Barrow in Furness English Tutors and Barrow in Furness English Tuition

Personal Description:
I graduated from Cambridge University with a BA in English Literature, and then from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, graduating with a BA in acting, where I was the recipient of the Noel Coward Scholarship from 2008-2011. In July 2011 I won the Michael Bryant Award at the National Theatre, for verse speaking and Shakespeare.

When I'm not acting or tutoring I can be found in the plumbing, plastering, kitchen or grappling with a cryptic crossword.

CURRENT AVAILABLE SLOTS: 9-10am + 10-11am Sundays, weekly.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a private tutor since 2008.

Currently tutoring students in: 8+, 10+ & 11+ preparation (all four subjects); GCSE Maths. Adult English and pronunciation skills.

Previously: English - KS1, KS2, 7+ (Successful entry to Highgate), 11+ (Successful entry to, Haberdashers' Askes Boys, Trinity, City of London School for Boys, Alleyn's, St Alban's), A Level (A at A Level English and Extended English). Maths - KS1, KS2, 7+, 11+, 13+ (successful entry to Oundle, Haberdashers' Askes Boys), GCSE (grade improved from D to A*). University application assistance (Successful entry to Durham and Oxford). English as a foreign language - including public speaking and native pronunciation and grammar for business professionals.

During my gap year I spent some time as a special needs classroom assistant, working closely with a child with Asperger's Syndrome. This involved facilitating the social and academic change between primary and secondary education on a one-to-one basis.

Also at this time I ran Welsh language games sessions for primary children in non-first-language schools to improve and encourage their use of the language outside of the classroom environment.

Whilst at secondary school I taught reading skills to children who had low reading-ages.

I wrote a thesis on the connections between Maths and acting whilst at Guildhall.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is tailored to the individual's needs; firstly finding ways of fully explaining a concept, then cementing them with useful and memorable material to build students' confidence. My main objective would be to aid the student in understanding not only the specifics of the work but also the broader aspects of it, which I believe provides a truer grounding in - and enjoyment of - a subject. By making the work useful and enjoyable, and by finding alternative and effective approaches to study, I hope that my tuition will shed new light on subjects for students.

My passion is building confidence and fostering resilient approaches to problem solving.

I specialise in tutoring Maths and particularly enjoy helping those students whose confidence in the subject has become a barrier to their learning and enjoyment of the subject.

Previous Students' Comments:

'Before I met Alex, as a dyslexic, I was academically unconfident and dreaded having tutors who had never really helped me before. Alex tutored me from Year 8 to 11 and she completely changed my attitude to studying, helped me develop my organisational skills and gave me a huge amount of confidence in my abilities. As I approached GCSEs she tutored me particularly in Maths where I was struggling with a D grade. Without her expert tuition I doubt I would have been able to achieve my A* in Maths.

I think Alex is an amazing tutor because she has an extraordinary talent for making it a thoroughly enjoyable experience to the extent I would genuinely look forward to our lessons. Alex was far more than a tutor to me, helping me through such formative teenage years. I consider her a friend.'

- Tally

'Alex is a truly outstanding and gifted tutor as well as a fantastic person. I have very much enjoyed being her student for over six months, and have not only learnt a lot due to her expertise and impressive knowledge but also grew to love English Literature because of the inspirational nature of her tutoring. Previously, I used to constantly struggle with my assignments since English is not my first language, however, after a few weeks of sessions with Alex my grades and confidence significantly improved. She has an ability to keep the lessons varied and interesting; always well prepared for lessons - she was kind enough to provide me with extremely useful books and personal notes. Her incredible dedication and hard working nature also deserves mentioning as she was willing to help me even in the evenings when I was panicking about coursework and the approaching exams. With Alex's assistance and firm confidence in my ability I have achieved a high A in my A-level English Literature and even a merit award in Extended English. I would enthusiastically recommend Alex to anyone who wants to succeed in their exams and learn heaps of interesting information.

- Natasza (Graduated with an MA from Oxford University)

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Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified teacher, I teach as a supply teacher currently.I have approximately 30 years teaching experience both in mainstream and private home tutoring, also 1-1 tutoring. I have recently been an international teacher in Central America Panama and Yangon, Myanmar.

