Corbridge English Tutors and Corbridge English Tuition

Personal Description:
My name is Yasmin. I am a 50 year-old Teacher with over 25 years teaching experience. I currently supply in schools all over south west London which I thoroughly enjoy as I meet new students and teachers. I do get called back to the same schools as I am punctual, experienced, professional and have great classroom management skills.

Teaching Experience:
Homestay English
2015-current
Hosting foreign students aged between 12 and 18 in my home
Teaching English to the children in structured sessions
Taking children on excursions and doing activities across London
Providing opportunities to experience English culture

TENNIS AVENUE
2010-2015
Set up and ran a private school offering Curriculum subjects to Home Schooled Children.
Primary class of 6 children, planning, teaching and assessing curriculum subjects following the National Curriculum.
Pre GCSE class of 10 children, planning, teaching and assessing English and History
11+ tutoring for various schools

2005 -2007
English Subject co-coordinator responsible for the development of School Literacy Plan in line with government guidelines

2001 -2005
Head of year 5 and Year 1 Art Coordinator for whole School

Tutoring Approach:
I offer a safe and comfortable learning environment. I believe that children should be able to identify their own mistakes develop their problem solving skills by applying different approaches to the question. I build on children's skills and confidence.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am British, Married with two children (Grown up) both are employed after their Master Degrees.

I was graduated from Newcastle University followed by various professional qualifications A Chartered Engineer with Fellowship. I served in the British Merchant Navy for many years. While I was working in West Africa I engaged in teaching voluntarily (in my free time) English Maths and Science, to children of all ages. This made me interested in teaching. Soon I realised that this was what I wish to do after ending my career overseas. In 1998 I ended my career overseas and decided go in to teaching. In 1999 I took up teaching as a full time private tutor which I continue up to date.
I am a registered Tutor of Fleet Tutors, which is one of the most reputed private teaching agencies in the Country and I was elected as the best Tutor of the Year. I am also a registered Tutor of Abacus Tutors In Berkshire and UK Tutors.

Teaching Experience:
Full time Private Tutor (mainly one to one but occasionally group) from 1999 up to date. I set very high standards and my students have always been achieving very high grades (A and A*) in all the subjects been taught

Tutoring Approach:
Initial assessment followed by structured and tailor made teaching programme to suit and meet individual needs. All lessons are kept in line with what is taught in the school and in line with the National Curriculum. Progress of the pupil is repeatedly tested by regular home work and monthly mini tests. Parents are kept well informed through out the course of studies.
Substantial amount of revision and past paper questions are done prior to the examinations. No of mock tests are carried out to ensure that the pupil is fully prepared to achieve highest grades in the Exam. Nearly all my pupils over the years have continued with me until they entered the University of 1st choice. I have quite often prepared the students successfully for entrance exams for top schools such as Eton, Harrow, Cheltenham, Wickham Abbey Wellington, Kendrick etc ......
Short Profile
Masters Degree in Engineering from Newcastle University, is an experienced (over 15 years) full time Tutor who specialises in tutoring
Maths English and Science in KS2 Level,
11+ in Maths, English and Science.
13+ tuition in Maths and two sciences Physics and Chemistry
Maths, Physics and Chemistry at KS3 and GCSE level,
Maths at AS and A2 levels, Physics at AS and A2 levels and Further Maths in AS and A" levels.
University 1st Year Maths
I also possess experience with teaching and tutoring dyslexic students and has had some experience with autistic students

Subjects

Personal Description:
I graduated from the University of Cambridge in 2017 in Economics, and before that did a post graduate Mathematics masters at the University of Warwick. My academic credentials are very good, having achieved 5 As at A Level - the top marks, including 100% in various mathematics exams, when I took them in 2008.

If you are looking to apply to Oxbridge or another Russell group university, I can provide better tuition than someone who has not been to Oxbridge and does not know the system.

I have been tutoring Mathematics at all levels from GCSE to university for 3 years. I have also tutored English at GCSE level.

As my full time career I work as a consultant within Big4 consulting having worked for Parliament for 5 years prior. I am able to offer career guidance having worked both in consulting, banking and politics. My time in Cambridge means I can give guidance about Oxbridge applications.

