Starcross Tutors & Starcross Tuition

Personal Description:
I am an academic and scholar who holds both a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) and a MLitt (Master of Literature) from The University of Glasgow, and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) honours degree from The University of Paisley.

Since 2006, I have been a personal tutor in several subject areas including English, English Language, English Literature, Media Studies, Film Studies, Theatre Studies, and General Writing Skills. I have successfully taught a wide range of students off-line from pre-exam age (11+) to Standard Grade, Higher, and university level, and on-line for pre-exam level (12+), GCSE, AS level, A-Level, university level, postgraduate and the adult learners over this time.

I am the author of four academic books, several chapters in edited collections from the likes of Bloomsbury and Edinburgh University Press and scholarly journal articles. My first book 'Robert Taylor: Male Beauty, Masculinity and Stardom in Hollywood' was shortlisted for the Best Monograph of the Year at BAFTSS Awards 2020, and I have been invited as a guest speaker at events across both the UK and beyond, as well as on a range of radio stations, YouTube channels and podcasts. I was recently invited to present to a sold out audience at the BFI in Southbank, London and later to give a talk in the BFI Ruben Library. I have been requested as a guest lecturer and reader/reviewer for several monographs and journal articles, which have successfully been published. I am currently working on my fifth book and have some chapters in forthcoming edited collections.

Teaching Experience:
A well as being an experienced on-line and off-line personal tutor, I have also had several other academic jobs including:

Lecturer at Forth Valley College

Seminar tutor at The University of Glasgow

Graduate Teaching Assistant at The University of Glasgow

Top-Up Tutor at The University of Glasgow

Step Up to University Lecturer at University of West of Scotland

REACH Tutor at University of Glasgow

Proof Reader at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Note Taker at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Study Support Tutor at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Mentor at University of the West of Scotland

Transcriber at University of the West of Scotland

Exam Scribe at University of Glasgow and Scottish Rural University College

Exam Invigilator at Scottish Rural University College

Reader/Reviewer of academic journal articles and monographs, various publishers

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that learning should be fun and in a relaxed atmosphere but at the same time academic and useful. My approach to teaching is to have the tutor and student both feel that they are getting a lot out of the experience and that the time is being well used. I will break down subjects into easily manageable blocks and make sure that my student understands the unit before moving on. I also like to vary my tutorials by having some in the form of lectures, some in the form of question and answers, some where I will give students feedback on homework they have done and suggestions to improve what they have done, etc.

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Personal Description:
I like being a teacher and I get true enjoyment from sharing my knowledge and skills with new learners, making them realize how easy learning can be and how much actually they do know already. I like helping young people enjoy learning and making learning easy for them. I am patient and adaptable and easy to talk to. I always discuss the needs of my new pupils very carefully and aim to build their confidence in the subject. As an Examiner with a well-known Board, I am able to help my students to maximise their potential using targeted revision and exam techniques.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a teacher for many years. I have always wanted to be a teacher. I have worked in several schools now, gaining experience from working with a variety of learners of various ages and learning styles. I have worked within the requirements of more than one exam board, therefore I am quite familiar with all exam formats. I have been a tutor also for 10 years with very good results. Students do like me within first session, gaining confidence and self reassurance that they are capable of a lot already. Only some issues need re-addressing, building on their prior knowledge. I work as an Edexcel and SATs expert examiner. I am recommended as a tutor by Emmanuel College and Cardinal Hume School in Gateshead, as both schools know me well. Among other teaching positions I have been a classroom teacher at Lord Lawson School in Birtley and Whitburn School in Sunderland. I have worked as an intervention teacher (one to one teacher) in a few schools already, due to my extensive experience gained along the past years.

Tutoring Approach:
Within the first session, I discover the individual needs of my learners, their strengths and weaknesses. Then I devise a plan to address the whole programme of study within the number of weeks available, so no topic is ignored. I work simultaneously on exam requirements, but also on skill development, skills that the student can benefit from, outside the boundaries of a specific exam format. Students find themselves forgetting the time, often engrossed in their work, mentally challenged and stimulated. I set short homework at times, so that students can practise independently on those skills they develop with me, being reassured that they can transfer those skills further. I do provide learning materials which I do personalize for each student. I am very likable and I do make young learners be at ease within minutes of meeting them.

