Giffnock English Tutors and Giffnock English Tuition

Personal Description:
My name is Laura. I am originally from Birmingham but have lived in Worthing for over 15 years. I am an intelligent, creative person. I have an English Language and Literature BA from Oxford University. As well as being a tutor, I am a copy editor for UNICEF.

In my spare time, I love reading books, watching films and travelling. I also like working with people, which is one of the (many) reasons why I enjoy tutoring. I have previous experience of working with many different young people. I have worked with KS3 pupils (Years 7-9), worked with students interested in applying to university, helped Year 10 and 11 pupils through their English Language and Literature GCSE syllabus, worked with A level students, and helped BA and MA students with their essays and dissertations. I have been a private tutor for about 15 years now, and enjoy it hugely. I have an up-to-date DBS check and am available immediately. I offer online or face-to-face tuition.

Teaching Experience:
2024
Teaching assistant (SEN support)
Durrington High School

2020-2022
Online tutor, as part of the National Tutoring Programme (a government catch up scheme for students most affected by the pandemic)

2010
GCSE English tutor, Durrington High School
I was employed through the Aim Higher scheme to work with small groups of Year 11 students, helping them to secure a C grade in their AQA English Language GCSE.

January 2007 - present
Private tutor
Since moving to Worthing I have worked with students ranging from Year 7 to degree level. I have in-depth knowledge of the AQA GCSE syllabus for English Language and Literature, as well as the AQA, Eduqas, EdExcel and WJEC Eduqas English Language and Literature A level courses.

January - December 2005
Academic Coach
Employed by the ACES ('Academic Coaches Ensuring Success') Project and Sandwell LEA, I was part of a team providing additional support and learning opportunities for Key Stage 4 (15-16 year old) pupils at risk of underachieving at GCSE level.
The role involved working closely with targeted students on a one-to-one or small group basis, developing and delivering innovative study sessions designed to overcome barriers to learning and assist underachievers in fulfilling their potential. My specific academic focus was within the English Language and Literature GCSE syllabus.

February - August 2004
Project Officer for Oxford Colleges Admissions Office
Employed by Oxford University, I took on a six-month post as Project Officer for the Oxford-Dudley Partnership Project, a scheme which aimed to work with the Year 9 Gifted and Talented cohort of all schools in Dudley LEA in order to raise aspirations.
I also organized and ran a programme of 'Aspiration Days' for Year 8-11 pupils from schools across the country, aimed at encouraging applications from students from state school and/or underprivileged backgrounds, as well as speaking with Year 12 students interested in applying to university, providing specific information and advice regarding applications.

September 2002 - June 2003
Learning Mentor
Whilst still an undergraduate, as part of the National Mentoring Pilot Project (NMPP), I was a mentor to four Year 8 pupils, providing support and encouragement in an environment removed from the classroom. This took place in weekly one-hour sessions with the individual student for an entire academic year, charting their progress in terms of behaviour, confidence and attitude.

Tutoring Approach:
I am friendly, patient and passionate about my subject. I am sensitive to the needs of others and strive to tailor sessions to suit the needs of the tutee. I am relaxed and enthusiastic when tutoring and aim to build confidence as well as increase knowledge and understanding.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am mum to two boys, both who have flown the nest. I miss them greatly now that they are based in London but try to visit as much as I can. I love to shop and also exercise, especially pilates. Oh and I do love to cook!

Teaching Experience:
I studied at Dundee College of Education where I gained a Diploma in Primary Education. This was a three year course. I then took another Certificate in Early Years. After leaving College, I taught in both the state and private primary sector. I left teaching to have my children and then to nurse my youngest child who was quite sick for a few years. Once his health was better, I started working as a tutor from home or going to the client's house to tutor. I now tutor seven days a week. I have experience in Maths, Language, Phonics and Grammar. I also tutor children in preparation for entrance exams in to the independent sector, which includes Verbal, Non-Verbal Reasoning, Maths, Language and Spelling. The children I have tutored have all had great success, many going forward for a scholarship.
I have an online Dyslexia touch type programme which has had tremendous success. Many children, with the school's permission , come to be tutored within school hours.