I was also a school governor at Chingford Academy and as a result have knowledge of the current GCSE curriculum. My fees have not changed over the last 10 years I have been tutoring.

I hope you will choose me.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring Mathematics at all levels from GCSE, A Level and even university for 3 years. I have also tutored English at GCSE level.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is very student centric - focused on the needs of the student. If I believe theory is lacking, I will explain the theory in a comprehensive way. If I believe application is missing, I will go over many questions, guiding the student through them. I have a mix of my own questions and past paper questions that I use. As the exams draw nearer I will focus more on past papers.

I also give each student, if they or the parents want it, activities to do which I will mark at the next session. This is like homework except I will try to make it more engaging and fun. None of my activities are generalised - I will base each on what the student requires. For example, in the past my activities have ranged from book work, to a problem solving puzzle to solve over the course of the week, to an essay, to even a relatively light exercise of reading any magazine article and giving a presentation on it.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I love teaching! This is my passion and my job. It gives me great satisfaction and fulfills my professional ambitions. I am optimistic and open-minded what makes my students more eager to enrich knowledge and expand communication. I am demanding but rewarding as my goal is to provide effective training. What is more, my international experience has developed my methodology creativity. Last but not least, organisational skills are definitely my second nature.

Teaching Experience:
I have been gaining valuable international work experience as English Teacher since 2000. I have been in intensive cooperation with leading English, Australian and Polish schools of English teaching children, teenage and adult students. I have found fulfilment in providing General and Business English courses to groups and individuals on all English levels ranging from A1 to C2. I have also conducted FCE, CAE, CPE, BEC, IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC and EAP courses and specialised English Training Workshops successfully. My TEFL experience is with students of different cultural background. I facilitate their different pronunciational, lexical or grammatical difficulties what proves my expertise and adaptability to students. Moreover, I was responsible for developing General English and TOEFL/IELTS curriculum and its further coordination. On a regular basis I work online and provide Grammar, Vocabulary, and Speaking classes to students. Moreover, I enjoy working as a translator of economic, financial, legal and technical texts, and as interpreter at business meeting and negotiations.

Tutoring Approach:
How do I conduct classes? I always set the goal of providing effective training. However, I alsways create a detailed lesson plan, based on recommended course books or my own materials and following both language and personal goals. Most of the time they refer to my individual approach to students and make lessons tailored to their specific needs. I believe that effective teaching must be a combination of work and fun. My priority is to make classes varied, engaging, and memorable. Varied as they cover all skills and types of activities. Engaging as I want my classes to be student-centered with the main focus on communication. And memorable as there use fun games and language equipment. I believe that not only planning, but also monitoring and reporting play a great role. To get the full picture of the learning process, I provide students with sufficient feedback and reports.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an Anglia Ruskin Graduate in Communication, since graduating I have been perusing a career in Teaching Assisting. I am passionate about arts and crafts which I have been able to apply to the Brownie Club I co-run. I am experienced in working in a busy out of school club where I have gained valuable experience being responsible, entertaining and educating young people.

Teaching Experience:
I currently volunteer as a teaching assistant at a city primary school, where I have a multitude of responsibilities including small group work & offering alternative provision for students who are unable to participate in main activities.

Tutoring Approach:
I can provide a structured work time table given different needs and time frames for your child. I am patient and understanding and provide clear and well thought out examples and explanations. I am a sociable,kind, good humored person who is well loved by the children I work with.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a british born multi-skilled Business Management Post-Graduate with a flexible and proactive approach to work. I hold many transferable skills gained in positions, detained alongside studies since leaving school. I am a friendly, approachable individual with a smart appearance and professional manner. My fee is dependent on lesson plans, books/course materials required, travel time/expenses incurred and the number of hours requested.

Teaching Experience:
I have been working as a p/t Tutor for 7 years, Assisting primary school students up to Key Stage 3 in English, Maths and preparing for 11+/SATS Exams. I have also worked at various tuition centres and colleges.

