Alresford English Tutors and Alresford English Tuition

Personal Description:
ANNOUNCING NEW AVAILABILITY FOR ENGLISH AND MATHS

FROM MONDAY SEPTEMBER 14TH onwards


***EXTRA TIMES FOR A LEVEL PSYCHOLOGY, MEDIA STUDIES AND POLITICS ALSO AVAILABLE


Hello, all parents and potential tutees!

A very warm Autumnal welcome from Stuart!

I'm an enthusiastic, keen and good-humoured tutor, who teaches with commitment, dedication, passion and style!

I have been teaching Key Stage 3, GCSE and A level students now for more than 20 years - and I achieve great results.

I currently tutor students in English Language, English Literature and Maths - in the evenings and occasionally at weekends.

I am familiar with all of the English prose and play texts, as well as Poetry Anthologies and tutor students for both GCSE and IGCSE English Language and Literature.

I have a passion for poetry, I love Shakespeare, and, in my spare time, publish short stories. Creative Writing is my first love.

I also tutor students in GCSE Maths - and am familiar with all of the syllabi (Edexcel; AQA; IGCSE, OCR).

I am currently coaching a number of students who are working towards their Entrance exams in Coventry and Warwickshire - for Warwick, King's High, the merged Bablake & King Henry Schools and Solihull School.

A native Scot, I attained my English degree (BA Honours) from Stirling University in central Scotland.

In addition to my English degree, I have a second degree in Education (1st class Honours) from Stirling University, which allows me to teach GCSE Mathematics, Sociology, Psychology and Politics.

My hobbies include swimming (I swim a mile almost every day!), writing short stories and poems and motorbiking.
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Current 2026 references are available upon request.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching GCSE and A level English, Drama and Creative Writing for 20 years.

I was one of the 'pilot tutors' on Warwickshire County Council's Tutoring Programme for Children in Care, tutoring teenagers across Warwickshire in literacy.

I write all of my own lessons.

Tutoring Approach:
My style is engaging and enthusiastic. I have a passion for creative writing.

I tutor in the evenings and selected weekends, and set weekly written tasks to monitor students' progress.

A normal GCSE lesson lasts one hour, but I can offer 90-minute or two-hour sessions for AS/A level students.

I also specialise in creative writing workshops, and am a published author, contributing to a number of paid-for UK magazines.

I also tutor online via MICROSOFT TEAMS.

I have had excellent recent successes. In the 2025 summer exams, four of my GCSE students scored A** (level 9) grades in Language and three scored level 9's in Literature.
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All of my last four A level English students have scored A grades.

I have also successfully tutored many students who have been accepted into Solihull School. Warwick School and King Henry School and Bablake School in Coventry.

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Personal Description:
My name is Joseph. Please call me Joe. I am retired and enjoy water colouring, swimming and computing but most of all I enjoy the challenge of helping young people to develop their learning skills.

Teaching Experience:
Before I retired I was head teacher of a Primary School for 21 years. This allowed me to gain a great insight into all aspects of the needs of Primary age pupils. It also provided me with the challenge of how best to provide for those needs. Prior to working in Primary Education I taught in the fields of Junior Secondary Education and Special Needs (with pupils ranging from eight to sixteen years and with multiple disabilities).

Tutoring Approach:
As a tutor my first aim is to establish a pleasant working relationship with each pupil. From there continuous assessment of the pupils needs and progress provides a basis for enhancing the skills which need to be developed. In order to make satisfactory progress I use a variety of materials and methods to stimulate the interest of the pupil.

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Personal Description:
I'm amazing!!!
And I help other people be amazing too!!!
My aim is to increase everyone's understanding of everything!!!

I've been tutoring Maths, Science and English since 2007, for ages 5 to 50. However, I mostly help teenagers with their SATs, GCSEs and A Levels.

Maths, Science and English are the three main subjects that people tend to want tutoring in. (Actually it's five subjects if you break the Science down into Biology, Chemistry and Physics.)

Anyway, as I tutor all of these subjects, my students find it very useful that I can potentially cover a different subject each week, or I can do two hours a week and cover a different subject in each hour.

This obviously makes it much easier for the parents too, because they don't have to find a separate tutor for each subject, or leave their child without the valuable one-to-one support in any of the core subjects.

I've also helped my students with pretty much every major school subject; from History and Religious Studies, to French and Spanish, and even Psychology and Health and Social Care. In fact, experience has shown me that I can help anyone to better understand anything - even something that I didn't even know myself a minute earlier!

Teaching Experience:
Educational Employment

Private Home Tutor
The Right Line
2007 - present
Tutoring GCSE and AS Level Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology.
Tutoring GCSE English Language and English Literature.
Tutoring Numeracy and Literacy (including Phonics) for ages 7 and up.

Life Improvement Course Director
COSRECI
2001 - 2012
(A community education and counselling organisation.)
Assisting students on courseroom-based life improvement courses.
Marking and returning lessons for home-study life improvement courses

Tutoring Approach:
Initially:
I find out the student's strengths and weaknesses.
I find out what they want to achieve from the tutoring.
Together we draw up a plan of action to achieve this.

While tutoring:
I ensure the student understands every word of the subject as it comes up.
I aim for a full, conceptual understanding of each point to the best of their ability.
I keep motivation high with reward stickers! (IT WORKS!!!)

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Personal Description:
I am an enthusiastic and flexible teacher who likes to encorporate a range of styles and approaches to help my pupils achieve their full potential. I believe in tailoring support and approach to the individual learning needs of my students and provide a safe and creative environment in which to learn.

I have taught in Year 6 for over 10 years and work in a good school with good SATs results.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught in a variety of primary schools over the last 18 years and am currently a senior manager and Year 6 teacher in a large primary school. I have experience across all primary phases and have worked with a wide range of abilities and special needs.

Tutoring Approach:
I am dedicated to encourage and enable children to learn and achieve their full potential. Success, even in small steps is paramount to build self esteem and confidence and I believe that this is a key part of my teaching style.

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Personal Description:
I am currently studying English Literature at the University of Edinburgh. I love reading, writing and reading some more. I also enjoy sketching while listening to music. I am a frank person, have an straightforward approach to everything in life and like people to behave the same way with me (which always does not happen). I love to have a laugh, but don't worry, I can be serious when needed( for example, when teaching your children English and History).

Teaching Experience:
While I have never tutored for money, I have an extensive tutoring experience. I volunteered to teach illiterate students English as a part of a volunteering program from my high school in India and have been a part of that program for the past two years. I also used to tutor my two siblings in History, Geography and English.