Tutoring Approach:
I always believe that the child should feel comfortable with the person they are being tutored by and build up a good relationship. Tutoring is not only about helping the child to succeed but also for them to gain confidence and self belief. I have various methods of tutoring from written work, reading and oral work. I also have a computer available where we can work from. eg online games After each lesson, I give the child homework to be completed for the next lesson.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Tim and I'm based in the Caerphilly area. I am happy to work anywhere in Caerphilly, Cardiff, Newport or the Valleys. I am a primary school teacher and have 24 years experience working with children within the age range 6-11.
I have worked in London and in South Wales and have taught in a range of primary schools, teaching children from many different types of background. I have a current CRB check and can provide excellent references.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a primary school teacher since 1986 and have worked across the age range from 6 to 11. I have a good deal of experience teaching children in Year 6 and preparing them for the step up to secondary school. I am able to give tuition in any primary subject but have a specialism in maths as I have been maths co-ordinator in more than one school and have an in depth knowledge of how children learn in this subject and how they can be helped to enjoy their work here and achieve good results. I also have experience of tutoring children in individual sessions and have always been able to help them to improve their standards and become more confident across the curriculum.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a very friendly tutor who has always been able to establish a good rapport with children of primary age. I am extremely patient and calm in my approach as a teacher and believe in using humour to help children relax and enjoy learning. I take into account the preferred learning style of the child and tailor all lessons to their needs. I will try to include an element of challenge in all sessions to help children build up their confidence through success on progressively more difficult tasks. I have a huge range of resources I can use to help make sessions interesting and am prepared to be flexible in terms of rates, location of sessions and times.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi! I'm Nick, a 46 yr old graduate of Oxford University, where I studied French and German, and a postgraduate of the University of Manchester, where I obtained a Masters and Doctorate in English. I currently teach GCSE English in my institution, and also work in a university part-time.

At the moment I prefer online teaching, which I can do via Zoom, Skype or maybe other platforms.

Teaching Experience:
I always really enjoy teaching individual pupils at GCSE and A-level. I've had some great results in the recent exams - very proud of my pupils doing well, privately and at my school, and feel that I helped them achieve their best. I'm now looking to take on some more.

I have been teaching English in Higher Education since 2004. During this time I also taught an A-level student English on an individual basis, as extra preparation for Oxbridge entry - the student gained a place at Oxford. I've also taught two summer schools for visiting American students at the University of Manchester, and a first year university student privately last year.

I've been doing online teaching also over the last six months - there are real benefits!

I have experience with AQA syllabuses in French GCSE and English (Literature) GCSE and A-level (Gothic and Pastoral), and also OCR French.

I also worked for some years in the retail/hospitality sector, where I was an induction trainer, and had some involvement with NVQ assessment.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe the most important thing in teaching is to create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, where students are not afraid to ask any questions. I like to avoid overt formality, and make the teaching as enjoyable as possible. I'm very encouraging and positive, but within this will always offer constructive criticism when it's needed. I make sure sessions end with clear goals about what students need to do to improve - clear and achieveable goals, that I will check your progress with. I enjoy teaching a great deal, and will push you to achieve your very best.

For under 16s, I have a programme for teaching English, French, and German. This includes conversation, grammar, composition, and working with literature suited to the pupil's age range. It's flexible and pitched to any age and ability between 11 and 16.

I can offer teaching remotely - which I prefer at the moment.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My aim is to help each student reach their potential through individually tailored lessons designed to make learning enjoyable. I have a strong belief that for people of all ages, learning can be fun, and if you relish the process, you are much more likely to learn something!

Every lesson includes the use of several workbooks, learning diagrams, reading books, learning games and rewards (for younger students) ranging from stickers to special prizes for the hardest workers!

I also believe that a hugely understated part of any teachers role is to give a student confidence, as when belief is established, the student's results tend to rapidly improve as well. Therefore my extremely enthusiastic approach to tutoring is vital in building a students confidence and skyrocketing upwards in levels.

There is nothing I enjoy more than seeing a student achieve what they set out to do, be it a particular grade they need to obtain or a skill they need to develop.

Teaching Experience:
For over thirteen years I have been teaching English, Literacy and Reading from my own home. I have an Honours Degree in English Language BA (Hons).

Tutoring Approach:
Exam Results

GCSE English

(Grade on the left is the student's grade before lesson one, grade on the right is the confirmed GCSE result)

GCSE English (2023)

1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 6 (B+/A-)
1 student from a 5 (C+/B-) ----> 9 (A**)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 6 (B+/A-)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 4 (C)

GCSE English (2022)

2 students from a 4 (C) ----> 7 (A)
2 students from a 3 (D) ----> 6 (B+/A-)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 5 (C+/B-)
1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 4 (C)
1 student from a 1 (F) ----> 3 (D)

GCSE English (2021)

1 student from a 4 (C) ----> 6 (B+/A-)
1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 5 (C+/B-)
2 students from a 4 (C) ----> 5 (C+/B-)
1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 4 (C)
1 student from a 1 (F) ----> 3 (D)

