Finchley Combined Science Tutors and Finchley Combined Science Tuition

Personal Description:
I am an experienced Teacher of Maths to A level, AAT, Tax, Financial Accounting, Management Accounting & Statistics.

My teaching experience ranges from 1-1 teaching, group teaching, teaching in state schools and private colleges, teaching for University Foundation Programs and delivering training at clients' premises.

I am enhanced DBS checked.

Teaching Experience:
Some of the schools/colleges I have taught are:

Loughborough College
Al Hikmah
East Kent College
Cambian Group
Royal Grammar School High Wycombe
Oaklands College St Albans
Nova Training College
Cherwell College Oxford
Cambridge Seminars
Emperia College Luton
Bell Cambridge
West London Vocational College (SAGE)
Milton Keynes College
EF Academy Oxford

Tutoring Approach:
Whichever way the student wishes the lessons to be conducted but personally I tend to focus on concepts.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced secondary science teacher and physics specialist with a number of years experience as a private tutor. I have a Physics degree from Imperial College London, a Masters degree in Science communication from UWE Bristol and qualified as a teacher with the University of Bedfordshire. I am a STEM ambassador and worked for several years in outreach education preparing and delivering science summer school programmes to school age students.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught at several outstanding secondary schools in Milton Keynes and am up to date with the current curriculum and assessment requirements. I have also worked for the Bedfordshire medical needs office teaching children who are out of school for medical reasons and have worked as a private tutor for the past decade helping students on an 1:1 basis to improve their exam grades and get into their chosen sixth form or college.

Tutoring Approach:
My tuition is aimed at improving the student's understanding of underlying concepts, identifying misconceptions or areas of confusion and correcting them, with the effect of improving exam technique and grades. I will begin by discussing the desired outcomes for tuition with the student and parents and then use my expertise and experience to assess the relevant topics and develop a suitable action plan. My students typically receive top grades in their exams.
I have experience of working with students with additional needs and various learning styles and can tailor my approach to suit the needs of the individual learner.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I started tutoring in 2009 and have been an associate lecturer in Earth Sciences with the Open University since 2014. I love all science and am passionate about supporting learners of all ages and abilities to achieve their best, while hopefully finding a bit of the magic in the subject along the way!

I'm also a student myself, in the process of writing up my PhD which is focused on the tectonic evolution of central Greece,

I'm based in North London, living in Finsbury Park, and I've lived here most of my life... 44 years old and counting!

Teaching Experience:
I have been a tutor of secondary school sciences/Geography (KS3 - A Level) since 2009.
I have taught science at secondary school and revision colleges teaching KS3, GCSE and A Level.
I am an associate lecturer in Earth Science and Evolutionary Biology with the Open University (Since 2014).
I have have had various fixed-term lectureships teaching geology and palaeontology at UCL & Birkbeck College (London).

Tutoring Approach:
My core approach:

Is friendly and student-centred, empowering students to succeed in their studies with support and guidance every step of the way.

Focuses on developing a real grasp of the key concepts central to the course of study, including homework support and ample practice to refine exam technique.

Provides a safe and supportive atmosphere where no question is too daft and the focus is constantly on the journey towards achieving the best possible results in exams and coursework.

I have a wide range of resources which can be used as informal between-session homeworks or simply provided for enrichment beyond those provided at school.

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Personal Description:
Teaching has always been a vocation rather than a job as I love to see 'the penny drop'.
I am married with a daughter of 33 and a son of 29. My husband and I garden for the elderly and disabled. I graduated from Exeter University in 1985 with a B.Ed Honours.

Teaching Experience:
In the last 2 Secondary schools I was a Deputy Head of Science and the Professional Tutor for the school.
I have now been a tutor for 18 years and love making each subject accessible to the individual.
I offer day time tutoring as well as evenings.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is informal. I believe students learn best when they are at ease and not under pressure. If students are distracted in their own home I offer them tuition in mine. Students understanding has risen by 2 to 3 levels, leaving them, their parents and myself very happy.