Teaching Experience:
Recent teaching experience , Plymouth city council 2000-2015.I also am a private tutor I also have recently enabled students to enter university through upgrading their marks in English . I now live in Weymouth. I have been international teaching in Panama and Myanmar. My most recent experience is teaching in Poole Dorset and Ian a supply teacher currently.

Tutoring Approach:
I am always focused on the needs of the pupil, recently I concentrate on essay writing, depending on which subject is required.
I am student focused and work in their needs at the time.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am 37 years of age and have a first degree in Education.My specialist subjects are Mathematics and Geography and I am able to offer tuition in groups or on individual basis up to A level . I have also worked with students of varied age groups and have an in depth knowledge of the student curriculum at all levels.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring Mathematics to primary, secondary and A level students for the past 4years both in schools, as a supply teacher and to private tutees. Recently I have been working as a supply teacher of Mathematics and Geography in secondary schools and as a tutor in a private tuition centre. I can assist your child with their SATs (for year 6 pupils),GCSE (all exam boards) and A-level (Edexcel, AQA ,OCR and Cambridge ). For any questions please be in touch.

Tutoring Approach:
I always tailor my teaching to the individual and through my patient and positive attitude I always get the best out of my students. I also believe students learn best in a more positive,fun and friendly environment.

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Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified English teacher with QTLS and a masters degree. I am experienced and qualified in teaching key stages 2 - 5 including GCSE English language, literature and A level.

I have an excellent proven track record of enabling my pupils/students to gain high grades in the GCSE (9-1) specification.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 15 years of experience in teaching, and have worked in 6th forms, colleges and schools. My roles have been varied including working as head of department, co-ordinator, course leader and teacher trainer. I have achieved excellent results with my tutees and can provide references.

Tutoring Approach:
I enjoy working on a 1-2-1 basis to meet the individual needs of the pupil/student. I reflect on current educational materials, colourful visual resources, and focus on exam preparation with very high success rates.

I deliver 1-2-1 online teaching on Skype or Zoom.

Tariff

1 hour & HW = £50

Subjects

Personal Description:
The University of Nottingham: BA Joint Honours Spanish and Portuguese
Canterbury Christ Church University: PGCE Spanish and French
TEFL Barcelona: TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign language certificate)

I have completed my PGCE with Canterbury Christ Church University where I have had the opportunity to teach in both the Primary and Secondary School Setting. I have over 10 years experience in teaching and working with young people in a variety of settings.

I am also a qualified TEFL teacher and I have experience teaching all ages.

Teaching Experience:
Canterbury Christ Church University: PGCE Spanish and French

-Year 6 Primary School teacher
-Experience Teaching across Key Stage 2
-Key Stage 1-5 Spanish and French Teacher

TEFL Barcelona: TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign language certificate)

St Joseph's R C Primary School
KS2 teacher September 2012-July 2014

St Leonard's C E Primary School
KS2 teacher September 2014 - July 2016

Vinehall Preparatory school
Year 3 teacher September 2016- July 2018

Private tutor 2011- present day

Tutoring Approach:
-One-to-One lessons
-Group Lessons
-lessons to cater for diverse needs and abilities
-Home tutoring and lessons from my home
-Online tuition available

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am 35 years old and I have most recently completed the LPC at the University of Law. I have already completed a GDL (Graduate Diploma in Law) at the same university. I also have an undergraduate 2.1 with Honors degree in French and Italian at The University of Manchester. I have spent 6 months in Bologna in Italy, working in a private language school for those wished to learn either Italian or English. I worked as a copywriter for the school website, working in French, Italian and English. I also worked as a conversation tutor to those who wanted to learn English. I lived in Paris for 7 years where I worked at ELLE, the well known women's fashion magazine, where I used solely French as well as a stint at Kantar Health and the majority of my time at the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris. I am very down to earth and my biggest passion is football, I enjoy a good movie and love a good comedy. If you feel more comfortable meeting in a neutral place, a coffee place or in the town centre that is fine by me, I can be flexible. I have a clean criminal record and can boast a detention-less education!