Tutoring Approach:
I feel that children learn best in a stress free environment. If they feel it is fun and challenging, they will be more willing to learn than if they feel it to be an obligation. English is an easy subject and children enjoy learning it, once they realize the joys that English has to offer. History can be challenging due to the vast amounts one has to learn by heart but steady habit of writing down answers to questions helps more than reading the material ten times. Other than that, History is a vastly interesting subject which helps us understand the workings of the present society and of course, knowledge about our ancestors. Geography is relatively straightforward subject. A lot of practice and a dedicated perusal of it should be enough to get good scores. While it can be relatively dry, it can be made interesting with pictures and videos.I focus on exam technique, past papers as well as text work (English Lit.)

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Personal Description:
Retired, deputy headteacher of a primary school in London. I have been tutoring now for 10 years.

Teaching Experience:
Taught in primary and secondary schools for 34 years. Over 20 years experience as a deputy headteacher. Have taught the full age range of primary school but mostly KS2 (age 7-11). My main role over the last 15 years has been a Year 6 SATS teacher so I have lots of experience for SATS preparation. I also did a lot of work in booster groups in Maths and English, moving children from level 3 to level 4. I have now been tutoring for a year with children aged between 7 and 14. For the last 3 years I have been a Key Stage 2 SATs marker. I can also tutor GCSE maths foundation level.

Tutoring Approach:
My main aim is to improve the ability of the children in the subjects chosen. Most of my tutees find the one-to-one personal touch invaluable because it allows me to quickly identify the areas of difficulty and devise a learning programme to meet these at a pace which the tutee finds comfortable. Many of the parents have commented that one-to-one sessions have rapidly improved the tutee's confidence and has frequently resulted in them being moved up groups in the classroom. Other parents have asked me to prioritise my teaching time working with their children on school homework. I like to create a friendly but purposeful atmosphere. I always give time to the parents at the end of each session so they are kept completely informed about my aims and strategies. I have years of experience and all the relevant materials to support the children in these subjects.

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Personal Description:
I'm a certified teacher working as a tutor for students in Norfolk and across the UK. In university I completed a specialist in psychology, while also minoring in English literature. I also completed my teachers' training, specialising in English, as well as excelling in teaching maths and technology. Here is a list of the subjects and levels I tutor:

Psychology for GCSE and A-Level.
English for Key Stages 1-3 and GCSE.
Maths for Key Stages 1-3 and GCSE
Computer Programming for all ages.

I mainly focus on online tuition, delivered using Skype or other platforms. While most of my online students are in KS3, GCSE and A-Level (and degree students for psychology), this option can work for students who are in year 4 and above, so long as they are familiar with the basics of using computers. For maths, I make use of Idroo, an online whiteboard which is useful for practicing questions. For computing, I am able to assist with programs relevant to both Microsoft Windows and Chromebook.

Please see the "Subject Taught" section below for rates per subject and level.

Also, don`t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

Teaching Experience:
I started working as a tutor in London and Surrey in 2013/2014, mainly for students who had been excluded from school. In 2015 I relocated and began tutoring private clients in East Anglia. In 2016 I started offering online tuition, first using Skype, and now with Zoom. I now tutor virtually all of my students online, though I will occasionally tutor at a student's home when my schedule permits.

Tutoring Approach:
For younger students, I assess them on their first appointment to see where their strengths and weaknesses are. I then focus the lessons on the areas they need improvement in, using an individualized approach that is suitable for that particular student. I also help students prepare for examinations, such as the GCSE; in this case I mostly focus on giving them tasks and questions that resemble what they will face on their tests.

For A-level and degree students, I'm usually asked to provide assistance with a specific task. For example, I've helped my students construct outlines in order to structure their essays, answer typical questions that will come up on their exams, and proof read their essays to check content, clarity and grammar. I can also clarify theories that are difficult to understand and help students generate ideas for their thesis.

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Personal Description:
I am a qualified teaching assisstant have experience working in schools like Wybourne primary
And montbelle primary school.
I have up to date DBS

Teaching Experience:
I have a 5years experience working with children from all age groups
In primary schools .

Tutoring Approach:
I normally teach children in my house .I work with children starting from age group
5 onwards and teach them to pass the enterence exams.
I normally access the level the child needs to work and make individual action
Plan for each child .

Subjects

Personal Description:
Cambridge-educated and the recipient of an Oxford University teaching prize, I am a qualified and highly experienced tutor with particular expertise in English Language and English Literature.

I offer tuition in:

11+ and school entrance
GCSE and IGCSE English Language
GCSE, IGCSE and A-level English Literature
GCSE and A-level History
GCSE and A-level Business Studies
University applications and personal statements
Mock interviews
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
Business English
Creative writing for adults

I hold QTS and an enhanced DBS. My qualifications include a degree in English, a PGCE in English and History, a Certificate in Education in Drama, an MA in Creative Writing and a postgraduate qualification in teaching creative writing from the University of Cambridge.

I am also a published author, professional editor, ghostwriter and experienced creative writing tutor.

I have taught students attending:

Independent senior schools: Rugby School, Gordonstoun, Warwick School, The Kingsley School, King's High School, Kingham Hill School, King Henry VIII School, Princethorpe College and Bablake School.

Independent junior schools: Crackley Hall and Warwick Junior School.

Selective state schools: Lawrence Sheriff School, Rugby High School, Alcester Grammar School, Ashlawn School, WMG Academy, Stratford Girls' Grammar School, King Edward's School and Newport Girls' High School.

State non-selective schools: Kenilworth School, Finham Park School, President Kennedy School, Babington Academy, English Martyrs, Bilton School, Houlton School, Harris Academy, Avon Valley School, Walsall Academy, Joseph Leckie Academy, Myton School, North Leamington School, Ernesford Grange Community Academy, Southgate School, East Barnet School, Attleborough Academy, Southfield School and Rugby Free Secondary School.

Junior schools: Potters Green School, Long Lawford Primary School, Holbrook Primary School, Park Hill Junior School, Dunchurch Boughton Junior School, Hillmorton Primary School, Cawston Grange Primary School, Abacus Academy, Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Primary School, Henry Hinde Junior School and St Anthony's Catholic Primary School.

Former students have progressed to leading universities, including Oxford and Durham, and have studied highly competitive subjects such as medicine and dentistry.

I have taught students based in the UK, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Russia and South Korea. I teach learners from the age of eight through to adulthood.

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced and successful online tutor with an extensive background in secondary, further and adult education. I undertake regular professional development and keep my safeguarding, Prevent, GDPR and other required professional training up to date.

I have been a Head of English and a Senior Leader in a highly successful Birmingham school, as well as a Local Authority Adviser for English.

I have taught writing to postgraduate students at the universities of Cambridge, Warwick, Hull and York. I have also published educational research and teaching resources, edited publications and mentored writers.

My assessment experience includes working as an examiner for KS2 SATs, English Language and English Literature. I am also a qualified Arts Award assessor.

I am familiar with the requirements of AQA, Pearson Edexcel, OCR, Eduqas and IGCSE examinations. My other specialist areas include the Essex, Warwickshire and Birmingham 11+ examinations, IELTS, Trinity ESOL and British Council ESOL provision.

