Itchen Valley Tutors and Itchen Valley Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a PhD mathematician, with a special interest in applied mathematics and statistics. I worked for some years in University departments as a tutor and then lecturer. More recently I have worked for almost two decades in industry as a mathematician at a prestigious research centre in Cambridge. I am familiar with many aspects of secondary education through my children who both completed their A levels at Hills Road 6th form college. My son has just begun reading Economics at London School of Economics while my daughter obtained a first class honours degree from Oriel College Oxford.
I have succesfully tutored a large number of A level students in both Mathematics and Physics from a wide variety of Sixth form colleges in the Cambridge area. I also teach International studnets who wish to gain entry to the UK University system.
My approach is interactive and encourages the student not to underestiante thier own ability. My experience is that many students are more talenetd in Mathematics than they realise themselves; the key is to gain the confidence to grow and develop to achive your goals.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught Mathematics and Physics, to A level students from a wide variety of Sixth form Colleges in the Cambridge area. I have also taught International students from many different countries but especially China. I also have particular experience of teaching Mathematics to people whose primary interests lie in Business studies and in Engineering. I also gained valuable insight into adult education when I taught adult part-time students.
I have also provided tutorials for students with many different requirements including A level and undergraduate Physics & Mathematics courses and, for example, GMAT Mathematics prep for MBA entrance exams.
I am self-employed as a private tutor and employed as a University Foundation tutor in Mathematics and Statistics at Cambridge Regional College and previously at Bell School Cambridge.

Tutoring Approach:
The details of the correct approach vary from one tutee to another, but the principles remain the same. I seek to establish the student's ability within the context of a given aim and to then set realistic objectives.
I think that most students have more mathematical ability than they themselves believe; this can be brought out in a positive fashion once negative stereotypes are discarded. Also the application of mathematics to the real world can be exciting and profitable.

Parental Comment
Hi Brian,

I hope you're enjoying the Summer break.

I just wanted to let you know that Kalen has a A* for maths and an A for further Maths. He's very pleased with this and on behalf of him I'd like to say thank you so much for all your help.

Overall he got A*A*AAB and is off to Warwick to do a general engineering course.

Thanks again Brian,

Suneela


STUDENT COMMENTS
August 2018

Dear Brian,
I have just received my results and wanted to let you know that I have an A* in A level maths !!!! I am very happy thank you for all your support and help I couldn't have done it without you!

Kind regards,
Alice B :-)
September 2018 (from Durham University student)
Hi Brian,
I just thought I would let you know, that with your help, I went from a 30 to an 85 in my retake. Thank you so much for all your help.
Kind regards,
Jake

Dear Brian. I found our tutorials very helpful and feel much more able to hit the ground running when I return to Oxford. I will be sure to recommend you to anyone else I know in need of tuition.
Peter N, returning undergraduate.

Brian helped me to revise my university maths before starting an MSc course 10 years after completing my undergraduate degree. He was patient, non-judgmental of my rusty abilities, and gave useful examples of mathematical problems to help explain some very difficult concepts. He is very reliable and a pleasure to work with. I would have no problem recommending Brian to others and would certainly see him again for further tuition should the need arise.
David C, returning graduate student

Another parent comment
Brian is helping my daughter who attends Hills Road with both physics and maths and she has just had her fifth session. This is the first time with have engaged with a personal tutor so really wasn't sure what we were doing and started out with some trepidation. We soon were able to ensure that the hour we spent with Brian was really productive and useful. Brian has been really helpful and and this has increased my daughters confidence and knowledge which is exactly what we were hoping for.

New student comments
I'm just emailing to tell you that my physics unit 2 exam went quite well. There were only a few small questions that I couldn't answer. I will tell you my result when I get them on the 14th of August. I must thank you for helping me over the past few months. I really have no clue how badly these exams would have gone if you did not help me. Thank you so much for your help.
Calum M AS Physics student.

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Personal Description:
I have been teaching for 12 years in a variety of educational settings in Further Education, Adult Education and working in Primary schools delivering courses to children and parents. I am currently up to date with primary school methods of teaching English and Mathematics - the latter has changed significantly over the years and parents may find methodology different to their own learnt methods which can cause problems when helping their children with homework.

