Umberleigh Tutors and Umberleigh Tuition

Personal Description:
I'm a Cambridge graduate and Fellow of the University of London, with fifteen years of experience tutoring Religious Studies and Philosophy. My students have a strong track record of A/A* grades. I tutor it full-time across OCR, AQA, Edexcel and other exam boards. I can offer hundreds of exemplar essays and resources.

Get in touch for a free 1-hour trial session!

Extracts from letters of recommendation (available in full on request):

"James is an extremely capable and sensitive tutor."
Mother of RS (OCR) A-Level student
Grade received: A

"My daughter got a D in her mock earlier this year ... for her to get an A really was at the top end of our expectations."
Father of A-Level RS (Edexcel) student
Grade received: A

"I cannot recommend James highly enough. He is punctual and thoughtful and I would not hesitate to hire him again in the future."
Mother of Religious Studies (Edexcel) student
Grade received: A

"James immediately established a very good working relationship with my daughter which encouraged her to really engage with the subject…I would highly recommend James as a tutor."
Mother of Religious Studies (OCR) student.
Grade received: A

"James was brilliant."
Mother of twin daughters taught in Religious Studies (OCR) and Philosophy (AQA).
Grades received: A

RATES
Free 1 hour initial lesson. If there is a results-based bonus I am happy to negotiate the hourly fee.

Teaching Experience:
I have thousands of hours of tuition experience built up over ten years of full-time tutoring. Some of the specific subjects I have taught include:

Cambridge Pre-U Theology & Philosophy
Philosophy A Level (AQA, OCR and Edexcel)
Religious Studies (OCR, AQA and Edexcel) GCSE, A Level
Government & Politics (Edexcel and OCR)
Theology and Religious Studies at degree level (I have helped six different students receive good grades for third year RS dissertations)
Oxbridge applications and interview practice

Tutoring Approach:
Receiving tuition can be a bit daunting at first, so I try to make sure my students feel I`m on their side and there to help them with anything they might not feel able to figure out at school.

My approach to tuition is to assess what specific needs a student has and then to organise the sessions around those needs. Some students need essay technique help and some have a specific set of topics they want to go over. Others might need an entire course taught to them as they have left school or are being home educated.

In my years of tuition, I have built up a cloud-based digital archive of hundreds of handouts which can help a student get back on track and achieve the highest possible grade.

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 am a native German speaker offering one to one tuition or tuition to small groups for German and English language. I have been living in UK for the past 25 years specialising in communication, event management, marketing and tourism. For the past 11 years I have been delivering tailored one to one lessons for MFL German.

I hold the 'Safeguarding in Education' certificate and have an enhanced DBS check.

Teaching Experience:
Experience of one to one adult tuition online and face to face, experience of tuition to children (single and in groups of up to 10)

I have worked with Bristol University and Bath Academy, an independent college and language school.

Rosie (A-level student): "I'm thrilled with the grade and just wanted to say thank you for all the help you gave me in order for me to get this. I really couldn't have done it without you."

Juliette (first year at university): "It's good news! I passed! I'm very happy to know I've passed and can continue into second year. Thanks very much for all your help."

Rachael (adult/ casual learner): "Thank you for my lesson today. I always feel very enthusiastic after I have seen you."

Rachael (adult learner): "A very big thank you from me for all your excellent lessons. Your relaxed teaching methods have suited me perfectly and I have really enjoyed my lessons. "

Lauren (Gcse student): " I was very happy with my German grade. Thank you very much again, as I would not have passed without your help."

Amanda (adult/ casual learner): " Simply thanks. I can no other answer make, but, thanks, and thanks."

Marzena: "As parents we are really glad that you are Kajetan's teacher. Thank you sooo much."

Laura (adult/ casual learner): "Thank you so much for being so wonderful to us and for your excellent German tuition. We have both really enjoyed it."

Working as interpreter in an Englisch- German business meeting: "We were very satisfied with your services."