Completed:

Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable Adult's training
Child Protection training
Childcare & Classroom Work programs
Support Work in Schools course
Training, Assessment, Quality & Assurance course
Enhanced CRB
Employment Related Services course

Additionally, I help adults with ICT, Business studies and Employment Advice e.g CV'S, Cover Letters, Application Forms and Proofreading. I am based in Kings Heath but can also do home visits. Please email me for further information.

Tutoring Approach:
I am passionate about helping pupils and strive to improve their learning. I have a strong belief in getting students to reach their full potential and even exceed it. I can build good relationships with students and have a caring nature. I believe that every child matters and that understanding a child's individual needs is paramount to their academic success. I also believe that confidence in their ability has a lot to be accounted for. Therefore, I offer not only a boost to their ability but to increase their academic success!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am 48 years old and have lived in the Fylde area since 2002. I have two daughters and one son who are my absolute life. In my spare time I spend quality time with them and live life to the full!!

In 2005 I started out as a teaching assistant and enjoyed it so much that I wanted to further my career and become a primary school teacher. I graduated with a BA (Hons) in Primary Education with QTS in July 2011. I achieved a good/outstanding grade on my final block placement.

I have decided to become a home tutor because I am more available in the evenings and it works well around my busy lifestyle. I have had 20 years of experience in education and can offer a high standard of teaching to all pupils, ensuring I meet their educational needs.

If your child would like tuition in preparation for SATs whether they are in Year 2 or Year 6, I will assess them using a SATs paper to identify areas they need to work on and create some lesson plans accordingly.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked in a variety of roles within schools across all key stages. These roles include 1:1 support assistant, reception key worker, teaching assistant, PE Instructor, PPA cover teacher, supply teacher and nursery practitioner.

During these times I have worked with a range of pupils with special educational needs and I am very proud to know that each and every child has progressed and developed through my creativity and strategic approach. I enjoy planning and ensuring lessons and activities are delivered effectively to meet the child's needs.

I have taught groups of children, half classes and whole classes, teaching in all primary subjects and many topics such as World War 2, Castles, Ancient Greece and Titanic.

During my final block placement in a year 5/6 mixed class, I supported children in preparation for SAT's and provided various activities to consolidate their understanding in the chosen subject they wanted support for. I also entered my class into a local poetry competition which over 100 schools entered. There were twelve winners chosen to have their poems published in a regional magazine. Out of the twelve winning poems, eight children from my class were awarded places in the magazine including first and second place. A very proud moment which is just one of my achievements that have made me more passionate about teaching children and ensuring they reach their full potential.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a very calm and creative approach to tutoring and enjoy going that extra mile to ensure education is enjoyable for all children.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have two degrees in history, my master's being on American and Scottish literature.
I lived for eight years in Spain and am now a Spanish to English translator.

Teaching Experience:
Nine years' experience tutoring children and adults in both Spain and Scotland, including one-to-one tuition, teaching in primary and secondary schools, adult learners and some university teaching in Edinburgh.

Several schoolchildren went on to study English at university

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that trying to establish a sincere interest in the subject is the best way to have a student make substantial progress. I expect students to have high standards with their work.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I was brought up in Cardiff and my claim to fame is attending the same school as Gareth Bale and Sam Warburton. I'm a Christian, married to Jifelane - the most wonderful woman in the world. She's from Mindanao in the Philippines and we met online! I'm a proud dad to two beautiful children, Isaac and Hannah. I'm much travelled, play guitar, write songs and enjoy carp fishing especially on a warm Spring or Summer day. I am also an author! I published my first book 'Moondust' in 2015 and have recently self published another two, available in the Blurb Bookstore.
As a person I am patient, reflective and believe strongly in integrity. I am compassionate and enjoy seeing the funny side of life - I attempt to bring these qualities to my work. I am a dedicated, adaptable and friendly practitioner who loves to bring out the best in children and others. I became a teacher because I wanted to make a difference. I saw that children were the hope for today and for the future and that schools were vital training grounds for life. Now as an experienced practitioner, I still have an infectious enthusiasm and passion to see children learn and reach their full potential.

