Thornbury Tutors and Thornbury Tuition

Personal Description:
With nearly 15 years of online and in-person tutoring French Common Entrance/13+, Westminster Challenge, Winchester entrance, GCSE, IGCSE, A-level, Pre-U, and SAT, I`m a 50-year old graduate of the excellent University of Sussex languages course with a First Class Honours degree in French and Russian. I lived for four years in Paris where I mastered the language and the accent!

I have also acted in plays in French, taking on the role of Alphonse in a production of The School for Wives, and touring to schools abroad to perform in front of students learning French elsewhere in Europe.

I like to stay abreast of French culture and society, read Le Figaro everyday, and regularly watch French TV news and discussion shows.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored students at all levels, from 13+ entrance exams, including the Westminster Challenge, to most UK exam boards at GCSE, IGCSE and A-level, and I have also helped prepare students for their SAT in French and the DELF exam. I've taught adults who are complete beginners, or have some vague memories of what they learned at school, as well as helping several students gain entry to Westminster School via their Challenge exam

Since the switch to mostly online teaching, I have become an expert in making the most of the resources available, particularly the collaborative tools provided by Google, among others, which are particularly good for working on exercises and explaining grammar in a clear, helpful way.

Successes from the last (2019-20) academic year included: an two As at A-level, and two 9s at IGCSE, as well as entrance to Winchester College via their own exam.

For A-level students, I have already taught Camus's L'Etranger, Françoise Sagan's Bonjour Tristesse, Joseph Joffo's Un Sac de Billes, and Zola's Thérèse Raquin, and am very familiar with all the other set texts. Au Revoir Les Enfants, Intouchables, Entre Les Murs (The Class) and La Haine are the films I am best acquainted with from a teaching point of view.

Here are some comments from a few previous students - originals available on request.

'We could not have asked for a better result - A*s! He got full marks for the reading paper. Thanks so much for all your help, and patience.' - Margaret (parent of home-schooled GCSE student)

'Henry won a scholarship to Westminster. Exactly what he was aiming for." (Leslie, student's mother)

`Thank you so much for all your patient hard work - you taught her exactly the right stuff and there is no way she could have done it without you! I really didn`t think it was possible to teach the whole year 7 curriculum in a week but somehow you managed it. Tiffin Girls is one of the top state schools in the country and rather competitive. Chatting to the other parents outside the exam, most of the competitors went to good independents or had been tutored over a long period of time. You really knew not only what to teach but how to teach it, which shows you have exceptional skills.` - Anoushka (pupil`s mother)

`Just thought I should let you know I got an A! Thanks for all your help` - Helena (A-level student)

'I ended up with an "A"... thanks for all your help, both my spoken papers improved, over my previous efforts.' - Philip, mature student sitting AS and A2 French

Tutoring Approach:
It is important to tailor lessons specifically to a student's needs, but my general method is to engage him or her at a level just above their 'comfort zone'. Learning is about challenging yourself to do better, and it is crucial for a tutor to be supportive and encouraging, and also to keep the bar high.

Lessons can be conducted entirely in French, or in a mixture of English and French. I can work alongside a student's existing course (that is, from a textbook a student is already following), or we can use course books that I recommend.

Where the level allows, I like to draw upon material from contemporary sources such as French news magazines.

For "conversation classes", I find it is useful to base the discussion on an article or a book to help build vocabulary, and also think that incorporating grammar instruction (where appropriate) can be a good idea.

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Personal Description:
I approach all tasks in a professional and organised manner and am a reliable and punctual person who takes pride in my appearance. I can work independently and calmly under pressure using my own initiative where applicable with good problem solving skills. I am skilled in the use of a variety of computer equipment, hardware and software, as well as building, repairing and upgrading computers and installing hardware and software on various types of machines. I am able to provide a high standard of service and meet targets and deadlines.

