Braunton English Tutors and Braunton English Tuition

Personal Description:
NEW AVAILABILITY - FROM SEPTEMBER 8TH 2025.

SPECIAL OFFER ++++ 2 STUDENTS TUTORED ONLINE TOGETHER IN ENGLISH - £17.50 EACH ++++

SPECIAL OFFER ++++ 2 STUDENTS TUTORED ONLINE TOGETHER IN MATHS - £17.50 EACH ++++

A LEVEL ENGLISH, POLITICS AND PSYCHOLOGY.



.




I have been teaching GCSE and A level students with enthusiasm and passion 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 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 also tutor students in GCSE and A level Maths - and am familiar with all of the syllabi (Edexcel; AQA; OCR).

I have successfully coached a number of students for Entrance exams in Coventry and Warwickshire - for Warwick, King's High, the merged Bablake & King Henry Schools and Solihull School.

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.


.

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 SKYPE and MICROSOFT TEAMS.

I have had excellent recent successes. In the most recent 2024 summer exams, four of my GCSE students scored A** (level 9) grades in Language.

All of my last four A level English students scored A grades.

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced tutor. I have studied modern languages, art and design and I also have qualifications in law. I have had a varied career encompassing language teaching, translation, publishing and work in the charity sector. My wide interests and enquiring nature are invaluable assets in my teaching.

Teaching Experience:
English as a Foreign Language teaching experience in the UK and abroad, including for large schools and within companies, and private tuition 1-to-1. Adults and young learners.

Providing corporate training in Polish to groups of adult learners and also private tutoring to individuals.
I have been learning and translating Polish for 20 years, and I have lived and worked extensively in Poland. I have Polish family links.

Coaching for 11+ grammar school entrance exams. I have also provided general teaching support up to GCSE level in English and French to private students.

Tutoring Approach:
Friendly, encouraging and approachable, but thorough and focussed on successful learning. Very adaptable, and able to tailor lessons to suit individual learning styles, abilities and preferences.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Enthusiastic, dedicated, specialist English tutor with 30 years of teaching experience and strong results record at all levels.. Examiner for Sats, GCSE and A' Level. Head of Department and School Literacy Coordinator. Patient and focused on helping students to improve their skills, enjoy the subject and get the grades they deserve.

Teaching Experience:
During my teacher training year, I worked in a primary school, a grammar school and a boarding school where I taught English, Latin and Greek. My first teaching job was teaching English and English Literature to A' Level. Following the outstanding results of my A' Level classes, I was promoted to Head of A' Level English. I was also the Course Designer for all key stages, Assistant in Gifted and Talented and Line Manager of the Learning Resources Centre and the Integrated Learning Suite. I then became Head of Department and School Literacy Coordinator. The examination results of students dramatically improved under my leadership. I have worked for the examination boards Edexcel, AQA and CCEA , examining SATs, GCSE and A' Level papers. I also have recent experience teaching English as a Foreign Language.

Tutoring Approach:
I begin by getting to know the student and identifying their learning needs. Lessons are objective based to achieve desired learning outcomes, improve skills and achieve target grades or better. I aim to make lessons focused, enjoyable and interesting. I love teaching and there is nothing better for me than to see a student improve, gain in confidence and get the grades they deserve.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello, and thank you so much for reading my tutoring profile. For busy parents, school leaders and occasional journalists, this opening section offers a quick summary of my professional highlights, with more details below if you'd like to know more. It would be lovely to hear from you :)

MY CAREER HIGHLIGHTS SO FAR

⦿ Award-winning teacher at my first school (Departmental Award for "Commitment to Cascading Teaching Excellence")

⦿ 20 years'+ experience in the UK's toughest Secondary and Further Education classrooms

⦿ Head of Department; Examiner Experience (Various Exam Boards); GCSE Resit Programme Manager; Advanced Teaching Practitioner; NEA Internal Verifier; Lead for Development of Departmental Higher Education Provision; Lead for Departmental UCAS Applications; Behaviour Management Coach; Learning Mentor for "Gifted and Talented" Programme; Teacher Training Mentor liaising with Ofsted

⦿ BA (Hons), MRes (Dist) and PGCE trained, with Qualified Teacher and Lecturer Status

⦿ Prize-winning postgraduate at University of Warwick for ground-breaking research that made: "a genuine contribution to the discipline of International Relations"

⦿ A leading tutor in the online space, with over 37,000+ tutor sessions delivered across 42 countries (including delivering education to children in Ukrainian and Sudanese warzones via Elon Musk's Starlink)

⦿ Expert in 7/11+ Entrance Exams/GCSE/A Level/Degree/Postgraduate/UCAS Applications/Academic Mentoring/Career Planning/Property Investment Masterclasses

⦿ Subject specialisms of English, Maths, Biology, History, International Relations and Entrance Exams

⦿ Proud to be rated 5 stars on leading review and social media platforms

⦿ Global educational consultant sought out for occasional media appearances (Radio 4, BBC)

⦿ A successful property entrepreneur and mentor to entrants into the industry, with a former property company managing £54 million of real estate nationally, developments totalling £16 million+ and fortunate enough to have built a personal portfolio of circa £3.1 million thus far

⦿ Currently researching my first educational book for sale via Amazon, exploring how to engage disenchanted learners

⦿ In my (few!) spare moments, I enjoy raising our two daughters with my wife, travelling in Tuscany, hiking in the Malvern Hills, and supporting Manchester United

⦿ As my record hopefully shows, I am a renowned tutor, with an outstanding track record of success both in the classroom, as well as in the property world

⦿ If you're looking to work with one of the leading global tutors in the industry with a proven track-record of commercial success too, then feel free to get in touch, and I'll always do my best to help

Please read on, if you'd like to know a little more about my educational and professional journey.