Teaching Experience:
I now have teaching experience and I have shadowed those who have done this for a job. I have worked voluntarily in a school teaching beginner's Italian. Having already worked as a conversation tutor in a private school, I feel I would excel in giving private lessons, given the chance.

Tutoring Approach:
I feel every student works at their own pace, however it would not take me long to work out an approach which would realise the full potential of the tutee. I am patient and I can sympathise that learning a new language or topic can be frustrating. I've often found practicing certain exercises to be the most effective way to get over any tricky topic.

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Personal Description:
Dr Paola Piccardo PhD
Online lessons nationwide and face to face based in Aberdeen.

I am a native Italian speaker with British nationality and fluent in both English and French.

I have a long working knowledge of English, having worked for several years as a librarian in Aberdeen and for the oil & gas industry (GE and NOV) for 8 years. I also worked for RGU prior to start teaching full time.

I offer Italian, French and English tutoring at all levels, from complete beginners to advanced.

I studied English language and literature with French and Italian at La Sapienza University of Rome, Italy, where I obtained my PhD.

After graduation I spent a long time working in France in Disneyland Paris. This gave me the opportunity to hone my French language skills.

I have experience teaching students of various age and nationality, both school children and adults who need to pass exams.
I have a PVG check.

Teaching Experience:
University of Aberdeen
Rosemount Community Centre, small groups - Aberdeen
University of Aberdeen language department
Tutoring agencies

Tutoring Approach:
I offer distance learning tuition via Teams for all beginners, intermediate and advanced learners.

I describe myself as enthusiastic, friendly and patient.

I am committed to delivering high quality tuition by offering tailor-made classes to suit different students' needs.

I think that a good tutor should guide the student towards the learner's goal with confidence and be able to explain clearly and in a friendly manner.

I am committed to bridge the gap between the textbooks and the demands of modern learning making the learning process fun and adaptable to each student.

Learning a new language should be fun. I am passionate about creating activities for the learners and make them feel at ease and comfortable during the class.

I have experience teaching school children and adults one-to-one, one-to-two, and small groups for different organisations across the UK such as private schools and community centres.

I offer flexible hours so my students can arrange the classes according to their needs and availability.

Learning a new language is a great opportunity to discover the culture of another country.

Cultural awareness is part of the language experience. Therefore, I love sharing the culture of my country and my knowledge of other cultures with my students.

For my teaching, I use different techniques and media. I love sharing online resources such as videos, articles and podcasts for listening activities and guided speaking exercises.

I can prepare for school and university exams, including GCSE and National 4 and 4 English, French and Italian and EFL exams.

For learners who take regular classes I can correct short written exercises.

During the first class I can assess the student's level in order to plan a suitable course tailor made to the learner's needs.

I am enthusiastic for using new technologies to add to the learning experience.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a female primary school teacher in the Doncaster/Wakefield area. Aside from my enthusiasm for teaching and helping children to achieve, I am interested in academic areas including sociology and languages. I enjoy travel and reading. I have worked voluntarily as a teaching assistant and completed a degree in Sociology before training to be a teacher. I have also recently (September 2019) completed a Master's in Social History. I now work as a supply teacher in primary and SEN schools and as a personal tutor to primary and secondary level children up to year 9. I hold an enhanced DBS check dated September 2015.

Teaching Experience:
I am a qualified primary school teacher who has taught classes of all ages at primary level. I also regularly work with secondary SEN students who are not in mainstream education. As a supply teacher, I have worked in many different schools and, as such, I develop positive relationships very quickly with both children and adults. I enjoy working with individuals and small groups in academic tasks and find that children are very responsive to this lower teacher-pupil ratio. I have found that working in these situations really helps to boost children's concentration and confidence in their work. They also feel more comfortable to ask questions in areas they find difficult. When tutoring, I am to create a positive, friendly and professional relationship where children feel comfortable with what they are learning, but also feel they can ask for help when required.