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Personal Description:
Hi I'm Niall, a chartered accountant with an Economics degree from The University of Reading. I was twice awarded silver at the UK Maths Challenge and achieved grade A at both A-level and GCSE.

My passion to teach started when I volunteered in a secondary school while at university, then volunteered abroad after. I then provided private tuition for several years at GCSE and A-level mostly for maths, helping improve children's grades.

Teaching Experience:
Taught Maths to students aged 11-18 at a secondary school whilst in my second year at university.
Taught Maths and English to students in Turkey at a primary school and secondary school.
Several years private tuition experience for maths, science and German at GCSE and A-level.

Tutoring Approach:
Studying and revising shouldn't be a chore and I believe I can bring to life my subjects. Everyone learns differently and there are many methods to ensure the student is on the right learning curve.

Subjects

Personal Description:
After completing my D.Phil from the University of Oxford, I worked for 7 years as a Senior Biologist for a small drug discovery company where I was responsible for screening new drug targets in tissue models for human disease. Over the years I've had so many comments from students/colleagues about my ability to break subjects down to ease understanding, and coupled with my passion for science and sharing that with others I decided to change career and become a full-time science tutor. I've never looked back!

I am also a freelance examiner for Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) - examining is invaluable to my role as a science tutor and to the development of my students' abilities in preparation for their examinations. It has taught me to understand the very specific focus of each syllabus as a whole, to read for the specific aim of relevant text, and to concentrate not just on surface comprehension but to expand science beyond basic skills.

I have many hobbies but particularly enjoy outdoor pursuits including: sailing, mountaineering, climbing, mountain biking and running. Most of my free time though is spent with my wonderful husband and beautiful tots!

Teaching Experience:
During my time researching at Oxford, I tutored an array of students in Biochemistry, Biology, Genetics, Human Science and Medicine.

I have vast tutoring experience at both GCSE, AS/A2 level covering all UK exam specifications, including IB.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring style is informal, working with each student to improve their approach to learning whilst maintaining motivation. At the end of the day, learning should be fun!

I usually charge a very small travel fee to cover the cost of fuel.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have cisco webex software, zoom and skype, and am also DBS cleared

I am a highly experienced, enthusiastic and very versatile optical engineering senior lecturer/researcher, who gained a PhD from the School of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, City University, London, UK in "Fibre optical temperature and strain sensors using fluorescent techniques" for measurement applications using the fluorescence generated from rare earth-doped optical fibres (e.g. Er3+, Yb3+, Tm3+ etc.). I also possess very good experience and knowledge of industry, with excellent complimentary skills gained from higher education - in particular industrial measurement, forensic analysis, quality control and statistical analysis. A BSc first degree in forensic science is combined with a further specialist MSc in engineering metrology and topped with a PhD in photonics - making for good, broad-based, multi-disciplined measurement science and analytical capabilities right across the scientific spectrum. I have a proven high degree of personal motivation, and am capable of working on my own initiative or equally as part of an effective team. In addition, I am able to communicate very well at all levels of hierarchy, with excellent skills developed in scientific report writing (journal papers, periodicals, book chapters etc.) and oral presentation (conferences, lecturing etc). I have over 50 publications to date in my field: 20 journal papers, 22 conference papers, 2 articles, 4 book chapters and other major works.

PhD thesis title:

"Fibre optic sensors based on fluorescence lifetime techniques for temperature and strain measurement"

Thesis submitted for examination for the degree of
Doctor of Philosophy
at
City University
School of Engineering

November 2002

Abstract

The author presents a thesis based upon the use of the fluorescent properties of rare earth doped materials. The thesis commences with a review of the current fibre sensor technology in the field, with special emphasis on those sensors designed for temperature and strain measurement. The use of the physical phenomena of fluorescence produced from rare earth doped optical fibre for temperature measurement is then introduced and explained in more detail, particularly with regard to utilisation of the fluorescence lifetime technique in such sensing, which is then compared to the other fluorescence-based methods for measuring temperature.