►► MY STORY ◄◄

I am currently a grade-one "outstanding" teacher in my present school, and have been delivering KS3, GCSE and A Level English, Maths and History in the secondary and sixth-form sectors for the past 16 years, in which time my results have far surpassed national pass rates. Moreover, due to these outstanding results and innovative teaching methods, I have served as Assistant Head of Department; helping us to be awarded an internal grade 1 "outstanding" rating for the 6 years in which I held the post. Furthermore, I also have extensive experience as an "Advanced Practitioner"-tasked with turning around failing cohorts in some of the UK's toughest classrooms, as well as my time as an examiner for a variety of GCSE/A Level exam boards.

Moreover, due to this long history of being a stand-out professional in the education sector, my advice has been sought out for occasional media and radio appearances for discussions on educational policy, whilst also being head-hunted to tutor the children of prominent public figures including Premiership footballers, Olympic athletes, luminaries of the business world, and even the family of a Nobel Prize winner for a month-which was awesome!

Furthermore, in also being an accomplished property developer with my own UK real-estate portfolio and honorary co-founder of a former property company alongside my partner, I have acted as a business mentor to Year 11 students on entrepreneurship, and how to begin their own journey in property investment, which has seen me guide some of the UK's brightest new generation of business leaders.

In my remaining spare time, I am currently engaged in the pre-reading for the start of my future PHD in International Relations, during which I will be studying the geopolitics of any superpower conflict over Taiwan. Furthermore, I enjoy travelling extensively in our second home of Tuscany with my young family, supporting Manchester United, playing the drums, and playing the PlayStation (although not as much as I used to, these days!)

As my full and varied career has hopefully shown, I have a passion for English, maths, history, and the 11+ exams, taking great pride in providing the best academic and pastoral support I can, whilst hopefully being an outstanding role-model for all of my students, as I help them forge their way in the world.

►► QUALIFICATIONS ◄◄

PHD (Start Pending) in International Relations at London School of Economics-will analyse the geostrategic relationship between the USA and China in an era of rising multipolarity.

--MRes (Distinction) in International Security from University of Warwick-won academic award for writing an "outstanding and genuinely original dissertation" that represented: "an important contribution to existing literature in the field of International Security".

--PGCE (Distinction) in Secondary Education-ranked in the top 2 trainee teachers in my year's cohort, with outstanding feedback in academic and practical assessments

--BA (Hons) in English/History from University of Birmingham-received special award for achieving academic excellence despite coming from the bottom 5% of UK families in terms of socioeconomic poverty

--A Levels (A* in all subjects taken): prize winning student in my sixth form for most inspirational pupil, and was in the top 2% of the UK for my academic results, including 100% in key modules

Teaching Experience:
I have a broad range of experience turning around struggling students in some of the UK's toughest classrooms, as well as challenging high achieving learners in the pursuit of academic excellence. In my teaching and tutoring career thus far, I have taught across the curriculum age-ranges (7-18 years), as well as undergraduate and postgraduate level students, and specialise in teaching troubled learners lacking confidence, whilst pushing very bright pupils.

Since I began teaching at my institution, English pass-rates received a 25% upwards leap in the opening two years and my tutoring pass grades in my subjects of English, maths and history have been outstanding, so that the vast majority of my classes/tutees are now passing with strong academic grades, and attaining entry to prestigious preparatory schools and/or universities. During last academic year, my tutees enjoyed superb results in English, Maths, History and the 11+, with 96% reaching their target minimum grade, and 68% exceeding this mark, entering prestigious institutions such as the University of Durham, University of Heidelburg and Bromsgrove School, as well as world-class employers such as Rolls Royce. Therefore, over my career as a "super-tutor" so far, I am proud to have delivered over 37,000 lessons across 1000 students within 41 countries, from the UK to Hong Kong.

I also have considerable mentoring expertise, in having built my own UK property portfolio currently valued at £2.75 million from scratch, I have mentored many adult and teenage entrants into property investing, guiding their purchases and renovations to the overall value of £14 million, and counting. In addition to this, I have also been an informal mentor to UK gang members, tasked with persuading them to their back on lives of criminality, and embrace the transformative potential of education, which has been among the most rewarding roles of my career thus far.

►► PARENT FEEDBACK ◄◄

--"Jonathan is fantastic and my 15 years old have a big turn round about his
view of education. Now he can't wait for his lesson!"

--"I could not have wished for a better tutor for my son! I cannot praise Jon's
enthusiasm for his subject, motivational skills and professionalism enough."

--"The biggest testimonial comes from my son, who now looks forward to and
enjoys his weekly visit! praise indeed from a teenager!"

--"I have nothing but praise for Jonathan."

--"George is totally happy to see him which is a miracle at 3pm on a Saturday!"

--"Jon is a fantastic teacher best tutor I have ever had."

--"AMAZINGLY helpful, nice and very cooperative."

--"Thanks soooo much Jon, Ashleigh passed, she won't be doing retakes and is
feeling incredibly relieved."

--"We feel lucky to book a place with him early on as he seemed to be full
booked before December."

--"Never passed an English test before in my whole life then came to Jonathan
with very little time for my first GCSE exam and managed to get an A for
English literature and a B for creative writing. 10/10."

--"Jon has a unique ability to get students onboard in a short amount of time.
He is quick to establish a rapport, building on trust and confidence which
makes an ideal platform for focused learning".

--"He is heavily in demand which speaks volumes in terms of his reputation and
is super knowledgeable and prepared for all elements of the syllabus."

--"He went from a predicted a 4/5 to an 8 !!! We were extremely pleased and
put this down to Jons ability."

--"I wish we had found him earlier! We highly recommend him!"

--"He is helpful and gifted at tutoring kids so they understand exactly what they
need to change or improve on. We will be using Jon for all of our children."

Tutoring Approach:
Besides enjoying superb results, my pupils benefit from a relaxed yet challenging atmosphere, with high commitment being expected of them, and this is demonstrated in both their personal and academic growth, which is among the most rewarding aspects of tutoring for me. I'm very friendly with a great sense of humour (so I've been told!), and I use this to make the learning as enjoyable as I can, whilst strengthening self-esteem and exciting the minds of my students. Through this, it is more than tutoring to me, seeing our time together as equipping them with the vital skills they need to excel in later life.

