Upham Tutors & Upham Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a highly trained, experienced, self motivated and flexible individual with excellent organisational/interpersonal and communication skills, able to operate at all levels, with students from all backgrounds and nationalities.
I began my Photographic career over twenty years ago, then slowly slipped into Film making as a natural progression.
I have shot photographic projects and films all over the world, and have been an ambassador representing several schools, colleges and universities whilst involved in this work.

Teaching Experience:
I have over twenty years of Photography and Film making experience, working abroad to shoot several short films in Prague, Paris, Africa and China. I have worked with both African and Chinese students in their countries, shooting a variety of Photographic and Film projects, having spent three months, and one month in these respective countries.

I have over twenty years of teaching/training experience in various establishments, Schools, Colleges, Universities, and with various council's throughout the Midlands. I have over twenty years of experience of dealing with a wide variety of students , from various backgrounds. I have worked with students of all ages, from primary school, to adult students in their eighties!
I have worked with people from mental health units, drug rehabilitation centres, and the probation services, using the creative media and arts as a form of therapy to bring about positive change.

Over twenty years of writing and delivering bespoke re-engagement training courses in a wide variety of areas (including photography, film making, digital imaging, film and media studies, literacy, numeracy, preparation for work training, CV writing, personal motivation and decision making), to disenfranchised, marginalised students.

Excellent computer/I.T. skills using a wide range of high end/professional software for video editing, image manipulation and audio visual presentations/performances.
Extensive experience of curriculum development, development of schemes of work, child protection policies, professional practices, and internal verification of work using assessment criteria from a multitude of awarding bodies.
I have been associated with UK Tutors since 2005.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to teaching is a very relaxed, informal one, giving the student ample opportunity to attempt things for themselves, and to allow them to flex their own creative and mental muscles with support and guidance where necessary.
Students are allowed to be themselves, feel relaxed , comfortable, to be able to make mistakes, without the pressure of being surrounded by or judged by their peers.
I often use projects to reinforce creative ideas or techniques, so that students begin to create their own portfolio's of their photographic work or video clips that they can use to create a show reel.

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Personal Description:
I am a warm friendly, patient, understanding and highly motivated tutor. I have the ability to attend to all your learning needs. I am extremely resourceful and knowledgeable on the subjects I tutor in. I will work out the best way that you learn and teach to your learning strengths. Your success is my success!

Teaching Experience:
I have been a Primary School Teacher and a teacher of English as a Foreign Language for over twenty years. I have experience of teaching all levels of English from pre-school to Business Studies and University essay writing. I have also been a Primary School Teacher for fourteen years.

I have regularly coached students for the SATS tests, 11+, IELTS and some subject specific exams.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is to get to know you the person a little first. I like to establish what specifically you want from the tutoring sessions. When I have established your requirements I can then start to build a profile of your learning; what methods best work for you. Your success is my success.

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Personal Description:
I am currently doing a masters program in oil and gas chemistry at the university of Aberdeen, Scotland. I got my bachelors degree industrial chemistry from Madonna university Nigeria. (4.49 GPA). I have very good communication skills and very patient with students as I tutored for a bit during my first degree.I also simplify chemistry to the minimum and make it interesting for students. I have core depth in various areas of chemistry like analytical chemistry, organic chemistry,inorganic chemistry,physical chemistry and general science.
I hope to pass on my quota of knowledge to build the upcoming chemist.
Chemistry is fun

Teaching Experience:
Tutoring throughout the four years of my undergraduate degree.

Tutoring Approach:
Patience and explaining terms in the most simple realistic way, but generally making chemistry practical and fun.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Penny and I'm glad you've stopped by!

I'm an encouraging, patient tutor helping unsure or low-confidence learners build skills at a steady pace. My lessons are collaborative, warm, supportive, and low-pressure - ideal if you want reassurance and extra encouragement to cheer you on, and if you value human rapport over fast-paced drills and strict targets.

GCSE:

With my experience as Head of Languages at a secondary school, I'm well-placed to help students with French and German GCSEs, focusing on the essential skills and success criteria - whether you want to grow in confidence or receive clear guidance on working towards higher grades, all without the pressure.

PRIMARY:

I bring learning to life with interactive, hands-on activities, using a fun and dynamic online platform that goes beyond the typical learning tools. With digital infographics, quizzes, games, puzzles, videos, storybooks, and role-play, students have an engaging and immersive learning experience.

ADULTS:

I help learners progress from absolute beginner to intermediate level (CEFR A1-B1). I focus on learners **up to B1**, to gently build confidence with the foundational essentials - whether handling chats in shops, restaurants or at work. B1 is a great milestone and you'll be able to handle most everyday interactions with ease.

I'm best suited to learners who are open to practical, thoughtful ways of learning, using simple strategies and small daily habits to build confidence and overcome anxiety - making language learning efficient and enjoyable for those who appreciate guidance and insight.

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I offer French, German and Italian lessons, with flexible pricing from £36 to £60 per hour, tailored to suit your needs. 30 and 45-minute lessons also available.

