly experienced Mathematics tutor with over 17 years of successful tutoring experience with outstanding results. My students consistently meet or exceed their target grades. I am enthusiastic, responsible and committed to building students' confidence.

Teaching Experience:
I am a qualified teacher with a PGCE. I taught in a school for a year, and since then I have been tutoring for over 17 years, covering KS3, GCSE, A level and numeracy skills for PGCE applicants. In addition I have supported students including my two sons, with university applications, including Oxbridge, and prepared pupils for entrance exams such as the 11+ Charterhouse School, where my student successfully secured a place.

Tutoring Approach:
I set high expectations for my students while providing tailored support to help each learner their full potential. My approach includes:
- Building strong subject foundations while delivering challenging and engaging lessons
- Using targeted assessment to identify key areas for improvement
- Setting clear performance goals, such as target percentages for practice papers
- Thorough exam preparation through focused revision and the development of effective exam techniques

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Personal Description:
I am a qualified and experienced French native speaker / language tutor with over 20 years' experience teaching French across all levels at the local university and helping GCSE and A level students to achieve the highest possible grade

Teaching Experience:
In addition to my work as a university lecturer, I have tutored since 1989 many students of all ages and backgrounds ranging from business people, holidaymakers in France, French property owners to GCSE/A level / Open University students who need to prepare for their oral & written examinations

Because of the lockdown I have moved to online teaching/tutoring
I have regular Skype / Zoom sessions with my university /GCSE/ A level students and adult learners

I usually email over worksheets or learning materials [past papers/ newspapers articles, audio files] in advance so that the students can familiarise themselves with the lesson structure and content. All skills [listening and speaking, reading and writing can be practised


Consultation lesson offered for free

Tutoring Approach:
Friendly, relaxed and focused
I tailor my lessons around the student's individual needs/ interests and objectives.
I have a wide range of learning resources [grammar worksheets, topic-based vocabulary lists, AQA, Edexcel and WJEC past papers..] and interactive activities to cater for different learning styles and help students develop their confidence and achieve their full potential. I aim to make learning French a rewarding and enjoyable experience

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Personal Description:
Hemananda (Ravi)
Motivational and patient tutor with 25+ years' experience in IT and education. I simplify complex topics using real-world examples, interactive Q&A, and tailored practice. My lessons build confidence, clarity, and lasting understanding. With international exposure and deep technical expertise, I guide students through software engineering, programming, databases, and business concepts with precision and empathy. I'm currently writing a book to make Software Engineering more practical and accessible for learners and professionals alike.

I am well versed with the following development tools, databases and software:
- Python, Numpy, Pandas, R
- Machine Learning (KNN algorithm, Naïve Bayes, Neural Network, Decision Tree, etc.)
- PHP
- Visual Basic .Net, ASP .Net
- Oracle Apex
- Oracle Forms 6i, 9i, 10g
- Oracle Reports 6i, 9i, 10g
- Oracle SQL Loader
- Oracle Designer 6i, 9i, 10g
- Oracle Discoverer 10g (Discoverer Plus 10g, Discoverer Viewer 10g)
- Visual Basic 6.0, C, C++, 4D, Windev, Forms Designer, Prescribe, HTML, Java, Javascript,
- Microsoft Front Page, Macromedia Dreamweaver, Flash, Image Composer, XML, Seagate Crystal Reports, Microsoft Project, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Powerpoint
- Microsoft Access, Oracle Database 8, Oracle Database 8i, Oracle Database 9i, Oracle Database 10g, and Ms SQL Server, Oracle Database Express Edition

Teaching Experience:
I have been offering private tuitions since 2001 for a side income as well as for charity purposes. My students were:
1. Primary students (Mathematics, English, French, Computer Studies/IT)
2. Secondary students (Mathematics, Statistics, Accounting, Economics, Computer Studies/IT)
3. Tertiary students (Mathematics, Accounting, Computer Studies/IT), including British Computer Society (BCS) students
Notes:
(a) I am very pleased that one of my BCS students topped the Software Development module including the Database Management Systems module examinations in Mauritius.
(b) I have assisted more than 50 students in their final year IT project (including the analysis/design/development of the system).
(c) I am also proud to say that after more than 3 failed attempts in renowned institutions, I have succeeded in getting 8 BCS students to be through the Software Development module examinations in their first 6 months being tutored by me.

I have equally provided training courses on programming (to name a few: Visual Basic, Oracle SQL and PL/SQL, etc..) for at least 8 years.