GCSE English (2020)
All exams were cancelled due to the pandemic

GCSE English (2019)

2 students from a 2 (E) ----> 6 (B)
1 student from a 4 (C) ----> 7 (A)
1 student from a 1 (F) ----> 5 (C+/B-)
1 student from a 5 (C+/B-) ----> 8 (A+)

GCSE English (2018)

1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 6 (B)
1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 6 (B)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 5 (C+/B-)
1 student from a 2 (E) ----> 4 (C)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 4 (C)

GCSE English (2017)

1 student from a 3 (D) -----> 6 (B+/A-)
1 student from a 4 (C) ----> 7 (A)
1 student from a 3 (D) ----> 4 (C)
1 student from a 1 (F) ----> 3 (D)

GCSE English (2016)

1 student from a U ----> B
1 student from an E -----> B
1 student from a D ----> C
1 student from a C -----> A*

GCSE English (2015)

1 student from a U ----> C
2 students from an E -----> B
1 student from an E ----> C
1 student from a D ----> A*
1 student from a D -----> B
2 students from a D ----> C
1 student from a C ----> A*
1 student from a C ----> A
1 student from a C ----> B

GCSE English (2014)

4 Students from a D ----> C
3 Students from a D ----> B
2 Students from a D ----> A
1 student from a C ----> B

Year 6 SATS

(Grade on the left is the student's grade before lesson one, grade on the right is the confirmed SATS result)

Year 6 SATS (2020 & 2021)
All exams were cancelled due to the pandemic

Year 6 SATS (2019)

2 students from below expectations ----> expected standard
1 student from expected standard ----> above expectations

Year 6 SATS (2018)

1 student from below expectations ----> above expectations
1 student from below expectations ----> expected standard
2 students from expected standard ----> above expectations
1 student from below expectations ----> below expectations

Year 6 SATS (2017)

1 student from below expectations ----> above expectations
2 students from below expectations ----> expected standard
1 student from expected standard ----> above expectations
1 student from expected standard ----> expected standard

Year 6 SATS (2016)

1 student from below expectations ----> above expectations
2 students from below expectations ----> expected standard
3 students from expected standard ----> above expectations
1 student from expected standard ----> expected standard

Heckmondwike Grammar Entrance Tests

10 students passed
3 students failed
76.9% pass rate

QTS (Qualified Teacher Status)

8 students passed on their first attempt
1 students passed on their second attempt
0 students failed
100% pass rate

Recent Testimonials:

Ellen (10)
Year 6 SATS

Ellen was described as just below the expected level for English. We also felt her spelling was often poor and she struggled with extended writing. The main thing we have noticed is Ellen's confidence, attitude to learning and overall happiness: the improvement is immense. Ellen has now adapted a 'can do' attitude and revels in articulating what she has learnt with David. David is incredibly enthusiastic and positive, an approach that has really worked with Ellen. Speaking as a teacher, it is also clear that he understands the amendment procedures for Key Stage 2 and therefore every minute of every lesson is preparing Ellen for success. Ultimately my daughter loves to attend David's lesson and loves learning now!

Score: 10/10

Jack (16)
GCSE's

Jack's mock results were an E in English Language as well as a D in literature and he wanted to do Economics A level which required a B grade in his final GCSE. Jack had two hours of tuition per week from January to May. He enjoyed going (this surprised me as he hated English before the sessions) and had a new found likeness for literacy. He received a B in both language and literature and can now do A level economics. Jack related very well to David- this made learning easier for Jack and he obtained the grades he needed. His teachers at school noticed a marked improvement in his work when he was having tuition.

Score: 10/10

Oliver (6)
Year 2

Oliver was falling behind in Math's and English. I am very happy to say that his confidence and his ability to retain what David teaches him has improved greatly. His teachers at school have also commented on his marked improvement and he now feels a sense of achievement in everything he does- he also speaks of making David proud. David was/is exactly what I was looking for. Oliver doesn't seem to think about his lesson as lesson, he genuinely enjoys spending Saturday mornings at David's as he now really wants to improve himself! Wow!!!

Score: 10/10

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have worked for over 20 years as a full time teacher and subsequently as a private tutor. I enjoy establishing a rapport with my students and guiding them through their journey to achieving academic success. In my free time I enjoy reading, walking and making jewellery.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 20 years teaching experience in both the public and private sector, as well as an online tutor. During my career I have been a member of the senior management team, maths coordinator and SEN coordinator for a number of years, which means that I have kept up to date with the developments in all areas of the curriculum.
I have in-depth understanding of progression in both maths and English, which enables me to successfully plan the next steps in their learning for each of my tutees.