I have leant to use various software packages and am competent in the use of MS Office (2003 & 2007) particularly Word, PowerPoint and Publisher and have some experience of Excel. On occasions I have set up audio/visual equipment to aid me with presentations. I have also use Internet/Email widely for research purposes. I have knowledge of various MS Windows Operating Systems.

I am always a very committed person who always strives to promote excellent quality, social inclusion, widening participation and motivation in all aspects of adult learning.

I am a confident ICT user who can demonstrate practical knowledge and problem solving strategies and who can learn and adapt to new applications quickly. I am a very enthusiastic, self motivated and conscientious person who works honestly and hard with good organizational and interpersonal skills to enable me to plan work foand is willing to undertake further training where necessary to fulfill relevant tutor qualification requirements. I enjoy helping people and am a good team player who is very adaptable and flexible and who is willing to work outside office hours to meet the requirements of this post.

I have a good knowledge of current software programs, internet applications etc in ICT as I enjoy keeping up to date with current and new technologies by avidly reading computer magazines, watching technology programs and using the internet and forums for research. As IT Technology has changed I have been able to keep up to date with the challenged demanded.

Teaching Experience:
At present I work with the Leicestershire Adult Learning Service working as an E Learning Champion at Oadby Library. I offer free computer tuition to adults wishing to learn more about the computer or have any puzzling questions that need answering. All learners complete a course called My Guide which helps them learn more about the computer by following a set of modules and topics.

Whilst I was at Moat at during my education at Beauchamp College and Loughborough College I helped to assist/ train a small group in the use of particular pieces of hardware and software At Loughborugh College. I also assisted in several HP IT Essentials classes where I assisted students to gain particular qualifications. Whilst at Moat I assisted staff in the training and understanding of new software to ensure all staff have the confidence to deliver the curriculum and to provide support to staff appropriate to their needs. I would be able to provide support, assistance, training help and guidance to staff/students using computers, new and existing software and technologies

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to teaching/tutoring is a simple one I always strive to make sure the learner understands whats he/she is being taught and if there are aspects that they find difficult I revise that particular topic over and over again until they understand and I do this using the various teaching methods and learning styles available to ne including the VAK (Visual, Auditory and Kinesthetic) approach.

Once they have an understanding of the topic I don't move on until they feel comfortable and I always reasure them throughout.

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Personal Description:
My passion for teaching started in 2008, having qualified as a teacher at University in Madrid. After a pedagogic practice in an Secondary Bilingual School I moved to France, where I have recently graduated in French and Spanish Linguistics.

Last year I finished a master's degree in French Applied Language in the Sorbonne University and the Paris Trade Chamber, where I trained in didactics of Specific French (business, scientific, hotel trade, etc).

I'm a very enthusiastic teacher, able to find the talent hidden in every student.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience includes two years as a Modern Foreign Language teacher with Learnissimo, training individual from different sectors (enterprises as Danone, Tompress), three years in Primary and Secondary schools and a six months internship in the French Institute in Madrid.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching method for is based on tasks and the PPP paradigm (presenting a subject, practicing by repetition, matching or filling and producing in the context of a particular task). This approach allows the students to learn by practicing in their real communication situations and to progress in a very short time!

The type of materials I use are generally design by myself, using authentic documents as reports, conversation recordings, emails, hand outs and I also use general linguistics and grammar manuals and essays to support my research

Using a task-based approach, you will be focusing in particular missions and I will give you the tools to accomplish them and I will be designing a individualized programme from your personal or professional targets.

Basically, this is a very practical methodology based on learning by doing.