The recently discovered small strain sensitivity of the fluorescence lifetime is then introduced as a theoretical candidate for potential application to simultaneous temperature-strain sensing, using two different doped fibres in a single sensing element, and subsequently state-of-the-art temperature-strain discrimination techniques are then explored for the purposes of exploitation to dual measurement.

Results achieved from using the fluorescent lifetime approach for a range of rare earth materials are then presented, followed by further results obtained from combining the lifetime technique with Fibre Bragg gratings (FBGs) for the first time. Also, the irreversible effects upon FBG performance after exposure to long-term high temperatures are explored.

Finally, there is a summary of the work presented in this thesis and the author's opinions on achievements made. Current trends in fluorescence lifetime-based sensing are discussed, both commercially and academically, together with projected work for the future.


DECLARATION: I certify that the above information contained in this CV is both accurate and truthful.

regards, DR DAVID.

Teaching Experience:
tutor in electronics, City University, London ≈ 4 yrs

Applied optics lecturer at University College Jubail, KSA ≈ 1 yr

undertook 1 yr PGCE Science (secondary) at Brunel University, Uxbridge, UK (taught in local secondary schools)

Lecturer in nanoelectronics on MSc Nanotechnology and MSc Innovative Technology at BITE ≈ 2 yrs

UK private tuition experience (various subjects) ≈ 20 yrs

was senior lecturer/researcher in Electrical and Electronic Engineering in both Malaysia and Thailand: I have spent the last 6 yrs teaching Fibre Optic Communication Systems, Fibre Sensors and photonics, and Optical Communication Systems to Masters level; + supervision of many undergrad, masters and PhD project students.

I was awarded a prize of £1000 from the Worshipful Company of Scientific Instrument Makers (SIM), London in February 2000 to pursue my PhD research work:

Extra information:
Additionally, I can confidently programme in Sigmaplot, Excel, Tablecurve, MATLAB, Optisim, Multisim, Zemax, COMSOL, LABVIEW, Agilent Vee and all similar optical design software packages to control instruments, acquire data, analyse data, simulate and model.

Tutoring Approach:
serious,concientious,assessing continuously the students needs, receiving feedback, individual approach
setting quizes, tests, mock exams
either individual or small/large groups taken

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified secondary teacher, with over 15 years experience in teaching, and tutoring, within school and online. I also have over 12 years experience as a GCSE and A level Science examiner. I am a very patient, supportive, friendly, encouraging, reliable and hard working teacher/tutor.

I have always had alot of success tutoring science and maths online, with all pupils gaining the grades they were predicted or in most cases even higher.

I also offer lessons during all the school holidays times.

Teaching Experience:
I am a fully qualified secondary school teacher specialising in Science and Maths. I have extensive teaching and tutoring experience, in schools and online, in both mainstream teaching and special educational needs teaching. I have successfully taught and tutored pupils for 11 plus and 13 plus entrance exams, as well as for GCSE's in both Maths and all three Sciences, as well as Combined Science, and for A level Biology and Chemistry.

I have also 12 years GCSE and A level Science examiner marking experience, which allows me to support and explain to pupils what examiners are looking for within exam question answers.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a detailed knowledge of all current syllabus for GCSE Sciences, Maths, (as well as Maths and Science IGCSE, Functional Skills, and BTEC), and all current A level Chemistry and Biology syllabus's. I use a combination of theory, exam practice questions, past paper questions, and workbooks in the lessons, to improve pupil confidence with exam technique, and focus on exam skills.