Teaching Experience:
My professional experience is rooted in the breadth and depth of a teaching adventure which spans over twenty five years. Teaching mostly across Key Stage 2 (but also including KS1), it is entwined with close collaboration with colleagues from Reception through to Y6. I am keenly aware of the learning journey through the Primary School. Most of my teaching career has been in England and I have taught in a diverse range of schools. I am familiar with and use a range of teaching and learning strategies and believe that getting to know the child, coupled with quality assessment is the best way to help move them forward.
In recent years, I have been an integral part of two highly successful schools. My last school received an exceptional report from the most recent ISI inspection at the end of 2014. I quote:
'Staff are highly successful in shaping the educational programmes around the children's' interests and needs, providing a range of highly stimulating learning opportunities across all subjects through a creative curriculum that frequently takes learning outside.'

Tutoring Approach:
I endeavour to use a range of communication strategies which include listening, observing, questioning, explaining, modelling, storytelling and coaching. I have high expectations of myself as a tutor and high hopes and expectations of the learners in my care. I believe that effective teaching and learning comes from a being a reflective and critical practitioner, so whilst I will use tried and tested approaches initially, I will then adapt to suit the learning needs of the tutee. Assessment for learning methods such as strategic questioning, using success criteria and regular quality feedback are embedded into my teaching and learning ethos. As much as possible, I endeavour to make learning fun, stimulating and child centred, sensitive to individual needs. Developing close but respectful relationships with the students lays the foundation for being secure enough to take risks and improve their learning.

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 have completed my scholarship PhD in sociology and ethnomusicology. I hold a Joint BA in English Literature and Creative Writing and an MA in Sociology and Social Policy.

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced teacher and tutor, having taught GCSE and A Level English Language, Literature, Citizenship Studies and Study Skills in London at a Further Education college, independent school, and a faith based academy.

I have taught and tutored students at universities in London and Hull. I can give guidance and support for university students that need help with essay writing, proofreading and research methods.

Tutoring Approach:
I encourage students to understand the process and purpose of assessments so they become confident and independent learners. My teaching style is praised for being friendly, effective and confidence building.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

A-level results, August 2024:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

A-level results, August/September 2022:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

Speaking

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reading

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

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

Writing

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

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

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

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

Why study English?

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a qualified primary school teacher with 17 years teaching experience and over 4 years tutoring experience. I offer after school and during the day teaching sessions for primary aged children (including families who have chosen to home educate and may seek extra support).

I have a friendly, patient, yet thorough approach, as well as enthusiasm to support children overcome any learning challenges they may face.

Sessions can be one-to-one or small group, depending on the families requests or the child's needs. I can offer face-to-face or online lessons.

Teaching Experience:
As well as my teaching and tutoring experience. I am an expert in early reading intervention. During my teaching career, I trained as a 'Reading Recovery' Teacher which involved one-to-one tailored sessions aimed to provide accelerated reading progress.

I have a thorough knowledge of teaching the curriculum within early years through to year 6, and wherever possible, will tailor lessons according to the children's loves and interests to increase motivation.

My teaching style can be adapted to support children who are home educated and perhaps may seek a more informal or holistic approach to teaching. Similarly, with children attending school, I have experience and knowledge in closely following the national curriculum. I can target 'known' gaps in learning that may have been noted by parents or teachers, as well as provide assessment sessions which will give me clear targets in order to achieve progress.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is to devise tailor-made, fun and interactive learning activities that will challenge but engage your child to achieve their next steps in learning. I am flexible to offering half hour sessions, particularly for younger children (aged 4 or 5 years old) that may struggle with a 45 minute or one hour session.

Lessons are often pacey, varied and interactive in order to achieve maximum motivation for your child.

I am also willing to incorporate time to discuss next steps with parents/carers in order to support your children's progress outside of the tutoring session. I can provide extra learning materials on request to allow your child further practise in a skill during the week if necessary.

Due to the age of the children I tutor, face- to-face sessions tend to work best, although some upper junior children cope well with zoom lessons.

Subjects

Personal Description:
A patient and friendly TEFL qualified teacher with a bachelors degree in English Literature and Drama from Cardiff Metropolitan University. I have over 2 years' experience tutoring a range of students from differing ages and backgrounds. I tailor bespoke sessions to an individual's needs and I find creative and innovative solutions to learning.

