Dronfield English Tutors and Dronfield English Tuition

Personal Description:
I am friendly, enthusiastic, patient and flexible. I am also hard-working and extremely reliable.
I enjoy working with children and adults alike!

Teaching Experience:
I am a qualified Primary School Teacher with over 10 years experience (both KS1 and KS2).
I can provide tuition/ support/ exam preparation in any primary subjects. Having a degree in English and having been Maths coordinator for a number of years, I can provide high quality tutoring in these two subjects. I am also able to provide tuition in primary Science and any other areas your child may need help with.

In addition, as a native speaker of French, I can offer language lessons tailored to any level, whether you prefer informal conversation classes or more structured sessions to practise a range of skills.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe it is essential for any learner to feel relaxed and motivated and I work hard to stimulate and inspire my students. I am particularly aware of the difficulties encountered by children with special educational needs. Whoever the student is, I am always keen to obtain feedback and suggestions on how to make the sessions more suited to their needs.

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Personal Description:
Hello,
I have completed my PhD in Creative and Critical Writing at UEA. I also have an MA (Distinction) in Creative Writing from Royal Holloway, and a First Class Honours Degree in English Literature. I also have a good Fine Art degree from Chelsea College of Art and Design. I have been a private tutor for twenty years, and have taught many children in that time.

I am currently tutoring in Wadebridge in Cornwall but can offer Skype or Zoom lessons.

I'm 49, married and am an aunt and godmother.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught at undergraduate level at university as well as writing skills in an academic skills centre. I have also taught SATs to thirteen year olds. I have a PTTLs degree level 4 qualification and taught on an Access Course to adult learners.

I have taught AQA and EDEXCEL syllabuses at GCSE and AQA at A-Level.

Please note that I do not teach any Eleven-Plus or verbal reasoning syllabuses and that I prefer to teach older children (13 plus)

Tutoring Approach:
I use past exam papers, model essays, and devote time and attention to close reading of set texts at GCSE and A-Level. I have also given art lessons.

I can also provide Skype and Zoom lessons and find this has been successful with older and university level students.

I have a friendly, professional approach and find I develop a real rapport with my pupils, who find their results and confidence improving with my tutelage.

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Personal Description:
For nearly 20 years, I have successfully tutored young students in literacy for KS1, 2 and 3 and for GCSE and A levels, in English Language and English Literature. I have also had some adult learners.
I am currently working on line.

Teaching Experience:
I have been particularly successful helping students to improve their GCSE grade, helping students improve on their mock result. I am fully upto date with the latest syllabus requirements.

Tutoring Approach:
I concentrate on working with the student's perceived weaknesses and on common exam mistakes. In the case of GCSE and A levels it is often the student who leads and asks for help with specific issues. Additionally, I always revise the main elements of the syllabus and give the student plenty of practice with examples of written work.
I tutor on-Iine. I have many excellent references and a DBS certicate.

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
From my experience in the classroom I realise that many students benefit from much more individual help than school can provide. I enjoy being able to help students on a one-to-one basis as it is very rewarding being able to improve their achievement and confidence.I am very grateful to my students and their parents for the relationships we have struck up, many of which have continued through the years.

Teaching Experience:
I am an English teacher with over 20 years experience teaching to GCSE, A-level and Oxbridge entrance.I have taught in both the independent and state sectors, in a large comprehensive and a small independent school. I have also tutored in Oxford and London for students from 10 to 19.

Tutoring Approach:
One to one or small groups of 2 or 3.

I aim to develop confidence by supporting the students and understanding their needs as a priority. I then encourage them to explore and develop ideas, giving them support while they grow in this. The key is building an excellent relationship in which high expectations enable them to make progress while always supported.

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Personal Description:
I have lived and worked in Plymouth since I finished me degree in 2001. I started as a full time private tutor in 2009 and have been tutoring ever since. I absolutely love this work and am extremely enthusiastic about helping others enjoy and succeed at learning.

I am married and am a mum of two young boys. My hobbies include sports, walking, art, reading, writing and volunteer work with my church.

I am currently away on further training so can no longer do my usual face-to-face lessons, but I am looking at building up my online students.

Teaching Experience:
I have over a decade of experience of helping children, teenagers and adults with their maths and English learning. Whether it is to salvage a struggling student, to catch-up, to succeed in an exam or to excel beyond their current level, I am passionate about helping and unlocking a student's ability to understand and to enable them to enjoy learning.