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Personal Description:
I am a qualified teacher with over twelve years' classroom experience and a four-year integrated Master's degree in Chemistry (MSci) from Imperial College London, where I graduated with First Class Honours in 2013.

I have taught Chemistry at a leading independent boys' school, and before that spent two and a half years at an independent girls' school. I hold both Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), and taught across a range of state schools while training. Alongside my main degree I also studied Physics and Mathematics, so I am comfortable supporting students where the three subjects overlap.

I am also the author of two published GCSE Chemistry revision guides and I have developed two companion revision apps on the App Store covering the same specifications. Both came directly out of the classroom - the points students reliably get stuck on, and the exam technique that moves grades - and my students work from the same material and the same approach in their lessons.

My aim is to help students reach their ambitions and their true potential. I encourage them to develop intellectual curiosity beyond the confines of the syllabus, and to strive for excellence in whichever field they choose to pursue. I also believe in a balanced approach, in which academic study, physical health and proper time to consolidate learning can comfortably co-exist.

Subjects and levels:

- A Level Chemistry - OCR A, OCR B (Salters), Edexcel and AQA
- Cambridge International A Level Chemistry and IB Chemistry
- GCSE and IGCSE Chemistry - AQA and Edexcel
- Mathematics - up to and including GCSE and IGCSE
- Biology - up to and including GCSE
- Younger year groups from Year 6 and Year 7 upwards

Teaching Experience:
- Over twelve years' classroom experience as a qualified Chemistry teacher (QTS and PGCE)
- Taught Chemistry at a leading independent boys' school, and previously for two and a half years at an independent girls' school
- Taught across a range of state schools during teacher training

Tutoring experience:

- Over 12,000 hours of tutoring, one-to-one and in groups
- Author of two GCSE Chemistry revision guides
- Developer of two GCSE Chemistry revision apps on the App Store (for AQA and Edexcel)
- I run the Head Start to A Level Chemistry course at Imperial College London, for students who have completed Year 12 and are moving into Year 13
- Previous experience with Kumon Maths and English
- I help organise the International Mathematics Competition (IMC)

Tutoring Approach:
How I teach:

I introduce new material by building on what a student already knows, so each concept connects to something familiar rather than arriving out of nowhere. Chemistry becomes very difficult when it is learned as disconnected rules, and much more manageable when students see how the ideas fit together.

When a student is stuck on an exam question, I don't hand them the answer. I give a hint - enough to get their thinking moving, and no more - and let them arrive at it themselves. It takes a little longer, but it is the difference between a student who can answer that question and one who can answer the questions they haven't seen yet.

How lessons run:

- One hour on Zoom, with live annotation so we work through problems together on screen
- Built around your child's exact specification - wording, mark schemes and examiner expectations, not generic Chemistry
- A shared Google Drive folder for every student, holding their resources, homework and a dated record of everything covered in each lesson, so students can revisit any topic and parents can see exactly what has been taught
- OneNote available if a student prefers it
- Small group lessons also available

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Personal Description:
Hi my name is Debra and I live in Gunnislake.
I graduated with an MFA in Fine Art at Wimbledon College of Art in London and have a degree in painting and, diploma in art and design.

I specialise in portraiture and figurative art and drawing. I've also worked with iPad painting. My preferred medium is oil and acrylic, charcoals and pencil. Much of my work is done through direct observation and I stress to students, the importance of this. Observational work strengthens the eyes, memory and confidence in what we are looking at, enabling a better observational record. Therefore, plenty of practice, ultimately reaps rewards.
I am passionate about what I do and regard drawing and painting as a form of self expression.

Teaching Experience:
I have eighteen years experience within the Early Years sector.
4 years Private tutoring experience

Tutoring Approach:
I am an extremely motivated and positive person and believe that anyone can be taught to draw. Healthy doses of discussions, listening and the exchanging of ideas is a key component in cultivating the creative mind, alongside plenty of encouragement and positivity. Constructive criticism is also very important and this part of exchange should be delivered with positivity to maximise a productive way forward for the tutee.

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Personal Description:
James is a freelance theatre director who trained at RADA and the Kings Head Theatre in London.