Tutoring Approach:
Every new batch of tuition starts with getting to know more about the students. It is at the same time important to give the students enough space to familiarise themselves with me. A discussion will then follow to scope down what will be covered in the syllabus. A work plan is also devised with the aim to complete the syllabus well before the examinations, so as to have adequate time for revision. The following steps outline the process of each tuition session:
1. Initiate the subject or topic based on discussion of a real life example / scenario
2. Introduce the theoretical part of the subject or topic
3. Explain how the theory links to the real life example / scenario
4. Work out and explain some examples
5. Immediate evaluation of student's understanding through questions and answers
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until satisfactory response of the student (steps 1, 2 and 3 may also be repeated if required)
7. Give homework and a brief discussion on what will be covered in the next tuition session

Note: Each tuition session starts with the correction of the previous session's homework and explanation of any problem areas, including a summing up of what was covered in the previous tuition session.

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Personal Description:
Hello! I'm a Senior Lecturer in Cybersecurity and Data Science at Cardiff University, with over 10 years of teaching and tutoring experience. I have worked with learners at a wide range of levels, from GCSE and A-Level through to higher education, helping them improve their understanding, build confidence and achieve their academic goals.

I specialise in Computer Science, Digital Technology, Cybersecurity, Python Programming and Data Science, with experience supporting both students who are just starting out in computing and those working on more advanced topics.

Over the years, I have helped many students improve their grades and develop confidence in subjects they previously found difficult. One of the most rewarding aspects of tutoring for me is seeing students realise that they are capable of much more than they initially thought. I have even worked with students who had not originally considered university but, after developing their confidence and interest in the subject, went on to pursue higher education.

My teaching style is friendly, patient and adaptable. I appreciate that every student learns differently, so I tailor my sessions to the individual rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach. This might mean breaking challenging concepts into manageable steps, using real-world examples, working through problems together or finding a completely different way of explaining something until it clicks.

For school and college students, sessions can be tailored to their specific syllabus and exam board, including Computer Science and Digital Technology, with support for theory, programming, revision, coursework and exam technique.

For more advanced learners, I can provide support across a broader range of computing topics, including programming, cybersecurity, data science, computer systems and research and technical skills.

My aim isn't simply to help students achieve better grades. I want them to become more confident and independent learners, develop strong problem-solving skills and, hopefully, discover an interest in computing and technology that continues beyond their studies.

Teaching Experience:
2022-Present - Lecturer / Senior Lecturer, Cardiff University, School of Computer Science & Informatics

I teach across Computer Science, Cybersecurity and Data Science, working with students at undergraduate and postgraduate level. My role includes lectures, practical teaching, project supervision and supporting students in developing their technical, analytical, research and problem-solving skills.

2016-Present - Private Tutor

I have over 10 years of private tutoring experience and have successfully supported a wide range of learners, from GCSE and A-Level students to those undertaking more advanced study.

My tutoring experience covers Computer Science, Digital Technology, programming and wider computing topics. I have helped students prepare for examinations and assessments, strengthen their understanding of difficult concepts, develop their programming and problem-solving skills and become more confident and independent learners.

I am particularly proud that tutoring has sometimes had an impact beyond grades. Some students I have worked with have developed a much greater interest in computing and education through our sessions, with several deciding to pursue university when this had not previously been part of their plans.

2016-2018 - Teaching Assistant, Cardiff University, School of Computer Science & Informatics

Delivered undergraduate and postgraduate laboratories and tutorials across a range of Computer Science topics, including Python and Java Programming, Web Applications, Computer Architecture, Distributed and Cloud Computing, Data Visualisation with Python and group software projects.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is based on a simple principle: every student learns differently.

I start by understanding the student's current level, what they are finding difficult and what they would like to achieve. From there, I tailor the sessions around their individual needs, whether that's filling gaps in knowledge, preparing for an assessment, improving programming skills or tackling more advanced concepts.

Depending on the student, I can provide support with:

- Computer Science and Digital Technology
- Python programming and computational thinking
- Cybersecurity and computer systems
- Data science and related technical skills
- Exam preparation and exam technique
- Coursework and project guidance
- Revision and consolidation of difficult topics
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
- More advanced computing concepts

A key part of my teaching is that I don't simply give students the answer. I help them understand how to approach and think through a problem so that they gradually become able to solve similar problems independently.

I also try to make computing relatable and interesting by connecting concepts to real technology and practical examples. I want students to feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes and saying when something doesn't make sense.

Ultimately, whether someone is preparing for their GCSEs or A-Levels, developing their programming skills or tackling more advanced computing topics, my aim is the same: to help them understand the subject, build confidence and become a more independent learner.