Tutoring Approach:
Each child is different so my approach to tutoring depends on the child's needs and individual learning style. I assess each child and devise a learning plan to map out the steps to achieving their goal. At the end of every lesson I have a brief discussion with the parents about the material covered and the progress made in the lesson and suggest follow up activities they could use at home to reinforce the child's understanding. I use a range of age appropriate resources to support the students' learning and whenever possible computer based activities.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced tutor specialising in maths, science and entrance exam tuition. For over 10 years I have helped my students achieve their goals. Whether it's pushing for the top grades for your university course or getting that all important GCSE pass to access your dream college course, I will equip you with the knowledge and techniques you need to succeed.

I know what it takes to get the top grades, having achieved a clean sweep of A*s at GCSE myself. I continued my education journey studying Maths, Biology and Chemistry A level at The Blue Coat School Liverpool, before graduating from the University of York with a BSc (Hons) Chemistry.

Fast forwarding to today, I am a leader in education policy with a deep and broad understanding of the UK education system. But just as important as my "day job", I am fortunate to still do what I love - helping students achieve their goals through my one to one and group tuition sessions.

Teaching Experience:
I began tutoring over 10 years ago, initially focussing on 11+ entrance exam tuition, but later diversifying to cover GCSE maths and science, and then A level Maths, Biology and Chemistry Tuition.

I have helped many primary school students pass entrance exams to get into the top grammar and private schools in the country, and in many cases continued to support their Maths and English development to help them get ready for secondary school.

For secondary school students, I have provided support to students across each of the key stages, each with different goals. In the earlier years, I have coached my students across maths and science to make sure they are on top of the course content. The difference made by offering a recap to content covered in school is really quite astounding, with my younger students excelling in end of topic tests and avoiding the dreaded homework struggles for that topic they just didn't quite grasp the first time.

At GCSE, I have supported my students both in getting across the pass line, and pushing students sitting on a Grade 7 in class to a Grade 9 come GCSE results day. In all cases, I am experienced in identifying areas of weakness, making sure my students have the fundamentals to understand the topic, before drilling exam questions and considering from all different angles.

Nothing is more rewarding than coaching my A level students to get the grades for the course of their dreams. I have been fortunate enough to help many students on their journey, with former students reaching the grades they need to study courses including medicine, veterinary science, biology, chemistry and biochemistry.

Tutoring Approach:
It's all about the foundations. When students start lessons with me, I find even the brightest students almost always have gaps in basic knowledge. Often these are not picked up at school, masked by exam technique or being good at past papers. However, when the real exam comes round, only a mastery of the foundations of each topic will allow students to access the highest-grade questions.

In our first lesson together, we will speak through your goals - is it getting into a grammar school? Passing your GCSE Maths? Getting an A in Chemistry A level? Whatever the goal, I will then talk you through what is needed to get there. And to be upfront, that will mean work outside lessons as well which I will help guide you through. We will then speak through your progress so far - recent test scores, topics you're struggling with, revision habits - and I will use this to build up your bespoke programme for our lessons.

In our lessons I will then focus on mending the foundations of each topic. This is achieved through a combination of explanations, focussed practice and past exam questions. Before we move on to a new topic, my students should be able to explain the concept back to me in detail, ensuring all the needed content is covered.

When explaining a topic, I will ask LOTS of questions to make sure learning is active throughout. For example:

A proton has a positive charge, neutron neutral charge, and electron negative charge. Now tell me what charge a proton has.

This type of questioning is critical and is really the difference between learning in lessons at school compared to one to one or small group tuition. Making sure my students have a comprehensive understanding of each topic is critical to success.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a native Chinese speaking fluent standard Chinese Mandarin and English, and have taught Chinese Mandarin for over 18 years in Birmingham, and currently work part time for a local mainstream school in UK.

I am also an experienced English and Maths tutor and a certified 11+ teacher and have a very good success rate with all of my pupils for passing 11+ tests, successfully grabbed places in local grammar schools and private schools, and achieving higher GCSE grades.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught Chinese Mandarin for over 20 years to students from different countries with diverse linguistic backgrounds in UK. I have experience in teaching Chinese at various levels including GCSE, A level and HSK. I currently work part time for a local mainstream school in UK.

