Shortstown Tutors & Shortstown Tuition

Personal Description:
Sarah trained at Arts Educational, London. As well as being an actor she has been Artistic Director at The London Drama School for 15 years. Her Theatre Company has been running since 1998 and has many stage, screen and open-air productions to it's name. She is a fully qualified Trinity Guildhall Examiner and works worldwide. Sarah was born in Brighton and attended Brighton and Hove High School & Brighton College, as well as being a student/teacher working for Carole Best at The Brighton School of Music and Drama since age 14. Sarah teaches from home in Peacehaven or in central Brighton or in central Hove.

Teaching Experience:
CURRENTLY
Teaching, Brighton
Working with students at ACT, Brighton and private students who are preparing their Trinity Guildhall Exams & Diploma's or auditions.
WORK
2018, Maid, Pelleas et Melisande, Glyndebourne Festival Opera, Stefan Herheim
2017, Quince & Cobweb, Midsummer NIght's Dream, BOAT & Lewes Castle, Mark Brailsford
2016, Stage, Lady Macbeth, Macbeth, Brighton Shakespeare Company, Mark Brailsford
2016, Stage, Sadie, He Gave Me Heroin, Lantern Theatre for Brighton Fringe Festival, Sian Webber
2015, Stage, Mistress Ford, Merry Wives of Windsor, Treason Show & BOAT, Mark Brailsford2
2013, Suzanne, Urban Adventure Pilot, Blast Theory & Film 4 Dir. Matt Adams
2012, Voice-over, Popmedia Dir. Jim Stokes
2012, Teacher/ Director, Shakespeare Workshops & performance, Fulking
2012, Teacher, Shakespeare Workshop, Dunedin, New Zealand
2011, Cleo, LYSISTRATA, Actors of Dionysus at the Rose Theatre Kingston, Dir. James Albrecht
2011, Teacher/Director, Acting without Acting, Aguascalientes, Mexico, Prod. Priscila Alba Badillo
2011, Jane, Connected, Feature film, Connected Productions, Dir. Mike Carter
2010, Nurse, Human Rights Dilemma's Corporate Video, Sunny Arts, Dir. Will Geffin
2010, Various patients, Brighton Role play @ Sussex University OSCE Doctor training
2010, Workshop Leader, Shakespeare Made Fun, Dome Education Dept, Prod. Pippa Smith
2010, Teacher/Director, Acting without Acting, Aguascalientes, Mexico, Prod. Priscila Alba Badillo
2009, Various patients, Brighton Role play @ Sussex University OSCE Doctor training
2009, Actor & Producer, The Odd Couple, Incisor-Open Air, Brighton, Dir. Natasha Langridge
2009, TV, Actor, Comedy sketch show pilot, Dir. Mark Cameron
2009, Director, Introduction to Shakespeare, The London Drama School
2008, Mrs Hardcastle, She Stoops to Conquer, Incisor-Open Air, Brighton, Dir. Michael D'Cruze
2008, Tinkerbell , Happy Ever After - Interactive Theatre for kids, Brighton Festival & Dome Education Dept
2008, Director, Shakespeare Workshop, The Seychelles
2007, Producer & Angela, ABIGAIL'S PARTY, Incisor - Open Air, Brighton, Dir. Jim Madden
2007, Director, UNCLE VANYA, The London Drama School
2007, Director, Shakespeare's Duologues, The London Drama School
2007, Producer, Corporate Role-Play Video's, Monitor Group, Dir. Ben Cole
2007, Director, The Famous Five, Brighton Festival & Dome Education Dept
2006, Producer & Actor, BLITHE SPIRIT, Incisor-Open Air, Brighton & New Theatre Royal Portsmouth
2006, Director, Shakespeare's monologues, The London Drama School
2006, TV, Actor, BASIL BRUSH SHOW, Cbeebies, Dir. Michael Kerrigan
2006, Producer & Maria. TWELFTH NIGHT, Brighton Dome, Dir. Stephen Casey
2005, Producer & Lady Bracknell, THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, Incisor-Open Air, Brighton, Dir. Natasha Langridge
2005, VoiceOver, Dorothy Norris, VE DAY IN COLOUR, TWI for The History Channel
2005, Director, Shakespeare's monologues, The London Drama School
2005, TV, Mrs Hudson, BILLIE THE GIRL FROM THE FUTURE, 2 Hats Prods, Dir. Daniel Peacock
2004, TV, Louise Holmes, The Hutton Enquiry, SKY NEWS, Dir. Simon Bucks
2004, Mrs Kepple, A PLACE OF SAFETY, Pier Playwrights, Dir. Guy Picot
2004, Corporate Video, Mrs Davis, ADVAL KEY KNOWLEDGE
2004, Steering Group, Royal Theatrical Fund, London
2004, Director, Shakespeare's Duologues, The London Drama School
2004, Producer & Maria, TWELFTH NIGHT, Incisor - Open Air, Brighton, Dir. Stephen Casey
2004, Radio, Henrietta Hangleton & Vvanda Downway, HOTEL PALMEIRA, Dir. Jim Madden & JP Orr @ Touchwood
2003, Stage Manager, Donald Sinden's, Birthday Gala, Royal Theatrical Fund at the Arts Theatre
2003, Producer & Henrietta Hangleton, BRIGHTON SOAPBOX, Incisor & Komedia, Dir. Jim Madden
2003, Dutch, QUEEN OF THE BAR, Brighton & Hove Theatre Company, Dir. Peter Mantle
2003, Television, Louise Holmes, THE HUTTON INQUIRY, SKY NEWS, Dir. Simon Bucks
2003, Director, Shakespeare's monologues, The London Drama School
2002, Producer & Comedy Compere, COMIC IRRIGATION, Battersea Barge
2002, Production Assistant & Olivia, TWELFTH NIGHT, Contraband Productions, Dir. Rachel Lasserson
2002, Television, Harry's Mad Mother, HARRY & COSH SERIES IV THE GIFT, 2 Hats Film & TV Productions, Dir. Daniel Peacock
2001-2, Assistant Manager at The Fortune Theatre
2001, Producer & Director, NASTY BOY, Incisor & Komedia
2001, Producer & Penny, I KNOW WHAT YOU WANT, Incisor & Komedia, Dir. Jim Madden
2000, Jonquil 1999-2000, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, Komedia Productions, Dir. Mark Urquahart
1999, Producer & Director, SO BLOODY IMPORTANT, Man In The Moon, Chelsea
1999, Charlotte, ELEGIES, Co-Active Music Factory, Dir. Fenton Gray
1998, Producer & Penny, ARTIST'S MODEL, Bristol Old Vic, Dir. John Sharian
1997, Co-producer & Lauren, ASHES AND SAND, Co-Active Theatre Factory, Dir. Michael D'Cruze
1996, Co-producer and Co-Director - Take 2 at The Canal Caf Theatre, Maid Vale, London
1993 -7, Assistant producer - The CAT Factory, Brighton at Komedia