I have a unique professional background living and working in London in Marketing, Publishing and TV Production. This has allowed me to bring a wealth of experience and personality to my teaching style.

I am a creative person with a love for acting, TV and Film. I enjoy all forms of storytelling and have explored my passion through music video production, radio broadcast assistance, acting and comedy.

My other passions in life are writing, reading, self-development, yoga, running and travel. I have recently returned from a 6-month travelling trip around Asia!

Teaching Experience:
I have a passion for learning! I am experienced in online tutoring both adults and children in Academic English, Business English, pronunciation, general English grammar and vocabulary, and conversational English.
I also tutor students in KS2 and KS3 English and KS3 and KS4 Drama studies and tailor a bespoke and individualised package for each student.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach is kind and patient. I understand that no two people have the same learning style. This is why I tailor my teaching to the individual's needs and preferred learning style. I work with the individual to provide an enjoyable lesson that achieves the desired outcome. Whether that's confidence building in your child, gaining a higher grade in school right through to teaching children and adults mindfulness tools and techniques. I bring my unique background to my lessons to provide a memorable learning experience.

Due to our current situation, I tutor online via Zoom. I am also able to provide students with small homework tasks after each lesson which help retain what they've learned with me. I try make my lessons fun, entertaining and variable so you/your child enjoys the lesson and comes away feeling happy and stress-free!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a profound tutor who provides personalized academic assistance and educational support to students to achieve their educational goals and obtain high-level success to achieve great academic excellence. Furthermore, I provide and actualize limited group instructions for those students who need tutoring lessons to address certain academic issues.
I work to ensure a clear understanding of various topics for my students by clarifying difficult topics, answering questions properly, and creating keys to principles. In addition, I foster approaching academic learning challenges with patience, understanding that every student has an exclusive pace and pattern of learning.

Teaching Experience:
Online, part-time tutor at Christ The King College, Enugu, Nigeria
subject thought: English and Religious Knowledge
2017-2021

Tutoring Approach:
As a tutor, I use a student-centered approach to tutoring, taking into account each person's exclusive learning style and history. Students may ask questions, make errors, and participate fully in their education in the safe and accepting learning atmosphere that I provide. I think that receiving individualised attention may help students reach their full academic potential and develop a lifetime love of studying.

Subjects

Personal Description:
With a BA Hons degree in Early Childhood Studies, I've delved into various educational philosophies like Steiner, Frobel, Montessori, and Reggio Emilia. I firmly believe that each approach offers unique benefits to every child. My journey includes extensive experience in preparing children for 7+, 8+, 11+, SATs KS2 tests, and ISEB Common Entrance exams. I've successfully guided students to prestigious schools like Royal Grammar School, Queen's College, and St. Paul's Prep School. Specializing in interview prep for 11+ school entrance, I focus on core subjects for ages 3-11, including early years and primary/elementary levels. My passion lies in supporting children with dyslexia and autism, empowering them with strategies to boost confidence, overcome challenges, and realize their potential. Equipped with a TEFL certificate, I'm committed to enhancing my skills with an upcoming course in teaching young learners.

Teaching Experience:
With 3 years of experience in Sunday school, I meticulously planned weekly lessons. As a classroom assistant, I focused on aiding the lowest ability groups, and providing crucial support with classwork. Specializing in English, maths, and science for ages 5-11, I'm passionate about helping dyslexic children thrive in reading and writing. My tutoring approach revolves around understanding each child's learning style, and tailoring lessons accordingly. I love incorporating educational games, particularly for younger learners aged 5-7. Successfully preparing students for 7+, 11+, and SATs KS2 tests is a testament to my dedication.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching philosophy revolves around infusing fun into focused learning. I believe in creating an engaging and dynamic environment where students not only grasp concepts but also enjoy the process. By understanding each child's unique learning style, I tailor my lessons to ensure maximum comprehension and retention. Whether it's incorporating educational games for younger learners or employing interactive activities for older students, I strive to make every session both enriching and enjoyable. With a balance of fun and focus, I guide my students towards academic success while fostering a lifelong love for learning.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Jo and I live in Balloch.
.I have 37 years of dedicated service in education, I recently retired after a fulfilling career focused on enhancing children's learning. For 15 years, I served as a Principal Teacher in a large, diverse school in Glasgow's West End, where I led teams and supported whole-school improvement. As Literacy Leader of Learning for 6 years, I championed innovative approaches to reading and writing across the curriculum.