I have a friendly approach, and encourage learning in a safe environment that enables learners to feel happy and stimulated to learn. But I still expect learners to work hard for me and complete homework when given it. I am a mature person, reliable and punctual, and interested in my students progress in their subjects. I have been so happy over this past year with exam results, raises in grades and the positive feedback from pupils and their parents.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching since 1999, and have a varied experience due to working in larger colleges and smaller learning establishments. I have worked in Adult and Further Education teaching English and Mathematics, and also have worked with youth offenders.

I started private tutoring in 2011, and found it a rewarding and enjoyable form of teaching. My learners have varied from 5 year olds & primary learners, those studying for GCSE's, secondary school pupils, English for speakers of other languages and those in Further Education that need extra help with English and Maths one-to-one (extra to their college courses).

Tutoring Approach:
I find it best to discuss with the students their learning needs, then create an 'Individual Learning Plan' with targets we can work towards. I do like to encourage learners to do their best, learn through doing and working out answers. Not so much focusing on 'wrong' answers - but the process of getting there - and realising where problems lie. Then we can remove the misunderstandings and misconceptions that lose them marks (especially with mathematics) and make new connections that enable learners to produce the 'right' answers.

I use all forms of learning through not just text books - but through games of mental maths or spelling, interactive work (if pc supplied in learners house) & help with school set 'mymaths' site, 'doing tasks' from counting money to making maths drawing with isometric paper and many more methods that stimulate a learner to make long term deep memory learning.

Students can feel in control of their learning, and see their progress in their Individual Learning Plans which can be shown to parents and adapted to suit the needs of the learner, either in long term courses or short intensive sets of lessons.

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Personal Description:
I am an accomplished educator with a wealth of experience spanning multiple academic levels. I hold the role of a College Lecturer and am also a certified teacher from Liverpool John Moores University. My teaching journey has encompassed learners from Year 7 up to Advanced Level, as well as university students. My academic background includes a First-Class BSc (Hons) degree in Software Engineering from Kingston University and a Master's degree in Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence, achieved with Distinction. I am also currently pursuing a PhD in the field of Artificial Intelligence.

Furthermore, I have successfully completed the NIPQML (The National Professional Qualification for Middle Leadership), underscoring my commitment to effective educational practice. My approach is characterized by approachability, reliability, and enthusiasm. I bring extensive expertise in teaching a variety of subjects, including Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and Computer Studies, with experience spanning GCSE, Advanced Level, and university-level education.

Teaching Experience:
With an extensive teaching background spanning numerous years, I have successfully instructed students from diverse backgrounds and age groups in subjects including Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Business Studies, and Computer Science. My teaching expertise encompasses multiple examination boards, specifically AQA, OCR, and EDEXCEL. I have experience instructing at various levels, including GCSE, IGCSE, BTEC, AS, and A2.

Currently, I hold the position of a Computer Science and Digital Technology Lecturer at a college in Merseyside. This role allows me to continue fostering educational growth and instilling valuable knowledge in my students.

Tutoring Approach:
I possess a deep understanding of children's diverse learning styles, enabling me to craft lessons that incorporate effective teaching techniques to optimize their learning experience. My primary goal is to nurture learners' confidence, achieved through the use of straightforward methods that render complex concepts easily graspable. My approach thrives on interaction, ensuring that lessons are dynamic and engaging, ultimately cultivating effective learning and enhancing children's cognitive abilities.

During tutorials, I actively engage with students to create an immersive learning environment. This approach not only ensures real-time comprehension but also bolsters critical thinking throughout the lesson. Utilizing meticulously updated PowerPoint slides, I harness their potential as a teaching tool. These slides, coupled with a comprehensive array of resources-ranging from notes and specifications to exam techniques, knowledge organizers, recent past papers, and marking schemes-form an integral part of my teaching strategy.

For group classes, I require a minimum of 5 students to foster collaborative learning. The pricing structure for these classes is as follows:

- KS3: £20 for a two-hour session (Maths/Triple Science)
- KS4: £25 for a two-hour session (Maths/Triple Science/Computer Science)

This pricing scheme ensures quality education in a supportive group setting. Your child's learning journey is my priority, and I am dedicated to providing an enriching experience that fuels their growth and success.

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Personal Description:
Hello, I live near the Cotswolds town of Malmesbury with my 3 children. I am an American and British citizen.

I am patient, reliable, organised, adaptable, and approachable.