I have considerable experience of helping students whose schools have not enabled them to fulfil their potential. I have also provided individual tuition on behalf of schools for looked-after children. At the other end of the attainment range, I have supported highly able students at academically selective schools, helping them develop the precision and independence required for the highest grades.

Every student is taught as an individual. I assess what each learner genuinely understands, identify gaps and design lessons and resources specifically for that student. I do not rely on generic worksheets or give every pupil the same programme. My preparation is purposeful, individual and closely connected to each student's current needs, syllabus and long-term goals.

Tutoring Approach:
Every lesson is taught individually. Your child will not be placed in a group with students who have different needs, abilities or goals.

I have high expectations of my students and provide the individual teaching, encouragement and challenge they need to fulfil their potential. I also give parents honest, evidence-based feedback about progress, current attainment and areas requiring further work.

To ensure that my assessments remain accurate and consistent, I standardise my marking with a secondary-school English department every year.

RESULTS AND SUCCESSES, 2025-26

T: Grade 8 in GCSE English Language and grade 7 in English Literature. His Literature result is two marks below grade 8 and has been submitted for review.

AL: Grade 8 in GCSE English Language and grade 8 in English Literature. His Language result is one mark below grade 9 and has been submitted for review.

E: Following a significantly disrupted Year 10, she achieved grade 7 in GCSE English Language and grade 6 in English Literature.

AD: Grade 7 in GCSE English Language and grade 7 in English Literature.

V: An ESOL student who arrived in the UK less than two years before sitting her GCSEs and achieved grade 4 in both English Language and English Literature.

RESULTS AND SUCCESSES, 2024-25

All my 11+ candidates passed their examinations.

All my GCSE English Language students achieved grades 8 or 9.

All my GCSE English Literature students achieved grades 7, 8 or 9.

RECENT SUCCESSES

A student achieved grades 9 and 9 in GCSE English Language and Literature after being predicted grades 6 and 6 by school.

A student achieved grades 8 and 7 after being predicted grades 4 and 4.

A student who arrived in the UK speaking no English made three levels of progress within six months.

An adult ESOL learner from South Korea progressed from A2 to C1 British Council levels and achieved a distinction in GCSE Speaking and Listening in fewer than nine months.

My pupils have gained 11+ places at King Edward's School, Lawrence Sheriff School, Alcester Grammar School and Rugby High School.

My pupils have also gained scholarships to Rugby School and Warwick School, and bursaries to Bablake School and Princethorpe College.

Other successes include supporting a student's progress from grade 3 to grade 7 in three months, and another student's progress from grade 5 to grade 9 in six months.

TESTIMONIALS

'Thank you so much for all your support throughout the years, and for your patience and genuine care.'

'We are all so pleased and thankful for your support and help.'

'I appreciate your invaluable support.'

'We DID it! The score gets him into the best grammar school-KEGS. Thank you so much for your perseverance and amazing teaching.'

'You taught me more in one lesson than school taught me for the whole year.'

'She couldn't have done it without your coaching.'

EARLIER SUCCESSES

My earlier successes include helping GCSE and A-level students improve by several grades; supporting dyslexic and home-educated learners; preparing successful university and medical-school applications; helping postgraduate students progress from a postgraduate award to an MA course; and enabling an adult with dyslexia to progress from relying on emojis to composing written emails and messages independently.

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Personal Description:
Hello, I'm Leanne! I am a highly qualified English Lecturer and professional tutor with over 23 years of experience helping students unlock their full potential. Whether you are a parent looking to secure top grades for your child's GCSE English Language exams, or an international university student navigating the rigorous academic demands of UK higher education, I provide the targeted, expert support you need to succeed.

My teaching background spans across both native speakers and international learners from all over the globe. I specialise in bridging the gap between a student's current ability and their academic goals, combining a supportive mindset with proven exam and academic strategies.

As a native British speaker, I pride myself on providing a clear, engaging, and professional online learning environment where students feel confident to ask questions, make mistakes, and make rapid progress.

Teaching Experience:
For over two decades, I have worked as a permanent English Lecturer at a prominent Further Education college, consistently achieving Grade 1 (Outstanding) in teaching observations. This extensive classroom experience gives me a deep understanding of curriculum design, exam board criteria, and the specific hurdles students face.

My core expertise includes:

GCSE English Language Success: Deconstructing exam papers, mastering creative/persuasive writing, and teaching the precise analytical skills required by top exam boards to boost grade performance.

Academic English for Higher Education: Preparing international students for university-level study, including intensive IELTS preparation and mastering academic register.

Adult ESOL & EFL Tuition: Decades of experience guiding learners from Pre-Entry up to Level 2, ensuring clear pronunciation, strong grammatical foundations, and fluent communication.

Tutoring Approach:
Online learning should never be one-size-fits-all. Every student receives a bespoke, targeted learning plan during our first session together, allowing us to track clear, weekly progress against specific academic goals.

For GCSE Students: I focus heavily on exam technique, time management, and building the confidence needed to tackle unseen texts. I make the curriculum approachable and reduce the stress often associated with final exams.

For University Students: I offer a highly practical approach to academic fluency. In addition to language coaching, I provide specialized proofreading and structural guidance for university essays, reports, and assignments to ensure your written work meets strict UK university standards.

I hold a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), a Level 4 Subject Specialism in teaching ESOL, and a current clean DBS check, giving parents absolute peace of mind. Sessions are delivered seamlessly online via Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

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Personal Description:
Hello my name is Anne-Marie, I am from Ireland but have been living in the UK since 2004. This is now a place I call home. I realised I had a flare for imparting knowledge when I became a basketball trainer at 15, working with Primary and Secondary pupils. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, saw the progress the pupils I trained had made and knew from that moment that teaching was my vocation as it was and is so rewarding. I now have a 5 year old son who loves reading and writing. He can articulate himself well and it's truly a joy to see. It's amazing the wonder a child sees in learning.