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Personal Description:
Having studied languages myself for many years, I understand what it takes to learn a foreign language.

Success requires positivity, patience, passion for languages, and dedication.

As a UEA graduate and a qualified maths teacher, I apply structured and effective teaching methods to help my students develop four key language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension. My lessons are designed to be engaging, ensuring you learn something new every time while actively practicing your language skills-because here, YOU are the one speaking!

Teaching Experience:
Maths and Russian Teacher

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach is personalized, structured, and student-centered. I tailor each lesson to match your learning style, goals, and pace.

I focus on four key language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience. Lessons are interactive, engaging, and designed to build confidence in real-life conversations.

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Personal Description:
I am an award-winning art educator, examiner, university lecturer, and practising artist with over 16 years of teaching experience across secondary, post-16, higher education, and private tuition.

I hold a Doctor of Education in Education, a PGCE in Secondary Art and Design, an MA in Creativity for the Professions, and a First Class BA (Hons) in Fine Art.

Alongside my teaching, I have worked for both AQA and WJEC Eduqas as an examiner/moderator, giving me an exceptional understanding of mark schemes, assessment objectives, portfolio development, and what genuinely secures top grades.

I currently lecture in Art and Design teacher education at the University of Chester while also running my own premium creative education business.

I have taught internationally in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, France, and Tuscany, and have supported learners aged 6 to adult across fine art, photography, textiles, mixed media, drawing, painting, animation, portfolio preparation, academic writing, and creative confidence building.

Whether a student is aiming for Grade 9 at GCSE, A* at A Level, preparing a university portfolio, building digital art skills, or rediscovering creativity later in life, I bring warmth, expertise, and clear, personalised guidance.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 16 years of professional teaching experience across schools, universities, examination boards, workshops, and private tuition.

My experience includes:

* Secondary Art and Design teaching across Key Stages 3-5
* GCSE, A Level, BTEC, and university-level supervision
* Examiner and moderator work with AQA and WJEC Eduqas
* Senior Lecturer and subject leader in Art and Design teacher education at the University of Chester
* Specialist portfolio preparation for university, foundation, and art school applications
* SEN-informed one-to-one tutoring
* Adult creative workshops and professional artist mentoring
* International teaching and creative education projects

My students have secured places on competitive creative courses, significantly improved predicted grades, built confidence, and developed outstanding portfolios.

Tutoring Approach:
No two learners are the same, so no two sessions should ever feel identical.

My tutoring combines expert teaching, examiner insight, practical demonstration, and genuine encouragement. I quickly identify what is holding a learner back, whether that is technical skill, confidence, organisation, portfolio structure, annotation, critical writing, or understanding assessment criteria.

Sessions may include:

* Live demonstrations and practical technique coaching
* Portfolio and sketchbook reviews
* Examiner-led feedback using current assessment criteria
* Digital art and animation mentoring
* Photography composition and editing support
* University interview and portfolio preparation
* Academic writing and reflective annotation support
* Confidence-building for anxious or neurodivergent learners

My aim is not simply to "get students through" their course. It is to help them become confident, independent, creative thinkers who genuinely enjoy the process.

I have a range of 5 star tutoring reviews on Google.

Due to university commitments and examiner work, I now take on only a small number of private students each academic year.

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Personal Description:
I have an excellent ability to analyse pupil's needs in a preliminary session as well as in the ensuing teaching which enables me to create a teaching plan to support any weaknesses or extension that may be required. I can do this quickly and capably.
I have a range of teaching styles and skills that I can use to differentiate between the needs of the different key stages and to engage with pupils according to their personality. Where appropriate, I like to use practical materials to reinforce concepts if necessary.
I can extend pupils beyond the average expectation to higher, or I can support through concepts that need understanding in order to attain average expectation.
I am extremely organised and efficient. On the other hand, I can be flexible and fluid, depending what style might be needed for the individual pupil.
I have a huge bank of tried and tested resources both in my head, on computer and on paper. I am always keen to find new ways of supporting pupils, tailored to their favourite topics and hobbies where possible.
I am a good listener so that I can understand the concerns and important issues of parents/carers and the pupil themselves.
At the same time, I am confident in being able to talk to families about their needs and issues.
I am studying on an extended creative writing course with the National Centre for Writing affiliated to the UEA.
I have two adult children and 7 grandchildren whose ages range from aged 3 to aged 12. I am often called on to help their understanding of English and maths concepts or to help them with their humanities projects.
I have a comfortable, spacious home where teaching can take place. Parents are always welcome to sit in on any sessions providing it doesn't affect pupil behaviour.
I have travelled within all seven continents (yes, including Antarctica!).
I love reading and all different kinds of music and dance. I love nature, particularly birds.
Most of all, I love working with children and I love teaching.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching for 40 years in a variety of settings ranging from areas of poverty and social deprivation to academic private schools. I have worked in large city schools with over 300 pupils and village schools with 40 pupils.
I have worked with all year groups from Reception to year 6.
I have been responsible for maths throughout the whole school and acted as deputy and head of school when needed.
I ran a British Council Comenius project where I worked with schools in Poland and Northern Spain. This involved visits, taking year 6 pupils to Warsaw and Oviedo.
Over the last 15 years, I have been working on a one-to-one scheme where I work with individuals or groups within the school setting in supporting and extending pupils' abilities. I have been successful in helping schools to attain above average scores in KS2 SATS and in building confidence for the future as well as supporting children with anger management needs.
Prior to that I worked in the Junior Department of Norwich High School for 17 years.
I have a current DBS and can provide references where needed.