SKILLS
Qualified Trinity Guildhall Examiner for Speech & Drama
Artistic Director at The London Drama School & producer for all end-of-year West-End Showcases
Specialist in Shakespeare, Chekhov, Oscar Wilde, Noel Coward, Pinter & Animal Study

TRAINING
1991 - 1992 DIPLOMA IN ACTING - Grade A, Arts Educational Schools London
1988 - 1991 BA DRAMA and ENGLISH - West London University
1985 - 1987 3 A-LEVEL and 1 S-LEVEL - Brighton College
1983 - 1987 NEW ERA GOLD MEDAL - SPEECH & DRAMA
GUILDHALL GRADE 8 - SPEECH & DRAMA - Brighton School of Music & Drama

Tutoring Approach:
Encouraging all students to work to the best of their ability and to stimulate their imagination and passion for performance and interpersonal skills. All acting requires physical strength and vocal technique and her approach is very dynamic and energetic. Can teach Stanislavski, Method, Voice, Animal Study, Shakespeare, Restoration Comedy, Chekhov, Sense Memory amongst others.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a very experienced English teacher, having taught the subject for 17 years to date. I am currently the Head of English at a local school. I have a B.A and an M.A in English Literature, as well as a PGCE in English teaching, so my subject knowledge is extremely advanced. I am also an A grade A Level English and GCSE English examiner, so have developed knowledge of exam criteria and working to the assessment objectives. I have taught AQA and OCR GCSE English, AQA English Literature, AQA English Language and AQA English Lang & Lit.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught English for 17 years in total, across the secondary sector and in Further Education. I have taught across all levels in Key Stages 3, 4 and 5; teaching English to years 7-9, GCSE English, Functional Skills English, A Level English Language (AS and A2), A Level English Literature (AS and A2) and A Level English Language & Literature (AS and A2). I am currently an Advanced Skills Teacher in English and an A Level English Language and GCSE English examiner. My students get good grades in their courses, with 100% pass rate (A*-C) in GCSE English and 100% pass rate (A*-C) in all A Level English courses. I have advanced knowledge and understanding of all areas within English, including: linguistics, literary analysis, creative writing, analysis of non-fiction/media texts, grammar, spelling and punctuation. I am a current GCSE English Language examiner so I have a developed understanding of the requirements of the exams.