Having also lived in France, Germany and Italy, I bring a global perspective to tailor lessons to different learning styles and cultural contexts. Speaking four languages (French, German, Italian and English) while learning three more (Swedish, Polish and Arabic), I know how rewarding, but scary, language learning can feel. I therefore focus on helping learners feel comfortable and encouraged every step of the way, without the pressure.

With the right support and steady practice, you'll be surprised how quickly you can reach your goals.

Teaching Experience:
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

- Qualified Modern Languages Teacher & Head of Modern Languages (PGCE secondary French & German)
- 12 years' languages teacher and tutor experience
- GCSE exam preparation for AQA & Edexcel
- BA in European Languages (French, German & Italian)
- TEFL with Distinction
- Fully DBS checked
- Excellent track record - More information can be found on my website

Tutoring Approach:
OUR NEXT STEPS:

Recognising that each learner is unique, we begin with a setup session (20-60 minutes, £20) to discuss your needs. This is an opportunity to see if we're a good fit before moving forward with lessons.


Step 1 - Your Goal Setup Session (20-60 minutes, £20) - Required.


Step 2 - Lessons.

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For companies seeking staff language training, progress reports are available upon request.

Take the first step and get in touch. I'm excited to help you achieve your language goals :)

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Some wonderful words from my students and their parents:

"I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone thinking of booking sessions with Penny to do it and do it now! As a trained actor, I came to Penny with a very unique request. Having very little knowledge of speaking German…. within a week we had a monologue translated, memorised and ready to present to an audition panel. Not only did Penny help me reach my goals but she gave me the upmost confidence to get there. I'm certain I would not have got there if it was not for Penny's support and extra efforts to help me achieve them. Not only that, but her teaching has most definitely inspired me to continue with my language learning. I would 100% recommend working with Penny. Don't hesitate - she is one of the best!!" Adult learner.

"Penelope has been very professional, organised and engaging . My son enjoys his lessons and has started to develop interest in German within first few lessons". - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Miss Penelope is a wonderful teacher. From the very first day she motivated my son to study French more. She is very punctual and professional. Just after one month my son's French has improved significantly. Exactly what I wanted." - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Penny is an excellent communicator and teacher. She is very supportive and is always enthusiastic. We are very pleased how well she is able to explain aspects of the German language and is always engaging. We are very happy to recommend her." - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Penelope is a professional German tutor; she tailors the teaching material so that it fits the student's needs. I had German lessons with her for over three months now and I feel my language skills have improved significantly. I also add that She has a nice personality and her classes are really enjoyable. I definitely recommend Penelope to people seeking to improve their language skills in a structured manner!" - Adult learner.

"Lovely tutor. She makes my daughter relax and actually enjoy learning German / French. I highly recommend her." - Parent of a Year 9 student.

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Personal Description:
Does your child needs 1-1 support with English or Maths?

Is your child struggling to keep up with school-work or homework?

I can offer 1-1 support in a comfortable learning environment from an inspirational, patient and friendly teacher.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught in a range of settings for the last seven years. Teaching children from Early Years to Sixth Form. I have tutored privately for over 10 years.

Tutoring Approach:
I am very intuitive to the learning styles of all children. I like to spend some time getting to know a child and how they learn so as when working with them, I can work on their individual strengths to develop their understanding of different subjects.

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Personal Description:
I am studying civil engineering at the university of bath and am undertaking a placement year working in Shrewsbury.

Teaching Experience:
I am very experienced in teaching having coached volleyball for the past 6 years. Working with children from ages 10 all the way up to members of the university team. This experience has taught me a lot about the best methods to explain concepts and ideas to all age groups which are applicable across all fields.

Tutoring Approach:
My favourite approach is to teach through examples in a very hands on involved manner. I am not a fan of just talking at students and assuming they are going to pick things up as I go. I like to break things down into simple individual components to then build up gradually increasing complexity to achieve a greater final understanding.

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Personal Description:
Having been in Academia for almost ten years, with a BA in Sociology and Psychology, and a MSc in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy, I am all too aware of the mental effort and stamina required by tertiary education. Further, I am a CELTA qualified teacher, and having taught English for the past 4 years to non-native speakers, I am well equipped to help students get the best out of their academic pursuits.

Teaching Experience:
4 years - English to non-native speakers - Adults, Adolescents and Children - Exam preparation, BULATS, IELTS, Cambridge, PET, Business Language - Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing - CEFR A1-C2

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring style is eclectic, however primarily based on the Communicative approach. Therefore, I use a range of teaching styles, depending on the learning style of my student. My academic background in Sociology and Psychology also equips me to target specific teaching and learning strategies that are best suited to my student.

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Personal Description:
Hello there - Γεια σου!

I am Stefanos, I am a primary school teacher, special needs teacher and a Greek language tutor currently working in Bristol, England. I am coming from Patras, Greece, where I spent most of my childhood and early adult life. I am passionate in supporting people of all ages to achieve their personal educational goals whatever these may be.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching in Special Education for 6 years supporting students aged from 7 to 16 years old with a range of learning, mental health and medical difficulties. The last couple years I am privileged enough to work in Primary Education and in teaching Greek as a second language.