Tutoring Approach:
I recognise that children learn in many different ways - some by seeing and visualising, some by talking and discussing, and some by doing a physical or mental activity. I aim to tutor children using the learning style that best suits them. In a classroom, it is often difficult to meet the needs of every child. Personal tuition provides children with valuable one-to-one time, where the focus is on them and them alone. I believe that personal tuition does much to increase achievement in those weaker areas, but also serves to challenge and develop knowledge in stronger areas. Following an initial consultation, I provide personalised programmes of study tailored exactly to meet the needs of the child involved. I am passionate about helping children to reach their full potential and will do all I can to make this happen. Sessions take place in the child's own home and are arranged on a flexible basis with parent or guardian. I am able to provide tuition from 1 hour per week to more intensive programmes consisting of several hours per week in the school holidays.

I currently have slots available on weekday evenings. Please note, I do not usually tutor on Saturdays or Sundays.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified and very experienced primary school teacher who can provide high quality Maths and English tuition in your home for primary aged and early Key Stage 3 pupils. I love being able to work one to one with pupils on exactly what they need to help them gain confidence, understanding and make progress to achieve the best they possibly can. I treat each child as an individual and aim to make every tuition session enjoyable and successful, connecting the learning with your child's interests where possible, and always giving plenty of encouragement and praise.

Tutoring is available for children being home-schooled as well as for children requiring a little extra help out of school hours.

Teaching Experience:
I am a fully qualified teacher who taught locally in primary education for 21 years before starting to home tutor children in 2015. I have successfully taught children with a wide range of abilities, including children learning English as an additional language and pupils with special educational needs.

Tutoring Approach:
Building good relationships is very important to me as a basis of effective teaching. Parents and pupils consistently testify to my professional, patient and friendly approach. Every lesson is specifically tailored to each pupil's needs, with pupils enjoying their lessons and quickly seeing the difference that their time with me makes. As far as possible, I channel lessons through the pupil's interests as well as using games, practical resources and visual aids, amongst other resources. Plenty of praise and encouragement is given in recognition of their efforts and to help motivate pupils further. Feedback is provided to parents/ carers at the end of each lesson to keep you fully informed.

If you have any questions or would like more information, I would be pleased to hear from you.

45 minutes and one hour sessions are available - rates vary accordingly.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello, my name is Robert. Learning and teaching in some form has always been part of my life; my personal motto is "Never stop asking questions....". I am a dad of two lively children (10 & 7), a primary teacher and a private tutor. I have a can-do approach to life and am never happier than when I am busy with my work or with my family. I play classical guitar, always have at least one book on the go, and love to walk in the countryside whenever our busy lives permit.

Teaching Experience:
I have 12 years' experience as a teacher, the first years spent gaining experience, the later years in positions of responsibility culminating in being appointed Head of Science responsible for delivering the whole of the curriculum to years 7 to 13. I taught Combined Science up to age 14, Physics and Chemistry to GCSE and Physics and Geology A' levels. In addition to my classroom experience I have a TEFL qualification which I put to good use while I was living and working in France for 12 years tutoring French people on a 1:1 basis. I taught both children and adults to learn English in the spoken and written word. Since returning to the UK just over a year ago, I have been working as a supply teacher in local primary schools delivering the complete curriculum, and I have started my own tutoring business and have a number of students whom I see after school for Maths and/or English tuition.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe the greatest benefit of 1:1 tutoring (or tutoring small groups), is that it is so much easier to tailor the learning to the student's needs, aiding understanding and building on that towards mastery of a subject. Progress is often swift because as has been so often stated, 1:1 tuition for an hour is probably the equivalent of several days in the classroom! My initial approach is to assess the student's needs in the first couple of sessions, using the information gleaned to build a program of study that is particular to that student. With regards to TEFL, having lived abroad for 12 years I appreciate just how difficult it can be as an adult to learn a foreign language, so I have great empathy with my adult learners and love helping them get to grips with our complex language.

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Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified and GTCS registered primary teacher of over fifteen years. I have considerable experience across all ages and stages and have extensive experience working with children with additional support needs, both in a classroom setting and 1-1 tutoring. I have a proven track record in delivering excellence and in supporting learners with a range of needs.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching for 10 years across all stages of the primary curriculum. I have experience of working with children with a range of additional support needs in the classroom and 1-1.