In addition, I adapt my teaching methods to support the pupils learning needs and help to identify areas of study in which they need help to improve. I also look at revision methods and planning revision timetables with pupils to help them find the option which works best for their learning needs.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have 11 years of teaching experience across 2 Outstanding rated schools.
I hold the following professional qualifications:
Masters: MA Education (Nottingham) 2018.
PGCE Secondary Science: Chemistry (Nottingham) 2013.
Degree: BSc Chemistry (Loughborough) 2008.

Teaching Experience:
I am currently working full time at an OFSTED Outstanding rated secondary school as a Teacher of Science, with a specialism in Chemistry. I have 11 years of teaching experience, covering Key Stage 3 Science, GCSE Combined Science and Seperate Science with a Chemistry specialism, A-Level Chemistry on both the AQA and OCR exam boards, and BTEC Level 3 Applied Science. I have taught a number of students who have gone on to study at Oxford and Cambridge, students who have studied Medincine, and also students who have gone on to university to study Chemistry. I have held a number of roles including Curriculum Co-ordinator within Science, and have been a mentor for both trainee teachers and Newly Qualified Teachers.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe all students should be actively involved in deciding what aspects of course content they want to revise, along with advice and intervention from myself. This can then be supported by ongoing assessment and feedback to ensure progress is being made, and any areas of misconception are revisited.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced teacher and have developed a vast amount of strategies and skills from teaching different subjects and ages across the primary school. I specialise in teaching Early Years, KS1 and KS 2.

I am also experienced in teaching adults basic skills particularly reading, writing, computer and maths skills. I have experience of supporting parental needs and can coach or mentor both children and adults.

Teaching Experience:
I qualified as a teacher 25 years ago and have taught in a variety of different types of schools in different counties. I have a vast amount of experience at supporting children with special educational needs or who have experienced trauma and bereavement in their early lives.

Tutoring Approach:
Currently teaching using online resources to develop a programme that meets the specific individual needs of each learner.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am passionate about my subject of science, and would be delighted to pass this passion on to you.

Teaching Experience:
I have three years' experience conducting tutorials in Materials Science at Cambridge University, having myself studied Natural Sciences there, including Physics and Chemistry.

In 2018, I taught the Maths and Physics component of the NCC International Foundation Programme for Engineers (of around GCSE/A-level level) at the Star Exeter language school.

Since then I have tutored Physics, Chemistry and Maths from KS3 up to A-level, and Biology to GCSE.

Tutoring Approach:
I enjoy showing you real-world applications of what we are studying. In our lessons, we will draw diagrams and break problems down into bite-size steps, and I will train you to ask yourself helpful questions such as "What do I already know?", "Is this a sensible answer?" and "Did I expect those units?".

I am used to sympathetically coaching young people in unfamiliar skills, having also been the principal teacher for a university folk dance club for five years.

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Personal Description:
I have worked within primary schools, as a teacher across many year groups, for almost 10 years. I am currently taking a break from school life after a relocation, but still love to be involved in education.

Teaching Experience:
I hold a BA (Hons) degree, and QTS. I have also been a Year Team Leader; leading a year group of five classes and the staff within it, setting high standards of practise and ensuring all children receive the opportunity to succeed. I have lead various subjects across schools I have worked in, and have lead wellbeing and behavioural improvements for all year groups. During lockdown, I have also been at the forefront of teaching and learning from home, ensuring colleagues are able to bring the best learning experience to those children not in school.

Tutoring Approach:
I am highly organised and structured in my approach to any subject. I believe that all children, given the right environment, can show improvement. When tutoring your child, I will ensure work is catered specifically to their needs. This can also be tailored to compliment subjects being taught at school at the time.

