Tarporley Combined Science Tutors and Tarporley Combined Science Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a graduate in Physics with Astrophysics, which was a four year degree, which included me living and learning in Italy. My degree was challenging yet enjoyable, and contained a lot of Maths, which to me was great! As a born communicator writing and teaching have always appealed, and having spent the last decade tutoring and working for the Institute of Physics, I can definitely say I enjoy it as much now as I did when I started.. I also have a qualification in teaching English as a foreign language.

Teaching Experience:
For the last 12 years I have taught a wide variety of learners from the age of 6 all the way up to 45! This includes Maths, physics, and EFL at all levels, as well as English language/literature and Biology and Chemistry up to GCSE. I also taught children EFL for 6 weeks over a summer. Whilst at university I tutored 1st and 2nd years in Physics, which included a lot of Maths. I taught English as a foreign language whilst I was in Italy. I am very comfortable in a one on one environment, and enjoy preparing all ages for exams- I have had a lot of experience at running courses with an exam in mind.

Tutoring Approach:
As a keen learner myself, I understand what it is to learn. My vast experience tutoring has given me a good body of knowledge to call on, as well as confidence in my ability to communicate complex ideas to students, especially those who are struggling with them. Always patient I can push without pressuring and make you feel more confident in your ability. I am also keen to know what and how my pupil wants to learn, and can listen as well as I can communicate.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an independent tutor with a strong scientific background and have lived in England since Aug 1965. Most of my school and college education took place in Dudley (West Midlands) and I studied Biochemistry, at Leeds University (1975-8). I am married and have lived in Cheshire since Dec 1978. We have a son and a daughter; both graduated from Universities in Manchester. Following my voluntary redundancy from AstraZeneca, (Jun 2008), I am now a self-employed Tutor / Consultant. In addition, I am able to speak additional languages (Punjabi; studied up to GCE A-level and Hindi) and prepared to travel up to 5 miles. I have been tutoring Yr 7 - 13 students, in Maths and all Science subjects, since Oct 2008. In addition, I have prepared students from Yr 6, for the 11+ exams; frequently used by private schools, as entrance exams. Testimonials / References (from Students and Parents) are available, on request.

Teaching Experience:
During my long service in the Pharma industry (~30 years), I have run many short courses and workshops. During 2005/6, I mentored a pupil (Year 10/11) at St. Peter's High School, Longsight, organised by the University of Manchester. In the past, I have also been responsible for organising and running the weekly classes at the Sikh Temple (Gurdwara), for teaching youngsters the Sikh way of life & Punjabi culture, in helping to improve their knowledge and integration into the Western Society over a period of ten years.

Tutoring Approach:
I can provide tuition to individual students (or small groups) in the form of friendly, relaxed lessons. Teaching sessions are always customised to meet the specific requirement of the students. Generally, I enjoy teaching and considered to have a caring approach. I use a combination of computer and 'white board' based approach, for creating informal interactive / discussion type sessions, with some form of regular tests and re-cap sessions. Closer to the exams, the lessons are much more focused on using past papers covering a wide range of questions, to enable the students increase their confidence in preparation for the examinations.

Subjects

Personal Description:
As a Private Tutor, I am fully committed to teach and assist students of diverse needs and abilities to develop and attain the highest possible achievement in their academic career.

Teaching Experience:
I have over ten years' experience of teaching Science at KS3 & GCSE and Biology at 'A'-Level. I also have over fifteen years' experience as a Lecturer in Applied Biology at various universities in the UK, Nigeria and South Africa. I have been a Private Tutor to many students at various stages over the last six years.

Tutoring Approach:
Imaginative, enthusiastic, innovative and committed, are four words that would briefly describe my skills as a tutor. I always acknowledge my students' personal expectations and strive to create a positive learning environment that leads to their success.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I consider myself to be a friendly and approachable teacher. I get on well with the children I teach gaining their respect through being firm, fair and fun.

Teaching Experience:
I have 19 years teaching experience within a primary school setting. I have taught all primary age groups from 4-11 years. During this time I have planned and assessed children and used current SAT's materials.

Tutoring Approach:
I treat every student as an individual and asses their needs accordingly. I plan my lessons to suit their needs using my up to date knowledge of the curriculum and assessment criteria. My lessons are fun and interactive wherever possible using both written and practical techniques. I have found that children gain confidence in their ability and begin to move forward and keep up with the work in class.

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:
Many students come to me believing they're 'just not good at science' or carrying anxiety from previous negative experiences. I create a completely judgment-free environment where mistakes are valuable learning tools, and we celebrate every win, no matter how small. Building genuine confidence is as important as mastering content.