Tutoring Approach:
I try to make my tutoring sessions fun and interactive, using a mixture of ICT, games while maintaining a focus on formal written methods. I have experience of tutoring both maths and language and working to support learners needs such as hearing impairments, ASD and dyslexia.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a semi-retired English lady. I do online tutoring in English and French. sometimes I also give private lessons in person depending on the circumstances.

I am in the process of updating my DBS certificate which I will submit to UK tutors
asap.

I have 2 years experience as a part-time BA TEFL teacher, from April 2020 until 5th February 2022 when my contract came to an end, as an online teacher with Education First,, teaching English to Chinese children (5 to 14 yrs. old).

Teaching Experience:
I have 2 years experience as a part-time BA TEFL online English teacher from April 2020 until 5th February 2022 when my contract with Education First came to an end. I was teaching English online to Chinese children aged from 5 to 14 years. This experience was very enjoyable so I am now seeking a similar work experience with UK tutors.

In addition, from 2010 to 2020, I was self-employed and I was tutoriing private pupils in person from my home or theirs. The subjects I taught were English French and music.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is friendly, enthusiastic and structured. I am,attentive to details and I always try to draw out the best from my students without causing them too much stress.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I also enjoy teaching KS3 and GCSE English as I love Creative Writing and am an author myself so I hope to instil the love of writing in my students. I want all my students to feel confident with their writing and develop a way of expressing themselves. I am an experienced head of department and examiner for AQA and Edexcel exam boards.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught in a range of secondary schools for the past 14 years. I have tutored for the past 5 years.

I am an experienced teacher of GCSE English Language and offer lessons for the AQA/Edexcel exam boards. I will be able to go through practice exam questions and model answers each lesson and will help my students to feel more confident in their writing. I have all the latest textbooks and use a range of engaging resources.

Tutoring Approach:
I have an inclusive approach to my lessons and have a particular experience in students who have struggled with their mental health and confidence.
I will tailor the lessons to meet my student's needs and listen to feedback about their preferred learning style and interests.
I will be able to prepare them for GCSE content if requested.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Being an ambitious primary practitioner and currently as Assistant Headteacher for over 20 years across a wide range of schools and having taught in the 3 Key Stages, I believe that ALL children should be inspired to live their full potential.
Ofsted deemed me to be 'outstanding-extremely innovative, purposeful with impressive teaching'. Through intervention work, as well adopting a systematic approach for teaching and learning, I have obtained a proven track record of leading effective improvement strategies to raise standards and outcomes for pupils of all abilities . Being a year 6 teacher, I have raised children's outcomes in reading, writing and Maths in their Sat's examinations and ensure that every individual that I work with makes excellent progress.
Working with pupils of different ethnic backgrounds is a strength and I have been commended for strategies implemented whilst working with pupils with Special Educational Needs. I create achievable smart targets using progress plans for all children.

Teaching Experience:
I have an exemplary set of skills for teaching all children from ages 5-11 years in English and Maths. I have taught in a variety of Primary School settings for over 21 years, as well as tutored 1:1 for 8 years. I offer bespoke packages of learning to children from ages 5-11 years and have a sound knowledge of the National Curriculum at all levels. I support children with special educational needs and offer bespoke 1:1 tutoring to enable them to make progress as well as supporting children who either require academic intervention and /or those who are aiming for a higher standard of education. This is achieved by identifying need and developing their abilities by target setting and thorough teaching of knowledge and skills.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that small group or 1:1 bespoke tuition can and does enable children to flourish and thrive. With an intense school curriculum being delivered within schools, tutoring offers both children and parents an opportunity to develop educational knowledge and skills at a pace suitable to the child. This ensures that academic gaps are diminished and children are able to make progress either more in line with age related levels or to a higher standard. I use a variety of tools to aid me to deliver quality teaching including a number of online ICT resources. Taking on a metacognitive approach, the children that I work with are engaged and interested in their learning. For children that require additional support, I use concrete resources as an aid. I also revisit learning and teach new skills as the children develop over time.

Being a full time teacher, I am available evenings and weekends and can offer online or face to face tuition This can be either in my home or yours (dependent on travel).