I am also an experienced English and Maths tutor and a certified 11+ teacher and have a very good success rate with all of my pupils for passing 11+ tests, successfully grabbed places in local grammar schools and private schools, and achieving higher GCSE grades.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a patient, passionate and dedicated female teacher and have a track record of helping students achieve top grades and dramatically improve their attainment. My lessons are tailored to meet each student's need, interesting and motivating.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I Have worked in education for 30 years. I have been involved in Support for Learning for most of this time. I have supported many students in schools at at home and have proven experience in raising attainment.

Teaching Experience:
25 years Teaching Experience in Support for Learning in both Primary and Secondary Schools. I Have specialised in working with small groups and individual students. I have expertise in Dyslexia and devising ways in which learners can overcome barriers to learning.

Tutoring Approach:
Understand importance of building up a good working relationship. Identify learners needs and style and match teaching to their requirements. Break learning down to achievable goals and talk through targets.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, my name is Sean and I am 57 years of age. I have recently retired as a Deputy Head teacher and from full time teaching, having worked in Primary schools for 32 years. I am a very hard working, conscientious tutor and have always been passionate about children's education and the way in which every pupil has the potential to succeed. I have two grown up children who are currently in the world of work and studying at university respectively. In my spare time I enjoy reading, walking and the occasional game of golf.

Teaching Experience:
I have extensive experience of teaching children in the 7-11 age range and have taught Years 5 and 6 for the last few years. I have worked with children who have a wide range of ability and always get a real thrill from watching pupils progress and develop in confidence. My particular specialism is in English and Maths where I have regularly achieved outstanding results in the end of Key Stage 2 SATs tests.

Tutoring Approach:
I encourage a relaxed yet hardworking environment when working with children, assessing their knowledge and skills, and setting clear, achievable goals. My enthusiasm, patience and ability to teach methods and concepts clearly, ensure that my pupils make substantial progress.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have over thirty years experience of teaching Latin, English, French and essay-writing skills, both in schools and as a private tutor. I specialise in helping students write their Personal Statements when applying to university or to postgraduate courses.

I am the mother of five grown up children, three of whom went to Cambridge, one to KCL and one to Oxford, and I have also guided many other students into achieving offers from top universities, including many to Oxbridge.

After graduating from Cambridge with a degree in English and Classics, I taught for 2 years before going to Drama school, then moved to Granada TV as a researcher and presenter. The next 14 years were spent working for various TV companies, while also writing for national newspapers and magazines.

In 1992, I moved with my family to Salisbury and went back to teaching, first in a college of Further Education, then at a prep school, and subsequently in independent schools: nine years at St Mary's Calne from which I retired in 2015. I was then invited to , come out of retirement to teach at St Swithun's in Winchester and The Oratory School Oxford.

I no longer teach in the classroom, but continue to offer tutoring in Latin, English, French and Writing Skills. A particular speciality is Personal Statements - helping students with their applications to university. I have helped very many students (both pre-university and postgraduates) write successful personal statements for their chosen courses.

As well as the academic subjects mentioned above, I help with any writing task from an A level or IB essay (especially Theory of Knowledge) to university theses and dissertations. I specialise in Oxbridge help, including suggestions for reading, preparation for entrance tests and interview practice. So far I have helped over 20 students gain places at Oxbridge.

Teaching Experience:
Personal statements

I have helped very many students write their personal statements for application to university - both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. This does NOT mean writing the statement for the student - I do not have the breadth of knowledge to write about Astrophysics or Zoology, but it does mean helping the student clarify his or her thoughts, explain what has prompted the interest in the subject, how he or she has developed this interest, what extra-curricular choices have been made, and why, and how current A levels (or degree subjects) have prepared the student for this application.
For many students, the Personal Statement is the first time they have have to talk about themselves, and for many, it is bewildering knowing how to approach it and what to include and what to leave out.

I help the student by asking him/her to fill in a preliminary questionnaire, (Why this subject? What sparked the interest? Why it's important for the student and for society etc). Next, I ask for a first draft - it doesn't matter how bad or poorly expressed this is. Then, I work with the student - either at home or by Skype/Zoom, talking through the first draft and suggesting adjustments, improvements etc. Next the student writes a second draft, and the process continues until the students is totally happy that the statement says exactly what was intended, and show the student at his/her best.
I have many testimonials from happy students (including over twenty five to Oxbridge) which I would be happy to share on request.

Latin
I teach Latin at Latin Common Entrance, GCSE, A level, and university level. The great majority of my students achieve 9s at GCSE, and As and A*s at A level. Many have gone on to read Classics at university.

English
I teach English literature and language - both critical analysis of texts and and writing skills - from GCSE to university level and beyond. Many students whom I have helped with A level essays have come back to me for help with their university dissertations, applications for Masters, or covering letters for postgraduate job applications.