Tutoring Approach:
I am an experienced tutor, having tutored for twelve years and I have a very good track record of success, all of my tutees have gained the grades that they needed- including 10 A grades in GCSE and 5 A grades in A Level English. I am extremely passionate about students achieving to their potential, gaining the grades that they need to succeed. I check the tutee's current level and then set targets for them, linked to their written work. I am supportive and encouraging towards my tutees and I am dedicated to their achievement and success.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified economics and business teacher with 20 years' experience in secondary schools, and now as a full-time tutor. I've provided over 9,000 hours of private tuition to 400+ UK and overseas students. I have an economics degree from Liverpool University. Prior to teaching I worked in advertising for 10 years. I also own two online businesses. I live in Bristol, am married with 3 teenage children, and I am passionate about helping young people achieve 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 2024 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 (many more can be seen in the reviews section):

"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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I currently offer tutoring for physics up to A2 level plus maths up to GCSE level.

I have taught at a variety of comprehensive schools for 25 years and am currently lecturing in Physics at the Crosskeys campus of Coleg Gwent. This is the largest A level centre in Wales. Our physics results are always excellent, we have the highest A/B pass rate (>70%) and overall pass rate (100%) in Wales for such a large entry. In 2011 we had 48% A and A which was twice the national average.In 2012 67% of the students in the class obtained A , A or B

Teaching Experience:
I have been a teacher of science (including A level physics) and maths for over 25 years.
I have successfully home tutored a large students in both GCSE maths and physics over many years.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to tutor by firstly going over the salient points about the current work, followed by attempting past paper and equivalent questions. However, I am easy going and happy to help in whatever ways are needed. I am here to help the student progress ion whatever way he/she feels best.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I'm John, a Cambridge University educated professional engineer. I can help you learn or improve your English for specific reasons. For instance you may need to pass IELTS exams for university entrance or you might just want to improve your English for work or social reasons. Perhaps you need a better command of business or technical English - having worked in business in the energy industry for many years, I can help you there. Not only can I help you with your English, but I can also assist with the preparation of winning business proposals and presentations.
I have a TEFL qualification, passed at distinction, and taught in a secondary school in Scotland, so am used to the teaching environment. I have a relaxed and easy style but will ensure that you achieve your objectives. I'm happy working with people of all ages and backgrounds and to tutor individuals or groups.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught in Scotland as a secondary teacher of Technological Education. Recently I have taught English as a Foreign Language (EFL) to young people and trainee monks in Thailand.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a relaxed style but will ensure that you achieve your objectives. Each pupil is an an individual and a program to suit your individual needs will be worked out with you.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Luke has a BA (hons) in Biblical Studies and Theology and has been reading and studying the works of the Early Church Fathers for over five years, and has recently published a book detailing the early church, "40 Days with the Father" (available on Amazon).
After being involved in various short-term missions to South Africa, he currently lives in Devon, England, where he co-founded a web development software company, with his dad, Kevin.

When not working, Luke writes frequently on his theological blog, That Ancient Faith, or spends time with his wife Lucy and his new daughter, Amelia.

Teaching Experience:
Although I've not taught in a 'formal' setting, I have been involved with, and lead, various small groups through different churches over the years, as well as being a youth leader and the occasional preaching/teaching.

Tutoring Approach:
I am quite laid back and easy-going, and understand that different people sometimes require different approaches to learning, so I'm open and flexible in that regards. I do like detail and data, so I am very thorough with my researching on topics.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I currently work in Finance for a London insurance company. I graduated (Nov 2020) from the University of Essex with a Master's in Data science before this I did my undergraduate at the University of Kent in Actuarial Science (maths and statistics with finance focus). I currently work as a reserving Actuary in London. I previously studied Mathematics, Chemistry, biology and German at A-level.

I am a friendly, proactive and helpful individual, who knows first hand what it can be like to need just a little bit of extra support to get the grades you want to achieve.

willing to travel but also happy to do online/zoom sessions

Teaching Experience:
I have been a maths tutor for other students from secondary school through to university, so have developed skills to be able to explain things in a way for different people to understand from primary school children to adults.

Tutoring Approach:
Friendly fun but structured approach to tutoring to give you confidence in your own skills, tutoring focused and based on your individual needs and circumstances

Subjects

Personal Description:
Fully qualified teacher of Mandarin (all levels).

I prepare students for GCSE and A-level exams, as well as conduct and assess these exams for schools. I also provide teaching services for higher education establishments, government departments, and corporate entities.
I assist students with all levels of the Chinese Proficiency Test (HSK), and all my students have a very high success rate.