I specialise in transforming students who've lost confidence into motivated learners who exceed their own expectations, whether that's a comprehensive school student finally 'getting' science after years of struggle, or a high-achieving independent school candidate securing their place at their dream school. As a former Oxbridge graduate, qualified teacher, and examiner for AQA and Edexcel, I understand precisely what's required at every level, but more importantly, I know how to unlock each student's potential by addressing the emotional barriers that hold them back

Whether you're seeking support for a comprehensive school student who's struggling with science fundamentals and needs confidence-building from the ground up, or an ambitious student targeting top grades for entry into Oxbridge or the Russell Group, I tailor my approach completely to each student's starting point and goals.

Teaching Experience:
Enhanced DBS certified
15 years teaching Science and Business Studies in state and independent schools
15 years delivering one-to-one private tuition across all ability levels
12 years as a senior examiner for AQA and Edexcel (current insider knowledge of marking schemes)
Qualified teacher status with continuous professional development
Former Oxbridge graduate with specialist knowledge of entrance processes

Tutoring Approach:
Every student learns differently, and my first priority is understanding exactly what barriers are holding your child back - whether that's gaps in foundational knowledge, exam anxiety, or simply never having had concepts explained in a way that clicks for them.

I begin with a comprehensive assessment to identify strengths and areas for development, then build a completely personalised learning plan with achievable milestones. Students who work with me consistently report that my explanations finally make complex concepts clear, and that their confidence grows alongside their grades.

As a practising teacher and examiner, I attend regular CPD on the latest GCSE specification changes and marking criteria. This means I'm teaching to the current standards, not outdated approaches - crucial for maximising grades under today's rigorous assessment system.

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:
Worked as an Assistant professor in Civil Engineering department for 2 years in INDIA.

Graduated in Civil Engineering (INDIA).

Presently working as Teaching Assistant in London for secondary school.

Teaching Experience:
I have 4 years of experience in Teaching .
Having experience in teaching Maths for A-level,GCSE, primary eleven plus students and Adults .
Having experience in teaching science to Primary,secondary and GCSE .

Professional with 3 years of experience in teaching CVIL ENGINEERING subjects
Structural Analysis.
Steel Structures.
Reinforced Concrete Structures.
Hydraulics.

Tutoring Approach:
I concentrate on providing a solid grounding in the subject while paying close attention to the needs of the individual.I set regular homework and writing assignments - the quantity varying with how much time the student has - and give feedback for the following session.


I am happy to meet with the parents or guardians of my students prior to the commencement of tuition in order to ascertain what they wish their child to gain from tuition.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Ngum-Agnes, I am 18 years old. I live in Cardiff and am currently studying Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry and French at A level.
I received all As and A*s at GCSE and A Levels and all A*s in the subject I am tutoring in.
I like to think of myself as friendly, polite and patient.

Teaching Experience:
I have had tutoring experiencing in the UK for over a year now in French, English, Mathematics, and Science.

I recently volunteered at children's orphanage in Africa where, among other things, I taught the Ethiopian children English. Doing so taught me the effectiveness and importance of patience and empathy when tutoring, as well as giving the pupil time to think through things in their own way.

Tutoring Approach:
I make sure to explain things slowly yet effectively and take time to understand the pupils way of learning and adapt my teaching in that way. I ensure that I am patient and friendly when tutoring and try to create a relaxed and calm but attentive atmosphere. I like to create a bond with my student so that they feel comfortable when learning but also eager and unafraid to ask questions when they do not understand.

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:
Hi, my name is Shannon and I am currently studding at the University of Derby and getting a degree in Law. I have received tutoring myself and understand how beneficial it can be to help advance education. I am dedicated to helping you to achieve your highest potential and that you are pushed to achieve your best.

Please note: If you are looking for tutoring in Maths or Combined Science I work with students working on the foundation papers. I am also able to working on individual sciences if one subject requires more attention than another, also at foundation level.

Teaching Experience:
I have experience in tutoring, this started off with family and then younger pupils. Most of the experience I have gained has been tutoring at Primary level in Maths and English However, I do have experience in teaching at ages 11-14 years.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring would be based online on an agreed platform, such as zoom. I would start off the first session by getting to know the student, their strengths, their weaknesses, finding out where they struggle most, discussing the best techniques that would be most beneficial to them as an individual as well as answering any questions. Then I would adapt each lesson to the student's preferred learning methods. The lessons may be in form of quizzes, helping to better understand a topic, exam prep, homework help, mini tests, and engaging lessons.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a second-year student at Imperial College London studying Physics. Tutoring has always been my calling. I am an eager and responsible individual with a passion for maths and physics. I am on a mission to be able to help other students and kindle the same excitement in them. I believe a tutor should be flexible in their teaching methods and be able to create a friendly and comfortable environment with their students where all their misconceptions can be cleared and questions answered with real progress tracking.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked at Premier Tuition in London and from there on I have been tutoring online and getting amazing feedback from my tutees. Parents trust me to be able to give their children a gentle push in the right direction. I specialize in maths and physics and I have also previously been a Science Ambassador at my Sixth form college.It has now been 3 years since I have started tutoring and I have no intentions to stop anytime soon!