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Personal Description:
I am a 39 year old male that has been a Science teacher for 13 years. I had been an Assistant Curriculum Leader of Science in Nelson for a number of years, and I am now a Progress Leader of Science in Bradford.
Teaching appealed to me from the very first day of my PGCE and found the challenge of teaching the kids of today refreshing. I am married and live in Batley.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 10 years of teaching experience at 2 different schools, and currently work as a Progress Leader of Science at a comprehensive school in Bradford. I have obtained several years of exam results that have been well above average in terms of Progress 8, with some classes having obtained on average, 1 grade higher per student.
I have several years of previous experience in tutoring and have undertaken numerous after school revision classes designed to aid students to improve their chances in GCSE exams. I have also performed some mentoring for select students using more one-on-one time for those students that require the extra help.
In addition to this, I am an examiner for several exam boards, as well as a Team Leader for OCR. This experience has allowed me the opportunity to better prepare students for exams.

Tutoring Approach:
I will initially require all the details about the tutee's course at school as well as the grades/levels that they have obtained so far. It will also help to know of the tutee's target grade in the subjects to be tutored. As mentioned before, I will spend time outside the hour preparing resources and planning appropriately so that it maximizes the use of the hour. I will spend the necessary time dedicating my resources to helping you achieve to your potential.
My position at a school also allows me the ability to obtain resources that would aid your tutoring. My approach is to ensure that my students understand the scientific ideas that are a part of their specification, and thereafter ensuring that learning has taken place via exam style questions.
If the lessons are online, your child will have permanent access to all the lessons covered allowing them to use them at a later date as part of revision.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am qualified to teach in both secondary schools (PGCE) and at university level (AFHEA), guaranteeing not only that I have the necessary subject knowledge but also the background in education theory needed to maximise my student's learning.

My passion for science, lifelong commitment to learning and my natural disposition as a teacher motivate and enable me to always do my very best for each student.

DBS check renewed 2024.

Fluent in English and Polish. Advanced in Japanese and German. Basic knowledge of Mandarin and Korean.

Experience with neurodiverse people, and accepting of all needs, abilities and backgrounds.

Teaching Experience:
- PGCE qualification, experience in the classroom and preparing material
- Online tutoring to classes at a private academy
- University workshop and lab demonstration, supervision of Master/PhD students

Tutoring Approach:
Whether you're looking to achieve a practical and specific goal like getting top grades on an exam, or want to best prepare for a future in the sciences with the broad guidance of someone who has taught students through school age all the way up to PhD level, I can provide an approach to suit these needs or anything in between.

In-person teaching should be in a well ventilated space for health of both student and teacher. Can advise on how to prepare this.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a passionate and adaptable tutor with over four years of experience delivering high-impact, personalized online instruction in mathematics, science, and engineering. My academic foundation in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, combined with practical teaching experience at both college and university-preparatory levels, allows me to bridge theory and application in a way that is both engaging and accessible.

My strength lies in making complex topics digestible. I use digital tools like GeoGebra, Microsoft Whiteboard, and Python-based simulations to bring mathematical and scientific principles to life. I believe in learning through doing-whether it's solving real-world equations or visualising physics phenomena through interactive simulations.

Outside of formal teaching, I've worked on projects involving solar energy optimization and shear behavior in materials, which gives me a unique perspective when helping students connect textbook content to real-world innovation. I take pride in mentoring students, not just academically but also in building confidence and curiosity in STEM.

I'm also highly organized and value clear communication. I tailor each lesson based on student goals and learning styles, constantly adapting my methods to ensure progress and clarity. Whether I'm preparing a learner for exams or helping them build foundational skills, I aim to foster not just understanding but also enthusiasm for the subject.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching since 2021 as an online tutor, working with secondary, GCSE, and college-level students in mathematics, physics, and engineering topics. In addition to freelance tutoring, I've held academic roles at Oaklands College and Coventry College, where I taught Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mathematics. Most recently, I served as a Design and Technology Lecturer at Hull College.

Across all roles, I've designed and delivered comprehensive lesson plans, created digital learning materials, and led sessions that range from individual tutoring to classroom lectures. I'm adept at using both synchronous and asynchronous teaching methods, ensuring flexibility in my delivery. My sessions often involve a mix of visual demonstrations, real-world problem-solving, and interactive whiteboarding to engage learners and reinforce concepts.