Tutoring Approach:
One to one tuition or group tuition for primary school aged children, one to one tuition for G.C.S.E., one to one tuition for A-level and university level. I also offer tuition for adult learners covering a wide range of subjects from business German to casual traveler , from first basics of German language to supporting more advanced learners achieving their accreditation. Lessons are tailored to individual needs after a first meeting and adjusted continuously to the process of the learner. Depending on individual needs lessons consist of German grammar, spelling, vocabulary, conversation, listening and translation. As a native German I am able to offer a very broad range of subjects.
In primary group tuition I work with visuals and spoken word, listening, singing, reading, play and role play. According to the children's age it is based on learning through play unless otherwise requested. Please inquire for group rates.

I also have experience in homeschooling environments.

If more than 1 lesson per week is booked I offer discounts.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Daniele and I am originally from Rome. I have more than 25 years experience as Italian language coach/teacher in the world of opera: I have also worked, amongst other institutions, at Royal Colege of Music, Royal Opera House, Paris Opera, Opéra de Lille, Opera North, Scottish Opera, Welsh National Opera, and the Royal Academy of Music.

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced Italian language teacher, and teach private one-to-one or small group lessons either in Hackney, where I am based, or online.
I teach students of all ages, levels and aspirations.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor the lessons to meet the student's needs, ability and aspirations.
When possible I try to follow a textbook, as I think this gives a good structure to our courses. The student would be expected to do some homework between lessons, as this is hugely beneficial to learning.
The aim is to enable the student to 1) read and understand Italian, 2) speak and express oneself, 3) write and 4) understand when listening.
The atmosphere is friendly and informal.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I completed my undergraduate studies (English Language and Literature) in Greece, and my Masters studies in London. I have been passionate about the English language since I was very young, and was awarded the Cambridge University Certificate of Proficiency in English at age 15. When it comes to Language Teaching, I consider my exceptional level of English, my teaching skills, acquired during my Bachelor studies, as well as my experience of eight years of teaching to be my greatest assets. Offering private lessons of Greek and EFL in London and online. All ages and levels welcome. Flexible timetable.

Teaching Experience:
8 years of teaching experience in Greece and the UK, privately and in schools, all levels of English and Greek, including English Literature and IELTS preparation. I have worked both with children and adults, especially second generation Greeks and Cypriots.

Tutoring Approach:
Every lesson is tailored to the needs of the student. The use of specific handbooks is determined by each client's desires and needs. Extra material provided by the teacher. To support, encourage and help the student achieve his or her goals has always been my number one objective when teaching.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I'm half Finnish and half Irish and currently studying management at The University of Stirling. I love teaching English as a foreign language and can also teach Italian for beginners. I am doing this to earn some money alongside my studies as well as gain more experience.

Teaching Experience:
Last summer, I worked in a summer school where I was teaching English as a foreign language for six hours a day for six weeks to Italian, French, Spanish and Chinese students.

I have also done one-to-one tuition in Italy for three months.

I have never taught Italian before but willing to teach those who want to learn beginner Italian as I lived in Italy for 5 years so do know the language quite well!

Tutoring Approach:
I take either a vocabulary or grammar topic and combine it with two of the four language skills; speaking, listening, reading and writing. I mix things up but keep it fun and enjoyable.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi! I am from Ukraine, currently living in UK. I studied Japanese language and culture at Kyiv National University and got Master's degree, after graduating from Ukrainian university I spent half a year in Japan studying Japanese language teaching techniques and preparing for Japanese language proficiency test which I passed successfully.

Teaching Experience:
I have years of experience of teaching Japanese language to people of different age and level. I used to be a lecturer at municipal university as well as private tutor of both Japanese and Russian languages.

Tutoring Approach:
Can vary depending on pupil's age, level and needs.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have wide and successful teaching experience, high expectations of myself and of all my students and a deep love of language, stories and teaching. I have kept up to date with educational research and can therefore offer the best evidence-informed practice to make a real difference to the children I teach. I believe passionately in the power of reading for pleasure as a lever for improving academic success and have converted hundreds of children into confident, independent readers.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught for over 20 years, in state and independent schools and in every year group from Year 1 to Year 13. I have also tutored children 1:1 and in small groups to prepare them for 11+ exams, senior school scholarship exams and to help them keep up if they are falling behind. I have even assisted university students with their dissertations. I am therefore as confident with students of A level Greek as I am helping young children who are struggling with phonics. My students have a track record of success in exams but also learn to love learning.