I hold a BSc degree, 3 A-levels (grade B, including maths), 9 GCSEs (7 As - 2 Bs) and am a graduate of Study Technology. I have been tutoring since 2009 and specialise in the 11+.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching style is to tailor all lessons and communication entirely to each student, as each student is unique in the barriers they encounter, and in their level of understanding of the subject. I direct the lessons at a pace, and with content, that the student can comfortably handle and make progress with. I also aim to ensure learning remains light and not too serious: I am friendly and ensure that my students are at ease in lessons so that they feel free to ask questions or to say if they don't understand something.

I aim to always make the lessons visual and interactive and set homework to reinforce what we cover in our lessons. I can post worksheets for the lesson/homework if needed.

I am happy to answer any questions you might have and I look forward to hearing from you.

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Personal Description:
My Profile:

Graduated from Leeds University in Genetics and have a deep passion for science. After leaving University, I have worked in the Computing and IT industry to Project Manager level, mainly for large blue chip financial companies such as General Accident (now Aviva), Standard Life, Bank of Scotland, GE Corporate and others. In 2004 I decided to return to my original love of science and gained a PGCE teaching qualification to teach science.

It is my aim to transfer my passion and love for science to my students as well as an understanding of the subject in order to enable them to AIM HIGHER and ace their exams.

Building on my science qualification, I gained a PGCE teaching qualification from Huddersfield University to become a qualified teacher of science in 2005. Following the successful completion of the PGCE, I rapidly achieved the position of Programme Manager and gained extensive experience of teaching Biology, Chemistry, Physics, BTEC Applied Sciences (Medical Science, Forensic Science, Health and Social Care), Access to Nursing, Access for Medical Professionals and Foundation Degree (Biology). The teaching experience has been in schools, Sixth Form Colleges and Further Education Colleges in Warrington, Leeds and Manchester.

Teaching Experience:
Building on my science qualification, I gained a PGCE teaching qualification from Huddersfield University to become a qualified teacher of science in 2005. Following the successful completion of the PGCE, I rapidly achieved the position of Programme Manager and gained extensive experience of teaching Biology, Chemistry, Physics, BTEC Applied Sciences (Medical Science, Forensic Science, Health and Social Care), Access to Nursing, Access for Medical Professionals and Foundation Degree (Biology). The teaching experience has been in schools, Sixth Form Colleges and Further Education Colleges in Warrington, Leeds and Manchester.

I have been providing select 1 to 1 private tuition in all areas including English, Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Media Studies and Physics.

I am able to tutor from primary, secondary (including entrance exams) through GCSE, A Levels, BTEC (Level 2 and Level 3) and Adult Foundation Degree level.

Tutoring Approach:
The tutor is the expert in subject knowledge and learning but it is the tutee who has the paramount role in their own education and excelling in their subjects. I firmly believe that the role of a tutor is that of a catalyst and the child's role in their own learning is of greater importance. I aim to guide the tutee to learn in a structured manner that so that the child does not waste their time jumping from topic to topic, randomly browsing a bit here and a bit there, as often happens. To do that, as tutor, I will facilitate their learning on a 1 to 1 basis so that they may gain a deeper and greater depth of knowledge of the subject. I will provide the subject knowledge expertise and transfer my knowledge to the tutee in a manner and at a level that is appropriate to the tutee but pushing them beyond their limits to the next stage. To achieve that grade "A*" a GCSE tutee should be able to understand basic AS Level material. For an A Level tutee to achieve the highest grades at A Level they should be able to cope with University first year material with ease. It is my aim to enable my tutees to achieve these goals.

I will work to improve the child's self esteem, self belief and confidence in their ability to do well. As a trained hypnotherapist I am particularly qualified to boost a child's self-esteem. Once the tutee is confident in their subject knowledge, then we will work on exam techniques and exam practice in order to enable the tutee to ace the exams and significantly improve their grades.

I will work with each tutee on an individual basis and adjust the tuition lessons to their needs. There is no standard one size fits all model with me. Homework will be set to enable the subject matter to be reinforced with some self-learning at home. Exam practice will be key to enable the tutee to become proficient in their exams and achieve the highest grades. Exam technique contributes significantly towards exam success. We will always work to enable the tutee to AIM HIGHER.