Teaching Experience:
With over 10 years of experience, I am a fully qualified ESOL (English as a second or other language) teacher - having gained high grade passes in both TETYL (Teaching English to Young Learners) and CELTA (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) qualifications. I also have a BA degree in Communication and a Diploma in the Children and Young People's Workforce. I am also DBS checked.

I have experience in teaching and I am happy to teach general or academic English, as well as exam preparation including IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, Trinity or Pearson EdExcel.

I have taught people of many different nationalities and ages including French, Polish, Romanian, Russian, Italian, Bulgarian, Chinese, Brazilian and Argentinian ranging from 6 years old to over 60 years old.

I am experienced in teaching online, 1:1, small groups and in a classroom.

I also have experience teaching online via Zoom, Teams and Skype.

Tutoring Approach:
I really enjoy teaching English as a second or foreign language and I believe in making the learning fun. I teach in the interest of the student and endeavour to develop the learning based around their interests and specific requirements. I use a variety of mediums such as; online activities, books, worksheets, internet, realia (real life objects), songs, videos, etc .

I offer private English Language lessons as well as online for all ages - both one-to-one and small groups. Lessons are taught at your preference - online, in your home, my home or can be arranged in a public place.

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Personal Description:
I am a qualified secondary school and college Maths teacher with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). I have Degree and Masters, Msci, in Mathematics from university of London(QMUL).
I have one year secondary school, five years College, Leyton Sixth Form(GCSE/AS/A2) and 14 years private tutoring experience.
I am currently an active Edexcel examiner with experience in marking GCSE/AS/A2 papers. I mark at the end of each exam period for Edexcel. I teach both, Statistics and Mechanics units for any exam board.
I only teach from year 10 and above for this academic year.
I will travel to you.

Pricing per visit:
£70 1hour and 30mins

Teaching Experience:
As well as having over ten years tutoring experience, I have four years GCSE/AS/A2 level teaching experience in a college. This means I am familiar with the mathematics syllabus. I am also Edexcel examiner with experience in marking GCSE/AS/A2 papers.

Tutoring Approach:
I invest towards instilling student's confidence and interest in the subject so that they have ownership of their learning.
I constantly assess students, like testing, questioning, given regular homework and asking for detailed explanations. I try to motivate my students with a constant interaction in my teaching.

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Personal Description:
I am a qualified (CELTA) English Language teacher who has been teaching in Taiwan, Poland and the UK since July 2017.

I have studied Chinese, German and Spanish so I fully understand what it is like to learn a foreign language. I like to keep my classes informative, useful and enjoyable, and I will tailor them to suit you and your needs.

I read and write extensively during my free time, and I aim to encourage others to see the positives in both reading and writing effectively. I also enjoy football, travelling and gardening.

I am dedicated to improving my knowledge and skills, and I pride myself on being a strict and dedicated teacher who encourages every student to reach their full potential.

Teaching Experience:
Since completing my CELTA in 2017, I have taught ages 3-65 from levels A1-C1 in General English classes, but also IELTS, FCE, CAE and PET exam preparation classes. My favourite classes are IELTS and Intermediate levels, but I am comfortable teaching anyone who is willing to learn.

I have always received strong ratings from my students (school / teacher feedback) and often receive emails from previous students, asking me for help or support with their English.

Tutoring Approach:
I aim to teach all skills equally, but can tailor my lessons based on your strengths and weaknesses. I want to help my students develop a wide range of vocabulary and enable them to understand and use every day language, such as ordering in a restaurant or buying a train ticket, discussing the news or giving their opinion on a political situation.

I always include vocabulary and pronunciation work and believe that correction is a vital part of every lesson. I encourage my students to self-correct, especially in writing, and often find that after a few lessons they are able to make progress in this area.

My classes include games (kahoot, board games, cards, hangman...), social media when relevant, BBC / radio programmes and other interesting activities that will help students increase their English skills in a useful way.

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Personal Description:
Very approachable, calm and patient. Having a young son myself, I understand the challenges of educating different individuals and needing to adapt the style to suit the learner. I spent a number of years living in Bahrain, and as such am very used to working within a multicultural environment.

I have spent the past 20 years of my career working in the Pharmaceutical industry leading a team of chemists in the development of analytical methods to support new therapeutic treatments. I also worked within the external training team as a tutor to deliver training sessions within my specialism, training many delegates from other companies, which spanned a very large age range. Additionally, I wrote a number of articles and White papers on several key areas of chemical analysis within the Pharma industry, as well as providing support to business marketing.