In terms of lesson delivery, I always strive to be on the cutting-edge of education in use of educational technology, teaching resources and methods. Therefore, my approach to tutoring currently makes use of the techniques of "blended learning", and utilises the following:

⦿ Industry-standard video-conferencing and modern presentational packages such as Miro-used by global brands like Coca Cola and Nike to power collaborative learning

⦿ Powerful virtual learning environments, resourced by well-known educational companies such as Twinkl and Century Tech, to help every one of my learners maximise their potential.

⦿ Judicious use of AI powered apps and programmes, to help explore key educational concepts, mark schemes and model answers

⦿ Fully personalised lessons, tailored to topics, skills and levels being explored by the learner at school

⦿ Interlocking homework provided, to consolidate key concepts and themes explored within each lesson

⦿ Innovative approach to learning, from using computer games as inspirational stimulus for creative writing (which have been used as national exemplars by UK exam boards), to debating contemporary issues affecting all young people for speaking and listening tasks, such as: "How Will AI Change Humanity?"

⦿ A friendly and engaging approach to learning, seeking to make it fun, yet intellectually rigorous at all time

Thus, with 20 years+ experience now in the UK's most challenging classrooms, this has constantly honed my approach to teaching and tutoring, creatively using ed-tech to ensure no learner is left behind, as we cover the curriculum in an accessible and enjoyable way.

Needless to say, I am a passionate advocate of the transformational value of education, which is a joy, never a chore. In having been lucky enough to build a property brand and investment portfolio, I now tutor primarily for the sheer enjoyment of helping develop the next generation of learners. Education enabled me to escape a childhood of abject poverty, and with this in mind, I always do my best to ensure I give each and every one of my students the best start in life I can.

If you're looking to work with one of the leading tutors in the industry with a proven track-record of academic and commercial success, then I'm happy to help.

Thank you ever so much for reading :)

*Enhanced DBS certified

**Please kindly note: proposed rate will be dependent on level of study, length of tutoring period and demand.

Subjects

Personal Description:
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A DEDICATED, PROFESSIONAL AND EXPERIENCED PRIVATE TUTOR?

I am a highly experienced and successful private tutor in English language and literature, with over 40 years teaching experience in secondary and further education.

I have been a private tutor for the past 10 years, and find it extremely rewarding to continue to use my expertise to support students preparing for challenging English qualifications, which are so vital for success in life.

This is what the mum of one of my 2024-5 tutees has said about my support for her son, who completed his A Level English Literature in summer 2025:

"During the 2nd year of my son's A Level English course it became evident that he felt very uncertain of some areas of the English course curriculum.
He hoped that a tutor would be able to get him back on track and fill in the gaps.
My son instantly felt comfortable with Isla. He knew she would be able to help. This confidence came within one lesson as Isla asked him the right questions to ascertain his strengths, and concerns.
Isla provided the additional support that my son needed in a calm, considered way. As a parent I was also updated about the form of the lessons and my son's progress on a weekly basis.
Isla continued to support my son during the revision period and provided last minute tuition and encouragement which was invaluable.
Isla teaches passionately to the individual and has clear objectives that are communicated well. Most importantly she does this in a friendly way, in a safe and comfortable environment.
My son achieved a B for English Literature and he was delighted.
In our opinion Isla played a large part in him achieving this result."
Mrs HS, Rutland, August 2025

Here is another testimonial from the mother of one of my GCSE tutees who took his exams summer 2024:

"Isla is a wonderful, dedicated tutor and I really couldn't have wished for a better tutor for my son's GCSE English. Isla's lessons are extremely well-planned, resourced and delivered, and she has created an excellent method of teaching which helped my son to engage and focus on his preparation for the exams. Most importantly, however, was the strong teacher/pupil relationship that Isla built with my son. From the first lesson, my son had great respect for his tutor, valuing her feedback and acting upon the advice given. I realised after the first tutorial that Isla's teaching style is perfect for today's students. Thank you so much Isla for your guidance, We are grateful for all your help!"
Mrs PD, Grantham, July 2024
Footnote: this tutee who has dyslexia gained a level 6 in both English Language and Literature.

You can see more reviews in my testimonial section below.

MORE ABOUT MY TEACHING EXPERIENCE:

After I retired from full-time teaching , I decided to continue teaching by becoming a private tutor, because I love teaching.

Formerly, I taught 11 to 18 year olds : Key Stages 3, GCSE and A Level, and in my work I had an excellent track record for enabling my students to achieve their academic potential; my school pupils achieved consistently good or excellent GCSE and A Level grades and this has continued to be the case with my private tutees.

I love my subject and I am a thorough and kind teacher dedicated to raising standards of literacy through my teaching of English language and literature, and to the educational and personal development of young people more widely. Reading and writing skills are vital to success, and I want to empower my tutees by helping them to acquire those essential skills.

As well as teaching my academic subject, I was a sixth form personal tutor ( Years 12 and 13) in my school for 18 years, monitoring my students' academic progress, and guiding and mentoring those applying to university, assisting with UCAS applications and personal statements, or helping tutees plan for a gap year or for employment - a role which I found particularly fulfilling. I am available to support UCAS application personal statements. I get on very well with all my students and oerhaos especially those aged 16 - 18.

I also have experience of teaching in further education and have taught mature students from different cultural backgrounds.

I have also supervised sixth form students taking the AQA Extended Project Qualification. I greatly enjoy one - to-one tuition.

TUTORING EXPERTISE

In my long teaching career, I have built up extensive subject knowledge and teaching expertise, which I can adapt to students ranging from 11 years to adult, and taking exams with various examining boards, with my main focus as a private tutor being on GCSE and A Level.


A selection of TESTIMONIALS

I love working as a private tutor, helping my tutees to gain confidence in essential reading and writing skills and to achieve exam success.