Essay writing
As well as helping with A level essays in all the humanities (RS, Philosophy, Psychology, History etc) I am an experienced tutor for IB Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essays. I have also advised and guided many students with their EPQs.

French
I teach French to A level and

I teach Classical Greek to GCSE.

Tutoring Approach:
1. My first priority is to let the student know that they are not alone - I am here to help. Just being told this can be immediately reassuring, especially if the student has been worrying for about a subject or project for a long time.

2. The next step is to establish exactly how much the student already knows. Nothing surprises or shocks me, but I have come across students seeking help who haven't got a copy of the relevant book or haven't read beyond the title page. I understand this - life is busy.So I am never critical or judgmental, I am always on the student's side. If necessary, I will provide a copy (years of teaching and a large family mean I usually have several).

3. The next step is to encourage the student into thinking of the subject as interesting. This may mean overcoming any resistance, by chatting, discovering how much they already know (always more than they think - another source of encouragement) and relating it to other areas of interest. One ideas have started to flow the student will begin to realise that not only might this subject/essay not be as bad as feared, it's possible they might find something enjoyable about it.

4. Now we look at the project and ways of approaching it. The key here is structure. Quite often the student's lack of confidence has led to panic and accompanying lack of organisation. So I help sort out files, help put notes in order, and encourage the student recognise which bits of paper are/aren't relevant to their work. This is mental housekeeping - and once order has been established, the student is in a better frame of mind for doing the work.

5. The next step varies according the to the subject.

LATIN.
I ask the student translate until he meets a problem. I then explain the topic- taking care to base it only on what the student already knows and feels confident about. If there are big gaps in knowledge, I start filling them, teaching vocabulary, grammar and syntax in an orderly way and asking the student to record what we have covered in his own written file.We then continue the translation, making sure the student has understood everything we have covered so far. This process is designed to lift the fog and give the student the tools needed to translate confidently

WRITING.
If it's an essay, I encourage the student to look at the title and think about (a) what is it really asking and (b) what ideas can he or she think of in response? These can be written down in any order - at this stage it's a question of getting the thought processes going.
We then discuss how to organise the student's thoughts into a coherent whole. This can be painstaking process - it involves teaching essay structure, and and sometimes even working backwards - going from conclusion back to introduction - but we always finish by knowing exactly what direction the essay is taking.
The final step is to ask the student to write something for next time. It doesn't matter if it's short or badly-expressed, and I always make it relevant to school work. The reason I ask for a piece of writing is
a) the act of writing enables a student to know what he/she wants to say
(b) seeing a student's writing shows me how to approach the next lesson. I can see what element of the writing need work, and plan my lesson accordingly.

OTHER IDEAS FOR READING ETC
I often recommend extra-curricular ideas to make the subject more engaging - films, YouTube extracts, magazines, even books - the student doesn't have to read a whole book - even dipping in and out is helpful and there is nothing more deadening to the love of books than being told you HAVE to read them.

STUDENTS WHO ARE STRUGGLING.
. I do not only help academic high-flyers. I am also offer warm and sympathetic help to students who - for whatever reason - find academic study challenging. I help develop study skills, suggest organisational strategies (for student and parent) and above all, restore lost confidence by showing the student that he really can tackle - and overcome - any problem - just by taking it slowly and making sure he or she understands each step before going on to the next.

WELCOME TO MY HOUSE.
, I'm a great believer in the comforting powers of a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit, as well as the presence of my 2 cats (who, despite being to every lesson I've given, are still rubbish at Latin). For allergic pupils, however, the cats are banished to the garden.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I trained as an English Teacher twenty-five years ago. I love teaching.

Teaching Experience:
I've taught in all sorts of settings, mainly in secondary schools, but also at City College (Plymouth), the University of Plymouth, and classes in Exeter for the WEA (adult education). I'm an AQA Examiner in English Literature. I've helped dozens of private students get the results they need at GCSE and at A-Level, in both English Language and English Literature.

Tutoring Approach:
I can give you the confidence you need to achieve the results you deserve. I'll boost your command of the English language, and your understanding of what it is that writers of all types are trying to do with words! We'll develop your skills in both creative writing and in creative reading (of all genres). How to tackle the exams - this will be our focus.

Subjects

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 all, my name is Jack and I am currently a finalist undergraduate at Oriel College, University of Oxford studying for a BA in Literae Humaniores (Oxford's name for Classics) hoping to help people stay on top of their education during a time in which education has been incredibly unstable for many.
I have 3 A stars in my A levels in History, English Literature and History, a mark of 100% in my Extended Qualification Project and 12 a stars in my GCSEs
I have an offer for postgraduate study at Newcastle University starting in September 2023.