Teaching Experience:
From September this year I have been teaching English, Geography and RE at Beckfoot School in Bingley. I am a tutor as well (GCSE English, KS3 English, Maths and Science). As well as that, I am an EAL teacher to Chinese children online. In the past I have taught English up to GCSE at Laisterdyke Leadership Academy and English and French at Pudsey Grangefield School. In addition to this, l have taught Spanish and French at Carr Manor Community School. I taught the same subjects at St. Bede's and St. Joseph's Catholic College in Bradford from September 2017 to May 2018. Prior to that I was teaching French and Spanish at Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School (formerly a Language College). In addition, I assisted students to prepare for the GCSE German exam. As well as my teaching responsibilities, my pastoral duties included being a Year 10 form tutor. From February to December 2016, I was a teacher of French at Key Stage 3, Spanish at Key Stages 3 and 4 and was responsible for a Year 9 form at Queensbury School. From September 2015 to January 2016, I taught German at Key Stages 3 and 4 and French at Key Stage 3 at Oakbank School in Keighley. I previously worked at Rastrick High School and Sixth Form College where I was a teacher of French at Key Stage 3 and Spanish at Key Stages 3, 4 and 5. I also taught German and PSHCE to Year 9 students, and Accelerated Reading to Year 7 pupils. Four years ago, I was a Year 11 form tutor. This role entailed planner signing, reading and guiding pupils on college and career choices as well as helping them with exam revision skills. During registration, I covered some PSHCE topics and encouraged my tutees to write reviews on the books they were reading in order to find out more about their interests and consequently get to know them better. My form was involved in fundraising activities and have participated in assemblies. As well as that, I have mentored a PGCE student on how to become a form tutor and in addition I had a GTP student in my Key Stage 3 and 4 Spanish classes. In 2015 whilst on maternity leave, I taught Spanish to Years 2 and 6 and French to Years 3 and 4 at a local Primary School on a voluntary basis.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to use an approach that suits the students I teach. I discuss what needs they have and what their interests are and work from there. I like to be well-prepared yet flexible when necessary. I like to do kineasthetic activities to keep the students engaged in their learning and use a variety of resources to enable my students to gain as much confidence when speaking, reading writing etc.

I also create an environment where my students feel safe and at ease when learning meaning they are not afraid to make mistakes and are keen to build on this and see that mistakes are evidence of effort.

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Personal Description:
I hold a first class degree from the University of Oxford in Politics, Philosophy and Economics. I am currently doing a Master's in Economic Research at Cambridge University and want to be a researcher in economics. Past students in Politics, Economics and Maths A-Level have achieved A/A* in public examinations I taught them for. I have four years tutoring experience. I can help students excel in 7+,11+,13+ and University entrance exams. I can help students achieve top grades in maths, science and English GCSE. I also can help students excel in economics, maths and politics A-Level, as I was a top graduate (in the top 8%) form the University of Oxford in those subjects. I achieved A*AAA at A-Level in Further Maths, History and Politics. I took five AS levels and averaged 94% in them. I scored 10A*s plus an A in additional maths at GCSE at RGS Guildford. I greatly enjoy mentoring and inspiring students to excel in their education. I derived an enormous amount of joy and excitement from my education. It is a wonderful thing to inspire my students to succeed and thrive in their studies. My ambition is to return to the University of Oxford to do a masters and doctorate in economics.

Teaching Experience:
I have four years experience as a private tutor, teaching: GCSE maths, oxbridge applications (interviews, personal statements, general preparation and guidance and the PPE entrance exam), GCSE science (chemistry, biology and physics), english GCSE, politics A-Level, economics A-Level and 11+ and 13+ entrance exams for private schools. I have helped students win places at RGS Guildford, Churcher's College, KCS Wimbledon, Wellington College and places at Oxford University (A student came in the top 1% of Oxford University PPE applicants after private lessons, but was on the 30th percentile in practice exams beforehand). I tutored maths for the 11+ entrance exam and they achieved a commendation for their performance in the exam. I have taught students aged 7-13 at the Kumon maths centre in Haslemere. I have structured revision and school work for students who dropped out of school for their GCSEs, providing home schooling. I inspired many students in maths by accelerating them quickly through the GCSE course.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a surface pro with a pen for online lessons. In economics and maths, I use an online whiteboard which students have permanent access to, to write notes and solutions to exam questions. My approach is to accelerate students as fast as possible through their given course using exam material to deepen and develop their knowledge. I find I can accelerate students rapidly in maths (at GCSE and A-level), whilst they greatly enjoy the subject and the sessions. Students quickly improve at school too, which gives them extra confidence in their talents and capabilities. I set students past papers questions and we resolve any difficulties they had in the session. Iterating through past paper questions in this manner leads to exceptional results: a student of mine came in the top 1% in the entrance exam against Oxford University applicants and gained a place. Similarly, students excel at 11+, 13+, GCSE and A-Level in this manner. Practicing exam material and constantly pushing myself is how I achieved first class hons at the University of Oxford (as well as how I exceled at school), coming top in Game Theory in the exam, so I believe in this approach.

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Personal Description:
I's a first year primary education student that is currently studying at Reading University.

Teaching Experience:
I've been doing online lessons everyday for the last three months and have had some experience in a school setting.

Tutoring Approach:
A fun online tutor who will adapt to the needs to all

Subjects

Personal Description:
PLEASE SEE 'TUTORING EXPERIENCE' BELOW FOR THE MOST IMPORTANT PARTS OF THIS PAGE, THE RESULTS AND FEEDBACK

I am an Oxford graduate (English language and literature, first class), as well as a qualified English teacher, and have been tutoring since 2013. My specialism is A-level English literature.

Please get in touch for online English tuition, particularly if you are or your child is

• Preparing to take A-levels in 2026/27
• Doing coursework
• Working on the basis of continuous assessment, mocks, etc.
• Or planning to do / doing an English degree

I graduated from the University of Oxford with a double first in English language and literature, winning the prize for the best performance in English finals at Mansfield College, and the college essay prize. At school, I was awarded eleven GCSEs at A-star and three A-levels at A.

As well as tutoring, I have worked as a researcher, a copywriter, and a proofreader. I have also completed a PGCE in secondary English at the UCL Institute of Education, the highest-ranking college of education in the world ('QS World University Rankings'), during which I taught all age groups at two west London secondary schools, and received A's for my master's-level assignments. I am currently pursuing a PhD in English literature at the University of Buckingham.

As well as English tuition at any level, I can help you or your child with the following:

• Oxbridge entrance (the admissions process, practice interviews, the ELAT, etc.)
• Essay surgery - how to structure and write an essay
• How to revise - note-taking, organisation, making connections, committing to memory
• Grammar, punctuation, and style (a.k.a. 'usage and abusage')
• Speech-writing and public speaking
• Proofreading and redrafting essays
• Suggested reading and resources, including access to my library of 'TES' resources
• Creative writing
• How to annotate, analyse (and enjoy) English literature - sometimes known as 'close reading' or 'practical criticism'
• If you'd specifically like written feedback on your writing - more like a correspondence course - then I can also provide that.

In my spare time I enjoy cycling, writing, and photography.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring since 2013, teaching English at all levels (including degree level), as well as A-level religious studies and classical civilisation. I have taught AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC/Eduqas, and CAIE (Cambridge International), and am constantly familiarising myself with the new texts that my students are studying. I have experience helping students who have autism and ADHD. And I am interested in the role of generative AI and large language models in education, not to write students' essays for them, but as research assistants for students and teachers alike. It is of course important that students do not get the likes of ChatGPT to write their essays for them, among other reasons because they will not be able to do so in the exams. Tutoring is well placed to discourage this, since it has always been my practice to ask my students many questions about every essay they write.