In addition to the two above, here is a selection of testimonials from former tutees and their parents:

GCSE:

"When my daughter was about 14 it became apparent that she was really struggling with English. She had other difficulties going on that had made the subject very difficult for her. Her main problem was she didn't know how to approach answering questions and didn't understand how to structure an answer. We realised the importance of getting our daughter extra support, not only for her English Language and English Literature GCSE but as a foundation to other subjects and her future in life. We were very lucky to find Isla, who had experience of the exam board that we were using and many years teaching experience. She worked with my daughter on a weekly basis, through Year 10 and Year 11; Isla always planned our sessions and she covered all areas of the curriculum across both English GCSE subjects. By the time my daughter came to take her exams she was really prepared and had a new found confidence. I know that whatever her results are they will be better than they would have been. Do not hesitate to get support from Isla, she will work flexibly with you and listen to your needs."
Mrs LC, Stamford, July 2022
Update following exam results August 25 2022: this tutee is very pleased to have achieved a level 5 ( strong pass) in GCSE English Language and a 4 ( standard pass) in English Literature.

"My son was really struggling to get any motivation to study either English literature or language in both the first and second year of his GCSE course and so I made the decision to get him some support and contacted Isla to help him. Over a period of about 12 months Isla steadily helped Josh to work through the syllabus and both supported him and stretched him in order to help him maximise his potential. In his finals Josh received a solid B in both subjects and has gone on to study A level literature. I have no doubt he would not have achieved this without Isla's ongoing help and support."
Mrs M.M. Rutland , 2018


" Our son needed help to raise his GCSE English grade from a C to a B. We are so pleased that we found Isla to help him. He thoroughly enjoyed the sessions with Isla, which were paced at just the right level for him. He produced homework each week which was marked before his next session. He responded well to Isla's teaching methods and worked a lot harder than he had at school. Results day was brilliant - he gained an A grade. Fantastic! We would recommend Isla wholeheartedly."
Mrs J R, Rutland, 2017

Isla has helped both of our boys this year - one with his Personal Statement for his University application and one with his Dissertation for his degree. Both boys found Isla very easy to work with, approachable, friendly and very knowledgeable. Both boys have now moved on to University and work - both having benefitted from Isla's fantastic help.
Mrs J R Rutland, 2019


"Knowing her for roughly around two years, I found Isla to be a very professional, sincere, caring and accommodating teacher who has a passion to deliver the best she can offer. With no love for literature at all, my daughter struggled with GCSE English specially the literature where she would get C/low B compared to her other subjects. We were really concerned and wanted to push up her grade in English. That's when Isla came in as a great help. She quickly picked up and addressed the areas of concern and gave enough advice and support on revision techniques preparing her for the exam.. My daughter got a 9(A*)in Eng language and a 7(A) in literature in GCSE. In my daughter's own words: "Isla has been absolutely instrumental in boosting confidence within me without which I couldn't have asked for this result. No doubt - we highly recommend her."
Mrs P, Peterborough, 2017

"Isla provided excellent support during Year 10 and 11 to our daughter in relation to her GCSE studies in both English Literature and Language. This complemented her learning at school and enabled focus on those areas where extra support or explanation was needed. Isla was very flexible in her approach, tailoring her lessons to our daughter's needs and providing additional support on the run up to the exams themselves. Although our daughter isn't continuing her English studies at A Level, Isla is going continue to provide support in relation to essay structure and comprehension in the subjects she has chosen to study. We would highly recommend her."
Mrs R M, Leicestershire, parent of GCSE pupil, 2015

A LEVEL:

Isla is a very dedicated English Literature teacher. I saw the benefit of her lessons from the outset! Isla is reliable and meticulously organised as she always had the session planned which allowed us to make the most of every lesson. I am very grateful to have found Isla as I not only gained a clearer understanding of the books taught, but also my confidence in exam technique improved immensely due to Isla's support. I highly recommend Isla, she is a very kind person as well as an incredibly devoted teacher. Thank you Isla for your guidance and support.
DD, Grantham, September 2023
Footnote: my tutee DD gained a grade B in English at A Level and A grades in Mathemarics and Economics . She decided to take a gap year and is now studying for a degree in Economics at LSE.


"Isla has been a wonderful tutor for my son, and was able to support him enormously in all aspects of his AQA A level English Literature. Isla is very knowledgeable and thorough in her approach and assisted with his research and planning for his coursework, and with close study and revision of the challenging texts my son studied over the course of the 2 years, until he took his final exams in June 2019 . She also supported him in developing and writing his personal statement for UCAS, which resulted in excellent offers of university places. My son found Isla to be very approachable and very easy to work with as her teaching style is friendly, patient and clear, and she was also open to scheduling extra sessions when needed to fit around his studies. Isla"s support has been invaluable and has enabled my son to achieve a good set of A Level grades, including a creditable grade English Literature, and he is now settled into his first term at one of the top universities in the country, studying Economics. We would have no hesitation in recommending Isla as a private tutor.."
Mrs J.M., Leicester. October 2019

We turned to a private tutor because our daughter received a disappointing result in her first year of A Level English, but she knew she could do better and wanted to go to a first class University to study English. Her coursework had been excellent and most of her homework was good, too, but her exam technique was less secure. Isla definitely made a difference. She is a nurturing teacher who interacts with the student really well. Isla gave good advice about preparing for the exam paper and gave support in revision of the various texts, which boosted our daughter's confidence. Having achieved the necessary entry grades, our daughter is now at Newcastle University starting her degree course and wants to keep in touch with Isla."
Sally S, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, parent of A Level student, 2016

"As someone who wanted to pursue English at university, my grade C at AS Level was not good enough, so during Year 13 we found a private tutor to help me with my A Level English Language and Literature course. Isla put lots of time into helping me come out with an overall high grade B. She gave me wonderful advice with my creative coursework and really enhanced my knowledge of the two plays I was studying for my written exam. I am so grateful and will continue to keep in touch with Isla as I enter my degree course at Newcastle University for English Literature and Creative Writing."
Emily S, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, A Level tutee, 2016

Update from Emily S, Peterborough (above) received June 27 2019:

"I wanted to send you a quick email to let you know that I have received a First Class Honours from Newcastle University in English Literature and Creative Writing!
I am really thrilled as I wasn't expecting it!
You were a real help to me and my time with you was the beginning of me finding my feet with poetry; I went on to write a creative portfolio of poetry instead of a dissertation and received a mark of 75 for it.
So this is just to say, thank you very much!! "


"Isla has helped both of our sons this year - one with his Personal Statement for his University application and one with his Dissertation for his degree. Both boys found Isla very easy to work with, approachable, friendly and very knowledgeable. They have now moved on to University and work - both having benefitted from Isla's fantastic help."
Mrs J R, Rutland, 2018

I assisted a former GCSE resit tutee in his final year at university . This email arrived from his mother to tell me about her son's graduation:

Just to let you know that XXX got a 2.1 in his Sports Psychology degree!
We are very proud of him.
Thank you so much again for all your help and support.
June 2021

Teaching Experience:
I have been a private tutor for 9 years. Private tutoring enables me to stay in touch with young adults and to continue to use the teaching skills I have developed over a long and successful teaching career.

I greatly enjoy one to one tutoring and my students feel supported and more confident about facing their exams.

My tutees tend to be students who are struggling with the subject and have been predicted lower grades than they need.

Sometimes there is a specific issue such as spelling, or a student might struggle with a particular aspect, such as reading, or with a particular set text, or with how to write essays and exam answers that will earn high marks.

Without exception, my tutees grow in confidence amd improve their standard; they often go in to achieve very creditable grades that enable them to move to the next stage of their school career, or gain the university place they want.


At GCSE and AS/A Level my pupils have obtained consistently excellent results. I have taught a very wide range of set texts for literature and have taught courses by different exam boards, such as Edexcel, OCR, AQA, and the CIE IGCSE.

My school teaching often involved one-to-one sessions with pupils who needed extra support and I have taught those whose attainment in the subject is modest, as well as higher achievers in English.

Other teaching experience includes teaching for a total of 7 years full and part-time in further education colleges, and I have also taught English as a foreign language for the British Council in a Middle Eastern country.

Because I love teaching and supporting young people in their intellectual development, I have continued tutoring privately since retiring from full time school teaching, and I currently tutor students ranging from 14 to 18, assisting with preparation for GCSE and A Level exams.

I am able to offer both one- to- one in person teaching or teaching online.

My tutoring role includes assisting my tutees with English Language papers and with close study and revision of a wide range of set texts for Literature exams , demonstrating my adaptability in quickly grasping what different exam techniques are required. I have also given advice and support to students in higher education, pursuing English degrees.

My support for GCSE pupils enables them to achieve a creditable grade so they can proceed to the next stage of school/college. My shooort for A Lebel students often enables them to obtain the grade they need for University entrance.

Tutoring Approach:
PASSION FOR AND KNOWLEDGE OF MY SUBJECT
I prepare lessons thoroughly and imaginatively, striking a balance between getting through the necessary work - but making it varied, interesting and fun.

I begin by getting to know my pupil, their background, and specific needs.

Often, pupils needing extra tuition lack confidence and self-esteem and I care about addressing that sensitively.

In addition, I plan what needs to be covered: making sure I am fully in the picture with regard to the specific course being followed and the exam criteria, and I use the exam boards' websites to source relevant materials such as past papers and teaching resources.

In my tutoring, I aim to give my pupils more confidence in the classroom and in their written work.

BUILDING A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH MY TUTEES

I always have a clear plan for the session and an aim of what I wish to achieve in the time available.

Equally, I am flexible and nearly always end up adapting my plan to what comes up that day, in terms of what the pupil needs.

I like people and I am a friendly, outgoing person who communicates warmly with a tutee; I greatly enjoy the company of young people and am experienced in putting my tutees at their ease, reducing their anxiety and building their self-confidence, which is vital.

I form friendly, personal relationships with those I teach and am good at listening to them and assessing their needs, and adjusting my strategy accordingly.

A RIGOROUS APPROACH AND DETAILED FEEDBACK
As well as preparing thoroughly, I mark work meticulously and give very detailed and helpful feedback, both in writing and orally. I set relevant work to be completed for the next tutorial, and monitor progress closely; I stay in regular contact with my students and/or their parents via email and phone.

MY COMMITMENT TO YOU
You will find me a hardworking, and sympathetic tutor committed to the interests of my tutees; my aim is to help you to achieve your full academic potential in the subject and gain exam success. I see your progress in English in the context of the whole school or college picture and as part of your personal development. I often stay in touch with my pupils as they move on in life and take a keen interest in how they are getting on. I always treat my tutees with respect, kindness and understanding.

WHERE AND WHEN TUTORIALS TAKE PLACE
I tutor in my own home where I am set up to receive my tutees in a quiet and relaxed environment with my extensive resources and teaching materials readily to hand. During the pandemic I continued to tutor online and since then have continued to tutor online because my tutees often find it saves then travelling time and fits in with their lives better. I will consider face to face tutoring if this is required, or online only, or a combination of the two methods.

Normally I tutor on weekdays, and aim to complete my tutoring sessions by 7.30 p m but my times are flexible. I prefer not to tutor at weekends because of family commitments, though I can do so by by arrangement, with Sunday morning being a possibility.

I am usually able to tutor in school holidays, when I can offer longer, more intensive revision sessions.

I am always willing to try to fit in with a pupil's/parents' needs.


FEES

My professional fee for an hour is £45 for GCSE and £50 for A Level English and for support with UCAS personal statements.

Fees for other tutoring categories on request.

My fee include include preparation for the lesson, marking of set written homework, the actual intensive contact time with me, and follow-up emails and phone calls.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I am a qualified, patient English/ Polish teacher and I have been working as a private tutor for over 10 years. I offer individualised approach and adjusted learning materials to every student. I have many interesting and up-to-date teaching materials (coursebooks, videos, articles, Internet resources). I have also worked as a English/ Polish translator/ interpreter.