In these roles, I've also supported exam preparation, conducted assessments, and provided feedback that helps students track their progress. Many of my students have shown marked improvement not just in grades but in their self-confidence and independent thinking.

My exposure to a wide range of learners-from high-performing students to those needing additional support-has helped me develop a highly inclusive, student-centered approach. I'm experienced in adapting materials for learners with varied needs, and I use learning analytics to tailor my sessions and ensure measurable progress.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring philosophy is centered on clarity, curiosity, and confidence. I aim to break down complex ideas into understandable, relatable chunks using analogies, visual tools, and real-life applications. Whether it's using GeoGebra to demonstrate calculus concepts or guiding students through design cycles in product development, my approach is practical, visual, and adaptive.

I always start with a diagnostic understanding of the student's current knowledge and learning goals. Based on that, I create tailored lesson plans that align with their school curriculum or personal development targets. I use formative assessments regularly to measure understanding and adjust my pace and content accordingly.

Interactive teaching is key to my sessions-I encourage students to ask questions, explore problems from different angles, and reflect on their learning. I use tools such as screen sharing, digital annotations, coding platforms, and video resources to create dynamic, multi-sensory learning environments.

In addition to academic mastery, I focus on building students' confidence and problem-solving skills. I create a supportive space where mistakes are seen as part of the learning process. For students preparing for exams, I provide strategic revision techniques, timed practice, and feedback loops that promote independent study habits.

Above all, I'm passionate about helping learners see the value and beauty in science and mathematics, and I'm committed to helping them grow not just as students-but as thinkers and innovators.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a high-achieving graduate with a strong background in technology, passionate about both learning and teaching. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I've helped students excel across a wide range of subjects, from Primary Arithmetic and English, through GCSE and A-Level courses, all the way to Undergraduate studies. My extensive knowledge spans core academics, arts, sciences, languages, and admissions preparation, allowing me to tailor lessons that meet each student's unique needs and goals.

I truly enjoy making complex topics accessible and inspiring a love of learning in every student I work with. Technology plays a big role in how I approach education, allowing me to create engaging, tailored lessons that spark curiosity and build confidence. By creating a supportive and engaging environment, I encourage students to overcome challenges, develop critical thinking skills and realise their full potential at every stage of their academic journey.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 9 years of tutoring experience, primarily working online but also providing private in-home tutoring. During my academic years, I volunteered as a mentor and tutor for younger students, which laid a strong foundation for my teaching approach. I have supported students across all age groups from primary and secondary levels to A-Level and university and I'm actively expanding my work with undergraduate learners.

My tutoring has helped many students achieve significant improvements, including successfully gaining admission to private schools through the 11+ exam, and boosting GCSE grades by an average of 4 grades above expectations within six months.

I cover a broad range of topics and themes across multiple subjects and educational stages, tailored to the specific needs of each student. For primary and secondary levels, I teach core subjects including Arithmetic, English, Science, Geography, History, Religious Education, Spanish, and Computing. At GCSE and IGCSE levels, I cover subjects such as Maths, English Language and Literature, Combined and Triple Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Business Studies, Computer Science, Art and Design, Geography, History, Media Studies, Film Studies, Food Preparation and Nutrition, Religious Studies, Spanish, and Accounting.

For A-Level students, I provide tutoring in subjects including Film Studies, Health and Social Care, ICT and Information Technology, Journalism, Media Studies, Modern Languages (Spanish), Technology and Design, and Travel and Tourism. At the undergraduate level, I support academic writing, cinematics, media studies, research methods, and Spanish.

Regarding exam boards, I am familiar with major UK boards such as AQA, Edexcel, OCR, Cambridge IGCSE, and others, enabling me to tailor preparation to the specific syllabus and exam requirements. I also support students preparing for admissions tests such as 11+, 13+, SAT, and UCAS applications, along with TEFL exam preparation.