Tutoring Approach:
I have covered a lot of my approach in the paragraph above "About Yourself" as I feel that my teaching and my personality and interests are pretty much entwined!

I would like to add that my approach is one of flexibility and understanding based on huge banks of experience.
I can coach to a higher than average level or support where the building blocks have been missed.
I have no problem in supporting pupils with challenging personalities and adapting my teaching style to meet their needs.
Apart from providing the necessary teaching concepts, I offer a sense of humour, dedication, acute awareness of needs and hope to provide confidence and instil a sense of exciting, extension and pleasure in learning.

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Personal Description:
I'm a full-time Economics tutor and an examiner for A-Level and GCSE Economics with Edexcel and WJEC.

I graduated with a First in Economics and then worked for the United Nations in Bangkok on Sustainable Development. That job showed me how much clear thinking and clear writing matter, and they are what an Economics paper rewards most. Most of my teaching focuses on this, together with the content.

In 2026, 32 of the 37 students who reported their results achieved an A* or A. I teach A-Level, IB and GCSE students in the UK and internationally.

Teaching Experience:
Nearly 2,000 hours of one-to-one teaching over 5+ years
Appointed examiner for Edexcel and WJEC
Students at leading UK boarding schools and at international schools in Singapore, Hong Kong, China and the UAE
In-person teaching in China, Nepal and Thailand

2026 results
Of 37 students who reported results, 18 achieved an A* and 14 an A. Every student met their offer from their first-choice university. Five did better than expected and used Clearing to move up to a higher-ranked university.

One student started with me two weeks before their exams, having never written a 25-mark answer. They finished with a high A* and start at Warwick this September.

Tutoring Approach:
I teach what the examiner rewards. Most lost marks are not lost on content. They are lost on a command word that was not answered, analysis that stops one step short, or evaluation that is only a list. I see these errors every marking season, so I find them in a student's work quickly and fix them.

I teach the argument, not just the topic. Every lesson combines content and exam technique. Students learn how to build a chain of reasoning, support it with evidence, and reach a judgement. This skill decides the top grades.

I make it enjoyable. Lessons are interactive and fast-paced. A student who enjoys Economics works harder at it, and confident students write better answers.

I specialise in students who think in a second language. Many of my students sit an English-language exam in their second language. After years of work and teaching across Asia, I know exactly where they lose marks and how to fix it.

Parents always know where things stand. You get an update each half term and a full report each term.

Resources I built, included as standard

The Past Paper Tool: every A-Level Economics question from AQA, Edexcel A, Edexcel B, WJEC and Edexcel International, indexed and searchable by keyword, topic or case study. The mark scheme and examiner report open at the correct page. More boards are being added.
Model essay answers, written to examiner standard
Human-made practice questions for when the real papers run out
A weekly summary of real-world news that you can use as exam evidence
Targeted exam technique homework (optional, but encouraged)

I reply to all messages within 1-2 hours.

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Personal Description:
I am French and lived in Spain for five years. I have a three year French university degree in Spanish, a European postgraduate degree in teaching foreign languages and the PGCE. I also qualified to be an examiner-corrector for the CEFRL (level A1 to C2) for French.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring for more than 20 years, one to one, small groups, after school clubs and classes in teaching organisations and businesses.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring depends enormously on the students' age, wishes and needs. I encourage them to take part in a negotiated syllabus, but also insist on accurate production. For the adults I use mainly methods that are created by native linguists (written only in the target language), which I complement by using reputable text books and authentic material.
For online tutoring, I use Zoom, BitPaper, an interactive whiteboard, a platform dedicated to French learning and other online platforms.

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