Teaching Experience:
Having tutored for four years, I specialise in teaching students of all ages and abilities in Latin, Ancient Greek and wider Classical studies. I have also extensive experience in tutoring History and English to a GCSE standard. Beyond pure academics, I am a successful Oxbridge application tutor, specialising in personal statements and interview preparations for most humanities degrees.

I have tutored all of the UK examination boards (WJEC, AQA, OCR and Pearson), as well as Cambridge Pre-Us. I also am experienced in both GCSE and iGCSEs.

I also have a tailored adult learning programme which is flexible to both students ability but also the part of the Classical World in which they are most interested.

Tutoring Approach:
With my years of tutoring experience, combined with the skills I have developed at Oxford, I am confident in helping my students acquire an in depth understanding of their subjects. I use a range of interactive approaches to tutoring, providing personalised guidance to my students to allow them to reach their full potential. Through a combination of wider language work and a focus on examined content, I believe any student is able to access classical languages. With good, personalised tutoring, I believe these so called "dead" languages can be brought back to life, inspiring students to great success no matter their aims.

With adult learners in mind, my approach tuition is to get to grips with some original texts as soon as possible, since this is why we learn Latin and Greek! Language is the key to unlocking the ancient world and too often classical language teaching misses this, deep in its lexicons and grammar primers. I aim to correct that, by teaching grammar and language skills alongside getting to grips with some of the biggest names of the classical world.

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Personal Description:
I am a passionate, hardworking, skilled, and outstanding teacher. I am fully qualified and experienced Primary School teacher specialising in all primary phase subjects. I am extremely professional, energetic, and up to date with the demands of the current Primary Curriculum and the requirements for Early Years Foundation Stage, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, preparation for SATs, SEN and learning support.

Teaching Experience:
Throughout my 15-year teaching career, I have gained extensive skills in teaching and working directly with children within the Primary Phase (4-11 years). I have an excellent proven track record of students achieving way above what they may have been predicted.

I have considerable experience in helping students who are on the SEND register and most recently I have worked as an Acting SENCO. This involved devising, delivering and monitoring the curriculum for students with moderate and severe learning difficulties as well as those with highly complex needs. I have recently attained the SENCO award qualification from Edge Hill University.

Tutoring Approach:
I am extremely positive, calm, and nurturing. I believe that every child can reach their goals in learning and I will help them to realise their true potential, improving academic performance and developing self-esteem to build a successful future.

After an initial assessment, I will create a personalised learning journey plan and I will ensure that I use motivational interests and strengths to work on areas of new learning and any misconceptions.

I aim to do much more than just increase grades, however I am to inspire, increase confidence and show that learning is something that everyone can do.

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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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Personal Description:
I am a passionate English teacher with experience working with Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 students both in mainstream school settings, as well as online as part of alternative provision for both groups and 1:1. I have experience working with students with high anxiety and social/emotional/mental health challenges that present a barrier to accessing lessons in school, or benefit from further tuition. I have a lot of experience working with students with SEND, particularly students with ADHD, ASD and/or dyslexia. As well as supporting academic progress, I aim to ensure support with flourishing holistically too.

I currently live in Northern Ireland, but my career has been based in England (mainstream city schools in and around Norwich) and with students across England and Wales via an alternative provision supporting students via a virtual school. I have predominantly taught AQA English Language and AQA English Literature, but have experience with Eduqas and OCR too. I have a strong understanding of exam requirements and can adapt to teach other boards, as required by the student. I love to foster creativity through reading and writing, where possible tying this to student interests. I am friendly and approachable, always keen to hear more about what makes students happy. I am passionate about the great outdoors and love being around both sea and mountains, but having the option to curl up with some crafts or games when Irish weather makes for an indoor day.

Teaching Experience:
2 years working with Tute Education (Online Learning Provider/Alternative Provision): Working with students across England and Wales on both a 1:1 and group basis, teaching both English Language and Literature at KS3 and KS4 level. Lessons are conducted via online lessons within Tute's platform. I have worked on multiple projects to develop the curriculum and supported in developing best practice for practicing effective assessment for learning, metacognition and implementing Bloom's Taxonomy.

1 year working with Shaw Trust and HMPPS: Teaching adults on probation with life skills, communication, literacy and numeracy, and work skills.

2 years working with City Academy Norwich: Working as a Teacher of English, as well as a Second in Department in my second year, with responsibility for Key Stage 3 curriculum and assessment design, and literacy programmes across lower Key Stage 3. In this role I also took on pastoral responsibilities as a form tutor.