If there are specific papers or units you need support with, I can provide targeted lessons aligned with those assessments to ensure confidence and success.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is student-focused, flexible, and results-oriented. I understand that each learner is unique, so I tailor my teaching to suit individual goals, learning styles, and confidence levels. Whether students need help mastering core concepts, preparing for exams, or improving academic performance, I adapt my methods to best support their progress. I focus not only on exam success but also on building confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills. I hold a TEFL qualification, which complements my ability to support language learners effectively.

I incorporate a mix of interactive techniques, including technology-based tools, active questioning, step-by-step support and guided practice, and real-world applications to make learning both engaging and effective. I aim not just to improve grades, but to nurture curiosity, independent thinking, and a genuine love for learning. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I know how powerful encouragement and personalised teaching can be in helping students overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

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Personal Description:
Dr. Catherine is a dedicated scientist and educator whose career spans advanced academic research, science education, and personal tutoring. With a deep-rooted passion for physics and its applications, she has combined her expertise in experimental and applied science with her vocation to inspire the next generation of learners.

Born with an early curiosity for the natural world, Catherine pursued her studies in physics with determination. She earned her B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. in Physics from Wroclaw University, where she explored the growth of metals on alloy surfaces. Her doctoral research, "Growth of Pb on Ni3Al(111)", reflected her keen ability to investigate materials at the atomic level. She later expanded her academic journey at Warwick University, completing a second Ph.D. in Physics on "Growth and Characterisation of Metal Alloy and Metal Oxide Surfaces." Her work contributed to advancing the understanding of thin-film growth and nanostructures, leading to several publications in respected international journals. Among her noted contributions are studies on ultrathin metal layers, titanium dioxide films, and surface morphology, establishing her reputation as a careful and innovative experimentalist.

After years in research, Catherine transitioned into education, determined to share her scientific knowledge in a way that would have a direct impact on young people. She completed a PGCE with QTS at the University of Winchester, equipping her with the pedagogical foundation to teach science across all secondary school levels.

Beyond her teaching, Catherine remains connected to her research roots. She has authored and co-authored several publications, including contributions to Applied Surface Science and Materials. These works, ranging from the structural determination of metallic surfaces to the optimisation of thin-film growth, illustrate her ongoing identity as both a teacher and a scientist.

What defines Dr. Catherine's career is the balance she has achieved between the rigour of scientific inquiry and the nurturing ethos of education. She has moved fluidly from the laboratory to the classroom, from international research to local communities, always with the purpose of unlocking potential in others. Whether mentoring young learners, supporting those with special educational needs, or contributing to the broader field of physics, Catherine exemplifies a professional life dedicated to knowledge, care, and inspiration.

Teaching Experience:
Her teaching career has since flourished across a range of schools and academies. Catherine has taught in institutions such as Swanmore College, Wildern Academy, and UTC Portsmouth, where she not only delivered the sciences at KS3 and KS4 but also pioneered the development of a new T-Level course. She embraced opportunities beyond the classroom, leading enrichment activities in CAD and crafts, coordinating SilverCrest Awards, and supporting students in employment readiness. At King's Academy Bay House, she brought her expertise in physics and broader sciences to pupils while nurturing Year 10 learners as a tutor. Her dedication extended to specialist teaching, including her time at Mayville High School and SEN Wavern House, demonstrating her adaptability and commitment to inclusive education.

Alongside her teaching roles, Catherine has pursued private tutoring through KEU Consultancy Ltd and Sherpa, where she continues to support learners preparing for examinations such as GCSE, A-level, and 13+ entry exams to prestigious schools including Eton and Westminster College. Her expertise in exam specifications-AQA, OCR, and Edexcel-has enabled her to guide students with precision and clarity.

Her academic and professional journey is complemented by an impressive commitment to continuous development. Catherine has undertaken extensive training in safeguarding, health and safety, emergency aid, radicalisation awareness, and supporting vulnerable learners. These certifications reflect her holistic approach to education, where student wellbeing is valued alongside academic achievement.