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Personal Description:
I am an Arabic linguistics PhD student at the Language and Linguistic Science Department of the University of York, UK. I hold a BA in English literature and linguistics as well as an MA in translation studies. My study makes me familiar with written Arabic and spoken Arabic in its different forms (dialects). This is why I am quite familiar with Egyptian, Syrian, Lebanese, Gulf and Sudanese Arabic. In addition, I am also a CELTA-trained teacher and an Assistant Fellow of the Higher Education Academy in the UK.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught English as a foreign language for 10 years at Minia University, Egypt. I also taught Arabic to adults as well as young people for 5 years in England. I teach face to face and online.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching depends on immersing you in enjoyable daily-life situations so that you can easily imitate and, after not too much effort, read, write and speak Arabic/English like a native speaker. Culture cannot be separated from language. So, I also immerse you in the main cultural aspects of Arabic/English-speaking countries in general and offer a brief background to language as reflected in culture. Also, I try to compare Arabic and English (as a language) and the culture represented by it with other languages, including French and German (languages that I am familiar with).

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Personal Description:
I currenrly have weekday availability 9am to 2.45pm.

I am a native English speaker with extensive subject knowledge of language, linguistics and literature and have been teaching English to students aged 3-73 for 20 years, both privately and in international language schools. My lessons are enjoyable and successful learning experiences which are diligently planned and professionally executed.

Teaching Experience:
8+
11+
SATs
SET Test
13+
GCSE Literature and Language (all boards)
IGCSE English as a Second Language
KET
PET
Cambridge First Certificate (FCE)
Michigan First Certificate (ECCE)
Cambridge Advanced (CAE)
Cambridge Proficiency (CPE)
Michigan Proficiency (ECPE)
City and Guilds (Levels 3-5)
Edexcel (Levels 3-5)
IELTS
TOEFL

*8+/11+/13+ ENTRY EXAMS

I provide tailor-made tutorials working on comprehension, writing and both group and individual interview skills.

GCSE LITERATURE AND LANGUAGE (ALL BOARDS)

My students routinely exceed their predicted grades. I can help non-native speakers access the curriculum whilst giving targeted grammatical explanations which develops command of written English.

EFL LESSONS

My EFL lessons cover all aspects of the English language, focusing on grammar, conversation skills and exam techniques. My students achieve a 100% pass rate. My IELTS students consistently attain the levels they require. One of my strengths is intensive coverage of all components of the IELTS examinations (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing) and familiarising students with what to expect on the day.

Tutoring Approach:
I work hard to give my students an enjoyable and successful learning experience. I am dedicated, creative and thorough.

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Personal Description:
Hello to everyone,
I'm a 26 years old Hungarian saxophone player recently moved to London, and looking forward to teach music.

After successfully completing my bachelor in Jazz Saxophone at the Conservatoire of Trento (Italy), I moved to Milan where I have balanced studies and work for almost 2 years. Although I specialise in saxophone and jazz, I am able to teach the recorder, flute, and (classical) music theory.

I started learning music with the Kodaly method at the age of 5 and have been studying, playing and teaching music ever since. As a freelance and private saxophone and flute teacher, I always try to apply that same method when teaching my students.

I have a great experience of performing with various big bands and smaller groups, such as quartet and trio formation in Hungary and Italy as well.

Teaching Experience:
I was teaching in the past three years in Italy, private students and in a music school as well. Most of my students were complete beginners when we met, so I have experience of teaching the basics of music and make the students like what they do.

Tutoring Approach:
My lessons cover topics like: tone production, breathing, articulation, music reading, improvisation, music theory (classical and jazz), ear training, repertoir.
I'm teaching saxophone, flute and recorder in a personalized way. I teach what the students are interested in.
In my lessons I use american books such as Jim Grantham JazzMaster Cookbook, Joe Viola books, Jerry Bergonzi, Bob Mintzer and Jim Snidero methods.

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Personal Description:
I am a 21 year-old Italian student of English literature and Sociology in Scotland. I am easy-going and look to create a friendly learning environment. I love languages, both learning and teaching them, as I believe they help us thinking from different points of views.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored children back in Italy, teaching some basic English.
I have spent six months in a international language school in Canada, where I have been in contact with inspiring teachers and modern methods of teaching. I have attended IELTS courses as well, and I'd be willing to help students to prepare for this certificate.
I myself have received a score of 7 when I attended it 2 years ago, before starting college.