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A student, June 2025: 'thank you very much for all the sessions! It has not only boosted my confidence in English literature but they really reminded me of how much I love the subject. It's always a pleasure to discuss nuance readings of the texts, and it has been a great help leading up to my exams.'

Charlotte, a parent, June 2025: 'Thank you so much for all your help and support for [L.]. We are so grateful for everything you have done with him and wish you all the best.'

Ann, a parent, June 2025: '[Z.] has thoroughly enjoyed her lessons with you and has gained so much from your guidance. We're very grateful for all the support you've given her.'

A parent, May 2025: 'Thank you so much again for everything you've done to help [G.] prepare for these exams - he has really enjoyed his sessions with you and he and we really appreciate your support'.

A parent, May 2025: '[N.] just received the below. It's an A* if the grade boundaries is same as last year. She couldn't have done it without your help. We really appreciate it.'

A parent, February 2025: '[S.] is really enjoying studying with you and has gained a lot of confidence in English. I truly appreciate the effort and dedication you put into teaching.'

A student, January 2025: 'thank you ever so much for your kindness and creative encouragement the past months. What is very special about you as a tutor is that you have never told me "what to write". Instead, you have asked me questions about my work that have led me to discover what I truly wish to write'.

Kate, a parent, December 2024: 'We're so pleased [G.] is enjoying his sessions and seems to be really motivated to read widely in between sessions, is making useful structured notes (which he didn't do before) and his confidence and awareness of what he needs to do when essay writing is really building. Thank you!!!'

Eleni, a parent, December 2024: 'I just wanted to let you know that [D.] received an offer […] today! She is super happy! […] I wanted to thank you again as [D.] found your sessions incredibly helpful and inceased her confidence during the exams process.'

*

A-level results, August 2024:

'I wanted to write to say a huge thank you to you for all the help, support and inspiration you have given [E.] over the past year. You have not only given her the technical advice and support to help her make the most of her essays and exams, but more importantly you have helped her keep the love of the subject alive. I know a big part of the reason she is so excited to study English at university is because of how much she has enjoyed your conversations, and how you have helped her to consider texts in a way that the rather narrower scope of teaching at school does not allow. I am so very grateful to you and I really appreciate all the time and effort you put into her sessions - thank you so very much. […] You've been so great, and any other student/parent would be lucky to have access to your teaching.'

'I have just opened my results and am happy to confirm that I am off to Bristol this September with an A* in English! I just want to thank you again for making this possible.'

'I got an A in English, and will be going to Exeter, so mission accomplished. I wanted to thank you for all your help, not only for helping me to get what I needed, but for giving me back my confidence and enjoyment of the subject in the process.'

'Just to let you know [I.] got her results this morning and achieved an 'A' in English. We are over the moon […] Thank you again for all your help with the English, it's much appreciated.'

'thanks for your help this past academic year! Got two A*s in English and Philosophy'.

'I got a B and I was accepted into my firm university (Durham) which I am very happy! Thank you for all your help and support.'

'I was really happy to receive […] A in English Literature […] I secured a placed at my firm university. I will be studying English Literature at Durham University this September and I am very excited! Thank you so much for all of your support, I really appreciate it!'

'i got into Warwick with […] an A* in English!!!!! I am very happy :) Thank you for all your hard work, wisdom and wit over the last year or two'.

'Thank you so much for all your coaching and advice that you shared with [L.], it made such a difference to his confidence leading up to his exams. He is (as are we) delighted with his English result.'

'an A awarded in English […] so she is off to her first choice of Edinburgh University to study History of Art and English Literature.'

'Results day went well and I'm going to the university of Kent. Thank you so much again for all the time spent helping me to prepare for my exams it means a lot I'm very excited to continue my English literature journey.'

*

A student, June 2024: 'Thank you so much for being the most amazing English teacher! It has been an immensely rewarding and interesting journey exploring so many books […] I have learnt so much from GCSEs to continuing with more amazing literatures in A-levels'

A student, June 2024: 'I […] wanted to say thank you for the tremendous help you have provided with the English content throughout the A level period. The resources that you provided for me were quite helpful in refining my knowledge in many areas of the syllabus so thank you very much.'

A student, May 2024: 'I've just received the results for my english coursework and wanted to thank you for all the help and feedback!!'

A parent, February 2024: 'your help has kept her love of the subject and her enthusiasm alive and I can't thank you enough for that.'

A parent, February 2024: 'You were such a huge help to [S.], we will always be very grateful to you.'

Kath, a parent, February 2024: 'We would both like to thank you for all your invaluable help, especially all the helpful feedback on the coursework essay. [S.] has definitely learnt a lot and grown in confidence, especially in her knowledge of Twelfth Night.'

A student, January 2024: 'I just wanted to let you know that I got an offer from Oxford! Thank you so much for checking over my personal statement and all the help that you have given me since GCSEs. I really enjoy our sessions every week, the discussions keep me constantly creative and thinking.'

A parent, January 2024: 'Thank you as always for all your continued help and support for [E.]. I know she gets a tremendous amount from your sessions and I'm very grateful.'

A student, January 2024: 'Just emailing to let you know I did get an offer from […] Cambridge yesterday so thank you so much for all your help! It is really appreciated and I'm really looking forward to starting my degree in October!'

A student, December 2023: 'So thank you so much again for all your help; your insights have been very useful and I have really enjoyed talking about literature with you.'

Tara, a parent, November 2023: 'you are really helping [R.], he is becoming much more confident. Thank you so much'.

Paula, a parent, November 2023: '[M.] is always delighted with your teaching. You are asking questions no one else does. My husband and I see her grow academically after every session with you.'

Liz, a parent, October 2023: 'Thank you so much for all the work you have done with, and the kindness you have shown, [E.] to date. She really enjoys her sessions with you, and you've helped keep her enthusiasm for English very much alive. I'm so grateful.'

Kim, a parent, August 2023: 'I cannot tell you how happy we all were and your help was clearly instrumental in that. Not sure if he told you but he got 12 points above an A* and it was his best A level result!'

A student, August 2023: 'I really enjoyed our lessons and think it has really helped prepare me for the Oxford style tutorials.'

A student, August 2023: 'wanted to let you know I ended up getting an A* in English, thanks so much for all the help!'

Mark, a parent, June 2023: 'Many thanks josh for your help this year. [E.] has said to me it has really helped, you started assisting her at a time when she felt behind her class mates for the whole of the first year, having switched to English half way through term one.'

Melanie, a parent, June 2023: 'Thank you so much for all your time and effort with [T.]'s English literature. She really enjoyed your sessions together and it really boosted her confidence and inspired her to think more deeply and critically about the texts. It also confirmed that she is happy and excited to study a literature based course at degree level.'