Tutoring Approach:
Experience has taught me how to adapt teaching to a student's individual needs, experiences and interests. Tutoring is powerful because it is tailored, so I offer personalised lessons which will support, engage, encourage and challenge my students. For English, I generally write my own tuition resources which are adapted specifically to suit the needs of an individual child. For 11+ preparation, I use some published resources to assess where children's strengths and weaknesses lie but then provide my own materials for teaching. For Latin or Greek, I would use courses to structure language learning but, again, supplement this with my own materials.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have worked as a teacher in the UK for 22 years with a range of age groups. Before teaching I was a Registered General Nurse and worked in hospitals both in Birmingham and Worcester.

Teaching Experience:
I have 22yrs experience in English primary schools teaching from Reception to Year Four. I have worked with children with a variety of special needs and have acted as Senco for 3 years.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to make my lessons fun and interesting. I am able to use a child's interests to engage them in their learning and provided regular encouragement and feedback to motivate each child to progress and achieve their potential.

When working with adult learners I seek to build a mutual respect and friendship whilst structuring the lesson to meet their individual needs and interest.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Master of Science in Teaching and Learning from Oxford University
Currently taking bookings for Entrance exam tuition (11+ and 13+) and specialist tuition in Latin, RE and History.
My credentials:
* Former GCSE Examiner
* Current Examiner for Common Entrance / 13+ Scholarship exams
* Head of Department with senior leadership / management experience
* 17+ years teaching experience
* Taught pupils who have gone onto achieved academic scholarship awards at their schools and places at Oxbridge
* Hundreds of hours experience of teaching online effectively via Zoom to enable pupils to reach their full potential.
* Experience as a school governor.

Teaching Experience:
17 years teaching experience. GCSE Examiner. Head of Departments of RE and Latin at multiple schools. Master of Science in Learning and Teaching awarded by Oxford University. Member of a school leadership and management team and a school governor. Hundreds of hours of experience of online teaching.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a personalised approach that takes account of the student's learning style and preferred pace of learning. As part of my tutoring service I also provide homework for pupils which is marked, and free access to a range of different learning resources which can be used outside of sessions.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an enthusiastic tutor with lots of experience of working with all kinds of students and all different levels of ability. I teach all age groups from primary school to GCSE and also adults. I enjoy my job and have a love for Maths and learning that comes across in my teaching.

Lessons can be longer than an hour if you'd prefer.

Online lessons can be shorter than an hour which is one of the benefits of online tuition.

My price varies depending on the time of day you require tuition.

9am to 3pm Online or face to face - £40 per hour

3pm to 6pm Online or face to face - £60 per hour

6pm to 9pm Online tuition only - £50 per hour

Teaching Experience:
I am a fully qualified teacher and I previously taught in secondary schools in Brighton. For the last ten years I've worked solely as a full time tutor. I do tuition in schools, for local authority agencies and I also do private tuition. As I work solely as a maths tutor I have refined my teaching style, resources and approach over the years to provide a service that always gets positive feedback.

Tutoring Approach:
My aim as a tutor is firstly to re-engage my tutees so they gain confidence and a level of understanding that will help them to succeed in class at school. I feel that is important as they will see their class teacher a lot more than they will me.

On my first lesson I always give each student a folder filled with printed resources and an exercise book for us to work in. I also recommend the best websites and apps for them to use (there are so many it is hard to know which are any good). I can also share resources and exam papers electronically with my students and parents.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am Simon, a dedicated tutor specialising in Functional Skills English and ICT. With a background in coaching, person-centered therapy, and alternative education, I bring a holistic approach to tutoring that focuses on both academic success and personal development.

Teaching Experience:
I bring over 20 years of experience in personal development coaching, therapy, and alternative education to my tutoring practice. My background includes working with diverse individuals to help them overcome personal challenges, build confidence, and achieve their goals. In my role as an alternative education tutor, I specialise in Functional Skills English and ICT, focusing on students who thrive outside traditional learning environments. My extensive experience in coaching and therapy allows me to integrate therapeutic techniques into my teaching, providing a unique, holistic approach that supports both academic success and personal growth.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is deeply personalised and student-centered. I integrate therapeutic techniques to help reduce anxiety and build confidence, ensuring that each session is tailored to meet the unique needs of the learner. I focus on creating a supportive environment where students can grow academically and personally.

Subjects