I am also able to guide sixth formers with their UCAS applications and personal statements.

At all times parents will be involved with the learning of their child so that they may guide and support their child's education and monitor progress. Parental involvement is also a major factor in the child's success.

For the science lessons my aim is to include as much practical work as is possible, where this is feasible in a tuition setting, keeping safety of the child of paramount importance.

If your child is quiet and shy or is in a mediocre class or is just coasting along or is struggling to achieve the grades required to get into the University course of their choice, whether it is Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacology, Engineering, Computing, Optometry or other science course, then tuition with myself will enable them to boost their grades and give them the advantage that they need. Honest school teachers will tell you that it is the noisy and disruptive pupils that get their attention, whereas the quite shy hardworking pupils tend to get neglected. Busy school teachers just do not have the time or energy to devote to helping their quieter or weaker pupils and it is these pupils that especially benefit from extra personal tuition. On the other hand a brighter pupil may be so far ahead of his or her peers that the teacher is just not able to give them the attention they need. A good tutor will help guide tutees who want to learn to get ahead and avoid becoming disinterested or bored. Why leave it to chance?

It is never too early to start boosting a child's education. For primary school children it is important that they get a good start to their education and do not lag behind. A tuition boost will enable them to get into a better school or a higher stream set so that they do not have to struggle or get left behind when the come to do their GCSE and A Levels.

I also have experience of vocational courses such as the BTEC and Applied Science courses and I am able to provide the additional guidance and support required to ensure that your child achieves Distinctions rather than passes in their assignments. It is not my policy to do the tutee's coursework for them but to help, guide and support their research and provide constructive feedback.

Tutees will be required to complete all assessments and homework on time in advance of the relevant lesson.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Susie and I deliver personal, professional one-to-one and group tuition for adults face-to-face in Stevenage & online for English, French, Spanish and Italian. I am passionate about languages and I absolutely love sharing my joy for languages with others! Whether you want to brush up on your holiday phrases, pass an exam or move abroad, I can help.

Regardless of your language level, I will coach you to reach your potential and maximise your results, while having a great time learning. As a former student of the Open University, I fully understand the challenges of studying solo and of juggling work, study and personal life. I like to think of myself as a personal trainer for languages; I will be your guide, show you how to achieve great results, but I can't do the work for you. You get out what you put in; setting aside time to study or incorporating your learning into your daily life will be just as important as your lessons.

I offer the first 1-hour lesson completely free of charge and obligation. This time will allow us to get to know each other, discover your current level or start from scratch if we need to, as well as create a learning plan tailored to your skillset and interests.
Lesson plans can be adapted for Specific Learning Differences, neurodivergence or personal preferences; you can have confidence that I am never, ever going to laugh or be disappointed in your level. Everyone is welcome here.

My experience has taught me that confidence is by far the biggest obstacle on the road to learning a language, not aptitude, as you may think or may have been told in the past. I will be there to support you every step of the way on the journey, so you can stop worrying right now about not being good enough. Stop comparing yourself to others; you are unique and the only thing you need to focus on is your own journey.

I have a wealth of experience in exam preparation, in particular for IELTS & Cambridge FCE & CAE exams for English and GCSE & A-level for French & Spanish. Most of my sessions over the years have been delivering tuition to one or two students at a time, however I have run sessions for groups of up to 15 adults. Included within the price, you will receive exclusive access to all of our online teaching materials - accessible during your lessons and 24/7 for self-study to support your learning. I am a full-time tutor, so I offer very flexible hours for my tutoring services and I always endeavour to reply to all enquiries/ correspondence as soon as possible. I work as an independent tutor, as I like to guarantee you consistency, reliability and commitment to you.


Subjects taught:

- French & Spanish: KS3, GCSE, iGCSE, A-level (Spanish only) and adult tuition (beginner & intermediate).
- English as a Second Language (ESL/ ESOL students): All levels, including preparation for the following exams: Cambridge FCE, CAE, PET, IELTS General Training and Academic, PTE academic and ESOL access exams levels 1-3.