Teaching Experience:
My experience includes:
-teaching Polish to British learners (online and face-to-face classes)
-Conversations (focus on listening and speaking)
-Academic English (Dissertation and exam preparations, proofreading)
-Business English (professional vocabulary: Finance, HR, Marketing, Logistics, presentations, negotiations)
-English for seniors (socialising, travelling purposes)
-English for kids
-translating and interpreting

I have many satisfied clients and I can provide references upon request.

Tutoring Approach:
I listen to learner' s needs in order to prepare engaging and goal-oriented lessons. I ask for student's feedback after every class to make sure that my tuturials meet his/ her expectations.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Friendly, qualified and experienced TEFL teacher.
CELTA (grade B), English Literature and Language degree (grade 2.1).
British Native speaker with 14 years of TEFL teaching experience in countries like Estonia, Japan and Oman.
One-to-one tuition at your home or a cafe (no extra travel charge within 3 miles of Bath).
General or Business English from Beginner to Proficiency.
Exam preparation lessons (IELTS, PET, FCE, CAE, CPE, etc.)
Tailor-made lessons to help with your personal language development.
£22 per one hour lesson.
I look forward to teaching you!
Best wishes,
Nathan

Teaching Experience:
8 years as an English Lecturer at Sohar University, Oman. The university is affiliated with Queensland University. I taught General English and ESP.
2 years as a Senior Teacher at Shane School in Japan, teaching all ages General and Business English.
2 years as a Business English teacher in Estonia, visiting companies and providing tailor-made lessons.
2 years as an English teacher in Greece, teaching General English and exam preparation lessons.

BRIEF REFERENCES (reference letters and qualifications will be shown in first lesson):

'He has a mature, patient, amiable disposition and a good sense of humour'. Charles Hummel, Dean of UNIR, Sohar University (affiliated to Queensland University), Oman.

'The feedback from his students was always positive and he was someone that could be relied upon to help out whenever necessary'. James Knight, Director of Studies, Shane English School, Tokyo, Japan.

'He stood out as a perfectionist requiring from all students their best output, monitoring closely their achievement and adjusting his teaching style to fit their individual needs.' Karl Radlein, Director of Studies, Small Talk Language School, Tallinn, Estonia.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to provide relaxed, friendly but well-prepared lessons that are tailored to your language needs. I will focus on whatever you require (conversation, exam preparation, grammar, listening, reading, writing etc). As the lessons progress, I will modify my approach according to your needs and interests, and ensure that your time is used effectively.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have worked in the educational sector both in the UK and overseas. I teach children of primary and secondary school age in both mainstream and special schools. I teach Mathematics, English and Science.

I use the Teacch, Pecs and Makaton to teach individuals whom I support as a small group and on one to one. I recently completed a Makaton training for professionals.

I am conversant with the educational curriculum.

I do have good communication skills, strong interpersonal skills and have the ability to motivate children to achieve their highest potential.

My passion about helping children of all ages and abilities to learn have always added value because, I aim to satisfy the academic needs of each child.

I am the owner and manager of a new business that allows children of primary and secondary school age the opportunity to enjoy the facilities of supplementary educational services. Aimed at distinctively making a difference by developing a child's academic potential that will help him or her make that connection with the real world.

Receiving tuition at the centre cost £20.00 per hour but if I have to travel to pupil`s home, tuition cost is £35.00 per hour.

Contact me and discover how to invest in your child's future.

Teaching Experience:
I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. This qualification has given me a general overview of how to identify misconceptions children have in learning the concepts and, methods to devise different ways to deal with it. Also, employing different ways of representing the same knowledge because, there are more than one way in the teaching and learning experience.

In addition, I have a Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Studies in Education (Inclusion and Special Education Needs). With this qualification, I am well equipped to devise, implement and evaluate systems for identifying, assessing and reviewing students' special education needs. I ensure children have conceptual knowledge which will help them make progress.

Also, I do have a Master degree in Special Education Needs. This has further foster my understanding of children with specific learning needs and how to ensure that their learning objectives are met.

Thus, my university and work experience have created in me an enthusiasm to develop an environment for learning, that would make a huge impact in the lives of all children by using my skills and experiences to help them develop to their full potential for learning.

Tutoring Approach:
I employ personalised teaching technique that is tailored to meet the need of the individual child.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Highly experienced Tutor.
Excellent track record.
Consistent outstanding results achieved.
Many very satisfied clients !

More than a decade has been spent as a professional full time Tutor.

In that time I have helped many students gain places at the most sought after Grammar Schools and Private Schools.

They have all gone on to University to pursue their careers within a wide variety of professions.

I have a tremendous wealth of experience in preparing students for a range of subjects at a variety of levels.

My aim is always to instill confidence and a firm grasp of the subject being taught.

I am renown for my patience and the professionalism I bring to each session.

Please take a look at the Testimonial provided by a very happy parent.

Education is the most precious gift you can give your children !

Teaching Experience:
11+
13+
Common Entrance
English, Mathematics and Sciences up to GCSE and IGCSE
QTS Literacy and Numeracy

11+

I have extensive experience and had tremendous success when working with pupils preparing for the 11+ examinations.
Students have gained much sought after places at Queen Elizabeth Boys' School, Henrietta Barnett, City of London School for Boys, University College School and Habadashers' to name just a few of my successes !
I am extremely adept at teaching the English, Mathematics, Non-Verbal Reasoning and Verbal Reasoning components of the 11+ examinations.

13+ (Common Entrance)

Have very recently taught and coached a student in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
All ISEB past papers were gone through in tremendous detail.
He gained a much coveted place at St. Paul's.

GCSE

I have very successfully taught at this level and prepared students for English, Mathematics and Science examinations.
I am currently working with a student in preparation for the new GCSE AQA Trilogy Examination in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

IGCSE

I have had the extraordinary privilege of coaching and teaching a young student through his IGCSEs in most subjects right up to his final examinations in Physics in June.
This has afforded me the opportunity to see the very vast difference in content demand between GCSEs and IGCSEs.