I have directed several theatre productions at drama schools, fringe and off-west end theatres. As an Associate Director, I have worked in the West End on numerous productions including The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe and the Olivier and Grammy-nominated Amelie The Musical. I have also worked at the Royal Shakespeare Company as an Assistant Director on their sell-out show A Christmas Carol starring Adrien Edmondson.

Teaching Experience:
In my early career I taught at Theatrix Performing Arts School and directed students through Trinity College London acting examinations as well as public performances. My students achieved a 100% pass rate with Merits or Distinctions in their performance examinations. Theatrix recently gained notoriety after alumni Ambika Mod starred in the hit Netflix television series One Day.

I have been a guest director at three drama schools including Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, Drama Studio London and Court Theatre Training Company.

Tutoring Approach:
I focus predominantly on text analysis when working with students on the practical and performance aspects of theatre. I use exercises, improvisations and games to engage them with the scenes they are working on.

I try to facilitate a students' personal creativity when working with them on theoretical theatre work; I encourage them to use their own ideas and opinions. It is my view that theatre is not objective, so allowing personal style is very important.

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Personal Description:
I am a researcher at Kings College London. I do research on biology, genetics and neuroscience. In addition, I give lectures and run tutorials to biology, chemistry and medicine undergraduate students on genetics, evolution and neurobiology. İ am a graduate of veterinary medicine and worked as a veterinary surgeon for three years before moving to research. İn addition to Turkish, which is my mother language, I am very efficient in English and French and good in Dutch.

I was born in Turkey and finished my high school as well as Veterinary undergraduate education in Istanbul, Turkey. Then I moved to London to do a PhD in Psychiatry Genetics and since then I work / live in London.

Teaching Experience:
I gave private tuition for ten years to students aged 10-18 on various subjects including maths, physics, biology, french, english, geometry and chemistry. İ am currently giving lectures and running tutorials to biology, chemistry and medicine undergraduate students on genetics, evolution and neurobiology. More specifically:

- Gave private tuition to students (in Turkey) aged 10-18 in subjects including Maths, Chemistry, English, French, Biology.
- Gave private tuition to adults (in Turkey) in writing, reading and speaking Turkish.
- Gave lectures to biology, chemistry and medicine undergraduate students on genetics, evolution and neurobiology.
- Run tutorial sessions with medicine undergraduate students on genetics, evolution and neurobiology.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor my tutoring to the needs of my students. First İ talk to the student and try to understand the origin of the difficulty experienced by him/her. Then I give a background information on the subject and let the student to develop it while resolving any question or confusion. During this process I provide additional help whenever the student needs. Then I give examples on the same subject to strengthen the student's knowledge. I am friendly, patient and enthusiastic, and keen to help the student develop a confidence and make progress.

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Personal Description:
I am Jackie. I have been Acting professionally for over twenty five years and have had a very varied career I trained at The Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London gaining the A.G.S.M Diploma in Professional Acting. I also have extensive teaching experience from working in both the Private and Public Sector, and established Stage Schools.
My many theatre credits include appearing in London West End Musicals, e.g. ('The Pirates of Penzance' (with Tim Curry and George Cole, 'Theatre Royal Drury Lane'), 'Budgie' (with Adam Faith and Anita Dobson ,'The Cambridge Theatre London'), and at The National Theatre of Great Britain ( 'Guys and Dolls' and 'The Beggars Opera') and in many straight theatre roles in various Theatres across the country.
I also have many diverse Television credits specialising in Television Comedy. I have worked with such renowned writers as Carla Lane at The BBC (appearing in 'Bread' and 'Luv' ) John Sullivan at The BBC, (appearing in 'Heartburn Hotel ') Roy Clarke at The BBC (appearing in Rosie',) and Victoria Wood at ITV( appearing in 'Dinner Ladies) My favourite role was as 'Glenys Pike' in the very popular comedy series 'The Brothers McGregor' written by John Stevenson for Granada TV which ran for four series. ) as well as many other TV appearances such as 'Cracker', 'Brookside', and 'Coronation Street'.

Teaching Experience:
I have extensive teaching experience from working in both the Private and Public Sector, and established Stage Schools. I teach all ages up to degree level or privately,specializing in one to one tuition. I have helped many young people with Drama School auditions with very good success. I also coach actors on audition technique and on audition speeches or scenes.