Since 2020, I have been teaching beginner Italian. I have a competent level of Italian, including a strong understanding of the grammar, which I use with my Italian friends and when travelling in Italy. If you are looking for beginner Italian for personal interest, conversation, casual use and travel, I can definitely help. I do not have any official qualifications in Italian, however my background in romance languages (Italian is a Latin-based language which, broadly speaking, I find to have a very similar vocabulary to Spanish with the grammar of French!) and my methodical nature means I would ensure that every lesson is thoroughly planned and carefully checked; I would never teach you anything I am unsure of, as this can be greatly detrimental. I am not available to help with exam preparation for Italian or to teach more advanced levels. My lack of qualifications in this subject and the fact that I am not fluent are the reasons that Italian lessons are offered at a lower rate per hour than my other subjects.

Teaching Experience:
My qualifications:
Open University (2013) - 1st Class BA (Hons) Modern Language Studies
Open University (2012) - Diploma in French (Other)
Open University (2012) - Diploma in Spanish (Other)
150-hour TEFL/ ESL master course, accredited by ACTDEC
Understanding IELTS, British Council (6-week course)
Understanding language, University of Southampton (4-week course)
Cultural studies & modern languages, University of Bristol (4-week course)
Dyslexia & foreign language teaching, Lancaster University (4-week course)

Tutoring Approach:
What you can expect:
Your first 1-hour trial lesson completely free (although there is a fee to pay to UK Tutors, which we can discuss in your enquiry)
A flexible approach & lessons tailored to suit you.
A specialist in young adult and adult pedagogy.
Flexible tutoring, Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm, Friday 9am-3pm.
Responses to all correspondence within 24 hours (working hours, otherwise next working day).
Development of all key language skills - reading, listening, speaking & writing.
Follow my recommended course or cherry-pick the topics you wish to cover for specific purposes.
Gain confidence with conversation for real-life essential situations, not just in a text book
Exam preparation and study tips.
Discover the culture surrounding your chosen language too; music, film, festivals, celebrations & traditions.
Learn modern colloquialisms, idioms and sayings that will impress the natives
Exclusive access to all of my online teaching materials, accessible in class and at home for self-study.

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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.

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Personal Description:
I am a primary teacher with many years experience teaching in a wide variety of primary school settings. I feel that learning is really important at all ages and am continually expanding my knowledge using online courses.

Teaching Experience:
As a qualified primary teacher I have over 10 years experience working in schools as a classroom teacher and PPA teacher. I have a strong knowledge of the national curriculum and regularly keep up to date with any changes to education. I work well as a team and am very organised. I have also lead choirs and directed many shows within primary schools.

Tutoring Approach:
I am friendly and approachable. My lessons are fun and informative and I adapt my teaching style to the needs of the pupil. I am passionate about teaching and am keen to share my knowledge with others. I have some experience of teaching SEN children within a mainstream setting and have recently completed an online diploma in SEND.

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Personal Description:
I have wide and successful teaching experience, high expectations of myself and of all my students and a deep love of language, stories and teaching. I have kept up to date with educational research and can therefore offer the best evidence-informed practice to make a real difference to the children I teach. I believe passionately in the power of reading for pleasure as a lever for improving academic success and have converted hundreds of children into confident, independent readers.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught for over 20 years, in state and independent schools and in every year group from Year 1 to Year 13. I have also tutored children 1:1 and in small groups to prepare them for 11+ exams, senior school scholarship exams and to help them keep up if they are falling behind. I have even assisted university students with their dissertations. I am therefore as confident with students of A level Greek as I am helping young children who are struggling with phonics. My students have a track record of success in exams but also learn to love learning.

Tutoring Approach:
Experience has taught me how to adapt teaching to a student's individual needs, experiences and interests. Tutoring is powerful because it is tailored, so I offer personalised lessons which will support, engage, encourage and challenge my students. For English, I generally write my own tuition resources which are adapted specifically to suit the needs of an individual child. For 11+ preparation, I use some published resources to assess where children's strengths and weaknesses lie but then provide my own materials for teaching. For Latin or Greek, I would use courses to structure language learning but, again, supplement this with my own materials.

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Personal Description:
Recently relocated to Chippenham after 27 very happy years teaching at the Maynard School Exeter. Passionate about History and education

Teaching Experience:
History at all secondary levels, mainly A Level. Head of History, deputy Head designated safeguarding lead.
Team leader A level history for Edexcel exam board

Tutoring Approach:
Enthusiastic, encouraging. Have tutored boys and girls mainly in A Level History with excellent results. Aim to enable each student reach their full potential through enjoyment and consistent hard work.