Tutoring Approach:
I take a very relaxed and calm approach to Tutoring.
Being able to put the student at ease really facilitates the learning process.
The topic being learnt is gone through very thoroughly.
Homework is set.
Any work marked previously is gone through carefully with the student.

*** Testimonial ***

Rob tutored my son Tom for 6 months in GCSE Mathematics and Science.

Rob is clearly very committed to his work and pupils, and it was more than apparent that he had taken great care in preparing for each session.

What really shone through was Rob's passion for his work and his desire to ensure that Tom achieved to the best of his ability. He always took considerable time to ensure Tom thoroughly understood each subject even if this meant running over the allotted time.

Rob is extremely professional and reliable and is very easy to get along with. In addition to his academic role, Rob also took time to build a professional friendship with Tom and a keen interest in ensuring that Tom developed his confidence. This greatly benefited his academic achievement but importantly also his belief in himself and his abilities. Tom's progress from this was clear for us to see. This was the real value added that I believe we received from the one to one tuition that Rob provided.

As Tom completed his GCSE exams Rob would always phone the same day to see how he had got on. This was clearly something he did with all his pupils as, although ensuring discretion, Rob would mention how others that he tutored had said the exam had gone.

I would highly recommend Rob as personal tutor and would happily be contacted to confirm this view.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am British, and living in Hampshire. I am a qualified secondary school teacher in the UK (QTS, PGCE), and have taught Mandarin Chinese full-time in both the state and private sectors in the UK, at two schools leading the country in their Mandarin provision. I have passed the highest level exams in Mandarin Chinese (HSK level 6, and Advanced Speaking HSKK), and have lived in China for six years. I have just completed a Master's degree in the field of applied linguistics.

My Education background is as follows.

2016-2017: University of Southampton
- MA English Language Teaching.
- Specialism in motivation in online learning.
- Distinction level pass anticipated. To receive certificate in November 2017.

2014-2015: CfBT; University of Hull
- QTS (Qualified Teacher Status), with PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate of Education).

2002 - 2005: University of Durham
- First class honours degree: Politics BA.

1992 - 2002: Portsmouth Grammar School
- A levels: French A, Spanish A, Politics A, History A,
- GCSEs: 6 A*s. 3 As.

Teaching Experience:
2017 - 2020: LSI Portsmouth English Teacher
- Taught Exam preparation courses (IELTS, CPE) to foreign students.

2015 - 2016: Whitgift School Mandarin Teacher.
- Taught Mandarin and French to secondary school students aged 11 to 15 at one of the top schools in the UK.
- Offered a permanent contract at the school.

2014 - 2015: Bohunt School Trainee Mandarin Teacher (School Direct Salaried).
- Learned from Outstanding teacher at 2014 TES School Awards Overall
School of the Year.
- Taught Mandarin and French to secondary school students aged 11 to 13.

2010 - 2014: Guilin University of Electronic Technology (Guilin, China). TEFL English Teacher.
- Taught English to Undergraduate students majoring in Teaching Chinese as a Second Language.
- Prepared students for the IELTS examination.

2008 - 2010: Caterpillar Inc (UK). Purchasing Specialist (Graduate Trainee)

2007 - 2008: New Dynamic Institute (Chengdu, China). TEFL English teacher.
- Taught small groups of professionals in middle and senior management, both conversational and Business English, in an English training school.

2005 - 2007: Thames School of Languages (Huizhou, China). TEFL English Teacher.
- Taught primary and secondary school students aged 4 to 18 in an English training school.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is based on my own experience and academic research in the field of second language learning.

- I aim to foster and maintain motivation, through relating all topics directly to my students' everyday lives, experiences and opinions; and through providing instruction which is tailored to students' requirements.
- I aim to make my students feel comfortable through helping them to feel relaxed and providing as much linguistic support as is needed.
- I aim to increase my students' linguistic knowledge through using resources which are at a level just slightly beyond the student's current level, so that they are comfortable, but challenged.
- I am to promote skills development through developing comprehension skills (reading and listening), but also productive skills (speaking and writing).

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello! I am a lively English Language teacher and tutor. I have taught English professionally for five years, and have been tutoring privately for many years, which I really enjoy. I also work as an actress; I work in theatre and on screen. In my free time I go to the theatre (a lot!), and I love yoga and going for brunch with friends.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Teaching Experience:
I have five years of experience teaching EFL/ESOL at all levels.
I have a BA in English from the University of Nottingham (2:1) and a CELTA: Pass A.
I worked at Embassy English Central London teaching English for almost three years until the school sadly closed down. Since then, I have focused more on private tutoring, and I have been teaching ESOL at South Thames College since May 2018.
I tutor privately in EFL and also GCSE English literature and language.

Tutoring Approach:
Each session I teach is different and entirely depends on the needs and requests of the student. I listen to students and design lessons around things they enjoy, what kind of learning they respond to best, and what they want to achieve from their lessons. I like lessons to be dynamic and enjoyable, so I will always try to incorporate a range of activities into a session to maintain interest and aid memorisation!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I welcome children into a positive, stimulating environment, where each child is valued and can learn effectively. I am proactive, ambitious, have a sense of humour, honest, enthusiastic and conscientious of others as well as a valued team member. I believe that effective learning happens when children are inspired, motivated and challenged in a positive environment where they feel happy and praised. I have a desire to promote reading for pleasure and I love to tell stories and listen to children read. I also enjoy teaching mathematics, problem solving and making learning fun. In my spare time, I enjoy swimming and ice skating as well as going for walks and socialising with friends and family.

Teaching Experience:
I have 7 years of qualified teaching experience with whole classes and 1:1. I have experience in both England and wales so have a strong m knowledge of both national curriculums. I have lots of experience working ALN children and differentiate lessons to meet every child's needs!