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A-level results, August/September 2022:

'[L.] came home from university yesterday to attend her school prize giving ceremony, and this morning as she was leaving she asked me to let you know that she won a special prize in English […] Until last night, she wasn't aware of any of her awards, apart from her scholarship, so it was all a lovely surprise. Furthermore, the essays she wrote in her A level English exams have somehow found their way into her teachers' hands; they told her, with beams of pride , that the three marks dropped overall were actually in her *non exam* assessment, so 30/30 in all questions across all papers under exam conditions, something she had never achieved before. She had admitted to me in the aftermath of the exams that when she was writing her English papers she had really enjoyed the process, her thoughts flowing pretty effortlessly on to the paper. But she had also worried this stream of ideas might not be fit with the mark schemes. […] she […] wanted you to know about her prize, as she thought you'd be pleased, and she also wanted to say thanks one last time for your inspirational teaching that led to it.'

'I got AAA* for my results much higher than my predicted! particularly for english'.

'[G.] got an A star in English. And is off to Oxford. […] Thanks so much for everything - you were honestly amazing and really helped her get there'.

'[L.] got 3 a stars and an A star as well in her EPQ. Her highest marks were in English Literature ( 197/200)'.

'I achieved 4A*s in my Alevels - one being in English Literature. My teachers also let me know that I got full marks in both the exam papers'.

'[T.] smashed English Literature, A* […] she is absolutely over the moon . Thank you so much for all the work you put in with her !'

'I got a D[distinction]2!!! […] I got full marks on my PI!'

'I got an A* in English!!! Thank you so much for all of your help I wouldn't have been able to do it without you!'

*

A student, January 2023: 'Just wanted to let you know I got an offer from Cambridge, thank you so so much for all your help.' And Kathryn: 'You were such a great help to [E.] in her preparation for the Cambridge application and interview and we were all delighted when she was offered a place this week. Thank you for all the support you gave her.'

Shaun, a parent, January 2023: '[E.] has found the sessions really very helpful (and has enjoyed them!)'

Guifang, a parent, December 2022: 'From what I hear from [S.], she really enjoys her discussions with you, it's really one of the highlights of her week.'

A student, November 2022: 'I'm extremely happy to tell you that I received an 8.3 for the literary review […] Thank you for explaining to me what a literary review is […] I remember whilst working on it I was so worried about my grade, but it appears I've survived.'

Deborah, a parent, September 2022: 'a huge thanks again to you for all your work with [S.]. I know he has been in touch to let you know that he got 9s in both English Language and Literature. He was over the moon - well beyond his best hopes, so thank you again for being instrumental in helping him attain those grades.'

Karen, a parent, August 2022: 'Both my girls really like your way of teaching and talking to them, they feel really listened to and respected for their opinions (as well as respecting yours obviously), so thank you :)'

Helen, a parent, July 2022: 'Thanks so much for all the help you gave [J.], he really benefitted from the sessions he had with you.'

Tara, a parent, June 2022: 'Thank you so much for all your help and patience - I think you have been brilliant for her confidence. She found English exams really very difficult before she started talking to you and it's amazing to see how much calmer (relatively speaking!) she has been going in to her A level English papers. Whatever the result, her sessions with you have definitely helped her to enjoy English again and I'm really grateful.'

A student, June 2022: 'This is incredibly insightful and thought provoking feedback. Thank you so much.'

Mei, a parent, June 2022: 'She found your lessons very helpful and always remarked to me how much you went the extra mile for her ; looking up and sending on links to whatever you'd been discussing. Much appreciated!'

Marguerite, a parent, June 2022: 'Thank you so much for all you've done for [T.] in the past year . […] you are a very talented teacher.'

Monica, a parent, June 2022: 'You have been an absolutely wonderful tutor to [L.], and how time has flown since she first met you! […] Many a time she has needed someone to talk to, not so much about AO1-5, but rather about the beauty and burden of literature and life. You have always been willing to do that, and she is richer for it.'

A student, June 2022: 'Thank you for teaching me for the last year; I have enjoyed our lessons and I feel I have grown as an English student, with thanks to your teaching.'

A student, April 2022: 'I received an 8 for my essay!! I want to thank you for your tutoring on Keats and Wordsworth- I wouldn't have gotten such a grade without it!! […] I learned tons because of you.'

Ngozi, a parent, March 2022: 'Thanks for everything that you're doing for [G.] - it has been very helpful.'

A student, February 2022: 'Really, thanks so much. Was such a good and efficient service. Your feedback looks really good and I'm going to implement it today. […] Thanks again for doing this on such short notice'.

Deborah, a parent, October 2021: '[S.] said you make it really fun - he said at school his energy goes down in English lessons and with you it goes up! So that is praise indeed from a teenage boy!'

A student, August 2021: 'I got the A grade ! I'm so pleased, thank you for all the help and the essays really paid off :).'

Monica, a parent, July 2021: 'As would be expected from his first class qualifications, Josh is extremely intelligent. However, in my opinion, he has a a very particular advantage over others of a similar academic background, namely his ability to exhibit an authentic interest in the ideas his students express. He is always kind and encouraging, but without sacrificing rigour; this approach has had a hugely positive impact on my daughter when speaking, writing and reading. Furthermore, Josh has introduced her to a range of authors, poets , films and philosophical thought, thus enriching her far beyond the school curriculum. In the future, my daughter will undoubtedly look back on her time with Josh with both fondness and gratitude. I have no hesitation in recommending Josh as a tutor'.

Guifang, a parent, July 2021: 'I have know Joshua for 2 months and He has been supporting my daughter excellently through her GCSE courses, helping her to achieve a 9 in predicted grades. From this, Joshua has always been very serious with the work, needless to say, always punctual and gives detailed homework feedback. I know him to be a wonderful tutor to my daughter.'

Susan, a parent, May 2021: '[T]hank you so much for all your help with [N.] […] [N.] found your lessons extremely helpful which enabled her to enjoy and understand English in a greater depth […] it was excellent tuition . Thank you'.

Jamal, a parent, May 2021: 'Thank you Josh for all your efforts, you have greatly assisted [S.] in better understanding English Literature as whole.'

Zahed, a parent, May 2021: 'We are grateful for all your help and support. We are in no doubt that [A.] has improved a lot in English Literature under your guidance.'

A student, May 2021: 'I just got my coursework back and got an A in it. Just thought i should let you know thanks you!'

Margaret, a parent, March 2021: 'Thanks for helping [M.] to improve her English understanding. She really enjoys her lessons and chats!'

Chris, a parent, March 2021: '[R.] is benefiting immensely from your lessons and is definitely getting more confident in expressing his thoughts in writing! Thank you.'

Amanda, a parent, December 2020: 'Josh has really helped join the dots, encouraged a depth of questioning and ways to interpret and compare ideas, extracting and bringing fresh meaning to narrative styles and creative use of language. Josh has been a great support and steered [R.]'s confidence to look more thoroughly and develop a greater understanding all round. Josh has a kind, approachable style and encouraged [R.] with debating aloud and suggestions for further reading which all continue to be an invaluable help and inspire greater confidence in approaching exams and further reading in future!'