Tutoring Approach:
For Dr. Catherine, tutoring is more than delivering subject knowledge-it is about unlocking each learner's potential by understanding how they learn best. Her approach to tutoring is informed by recent advances in educational psychology, cognitive science, and pedagogy, all of which emphasise that no two students learn in exactly the same way.

Drawing on research in metacognition, memory, and motivation, Catherine builds her tutoring practice around the principle that effective learning occurs when students are not only taught content but also given the tools to understand their own thinking. She encourages learners to reflect on how they solve problems, identify what strategies work for them, and develop confidence in applying those strategies independently.

Central to her philosophy is individualisation. Every child comes with unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations. Some may thrive on visual explanations, while others learn best through hands-on practice or discussion. Catherine takes the time to assess these differences, adapting her lessons accordingly-whether that means breaking down complex physics principles into manageable steps, linking abstract science to real-world examples, or building scaffolds for students with learning difficulties.

Her approach also aligns with student-centred learning models, which place the child's needs at the core of the educational process. Rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all method, she co-constructs learning pathways with her students, ensuring that goals are clear, achievable, and motivating. Catherine is attentive not only to academic progress but also to emotional and cognitive wellbeing. She understands that resilience, curiosity, and self-belief are as important as exam results in shaping a lifelong learner.

Practical strategies underpin her sessions. She uses spaced repetition to reinforce knowledge over time, retrieval practice to strengthen memory, and dual coding (combining words with visuals) to aid understanding. She applies the latest insights from cognitive load theory to avoid overwhelming students, ensuring that new information is introduced in digestible stages. At the same time, she weaves in opportunities for creativity and inquiry, inviting students to ask their own questions and experiment with new ideas.

Catherine's tutoring style is also deeply relational. She believes that trust and rapport between tutor and student are foundational to success. By creating a supportive and non-judgmental learning environment, she allows students to take risks, embrace mistakes as part of the learning process, and ultimately grow in confidence.

For her, tutoring is not about producing short-term results but about nurturing independent thinkers who will carry their learning skills into future challenges. This philosophy is evident in her work preparing students for key milestones-such as GCSEs, A-levels, and entrance exams for prestigious schools-where she combines rigorous subject knowledge with strategies that empower students to approach exams with resilience and self-assurance.

In every session, Catherine demonstrates that tutoring is not just the transmission of knowledge, but the cultivation of learning itself. By combining cutting-edge research with compassion and adaptability, she ensures that each student is seen, heard, and supported on their unique educational journey.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Tom. I'm 24 and have been a professional software developer for 2 years, having finished my undergraduate degree in physics and computer science at Edinburgh in 2023. Since then I've been working full time and have just finished a masters level apprenticeship alongside my work. I used to do tutoring before and at the beginning of uni and really enjoyed it so am looking to get back into it! I've also got a DBS check (issued November 2025) and would be happy to show this if requested.

Teaching Experience:
Aside from my experience at school and uni, I've got experience in tutoring KS3 and GCSE maths, science and Spanish. Whilst at school I tutored one boy from year 8 to GCSE maths, science and Spanish and whilst at university tutored another in GCSE maths science and geography. Both of these were pupils were tutored using a combination of in person and online sessions. I also used to volunteer to do reading lessons at a local primary school and worked part time at young engineers whilst at university, teaching children from 3 to 11 years old the basics of science through lego

Tutoring Approach:
I've found in the past that the best approach to tutoring is to be very positive and flexible. I have never been a super forceful or strict tutor and think that trying to be too overbearing, particularly in sessions outside of or extra to school like tutoring, just makes people perform worse. I will always try and be positive and make sure sessions are not painful for students (as I remember how much doing homework can be a chore!), but equally make sure students are getting the most out of sessions by asking questions of them to demonstrate their knowledge and checking they're confident with what we've done.

Subjects