Tutoring Approach:
First I will have to assess the student's level, then I can proceed accordingly. Depending on what is being requested from the student, like improving grammar, comprehension or writing, I will provide enjoyable exercises or even games when possible, as there is no fastest, easiest way of learning than having fun.

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Personal Description:
Hannah has worked as a full-time registered private tutor since 2009, and has taught over 250 students, both from the UK and abroad. Hannah graduated with a BSc (Hons) Biology from the University of St Andrews, where she was awarded a First in her research project on the neuromuscular disorder, Parkinson's disease. She then qualified as a Bowen Therapy practitioner, before completing her teaching degree at the University of Sheffield.

Teaching Experience:
In 2009 began working full time as a private tutor. She has since taught over 500 UK and international students in one-to-one, classroom, and online lessons.

Alongside this, Hannah also taught in the French private sector at the prestigious Epitech Montpellier (École pour l'informatique et les nouvelles technologies, also known as the European Institute of Technology) and currently works as a university application adviser. In addition, Hannah has built up strong relationships with a variety of schools within the UK and she specialises in tuition for students with dyslexia or slow-reading speeds, and is currently studying a Level 5 CPD award in Dyslexia Learning Support.

Tutoring Approach:
During her time teaching, Hannah has authored detailed notes on each topic on the A-Level course. She also has an extensive collection of exam questions and mark schemes, grouped together by topic to break down revision into manageable pieces.

Using their unique log in details, each registered student will have access to all these documents on the Tuition Matters website.

To supplement written notes, students often watch short videos that can help explain difficult topics more easily. Some students also choose to have homework to build upon ideas covered in the tuition lesson, this will then be marked together using the official exam mark schemes so that the student knows exactly what examiners are looking for in a high-level answer.

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Personal Description:
I am currently about to enter the 3rd year of my MPhys course at Durham University.
I have a passion for my degree and I think that the joy of physical science problem solving is one that can be easily lost in a school environment. With a more tailored approach to teaching, I hope to be able to give students a better understanding of how the tools that they learn work, which enables them to approach exams and further levels with more confidence, whilst also making the subject more enjoyable.

Teaching Experience:
I have experience tutoring for GCSE as an academic mentor at school with both maths and physics. I have also helped lower-level undergraduates with topics of concern.
Although I don't have lots of formal teaching experience, I love to help people understand new topics and have abundant energy to inspire students.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that the subjects that I am looking to tutor are genuinely enjoyable if they are presented in the proper way and students are able to explore where their curiosity takes them. Which provides enjoyment and a great sense of achievement
For older students, however, I do not want to undermine the importance of being properly prepared for public examinations. The beauty of maths and physics is that the amount of rote learning is much less than other subjects and practice problem solving and understanding concepts is the key to success, this provides much more engaging revision. Although if you are struggling with teaching yourself a new topic or just didn't find that you 'got it' in class, it can be incredibly demoralising. This is where a second explanation or some targeted understanding can help out. moreover, with regular meetings, we can increase the efficiency of your study and I can teach you some tips on self-assessment and identifying in what manner you can help yourself, which is a vital skill the higher up the educational ladder you climb.

For younger students, my approach is to build a strong foundation of the basic skills whilst exploring more intricate concepts in a guided but ambitious manner. I believe that many students are capable of going far beyond the scope of their syllabuses, with the right guidance and encouragement.

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Personal Description:
I have a life long passion for art, painting and making.

I have been teaching art privately for over 10 years and established a small art school: Art Now - Banstead Art School which I have been running for 9 years in Surrey near London.

I have taught people of all ages (from 3 to 92!) and all abilities from beginners to assisting students to gain successful scholarship portfolios and coursework.

I have also facilitated many creative workshops such as theatrical life drawing and craft in different settings from schools to offices, public spaces and festivals.

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Karina studied Art and Design at Chelsea Art College and has a BA Honours degree in Graphic Design and Photography from Kingston Univeristy.