As a person I am methodical, tenacious and have an eye for detail.
I have very good communication skills and always focus upon positive attributes to build confidence in weaker areas. I would conduct an initial evaluation of subject knowledge to ensure that any gaps present from an earlier stage in their subject are filled before moving onto further study.

Teaching Experience:
Extensive tutoring experience as detailed above. I was also regularly involved in mentoring new graduates within my team.

Tutoring Approach:
As eluded to above, I am acutely aware of the different styles needed to suit different individuals. Therefore I avoid a 'one size fits all' approach, ensuring that I adapt to suit each individual. I am always keen to evaluate current knowledge and identify gaps that will prevent effective learning in areas of weakness. I am also of the opinion that everyone has potential; it is fundamentally important to build confidence in demonstrating to the tutee what they already know and to demonstrate progress that they are making along the way. With my industrial experience my style will always involve real examples of chemistry in action.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Momoka from Hokkaido, Japan. I love traveling and have been to 31 countries. I'm also interested in learning languages. I can speak English fluently, make small conversation in Khmer (Cambodian language), read French (beginner level).

Teaching Experience:
I used to teach Japanese in Cambodia for one year. I used "みんなの日本語" and taught mainly N4/N5 level.
I passed the Japanese Language Teaching Competency Test and am a qualified teacher.

Tutoring Approach:
My lesson is flexible. (Reading, speaking, writing, Anime language, JLPT, etc…) Just let me know your goal and how you want to learn.

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Personal Description:
I am Syed. I have done Bachelors in Physics and Masters in Physics. Now I am doing PhD in the University of St. Andrews. My teaching methods include daily quizzes because I like to proceed forward when I am satisfied about that the student has learned the previous one.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching in tuition centres as well as private home tuitions

Tutoring Approach:
I love to describe each and everything in detail and ask the students again and again if they are satisfied and understand. Then I move forward.

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Personal Description:
BSc in Physics from Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Currently pursuing PGCE in Maths

Teaching Experience:
7 years 1 to 1 tutor experience, specilized in Maths and Physics
Full time experience at tutorial centre
Full time experience at education agency
Full time experience at universities and institute
GCSE Maths and Physics teaching experience in college and secondary schools

Tutoring Approach:
Adaptive teaching style
Focus on analysis and steps

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Personal Description:
With numerous years of experience in mathematics, I am passionate about helping students build confidence and achieve success in their mathematical journey. I specialize in primary mathematics education and cater my tutoring style to meet the individual needs of each student. My approach focuses on breaking down complex concepts into manageable steps, ensuring a solid understanding of foundational principles before advancing to more difficult material.

I believe that learning math can be both fun and rewarding when the right techniques and mindset are in place. I work with students of all levels, and take pride in creating an engaging and supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and exploring new ideas.

Let me help you unlock your full potential in math!

Teaching Experience:
With a strong foundation in mathematics and extensive experience as a Chartered Quantity Surveyor, I bring a unique skill set that bridges analytical problem-solving and practical application to mathematics. My background in complex measurements, cost estimations, and project planning with precision and accuracy allows me to guide students through mathematical issues. As a Chartered Quantity Surveyor, I have a unique understanding of practical and theoretical mathematical proficiency and have experience in mentoring students through all stages of development, however I specialise in primary school mathematics.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach is centered around creating a personalized, supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow at their own pace. I believe in building a strong foundation in the basics before progressing to more complex topics, ensuring that students understand the "why" behind each concept, not just the "how." I tailor my lessons to each student's unique learning style, using a mix of hands-on exercises, real-world examples, and clear explanations to make difficult concepts more approachable. My goal is to foster confidence and a love for learning, helping students not only improve their grades but also develop critical thinking skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

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Personal Description:
I am a very experienced teacher of Business both GCSE and A Level. I have worked in many schools in South Wales and have been Head of Department and a classroom teacher. I am now based in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 25 years of teaching both GCSE and A level business, mostly with WJEC Examination Board but have taught GCSE Edexcel as well.

Tutoring Approach:
I am happy to tailor my experience to your needs and can teach the whole syllabus, individual topics or go through past papers.

Lessons would last for 50 minutes and I am happy to mark past paper questions or go through them with students.

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