Teaching training placements in both a large inner-city school with high levels of SEND, EAL and socio-economic disadvantage, as well as a small, rural Ofsted Good school.

1 year as an English-specific Learning Support Assistant and Instructor within an inner-city school. This role involved supporting individual students and groups to engage with lessons and be supported with breaking down tasks, as well as stretching more-able students. Interventions were also provided as additional support for Year 11 groups in the lead up to exams.

Tutoring Approach:
My goal with tutoring to not just instruct students, but to empower them to be proactive learners. I am passionate about metacognition and aiding students in being aware of their thinking, maintaining curiosity and instilling faith in their beliefs and abilities. Learning should be enjoyable, but that does not mean we should not stretch ourselves. I aim for a balance of enjoyment and fun, with development of core skills. This is not just teaching to an exam, but teaching to be a life-long learner.

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Personal Description:
I am a dynamic and highly experienced Head of History with over 16 years experience in the secondary classroom. . I achieved my NQT status at the Blue School, Wells and held the leadership responsibilty for Citizenship Yr 7 to Yr 11. I also taught KS3 to KS5 History throughout my time there. In 2010 my son was born, moving to West Somerset as Head of History (again KS3 to KS5). I retired in 2017 to care for my youngest son, who in 2013 was born with Cerebral Palsy. I needed to focus on the care and needs of my son and did not feel able to do the same for my students and department. Following this I have spent 7 years maneuvering the incredibly emotional, wonderful yet absolutely relentless world of disability, ECHP's, local authorities, therapists, schools, hospitals and so on so forth. My son has an amazing team of professionals, is content and in Yr 8 of a local mainstream school and flying.

Teaching Experience:
My son is 100% happy and supported and now it is my time to move forward with my career. To offer private tuition is my way of doing so. I am up to recent educational developments. I have privately tutored in Dunster successfully at GCSE. I have spent 8 of my teaching years as a PGCE mentor and an NQT mentor- with two NQT's now teaching as Head of History at two private schools in Somerset- can provide details if needed.

I have a proven track record of driving significant improvements in student attainment and fostering a deep passion for the subject. For example, I introduced History as a coursework qualification for students who loved History yet found the content (reading exam questions) and expectations of a GCSE papers too much- succeeding with 100% pass and super happy faces on results day. I also introduced GCSE Citizenship to offer a wider range of critical thinking and analysis skills- ultimately helping subjects such as History, English and Life Skills. I I am DBS registered.

THE BLUE SCHOOL, WELLS, SOMERSET 2002 to 2010

WEST SOMERSET COMMUNITY COLLEGE 2011 TO 2017

MINEHEAD MIDDLE SCHOOL 2017 TO AUGUST 2017

Tutoring Approach:
My focus is on personalized, interactive teaching tailored to each student's needs to develop critical thinking and essay-writing skills. I identify individual strengths and weaknesses, work with them to develop learning plans for specific goals like exam preparation, and using engaging methods such as discussions and multimedia resources to bring history to life. Developing analytical skills enables the tutee to construct historical arguments and understand source context, which is crucial for deeper comprehension and improved academic performance.

I will:

* Offer a friendly, safe, comfortable learning environment
* Assess the situation
* Set clear goals
* Establish clear, achievable objectives.
* Tailor content
* Adapt teaching methods and content to suit the student's pace, interests, and level of understanding, focusing on strengthening weaknesses and building on existing strengths.
* Provide engaging and interactive methods
* Foster discussion and debate
* Encourage students to actively participate in discussions, share ideas, and critically analyze historical events and sources to make learning more interesting and effective.
* Utilise diverse resources
* Incorporate multimedia resources, debates, and real-world examples to illustrate historical events, making the subject more relatable and memorable.
* Focus on essential skills
* Go beyond memorization by teaching students how to think historically, construct justified claims, assess source reliability, and understand the broader context of events.
* Improve essay writing:
* Provide targeted guidance and practice for historical essay writing, focusing on structuring arguments, using evidence effectively, and developing a strong thesis.
*Develop critical thinking
*Guide students to analyze historical events from multiple perspectives, understand cause-and-effect relationships, and evaluate different interpretations of the past.
* Enhance exam strategies- of the 16 years in have spent 6 years exam marking for AQA, Edexcel and OCR.
* WSCC- worked alongside Chief Examiner for The American West.
* Offer specific strategies for exam preparation, helping students manage their time, recall information, and apply their knowledge under pressure, leading to improved confidence, self belief and better grades.

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