Teaching Experience:
For the past six years, my role has been Challenge Leader of Learning/Principal Teacher in a large school in the West End of Glasgow. Through the Literacy for All CPD training and guidance courses that I have attended, my remit has been to improve reading, writing , talking and listening as part of the Scottish Attainment Challenge with the focus on giving all children the same opportunity to succeed, with a particular focus on closing the poverty related attainment gap and promote equity for all. This year due to Covid 19 I have had to develop my digital literacy skills in order to home school through Google Classroom, Seesaw and Teams. • A member of the Senior Management team within a large school, collaborating on improving all areas of the curriculum using HGIOS4. SIP, Standards and Quality Report, Education Perspective Report and shared vision, values and aims with colleagues. • I am committed to the inclusion of all children and developing the potential in all children by removing barriers to learning, families and staff. I evidence this by collecting quantitative data, people's views and direct observation. • To cultivate an environment of professional engagement, dialogue and collegiate working. Moderating reading, writing and assessment of pupil's skills. • Leading a PEF team of two highly experienced teachers to track and target individual children's progress through formative and summative approaches (I plan reading, writing lessons through experiences and outcomes that specifically meet the children's learning needs.) • Work collaboratively/team teach with colleagues at all stages to implement literacy circles, reciprocal teaching and stem a story. • Plan and deliver CPD opportunities for teachers on Early Learning, Scotland Reads, Reciprocal Teaching, STEM a story, Word Aware and Routes Through Writing. • Developed my own Busy Little Fingers writing skills programme and implemented across early stages. • Plan training days for Support for Learner Workers that give them strategies and skills to improve children's learning. • Update staff on Glasgow Improvement Challenge on in-service days and school business meeting. keep them informed of recent

Tutoring Approach:
I offer flexible tutoring options to suit your family's needs - online lessons, sessions at my home, or in the comfort of your child's home.
My approach is centred around engaging each child by connecting learning to topics they genuinely enjoy. I believe that sparking curiosity and making learning relevant can inspire even the most hesitant learners, helping them grow in confidence and develop a love for learning.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm 55 years old, married with two children and three grandchildren. I'm patient and personable, relaxed and professional. My hobbies currently revolve around entertaining my young grandchildren, and reading and gaming when I have time. I am also a part-time pastor of a small Christian church in Southport.

I attended Liverpool John Moores University as a mature student and was awarded a first class degree in English Literature and American Studies. I subsequently completed a PGCE course at the University of Liverpool and qualified as a secondary school teacher in 2000.

Teaching Experience:
For 23 years, I was a member of the English Department at Sacred Heart Catholic College (now Academy) in Crosby, Liverpool. In that time, I taught students from 11-18 and gained experience in whole class teaching and individual and small group tuition. I helped develop schemes of work and lesson plans, and was also a head of year for three years. For many years, I ran after school clubs including a role playing group and a school fiction magazine.

Since 2023, I have been working as a supply teacher at a range of schools in the area, including a year-long stint at Meols Cop High School in Southport from September 2024-July 2025.

Tutoring Approach:
I have had limited experience of private tutoring, but my approach is to assess tutees' strengths and weaknesses through fairly straightforward baselining and focused questioning. Once areas for improvement have been identified, more specific activities will be designed depending on the needs of the tutee. These will invariably involve practice of some kind - whether of writing or reading skills - followed by a discussion of how to improve.

English is a more skills-based than knowledge-based subject. In my experience, most students are well aware of the areas in which they need more help, but struggle with how to develop those areas - precisely because they are not something which can be addressed simply by acquiring or reinforcing knowledge. Having a tutor to talk to helps - to identify and improve those skills which students need to succeed. My aim is to provide practical, easily understood advice, tailored to the tutee's unique circumstances and structured to give them confidence in the subject.

Subjects