Teaching Experience:
I have been professionally teaching Mandarin for 15 years +.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a passionate teacher and like to keep my lessons interactive and fun.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I currently work as a Lead Practitioner of maths in a large comprehensive school in Gravesend, having previously taught in a grammar school for a number of years. I'm a highly successul teacher having been fast-tracked to middle leadership qualifications and have also completed a Masters in Expert Teaching.

Outside of teaching I run a charity that helps boost educational and employment opportunities for economically disadvantaged students in the local area, and am involved in working with a number of other local organisations also.

Teaching Experience:
4 years in a grammar school
Placement in a special educational needs school
Currently work in a secondary comprehensive
Lead Practitioner of Maths
Achieved National Professional Qualification of Middle Leadership with full marks
Masters in Expert Teaching

Tutoring Approach:
I have a deep understanding of what make effective teaching and have been training and mentoring teachers for over 4 years to demonstrate this. My teaching style is built around helping students understand fundamentals, correcting misconceptions quickly, and reguarly revisiting knowledge so that it is embedded.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a profound tutor who provides personalized academic assistance and educational support to students to achieve their educational goals and obtain high-level success to achieve great academic excellence. Furthermore, I provide and actualize limited group instructions for those students who need tutoring lessons to address certain academic issues.
I work to ensure a clear understanding of various topics for my students by clarifying difficult topics, answering questions properly, and creating keys to principles. In addition, I foster approaching academic learning challenges with patience, understanding that every student has an exclusive pace and pattern of learning.

Teaching Experience:
Online, part-time tutor at Christ The King College, Enugu, Nigeria
subject thought: English and Religious Knowledge
2017-2021

Tutoring Approach:
As a tutor, I use a student-centered approach to tutoring, taking into account each person's exclusive learning style and history. Students may ask questions, make errors, and participate fully in their education in the safe and accepting learning atmosphere that I provide. I think that receiving individualised attention may help students reach their full academic potential and develop a lifetime love of studying.

Subjects

Personal Description:
As an A level student at one of the top Grammar schools in the country (Queen Elizabeth's Boys School) I know exactly what it takes to achieve the top grades in GCSE Biology, Chemistry, Maths. I myself acheived very high grade 9s in these subjects at GCSE so I know what the mark scheme requires first hand. I can teach you the tips and tricks that I used in order to obtain these grades. I am passionate about the passing on of knowledge to younger students so that they can achieve their academic goals. I understand learning can be challenging and that is why I will motivate students to love the subjects they study.

Teaching Experience:
I have experience in tutoring children in KS3 Science both at Queen Elizabeth's Boys School and elsewhere and I have developed a deep understanding for how to help students achieve their potential.
In addition, I currently tutor students part time at my school for their GCSE exams and work as a mentor for many students who are hoping to ace their exams.
I have developed a wide range of effective teaching methods that I can successfully tailor to individuals. I believe all students can achieve their goal with the right support and guidance.

Tutoring Approach:
I understand that all students have unique needs and learning styles. I always feel it is best to identify the strengths and weaknessses in the subject so I can plan a good course to follow to better undestand and prepare studetns for the exams.
Whether you need help with specific topics, or want to work on exam technique I can provide the support that you need to excel.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a dedicated Maths tutor with a First-Class degree and postgraduate qualifications up to PhD level in Engineering. Alongside my work as a Group Finance Manager/Finance Director, I teach Maths with the same rigour, clarity, and commitment I bring to my leadership roles. Tutoring isn't a side hustle for me - it's a meaningful part of my professional life, and I'm passionate about helping students build confidence and truly understand the subject.

Teaching Experience:
With over 20 years of Maths teaching experience, I have supported learners from year 7 through to year 13, and a couple of university students - from those building foundational skills to students aiming for top grades. My approach is structured, clear, and focused on developing genuine understanding rather than memorisation. I provide tailored guidance on home study and revision techniques, and students who follow my recommendations have consistently achieved outstanding results, often acing their exams. I take pride in creating a supportive yet disciplined learning environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach is structured, thorough, and focused on genuine understanding. I break down concepts clearly and build knowledge step by step, ensuring students develop strong foundations rather than relying on memorisation. With over 20 years of experience and academic qualifications up to PhD level in Engineering, I'm able to explain even complex ideas in a simple, practical way.

I set high but achievable expectations. We do not move on from a topic until the student has demonstrated clear understanding - through practice, explanation, or problem‑solving. This ensures there are no gaps, no guesswork, and no false confidence.

Home study is an essential part of my method. I provide targeted practice and revision guidance, and students who follow my recommendations consistently achieve excellent results, often acing their exams. My goal is to build confidence, competence, and long‑term mastery of Maths.

Subjects