Subjects

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a dedicated and passionate teacher currently working with primary 1/2 students, and I have had experience working with children of all ages. I am GTC registered and have an PVG to work with children. Outside of the classroom, I have been involved in Girl Guiding and have had various opportunities to engage with children in different school settings. This has allowed me to develop a well-rounded understanding of how children learn and grow in different environments.

Teaching Experience:
Throughout my teaching career, I have had the privilege of working with children from ages 4 to 16, and I am now offering tutoring in subjects such as maths, literacy, and social studies subjects including sociology, criminology, and modern studies for National 5 students. I take pride in tailoring my lessons to suit the individual needs of my students, helping them not only meet but exceed their learning goals. My experience with a range of age groups and subjects has provided me with the tools to create engaging and effective lessons.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe in creating an engaging and interactive learning environment where students are actively involved in their learning process. I focus on active learning techniques and repetition, ensuring that key concepts are fully understood and retained. I always strive to align my lessons with the Curriculum for Excellence, ensuring they are both relevant and challenging. By incorporating various strategies such as hands-on activities, real-life applications, and positive reinforcement, I aim to help students build confidence in their abilities while achieving academic success.

I will be offering opportunities from now until August to get your child ready to begin Primary 1 in regards to literacy and maths. This can be in the form of 1-1 sessions or group sessions that will help develop social skills too! In addition to this, I will be offering sessions for current school children to both revise and learn maths and literacy knowledge and skills to ensure they have the best start in their next academic year.

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Personal Description:
Dr John-Henry, FRHistS, FSA, FRSA

Former Assoc. Prof. at Durham | Experienced teacher | Published novelist

I'm a full-time, professional tutor with a unique breadth of experience and expertise across a two-decade career:

• Former Associate Professor at Durham University
• Former Teacher at a top London independent school ("Excellent" rated)
• Fellow of the Royal Historical Society
• Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts
• Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries
• Honorary Research Fellow at Durham University
• Published novelist of historical fiction
• Archaeologist and active academic researcher

I love combining the joy of one-on-one tutoring, seeing students grow and learn, with my life-long passions for history, politics and literature.

For me, tutoring does not stop with passing exams, vital as that is. Just as important is learning how to push intellectual boundaries, encourage creative thinking, and expand the imagination. I want my tutees not just to realise their full potential at school, but to be ready for the challenges that await them beyond.

I take on a limited number of tutees so that I can tailor my approach to each tutee's specific needs, with concrete targets and an approach that will engage, challenge and inspire. I prepare bespoke resources carefully prior to lessons as well as detailed feedback on written work (this is all included in my fee - I will never charge for anything outside contact time). Please get in touch to ask me about my availability.

One of the great things about my varied career track has been the chance to live and work in other countries, with all the mind-expanding experiences that brings. Before my doctorate I also worked as a professional archaeologist. Over the years I have pursued historical and archaeological research in the USA, Mexico, Austria, Germany, France, the Netherlands and the Republic of Ireland.

TESTIMONIALS

"My child went from a predicted D to achieving an A in one year. John gave her confidence, a much better understanding of core concepts and an enthusiasm for the subject. All delivered in a clearly structured digestible way with kindness and patience. I would highly recommend his tutoring skills." - Parent of A Level Politics student

"John was the perfect tutor, helping my son to reengage with English after he lost some confidence based on feedback from his school teachers. My son managed to improve his GCSE grade from 6s at the begginng of the year to 7s in his mock exams to 9s in the final exam. To say we are over the moon is an understatement." - Parent of IGCSE English student

"Thank you so so much - I'm thrilled that I came so far in history - from a C to an A*!! It's such a relief I'm getting into where I want to go on my own merit and I'm so so grateful to you again." - A Level History student

"John has tutored my daughter during the Sixth Form and helped her success in gaining an offer to study PPE at Oxford University. In Politics, particularly, he has boosted her confidence and provided invaluable coaching on exam technique. Because he was so knowledgeable and great at explaining, he also engaged her in discussions on topics which she had otherwise struggled to embrace and understand. Also his manner and kindness helped her to enjoy and flourish from his teaching. He is an excellent tutor, and we are very grateful for all his teaching and expertise." - Parent of A Level Politics student