A student, December 2020: 'He helps focus my understanding and makes sure i understand the topic we are learning before moving on. Josh will make sure to ask you questions throughout the process and is always ready for your ideas even if you think it's wrong. He will set homework but makes sure to switch it up each week to make it more interesting and gives his feedback to help me understand what i need to do to improve.'

Diana, a parent, September 2020: 'Josh worked with my daughter for her A Level in English Literature. He was outstanding with his ideas and expanding her critical thinking. He went above and beyond to develop her analytical skills and as a result helped her obtain an A*. He is an absolutely lovely, gentle but dynamic and reliable tutor who has a rare ability combine his academic achievement with a natural talent for teaching. A real gem and we cannot thank him enough.'

A parent, September 2020: 'Joshua is an excellent tutor with great communication skills . He is very patient , helpful , approachable and takes time to explain everything clearly to my daughter . Joshua has been able to breakdown and explain in full detail all aspects of the A Level content.'

A student, June 2020: 'it's been great being taught by you, I've learned so many critical thinking skills in such a short space of time.'

A parent, March 2020: 'I can't thank you enough for everything that you've done for her - you've been the best English teacher she's ever had and she has loved her time with you.'

*

During my teacher training, I taught all age groups at two west London secondary schools.

While at Oxford, I was part of an 'e-mentoring' scheme to help candidates from schools without a history of Oxbridge applications.

At Christ College, Brecon, I ran two series of seminars, for sixth-formers studying RS and English literature. In English we covered 'The Tempest', Gothic literature, Pat Barker's 'Regeneration', 'Jane Eyre', Wilfred Owen, and 'The Canterbury Tales'.

Tutoring Approach:
I try to combine three things that I want my students to do, which are three forms of thinking: speak about complex ideas, read high-quality material, and write essays for which they will receive detailed feedback. For obvious reasons, lessons are weighted to speaking, and homework to reading and writing.

Speaking

Pedagogy's holy grail is measuring progress, which is difficult in a classroom and impossible in a lecture. Happily, the tutorial system allows this to occur continuously and efficiently via dialogue. Can a student re-express an idea they have heard or read in their own words? If the answer is yes, they have probably understood the idea. Hence the constant questions!

As well as understanding the ideas of others, speaking is essential for students to develop their own. I love the quotation from the novelist E. M. Forster, 'How can I tell what I think till I see what I say?' We improve the quality of our ideas through the process of articulating them.

For my part, quite a lot of what I say is explaining what texts mean. This might sound obvious, but great works of literature are complex, so, to understand their meaning, one's own interpretation probably needs the support of others' prior interpretations.

I sometimes like to break the question of a text's meaning into two: What's it about? And what's it really about? Answering the first question is comprehension, a necessary first step. To answer the second question is to understand. In 'A Streetcar Named Desire', for example, Blanche goes to live with her sister in New Orleans. She expresses a strong dislike of her surroundings and is frequently associated with images of water. She declines mentally and is eventually taken away. So what's the play really about? Blanche is a Romantic idealist who is disappointed with her life but still tends to imagine things in their perfect form. The play is about the human soul conceiving of things being as good as they could be (as if cleansed by water), reaching for the conception, and failing to grasp it - shuttling back and forth, in other words, on the streetcar named desire.

One thing I frequently encourage is making the link between those oft-cited elements of a good essay, themes and quotations. These are not unrelated ingredients, they are the text itself viewed from different distances. A theme (the desire to be cleansed) is a wide shot, and a quotation ('the land of the sky blue water') is a close-up. So the student of English has to practise their ability to zoom in and out.

Another way I try to support my students' studies is by making connections between the texts they are reading, which in my experience doesn't happen that much at school. Particularly at A-level, there are often many fruitful connections between the half-dozen or so texts being studied: the Romantics were devoted to Shakespeare and Milton, the Gothic is an aspect of the Romantic, the Aesthetic Movement drew on particular strains of Romanticism, etc. When these connections get made with reference to particular writers, they are no longer just isms. They make the material deeper and easier to understand at the same time. Towards the end of their school careers, students of the humanities should be able to get the sense of taking part in 'the Great Conversation that began in the dawn of history and that continues to the present day' (Robert M. Hutchins).

Reading

I regularly give my students PDFs of high-quality secondary material pitched at their level or just above it. Explanatory notes, commentaries, and essays can help with understanding, particularly when it comes to context. (And all exam boards have assessment objectives relating to historical context.) To know that a text was written during a particular period and what characterised that period is to have a mental scaffold that does not limit movement but frees it. In studying the humanities we are studying human culture, and no one can do that without a bit of structure. It also helps when thinking about texts in relation to each other - when writing a comparative essay, for example. I like to think of honing in from context to text, e.g. Romanticism (late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries) > William Blake (1757-1827) > 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience' (1794) > 'The Tyger'. (What's 'The Tyger' about? There's a question!)

In my experience, knowledge acquisition operates according to the Matthew principle, named after a verse in the Gospel of Matthew: 'unto every one that hath shall be given'. In other words, the more you've got, the more you'll get. Every time you learn something about Romanticism, the greater will be your understanding of the poetry of William Blake. Your internal bookshelves expand - more connections, greater understanding. Reading secondary material is obviously 'extra', but it works to enhance students' understanding of set texts rather than crowd them out. Homer Simpson said, 'every time I learn something new, it pushes some old stuff out of my brain', and we laugh because it's not true. You can't fill up a brain, so the cliché about people's (particularly young people's) limitless potential is true. Every time you learn something new, you enrich your contextual understanding of everything else you have ever learnt. '[E]very moment is a new and shocking / Valuation of all we have been', as T. S. Eliot put it in 'East Coker'.

Writing

Speaking and reading are in a concrete way preparation for writing. If you think and make notes while speaking and reading, by the time it comes to writing an essay, the question should not be about what to say, but how to arrange the things you want to say. So annotation is an important skill. It's a bit like getting 'in the zone' for a sportsperson - students must practise getting there and staying there. I model the annotation process something like this:

Read with a pencil in your hand. What makes you underline? Something fires in your brain, so that you have a response - you spot a developing theme, you're reminded of another book, you agree or disagree, there's a word you don't know and need to look up, you like the way a sentence sounds. It could be anything. Read until you've underlined twenty words or sentences. Work out the three or four connections between the things you have to say, and you've got a paragraph plan. Work out the main thing you have to say, and you have a thesis for your essay, which, as you aim your paragraphs at it, will accumulate force.

A lot of learning (and life) is about noticing connections, so getting into the habit of doing so is something like learning how to learn. If a student has developed this habit, they shouldn't really have to think 'What shall I write?' in front of a blank sheet of paper or screen. The content of the essay will be a sort of emanation of prior thinking.