Tutoring Approach:
My methods are simplistic but get the job done. I believe that explaining concepts with a clear background of where this information comes from helps students grasp information a lot quicker and I have experienced this being skipped at school myself. I am very versatile and can tutor 1:1 or in small groups. In addition, I am personally available 24/7 to all my students and give hands-on homework help throughout the week as I am fully committed to my students' progress. I am also keen on building a strong relationship with the student's parent so we can discuss progress and things your child is struggling with. For that, I usually suggest a call once a month to have a detailed discussion on your child's progress and test results.
I also have the first meeting with my student and a little assessment (verbal or written) to judge which level they're at and what I can do to help them best. That is done free of charge.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a passionate, kind and caring educator with a wide range of experience teaching and tutoring both in the UK and abroad. I have worked as a primary school teacher for 9 years, a part-time private tutor as well as spending time working as a Governess/nanny in Russia. My most recent teaching observation feedback (November 2020) states that 'You have a positive, purposeful and engaging learning environment fostered and your team work is seamless. Superb high quality modelling of roleplay and you extended all learning while planning in the moment. Provision is high quality and strong, positive relationships were displayed by all.' Following this observation, my headteacher wrote 'Thank you for all you do for the children - you really are amazing and we are lucky to have you!' Carly has a friendly and approachable manner with all members of staff, parents and children.' My induction report states that 'Carly has conducted herself in a professional manner at all times, forming very good relationships with the school community. She has modelled very good behaviour toward the children. She has had an excellent record with regard to following safeguarding procedures. Carly is a very good model of ethical and moral behaviour for the children. She enjoyed excellent relationships with her class. Carly had exceptional standards of punctuality and attendance. Carly followed pastoral policies well and contributed to the wider school. Carly was never unprofessional in dress or in behaviour. Carly fulfilled all aspects of the role as a class teacher including parent's evenings, hosting school events and writing reports. She worked collaboratively with colleagues and followed the lead from other professionals where appropriate.'

Teaching Experience:
I am a highly enthusiastic, caring and driven teacher with a wide range of experience teaching within the Early Years and Key Stage 1, following the English National Curriculum and Development Matters EYFS framework. I am deeply passionate about early childhood development and the relevant pedagogy; I enjoy in actively engaging with the latest research and training in this area. I am dedicated to meet the holistic needs of every child within my care as well as furthering my own personal and professional development. This is shown in my recent promotion to Wellbeing Coordinator of my school. I have worked in a wide range of schools, predominantly within the younger years, giving me broad experience across areas such as successful differentiation, progression, behaviour management techniques, and aspects such as working with children with SEN and learning EAL. Working within the international/independent sector has further ignited my passion for learning and teaching to the best of my ability. I enjoy working on a more one-to-one basis as I feel able to give every child the time that they need to make accelerated progress. I am highly thoughtful with my planning, and how I cater for individual children's needs. Feedback from parents is consistently positive and I try to make every learning experience interesting for the children I teach.

Tutoring Approach:
I am happy to tutor in-person within Bristol or online. My Specialism is Primary Education, particularly phonics, English, Language development and social skills but am willing to tutor other Primary subjects also. I try to make all teaching experiences memorable and fun for the children so that they are excited to continue furthering their skillset and knowledge.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My aim as a tutor in an educational organization would be to utilize my knowledge, skills and experience in molding the students into powerful global citizens and emerge as a leader.

Teaching Experience:
I am an innovative and skillful primary & high school teacher who has been working in this field for more than 10 years.

Tutoring Approach:
First and foremost to set clear boundaries and make a plan that meets both tutor and the student's. Communicate openly and Often. To focus on the student and aim to support them to identify their own goals and issues and develop strategies and solutions.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Nicola - a final year graduate medical student at the University of St Andrews.
I have a BSc (Hons) in Biology also from the University of St Andrews.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked as a tutor for 4 years now, and I have tutored a variety of subjects and ages, from primary to SQA highers.

Tutoring Approach:
I teach sailing during the summers to children and adults alike, so I can quickly adjust topics and lessons to be suitable for different age ranges. I love working out how each individual learns best and strive to ensure everyone I teach reaches their full potential. I want to make the learning process fun and enjoyable, and not be seen as a chore! I tailor my lessons to the student's abilities and personality. I try to link the subject to their interests, as I believe that people learn best when they are interested in a subject and can see the relevance of what they're studying.
I have personally sat exams in both the Cambridge IGCSE and Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher syllabuses, so I understand both the exam boards themselves and how to research the specifics of new exam boards. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions!

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:
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