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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.

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Personal Description:
Hi guys, to start off with my academic background: I studied at Winchester College and Cambridge University.

I was generally a straight A* student at Winchester, and in my final exams I received some of the highest Cambridge Pre-U grades in the UK for my subjects of Philosophy & Theology, Russian and French (these were D1, D1, D2 - which translates in A-Level terms to A**, A**, A*). At Cambridge I studied a mix of Theology and Philosophy, with a focus on philosophy (ethics and metaphysics), history and literature papers.

In terms of my personal background: I was born in London and have lived in Islington most of my life. I've travelled a great deal, and in my gap year I spent stretches of time living in and travelling around America, Italy, Malta, Russia, Jordan and Pakistan.

In my free time I like classic cinema (Hitchcock especially) and novels (Tolstoy, Dostoevsky and Dickens are my favourites) but I'm curious about everything really, and I read books of any kind whenever I have the time - especially those relating to History (classical and modern), Philosophy, Theology, Politics, and Literary Analysis.

For most of my professional life so far I've worked as a salesman, lawyer and corporate strategist. I like theatre and stand-up and sketch comedy - Dylan Moran and John Cleese are my favourite comedians - and at Cambridge I performed in a couple of sketch comedy shows alongside members of the Footlights.

I'm friendly, good-humoured, energetic and I love teaching more than anything else!

Teaching Experience:
I've received excellent feedback on my tutoring so far. Here are some quotes I've received from former students who've been kind enough to supply written references for me (I can provide these and their contact details to you on request) :

- "the best teacher I have ever had the pleasure of learning from"

- [different student] "I can say without any doubt that he is the best tutor I have ever had."

- "thanks to Jasper, my school results became much better."

- "I can talk endlessly about how much I loved having meetings with Jasper"

- "His ability to convey complex historical concepts with clarity and engagement is a superpower."

- "Jasper's professionalism is also worth highlighting. He is highly organised, punctual, and dependable. He never came to a session unprepared, his teaching materials were always well-structured and insightful."

- "I must give a massive word of praise"

- " I truly hope he will have more students to teach, as he is very talented and truly deserves to be recognised. I wish everyone had a chance to have such a wonderful and supportive tutor."

Please note: The website format unfortunately limits the numbers of subjects I can list; I shall therefore add three more here. In addition to Philosophy, Theology, English, History, Russian and French I am also capable of tutoring up to and including GCSE Latin, basic (ab initio) German, and Debating.

More generally, I am also happy to advise on academic interview performance for elite boarding school or Oxbridge admissions.

Tutoring Approach:
1. So first of all we'll have an introductory session to determine what your interests, strengths/weaknesses and ultimate aims are. If you like me then we can have another session!

At the end of this I'll set an assignment for you to work on before our next session. The assignment may be easy, it may be tricky, it may be normal, it may be quite unusual! It will depend on what your aims and interests are and what I can come up with etcetera.

I'll also try to recommend some valuable learning resources and techniques for you to work with as you prepare that assignment.


2. In our second session we'll go through and discuss the assignment and your answers to it, focusing on different ways of looking at the issue and thinking around it, or effective ways to internalise that knowledge. This will take the form of a dialogue and a conversation that I hope you'll find stimulating and rewarding.

Note: You are welcome to stop sessions with me at anytime; it's entirely up to you and I won't be offended at all. But if you let me, I truly hope to teach you as much as I can.


- In summary the fundamental idea is to make the ideas as fun as possible, to assist you in learning them effortlessly and wanting to learn more. Education is always self-motored; the trick is helping you to fall in love with it. It is also to expose you to a wide array of alternative perspectives to broaden your bank of wisdom. Finally, I can recommend books and podcasts and resources to you that can have enduring value for you far beyond our own sessions, perhaps even for your entire lifetime.

I believe in sparking creativity and helping students make the ideas their own. My aim is to ignite imagination and enthusiasm as I put your intellect to the test, because only then will you really enjoy learning, and only then will you truly do well. Therefore I'll do my very best to generate an enthusiastic but rigorous atmosphere.

My enthusiasm can be pretty infectious... I promise you our conversations will be the opposite of boring!