After graduating, Karina co-ran creative, interactive public events for adults and children in London and Essex including monthly theatrical life drawing classes.

Karina has experience teaching and mentoring children of all ages including children with Special Educational Needs in school and out of school environments. Karina has an enhanced DBS certificate.

Teaching Experience:
Karina has since also trained in Permaculture design, Catalysing Active Citizenship, Creative Practice Facilitation and completed the Forest School Level 3 training.
She works in schools and runs nature connection workshops for adults.

Tutoring Approach:
I have an intuitive and relaxed approach to teaching, tailoring the method for each individual.

My classes usually cover:
~ The basic principles of drawing, painting and design and sometimes craft work such as clay, collage, or printing.
~ Setting activities which use the right side of the brain for seeing in new ways.
~ Experimentation with media and ideas to get comfortable with using imagination, making and creating using different tools.
~ Supporting each student to push their limits of what they believe they can achieve.

I encourage exploration of a range of media and topics are primarily lead by the students personal interests.


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Karina currently offers:

- Home tutoring

- Portfolio preparation and coursework support

- One to one and small groups classes

- Online tuition

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Private one to one classes or small group classes are offered with different prices for each. Please contact to find out the latest prices available and arrange a suitable time for your classes.

In our classes, students are free to explore their imagination, to play with and develop ideas.
Students are taught to master a broad range of quality art materials.
Students are encouraged to paint and draw the subjects that interest them in the media that that they enjoy using.

Group classes are mixed age and mixed ability and each student pursues an individual path of learning tailored to their own needs and interests.

These classes work as a wonderful basis for future exam success and/or a lifelong interest and knowledge of the art that surrounds us all.

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Personal Description:
**Unleash Your Potential with Expert Tutoring - FIRST LESSON FREE**

Struggling with GCSE Math's? I'm here to provide personalized and effective tutoring that caters specifically to your needs.

With years of experience and a Master's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, I am committed to guiding students to mathematical excellence. Whether you're tackling basic concepts or aiming for advanced levels, I'm here to help.

I'm offering your first lesson absolutely free to ensure your complete satisfaction!

Contact me today to schedule your first session - and it's on the house! Don't let Math's be a roadblock - turn it into a stepping stone toward success.

Teaching Experience:
Experienced tutor with 2+ years teaching and 6+ years of industry experience.

Tutoring Approach:
We're all unique learners. That's why my tutoring sessions are tailored to your individual learning style and pace, ensuring a deep understanding of mathematical concepts, while catering for all Northern Ireland Examination Boards.

I employ engaging and interactive teaching methods, integrating real-world examples to make Math's relatable and enjoyable. This approach helps to simplify complex concepts and keeps my students actively involved in the learning process.

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Personal Description:
I am a 25 year old who has completed Masters in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning from the University of Birmingham. I also have a year of experience working as a Sofware Developer at Mercedes Benz. I have an excellent academic background in Computer Science and Maths .

Teaching Experience:
I have extensive experience teaching Mathematics and Computer Science to students aged 8 to 15, tailoring my approach to suit different learning styles and abilities. My teaching has focused on building strong foundational skills, encouraging problem-solving, and fostering a genuine interest in these subjects. In addition to working with younger students, I have also conducted doubt-clearing sessions for my juniors at university, helping them to overcome academic challenges and deepen their understanding of complex topics. This combination of experience has equipped me with the patience, communication skills, and subject expertise necessary to support students in achieving their academic goals.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching style is student-centered and adaptive, focusing on understanding each learner's unique strengths and areas for improvement. I strive to create a supportive and engaging environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their thoughts. I use a variety of teaching methods, including interactive problem-solving, real-life examples, and visual aids, to make complex concepts more accessible and relatable. I believe in encouraging curiosity and critical thinking, and I regularly assess progress to ensure that my students are building both confidence and competence in the subject. My goal is to inspire a love of learning and to empower students to become independent thinkers.

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