When it comes to giving students feedback, I keep in mind one of the best incites I heard early in my PGCE: attend to your students' writing as you would a piece of literature. This way, the marking progress becomes analogous to the writing process. What are all the things that could make this essay better? And is there a connection between them, i.e. what's the main thing this student needs to focus on? (I usually give feedback using comments and 'track changes' in Microsoft Word.)

Why study English?

It has been said that 'If you can think, and speak, and write, you are absolutely deadly', and I think that's right. Learning how to construct and articulate good arguments is learning how to impose ideas on the world. To the extent that English is about feelings, it is about their articulation, and there is a great deal to learn about how feelings have been and can be articulated. Moreover, because English is the medium of instruction in all other subjects, command of it confers a freedom to range through the history of ideas and discriminate between reliable and unreliable, including online. Language is a prerequisite for thought - doing English properly is learning how to think better.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Engineering Graduate First Class. 20+ years of experience in IT and software. Experience in banking, software testing, project management.

Teaching is my hobby. I have worked with UK students and also from students from India. I am open for online lessons for students from any country.

Teaching Experience:
Tutor for primary school students. Software testing trainer. Experience in assisting various software technologies and certification.
I have successfully sent 11Plus students to top grammar schools.

Teaching is my hobby. I have worked with UK students and also from students from India. I am open for online lessons for students from any country.

I have proven and successful eleven plus experience.

Tutoring Approach:
Classroom, online, at home. Objectives set as per strengths, weaknesses and goals.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Amanda and I am based in Cramlington (Northumberland). I am a former Head of English in a secondary school. I held this position for 21 years, and I left full-time teaching last October to devote more time to tutoring and examination work.

Teaching Experience:
Since 1997 I have taught English, and, for 21 of those years, I led an English department in a secondary school in South Tyneside.
Although I have taught at A Level, my most recent experience is at key stages 3 and 4. I have experience in following the National Curriculum, curriculum design, and a range of assessment processes.
I have also been an associate examiner for a leading exam board, marking both Language and Literature for this board.
My experience includes online teaching (during lockdown). I have also taught groups of students on the autistic spectrum, having worked in a school with a dedicated autism unit.
Furthermore, I am a certified proofreader and qualified freelance journalist, two fields that dovetail with English as an overall subject.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is flexible and based on client requirements. I am happy to work online, although I prefer face-to-face. My approach is objectives-driven as I believe tuition should convert into an outcome of some sort, whether that be an improved grade or greater confidence in the subject.

Testimonial:
Finding an English tutor is difficult, but finding an amazing one is pretty impossible, that's what myself and my partner thought until we found Amanda. If your child is struggling with their GCSE English language and literature then we highly recommend for you to contact Amanda as she performed an amazing job with our son. Within 6 months our son improved from a predicted grade 3 for English Language to an actual grade 6 in his GCSE exam. For literature the increase was from a grade 2 to an actual grade 5. Yes our son worked hard, but the one to two lessons each week plus marked homework was exactly what he needed to improve in his English Language and Literature. Amanda has years of teaching experience and with her professional approach and a willing student she can achieve amazing results - You will not regret hiring Amanda as a tutor.
Malcolm, Cramlington

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified Secondary English Teacher with many years' experience tutoring within the Scottish Education System. I specialise exclusively in one-to-one tuition, providing personalised, focused support tailored to each learner's individual strengths, challenges, and learning style.

I believe that effective learning happens within a supportive and encouraging environment where students feel understood, challenged, and empowered to succeed. My long-standing experience enables me to quickly identify gaps, build confidence, and provide proven strategies that lead to measurable academic progress.

Teaching Experience:
My expertise spans National 4, National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher English, with particular focus on targeted exam preparation. I specialise in RUAE (Reading for Understanding, Analysis and Evaluation), Critical Essays, and Textual Analysis, concentrating on technique, timing, structure, and sustained grade improvement. Through strategic preparation and clear, practical methodologies, I help students approach exams with confidence and clarity.

With a strong track record of raising attainment, I work carefully with students to refine analytical skills, strengthen written expression, and master the demands of SQA marking criteria. Lessons are structured, purposeful, and responsive - always designed to maximise both understanding and performance under exam conditions.

My background in creative writing and theatre brings energy, depth, and imagination to my teaching. This creative foundation enhances students' engagement with literature while supporting the development of compelling, precise, and technically secure writing.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is patient, encouraging, and tailored to the individual. One-to-one tutoring allows me to adapt to each student's pace, strengths, and needs in a way that classroom teaching cannot. I provide clear structure and strategy behind the scenes, while ensuring sessions feel supportive, focused, and confidence-building.

I've worked with a wide range of learners: high-achieving students who want precision and analytical rigour; able literature students eager to delve deeper than the classroom allows; and those who see English as simply something to "get through." Whether providing exam-focused frameworks, stretching sophisticated thinkers, or helping reluctant learners find clarity and confidence, my aim is always the same - to meet students where they are and guide them towards independence, competence, and a stronger belief in their own ability.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a qualified teacher with over 25 years of experience teaching children from EYFS through to Year 6, and I now also tutor GCSE Maths.

Outside of teaching, I am married, a proud mum of two children who are both now at university, and owner of a small dog who keeps me busy with daily walks! Having raised my own children through school, exams and university applications, I understand the challenges that families can face and the importance of providing encouragement as well as academic support.

Teaching Experience:
As an experienced teacher with over 25 years in education, I have taught and supported learners across the full primary age range, from EYFS to Year 6. I now combine this expertise with GCSE Maths tutoring, helping pupils close gaps in knowledge, improve grades and develop confidence in their abilities.

Tutoring Approach:
My lessons are designed to be engaging, supportive and tailored to the individual needs of each student. With over 25 years of classroom teaching experience across EYFS to Year 6, and more recent experience tutoring GCSE Maths, I understand how to adapt my teaching style to help learners of all abilities build confidence and make progress.
At the start of our work together, I assess each student's strengths, areas for development and preferred learning style so that lessons can be carefully tailored to their specific goals. Whether a child needs support in building strong foundations in Maths and English, preparation for SATs, 11+ or 13+ entrance examinations, additional challenge in primary subjects, or targeted help to improve their GCSE Maths grade, every lesson is designed to meet their needs.
Whether on-line or in-person, I create a positive learning experience where students feel comfortable asking questions, taking risks and learning from mistakes. Lessons are interactive and include clear explanations, worked examples, guided practice and independent tasks. I use a variety of resources and teaching strategies to keep learning enjoyable and accessible, enjoyable and effective.
Feedback is regularly given so progress can be tracked and achievements celebrated. Alongside improving academic outcomes, I aim to develop confidence, resilience and a positive attitude towards learning. My goal is to equip every student with the skills and self-belief they need to become successful, independent learners and achieve their full potential.

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