At the same time, many of you will have real goals : to get better grades on your essays, to pass a crucial academic interview, or to smash your final exams. I believe utterly in studying carefully how to do that, and devising a strategy, so you can work "smart", not just "hard", and achieve your goals. I did this with great success for my own exams, and for many former students. I'm a former corporate strategist at an industry-dominating company! This is a real passion of mine.

Finally I also promise you that I'll also prepare carefully in advance of every session you have with me, to ensure you get the most out of me that you can. I have immense respect for my responsibility to you and your development.

Feel free to try a preliminary session with me!

I so look forward to talking with you,

All the very best,

Jasp

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Personal Description:
I have just come out of fulltime education at East 15 acting school and am looking to get into teaching. Having recently done an online cause to become a member of learning support staff I have acquired a large variety of skills needed to go into education. My passion is acting and hope to continue with a full BA course in it at some point in the future. As well as acting I also have a love for English as a subject and have become an avid writer over the course of the last few months. While it has been difficult with the limitations of Covid 19 I hope to be able to support learners who have an interest in these subjects or simply need help in order to meet their goals in them.

Teaching Experience:
My most recent teaching work has been in training as part of Activate learning at Reading college. These extensive online meetings have focused on equipping me with skills to deal with many different kinds of learners. Sessions on supportive learning, diversity, autism and other learning challenges have allowed me an excellent understanding of many learning styles. As a result I am very flexible in my approach to supporting learners and happy to work around what best works for them. For in person teaching I have experienced first hand experts in theatre and drama as part of my East 15 course. Working with members of staff in researching Shakespeare as well as many other famous literary figures.

Tutoring Approach:
I intent to provide an appropriate level of support for any learners needs. I am passionate about discussion and debate in the learning environment to engage learners in their journey. As well as this, I intend to work closely with understanding how to use the learners strengths best in an exam format. I understand personally the frustration of having the knowledge with the inability to format it in a way that the examiners want so have a wide variety of exercises to help with this. Going on from things previously mentioned I am happy to work with all learners no matter their challenges or abilities in these subjects.

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Personal Description:
Hi, my name's Sean. I hold a degree in English, graduating with First-Class Honours, and I am also a fully qualified professional English teacher with over ten years' experience teaching at prestigious secondary schools in the UK, Spain, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

Teaching Experience:
I specialise in teaching English language and literature at key stages 3, 4 (GCSE) and 5 (A-level); in particular, I have an excellent track record of helping my students reach, and surpass, their goals in the AQA and Edexcel GCSE exams. I have also successfully prepared many students for English proficiency exams such as IELTS and the Cambridge English tests, while also helping a number of students to prepare for 11+ exams (English, maths, science, verbal and non-verbal reasoning).

Tutoring Approach:
Whatever your specific requirements may be, you can be assured that I will call on all of the skills and experience I have gained over the years to ensure that our classes are engaging, challenging and tailored to your needs in order to give you or your child the best possible chance of reaching your/their objectives.

I would be delighted to discuss with you exactly how we might proceed with our classes, and so I hope to hear from you soon!

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Personal Description:
Hello! I'm Kallia, an experienced, qualified teacher. I mainly teach English and support students of ages 4-18, in a variety of skills such as reading, writing, comprehension and exam practice.

I am currently in training to become a dyslexia teacher and hopefully progress into becoming a dyslexia assessor.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught in inner city schools since 2016, when I qualified. Previously I used to work as a teaching assistant rural and city schools, starting in 2013.

My teaching experience comes from teaching across primary full time, working as a reading and numeracy support teacher with SEN children of ages 8-14 and teaching English GCSE, iGCSE and IELTS to students in the UK as well as across Asia and Europe.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching approaches depend on the needs and goals of my students. Not one approach fits all and therefore communication is key in establishing good working patterns that will support the student in progressing and succeeding.

I have the tools to adjust my lessons to meet the criteria for those with Special Education Needs.

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Personal Description:
I am a current PG student in Engineering at Newcastle University, I completed my Bachelors in Engineering as well in Electronics and Communication. I've completed my high school as a Science student in an English Medium School.

Teaching Experience:
I had the opportunity to take a communication session in my college back in my undergrad days. Apart from that I had taken a few classes for some modules for my undergrad classmates.

Tutoring Approach:
Based on the students area of concern , I will start from the basics and then gradually move towards more complex lessons while ensuring I take feedback from the student on my tutoring method so I can tweak my approach accordingly.

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