Tutoring Approach:
Do you need help with auditioning for Drama Schools ? Need help selecting pieces ? Need help with Drama as an academic subject? Want to improve your communication skills or a professional preparing for an interview ? My approach to tutoring is that I am here to help you and lift you up, not drag you down. With my experience there is nothing I have not seen or done performance wise and I understand it takes courage for some people to come to classes. I try to create a warm and pleasant teaching atmosphere for all my students and I have had great successes.

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Personal Description:
Hi there,

I am a native Turkish language teacher.

I graduated from Turkish Language Teaching Department at the Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Turkey in 2005.

I'm looking for enthusiastic students who are eager to learn Turkish in London.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked as a Turkish teacher for 17 years. I am currently based in London, I work with children and adults.

Tutoring Approach:
If you want to learn Turkish or improve your level, with specific methods and materials to suit your needs, in a fun and interactive way, I guarantee we can achieve this together. Lessons can include grammar explanation, vocabulary building and doing exercises, weekly quizzes, monthly tests and having conversations. Also I can provide lessons tailored especially for travellers who are planning to visit Turkey, looking to have a more enjoyable and fun experience communicating with the locals. These lessons will include the most important phrases and basic words and also some cultural tips.

Also if you need help for your GCSEs and A level exams we can arrange lessons specifically focused on these exams.

We can arrange individual lessons, for two students or small groups.

Contact me so we can get to know each other and discuss your future lessons.

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Personal Description:
My name is Kat, and I am a qualified nurse currently pursuing PhD study following working as a Practice Development Nurse at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.

I live in the beautiful village of Brill, Buckinghamshire, with my 2 year old son, and my husband who splits his time between Brill and Germany. We enjoy being outside, music and eating good food.

I have a passion for people, seeing them realise their potential and exceed their goals. I was a tutor with UK Tutors during my nursing training in 2010-2012, and can't wait to meet new some new tutees.

Teaching Experience:
I have had a range of education / developmental / teaching roles throughout my career, and through delivering education in a variety of settings and through different media I have gained skills which allow me to really focus on the needs of my individual tutees, their current levels of understanding and their end goals.

Curriculum Support Assistant at King Edward VI High School, Morpeth, Northumberland
- 1-2-1 support for students with special educational needs working towards SATs / GCSEs / ALevels in mainstream education
- Through this role I also lead classes for Year 10 PHSE

Peer Support Educator with Sexpression charity
- Delivering sex and relationships education to a range of student groups, from puberty and basic reproduction to young pupils in schools, to contraception advice and sexual health to university students

Online mentor with Brightside charity
- Mentor to school-age students (1-2-1 and teams) with an interest in starting a career within the health and social care sector

Mentor / Practice Supervisor / Practice Assessor (Nursing)
- NMC qualified mentor (now known as Practice Assessor) for nursing/nursing associate students, supporting clinical skill development and achieving professional qualifications

Clinical Practice Educator at John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford
- Provision of practical skills sessions for registered and non-registered practitioners

Practice Development Nurse
- Overseeing staff training needs across Gynaecology, delivery of a range of teaching sessions, including clinical skills, anatomy and physiology, coaching/mentoring-type supervision, professional practice

Tutoring Approach:
I believe tutoring is a partnership, and not lead solely by the tutor. Encouraging tutees to take the lead ensures a truly personal education and ensures holistic learning. The tutee is the only person who knows what they really want to achieve and I work with people to firstly understand their goals, and then make realistic and attainable targets in order to reach those goals.

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Personal Description:
I am a current A-Level student, studying Chemistry, Biology, Maths, and Business at sixth form. I want to help students achieve their academic goals, and I believe I can work well with students at a variety of levels. I believe I am friendly and approachable and I want to motivate and empower students to help them become the best that they can be.

Teaching Experience:
I currently work as a teaching assistant at a primary school, and I have taught and worked with children up to the age of 15, having experience in teaching at GCSE level and below. I have mentored younger students at my school for several years, and have also worked with family friends and relatives. This has mainly been in English, Maths and Sciences.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is tailored to each individual student depending on their particular strengths and weaknesses. I set clear and simple tasks with steady progression and try to always make it fun and interesting, as I believe learning can be a process of enjoyment and a source of satisfaction. I find out what they struggle with, and help them iron out any issues they have in the subject. I ensure I cater and adapt towards their needs specifically, as I believe it is important that they are gaining a full personalised experience from tutoring.