For the last 10 years, I have been working as a Greek language tutor. I have had the pleasure to teach a variety of students across all ages, ethnic backgrounds and abilities, from primary-aged Greek students to teenagers and adult learners in the United Kingdom, Greece and on-line from all over the globe.

One my proudest Greek tutoring achievements is to be supporting a group of adult learners with their conversational Greek practice every week for the last 6 consecutive years. This particular group of learners (which I now also call friends) have experienced the positive impact of our lessons in their casual visits in Greece every year.

Tutoring Approach:
I do not follow a single approach in my teaching practice because I do not believe in the one-fits-all method. Upon discussion with the student or the carer(s) I am trying to get a better understanding of the students' goals and ambitions - this normally takes place during the first lesson which comes free of charge. What I am aiming to achieve with that is each lesson to be tailored to the individual learner's needs.

Some of the elements of my teaching methodology involve:
- structured practice,
- speaking and general communicative skills,
- reading skills and writing skills (if necessary)
- cultural understanding behind the semantics of the words
- systematic informal language testing

Personalized teaching material with focus on all aspects of the language (paying special attention to the grammatical and syntactical structure of the language) is provided with every lesson. The learning intentions are established in collaboration with each learner. My main goal is to create a meaningful and fun learning experience by engaging students in an active learning process.

I am looking forward to getting to know you and embarking on this fascinating journey in the Greek language together.

All the best,

Stefanos

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Personal Description:
I'm an environmental scientist by training and I spent 16 years in the environmental chemistry sector before deciding that I wanted to teach.
I live in Little Sutton with my partner (also a teacher) and I have three children: Eleanor (19), Sarah (16) and Francis (13).
I have wide interests that include being out in the countryside a lot, cooking, fishkeeping and reading.

Teaching Experience:
During my time in industry I was heavily involved in the training and development of staff and this led neatly to my teaching career. I trained at the outstanding University Of Chester and worked across Wirral and Liverpool in a wide variety of primary school settings before teaching my own classes permanently and full time at schools in Birkenhead.
I relocated to North Wales in 2016, where I started to learn Welsh and to teach right across North Wales, from Wrexham to Llandudno and in primary and secondary schools. I have recently moved back to Wirral and so I teach in both countries now and I have built a reputation as a teacher with an outstanding rapport with children and the ability to teach children most subjects from age 4 to 16.

Tutoring Approach:
I will assess your child first, in order to gauge their strengths and areas for improvement and to benchmark their attainment, against which improvement can be measured.

I will spend time working with your child to understand their learning style 'mix' - this will allow me to tailor my approach to my teaching and to their learning.

It is important that children enjoy sessions, so wherever possible there will be fun!

My curricular strengths are English and maths, but I can also help out with 11 Plus and entrance exam preparation - verbal and non- verbal reasoning and mental maths. I am available in holidays also, if you want your child to catch up, or 'hit the ground running'on their return to school.

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Personal Description:
I'm 26 and recently discovered my love for tutoring after volunteering to take responsibility for my nephew's home schooling during lockdown. I currently study at The Open University towards a BSci Hons Natural Sciences degree. I have first hand experience of being the student and the tutor and found this invaluable when working with my nephew towards his learning aims.

Teaching Experience:
One year zoom tutoring, KS2 and KS3, all subjects.

Tutoring Approach:
I work with a high level of emotional intelligence and feel the child is happiest and most open to learning without the pressure of feeling responsible for their learning. I will only use positive reinforcement to encourage learning and find having set prizes to earn to be very effective for motivation. What I take the most joy in is tailoring lesson content to the interest of the child, enabling the child to fully engage and enjoy my lessons rather than view them as a chore.

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Personal Description:
I am passionate about teaching and I love to spread the Italian culture through different tools( art, music, readings, cinema). I depict myself like a hard-working, outgoing and particularly sensitive person. I am even imaginative and keen on my job activities.

Teaching Experience:
In Italy I managed reading projects in schools and I have worked for libraries, bookshops and nurseries as a teacher. In london and Brighton I organized animated reading events aimed at Italian and English children. I currently teach Italian to adults and children using Italian books and multimedia tools on online and face to face basis(when possible & following health and safety measures due to pandemic).

Tutoring Approach:
I have a very pratctical approach and I like to teach Italian through readings, the use of original video and audio. I don't want to use only the grammar, but also offer ample space for conversation and real life topics.
In my method, the student is protagonist and he/she is able to elaborate and speak as much as possible.

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Personal Description:
As a former teacher, I really enjoyed being an examinor for GCSE Chinese (Speaking).

I was a qualified teacher from Hong Kong with 15-year experience. I taught Mandarin and English and had reached the requirements for language teachers in both subjects.

I studied Linguistics in university, and I got 90.7 marks in the Putonghua Proficiency Test. I know exactly what difficulties my students may face and I am confident in teaching Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese) using English as medium of instruction.

Tell me your expectations and let me tailor-make lesson plans and teaching materials for you.

Teaching Experience:
15-year experience in teaching languages, both Mandarin and English, in secondary schools in Hong Kong, currently invigilating GCSE Chinese (Speaking).

Tutoring Approach:
Tell me your expectations and let me tailor-make lesson plans and teaching materials for you.

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