"John's enthusiasm for the Ancient World is very clear but his ability to understand the needs of his student is what sets him apart from others. John delivers clear and memorable lessons. He takes the time to engage and check M's understanding of the topic in a way which makes him feel more confident about his own abilities. […] John genuinely wants M to succeed. Towards the end of the summer, they will visit the British Museum together and this is an example of John's commitment to his student." - Parent of GCSE Ancient History and Latin student

"I recently got my GCSE results, and I got a 9 in history. I wanted to thank you as your tutoring helped me so much and there is no way I could have achieved this result without your help." - GCSE History student

Teaching Experience:
PROFESSIONAL FULL-TIME TUTOR, 2022-present

I have successfully tutored students of various abilities at GCSE and A Level across a range of subjects and exam boards:

• Classical Civilisation and Ancient History (OCR)
• Latin (OCR)
• History (OCR/AQA/Edexcel)
• Politics (Edexcel)
• English (AQA/Edexcel)

I have expertise in UCAS applications, Oxford HAT and Cambridge HAA and interview technique; since 2022 six of my students have received Oxbridge offers, with many others going to top Russell Group universities

HISTORY AND POLITICS TEACHER, 2020-2023

• ISI "Excellent"-rated independent school
• Taught History at KS3, GCSE and A Level
• Taught Politics at A Level
• Sixth Form tutor (particular strength in UCAS applications and personal statements)
• Detailed understanding of the specifications and marking criteria for English, History and Politics at GCSE and A Level

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF HISTORY, Durham University, 2010-2020

• Taught History lectures, seminars and supervisions at every level (undergraduate to PhD)
• Taught Creative Writing lectures and tutorials at MA level
• Pastoral officer for 1st year undergraduates
• Departmental admissions officer (responsible for accepting/rejecting UCAS applications)
• Multiple academic publications in peer-reviewed international journals, as well as papers at international conferences
• Visiting fellowships at the Austrian Academy of Sciences in Vienna (2009-2010) and Institute for Research in the Humanities at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2015-2016)
• Interviewed as an expert in my field on several BBC documentaries and podcasts, and as a guest speaker at the BBC Radio 3 Free Thinking Festival
• I remain an Honorary Research Fellow of Durham and an active researcher in my field

Tutoring Approach:
TUTORING

My approach is based on empathy, encouragement, and enthusiasm. Often students have great potential in a subject, but for whatever reason lack the confidence to realise it. Other times a student has the confidence, but haven't quite learned the skills they need to reach that elusive target grade.

Wherever they are coming from, as a tutor my first goal is to understand my students and see things from their perspective. Then I provide the structure and support they need to achieve their goal. This might be through weekly essay writing and feedback, talking through tricky concepts, providing curated resources to help their development - in fact, whatever they need to succeed.

PERSONAL STATEMENT ASSISTANCE

My career path has given me unique experience of teaching before, during, and after A Levels. This means I understand the student experience from all perspectives. I have seen the pressures and demands of GCSE and A Level study, and as Sixth Form tutor have guided dozens of students through the UCAS process, including multiple successful Oxbridge applications.

My experience as a Durham University admissions officer taught me that, when it comes to the most competitive universities, the personal statement is very often the deciding factor. My experience as a published author means that I can help my tutees sculpt their perfect application, one that showcases academic skill while bringing out their uniqueness and passion.

Just as important, I understand the transition from school to university, and all the challenges it brings. During my time at Durham University I also served as pastoral officer to first-year undergraduates, which involved helping students make the (often difficult) jump to a new level of independence and academic demands. For tutees about to take their A Levels, part of my approach is therefore to help them prepare mentally and practically for that transition.

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Personal Description:
I have taught English in Scottish secondary schools for 32 years and Media for the last six.

Teaching Experience:
See above. I am experienced in the teaching of BGE and senior phase: N5, Higher and Advanced Higher English.
I have been an SQA marker for 17 years, marking Higher Portfolio and Critical Reading.

Tutoring Approach:
I prefer to tutor one to one in the tutee's home. Happy to switch to online if that is requested. I believe that building a tutee's confidence is the first step on the road to success.

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