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Personal Description:
Dear Student,

My name is Ana. I am passionate about teaching Portuguese - my native language. I am looking forward to meeting you and becoming the one who will help you to reach your learning goals.
Not only will I tutor the language but I will also teach you cultural aspects of Brazilian culture.
All learners are welcome to contact me - From beginners to advanced, from casual to business Portuguese.

I have been teaching Portuguese since 2008. I have my Teaching License in second languages from a Brazilian University (Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina).

Some personal information about myself - I am into dancing (Brazilian and Latin style), Brazilian music, traveling and sports.

Looking forward to hearing from you,
Ana.

Teaching Experience:
- Portuguese and English one-on-one tutor (from 2008 to the present): Teach one-on-one lessons following the Communicative Approach /
Teach both in-person and on-line lessons

- Portuguese as a second language tutor (at The Language Club school. Florianópolis - Brazil. Jul 2008 - Mar 2010 and Oct 2012 - May 2013): One-on-one Portuguese lessons for students from various nationalities. Conducted the lessons following the Communicative Approach.

- English Teacher (Federal University of Santa Catarina. Florianópolis - Brazil. Mar 2013 - Nov 2014.): Taught English for classes of about 15 adults aging from 18 to 50 years old. Conducted the lessons following the Communicative Approach.

- Teaching assistant in early years education (St Francis College, São Paulo - Brazil. Oct 2015 - Dec 2018): Teaching assistant in classes of children aged from 2 to 5 years old. Engaged children into learning and exploring following The PYP (Primary Years Programme).

- Au Pair Programme. (New Jersey, United States of America. Jul 2010 - Jul 2012): Live-in nanny for children aging from 20 months to 7 years old.

- Teaching Assistent in a school for autistic children. (Queensmill school, Shepherd's Bush, London, UK. Jun 2021 - Jul 2022).

Tutoring Approach:
The lessons are tailored to meet the students' needs. I usually apply the Communicative approach in my lessons. But it won't suit some students. In this case, I will rethink the methodology. That's why prior to choosing any strategies, I will offer a free appointment to discuss students' aspirations and establish their Portuguese level. We then agree on a program of study which matches their goals, frequency of lessons, and their starting ability. The lesson plan will be updated every 3 to 6 months.

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Personal Description:
With a BA Hons degree in Early Childhood Studies, I've delved into various educational philosophies like Steiner, Frobel, Montessori, and Reggio Emilia. I firmly believe that each approach offers unique benefits to every child. My journey includes extensive experience in preparing children for 7+, 8+, 11+, SATs KS2 tests, and ISEB Common Entrance exams. I've successfully guided students to prestigious schools like Royal Grammar School, Queen's College, and St. Paul's Prep School. Specializing in interview prep for 11+ school entrance, I focus on core subjects for ages 3-11, including early years and primary/elementary levels. My passion lies in supporting children with dyslexia and autism, empowering them with strategies to boost confidence, overcome challenges, and realize their potential. Equipped with a TEFL certificate, I'm committed to enhancing my skills with an upcoming course in teaching young learners.

Teaching Experience:
With 3 years of experience in Sunday school, I meticulously planned weekly lessons. As a classroom assistant, I focused on aiding the lowest ability groups, and providing crucial support with classwork. Specializing in English, maths, and science for ages 5-11, I'm passionate about helping dyslexic children thrive in reading and writing. My tutoring approach revolves around understanding each child's learning style, and tailoring lessons accordingly. I love incorporating educational games, particularly for younger learners aged 5-7. Successfully preparing students for 7+, 11+, and SATs KS2 tests is a testament to my dedication.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching philosophy revolves around infusing fun into focused learning. I believe in creating an engaging and dynamic environment where students not only grasp concepts but also enjoy the process. By understanding each child's unique learning style, I tailor my lessons to ensure maximum comprehension and retention. Whether it's incorporating educational games for younger learners or employing interactive activities for older students, I strive to make every session both enriching and enjoyable. With a balance of fun and focus, I guide my students towards academic success while fostering a lifelong love for learning.

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