Tutoring Approach:
I like to develop positive relationships with children I teach and therefore I enjoy engaging with children through their personal interests and humour. I find out which areas each child requires improvement before setting a range of activities to develop their learning. I address the VAK (Visual, Auditory and Kinaesthetic) learning styles of children that I teach and use a creative approach to teaching. I like to assess individuals through games to increase engagement and encourage independent learners, aiming to increase self esteem and confidence.

Subjects

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:
I have a First Class law degree from the University of Oxford and have almost 10 years of tutoring experience. At university, I was the Editor-in-Chief of the prestigious Oxford University Undergraduate Law Journal. During my time at Oxford, I also published an article in the journal which was awarded the 'Best Private Law' prize, as adjudicated by the former President of the Supreme Court, Lord Neuberger. I also regularly won prizes for my academic work. Alongside my academics, I also mentored several students with various access schemes and assisted with outreach programmes.

I have been tutoring law to undergraduates from diverse law schools for the past three years. We have covered core subjects such as Tort, Land and EU law in the run up to exams. In addition, I have marked past papers, created notes and tweaked exam technique to give students the best chance. I developed my tutoring skills by teaching a range of disciplines, from Maths to English, with the UK access scheme `Into University`. I have also supported students with their Oxbridge applications. This has consisted of fine tuning their personal statements, holding mock interviews and discussing important debates in order to foster a deeper understanding of the discipline of law.

Teaching Experience:
As Editor-in-Chief of the prestigious Oxford University Undergraduate Law Journal, I spent a lot of time reviewing academic work and collaboratively fine tuning scripts to publish in the journal. In addition, I launched a blog which published more accessible legal articles. I have therefore had the privilege of working with an even wider pool of students then perhaps I would have done had I only worked with authors of journal submissions.

With regards to tutoring undergraduates, I have covered Contract, Public/Administrative, Jurisprudence, Medical, Land, Tort, EU and Trusts and am comfortable teaching any core subject. I can also assist students in writing their dissertation and essays.

I have also helped numerous students with their Oxbridge Applications as a tutor for 'Oxbridge Applications'. My work has consisted of holding mock interviews, reviewing personal statements and setting exercises which provide a good insight into how best to tackle the LNAT. I am also currently a mentor for Brightstart, which supports students going into their A-Levels and with the university and subject choices.

Tutoring Approach:
I take a very hands on approach by closely following the relevant curriculum and asking students to submit answers to past paper questions. I regularly mark answers, and have provided sample answers so that students have a better idea of the level of detail required to get a First Class mark.

Students have thanked me for my 'understanding teaching skills', and I have only ever been awarded 5 stars from former students.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have a PhD in Philosophy from the University of Cambridge and I've taught students all the way from university to primary school in a number of subject areas. I also have an MPhil in Philosophy from Cambridge and a BA (Philosophy) /BSc (Biology) from the University of Auckland.

At the moment, my main areas of expertise are philosophy/critical thinking and sociology but I've previously privately tutored students in biology, maths, psychology and english for many years.

I was born in Sri Lanka but I grew up in Australia and New Zealand. I moved to the UK, to do postgraduate study and can't seem to leave :)

Teaching Experience:
University Teaching:
Lectures: Introductory Lecture on Buddhist Account of Personal Identity (Oct 2018), Environmental Ethics and Future
Generations (Lent Term 2021)

Supervisions (2018 - Current), Cambridge University supervisions, both group and individual, for papers in the faculties
of Philosophy (Formal Methods, Set Texts, Political Philosophy), History and Philosophy of Science (General Philosophy
of Science, Philosophy of Psychiatry), Medicine (Social and Ethical Context of Health and Illness) and Sociology (Health,
Medicine and Society).

Kings College London (Sep 2019 - Dec 2019): Introduction to Ethics.

Auckland University (2012-2013): Critical Thinking, Introduction to Metaphysics, Theories of Human Nature and Introduction to Political Philosophy, Philosophy of Logic.

I've also been a tutor from 2009 -- 2018, both privately and working for Tutoring Australasia. During this period I taught, philosophy, english, maths and psychology.

Tutoring Approach:
I specialise in teaching students to do just that little bit better in exams and in fundamental skills that will be useful to them throughout their education, such as writing clearly and engagingly.

Learning should also be fun and tailored to the student; ideas don't really come alive unless they feel relevant. So even my university teaching uses sources that are accessible and interesting to the student, like podcasts and youtube videos.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am teaching French and German I will start off using speech methods, so that the student feels relaxed and able to learn. This is very important. Depending on how we go we can then progress to pens and paper. Learning at this level ought to be enjoyable. I also teach adults at this level. I seek to build confidence in students, so that they can encounter native speakers and be able to do simple tasks like ordering meal in a cafe and an item of clothing in a shop. I have GCSE French and A level German.

Teaching Experience:
I have dyslexia, so I am sensitive to those who have this condition. I go at a slow pace to make sure the knowledge is consolidated before we move on. There is no hurry in learning either of these languages. Better to learn solidly and slowly
than poorly and in a rush. I teach in short sessions as these are most beneficial. There is homework if students want it. I am DBS cleared.

Tutoring Approach:
I am patient and empathetic and these are vital qualities in a teacher. I have travelled frequently to France in recent years, chiefly to Burgundy and also to Paris. I have a also been to Germany --I know Konstanz quite well and have been to Berlin.
Part of learning a language is learning more about the culture of these countries. I hope the students will be able to do this.

Subjects

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have a warm, encouraging and confidence boosting approach, inspiring self-belief, progress and success.

Teaching Experience:
An experienced and skilled teacher of 20 years, I have worked with a wide range of age groups and am a skilled teacher across the curriculum - primary trained but also with significant experience beyond primary as a Maths specialist teacher. I have worked with both children who need support and those who are working significantly above expectations. I have had much success in developing skills, knowledge, understanding and confidence in my students and helping them to succeed and excel. I have also worked closely with children with SEND and supported children with EAL. In addition to the academics, I am an Art specialist.

Tutoring Approach:
Patient, encouraging, confidence boosting. Continual revisiting of key concepts and skills to strengthen understanding and focusing on developing strong foundations to build on.

Subjects