Hartfield English Tutors and Hartfield English Tuition

Personal Description:
Recently retired. Able to work away from home and willing to travel but charge £1 per mile to cover car expenses and time travelling. You can come to me. Married with son and grandchildren.

Teaching Experience:
35 years' teaching in junior and secondary schools. Head of English, Schools' Inspector and consultant. Dip. Sp.L.D. qualification. Recently, eight years' tutoring.

Tutoring Approach:
One-to-one, perhaps in your house. friendly, individual, personalised service, according to need and based on assessment and pupil or parent wishes. Normally one hour per week. Preferably for a year, at least, to achieve best results.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced tutor and have been tutoring for the past 20 years. I am friendly and supportive and tailor learning according to the pupil's individual needs. My specialism is 19th & 20th century history and I am especially knowledgeable about British and American history. I teach pupils essential research and study skills including effective exam techniques. I have also tutored English language at secondary and GCSE level with good results. I aim to inspire confidence in my pupils and promote enthusiasm for learning in a supportive environment.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a tutor for over 20 years. I have also helped out in primary schools on a voluntary basis and I have part completed a PGCE in Upper Primary (1999). I am have completed a PGDE at Bury College so I am qualified to teach in further and higher education.

Tutoring Approach:
I am supportive and caring and I encourage pupils to take responsibility for their own learning. I aim to inspire confidence by teaching them essential study skills and exam techniques. I teach pupils to break down learning into manageable chunks and teach them to analyse and revise their work. I make my lessons interesting and I am warm and friendly which puts pupils at ease. I also have a good sense of humour and aim to build up a strong rapport with pupils. I ask pupils to contact me between sessions if there are any concerns and I fully update parents on their child's progress.

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Personal Description:
I am an Italian citizen living in London since 1996 ; I came to London as a research student, sent by Rome University, to study and work for Westminster University.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a tutor for 24 years (I still teach Spanish/Italian to private students. I was a teacher in Italy (Spanish/English) and a bilingual assistant from 1996 to present in London (Pimlico School/North Westminster/Churchill Gardens/St. Vincent de Pau); I have a PGCE in MFL (Spanish/Italian/French) KS 3 and 4 and a Master in translation (English vs Italian and vice versa).

Tutoring Approach:
I do see each student/pupil as an individual and while teaching/tutoring I take into account their personality/skills/interests as well as age/sex/religion.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified teacher with Cambridge MA, PGCE & DELTA, with 30 years' experience of teaching in a variety of contexts including general secondary school English and Drama, GCSE, A Level, IB, and tuition at university and postgraduate level, including assistance with theses and similar.
I have considerable experience of TEFL/TOEFL and a successful record in teaching Cambridge FCE, CPE, etc as well as Business English classes for non-native professionals.
I recently returned to the UK from Spain for family reasons and I am new to the York area. I'm taking time out for a while to write that elusive million-seller or sitcom! Meanwhile I am a member of SfEP and work part time as a professional proofreader and copy editor. I am very happy to help groups or individuals with their academic needs.

Teaching Experience:
15 years in all key stages of secondary school education in England.
5 years Adult Education, TEFL and private tuition in the UK.
10 years teaching a British curriculum in an international secondary school in Spain at all key stages incl. GCSE, A Level and IB.
Group and individual EFL classes for children and adults, including Business English for professionals and TOEFL in an American-affiliated college.
I have an excellent record of success in preparing students for English and Drama exams - GCSE, A Level, International Baccalaureat and beyond - as well as for Cambridge First Certificate, Advanced and Proficiency in English.
Amongst other notables, I was employed as personal tutor to the actress Rebecca Hall as a child and also to one of Tony Blair's sons!

Tutoring Approach:
I believe in a supportive approach and a friendly relationship, but without forgetting it's work: you're paying me because I can improve your (or your children's) future prospects.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am married and have two children in their twenties, both in Higher Education. I am a qualified teacher, hold an Enhanced DBS Certificate and am up to date with current safeguarding training.
I love music, cinema and theatre and have spent part of my working life in professional theatre and television both as a performer and in production. I am widely travelled and well-read.

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced teacher, having worked in Somerset as both a full-time KeyStage 2 class teacher (including 4 years of SATs experience) and as a Supply Teacher. I also taught pupils on the One to One Programme. My Level 5 (TQUK) Qualification in Teaching English as a Foreign Language is a useful skillset to draw upon when teaching English to SATs level pupils.

Tutoring Approach:
Often the barrier to learning is a lack of confidence and self-esteem. It's also important to be clear about what is being learned and why, what's expected of the pupil and how success can be achieved and celebrated. Above all it must be fun!
My tutoring is personalised to the individual. A positive approach, balancing the correct level of challenge with a clear set of achievable next steps should motivate a learner, create a sense of progress and should foster the desire to continue to want to learn. Be positive, Build confidence, Enjoy challenge, Celebrate Success.

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Personal Description:
I have a good personal manner ,giving confidence to my students. I am semi-retired and enjoy the countryside painting ,reading and sport.Have a crrent CRB.

Teaching Experience:
I have twenty five years of teaching experience in primary ,preparatory and secondary schools. My main subject is maths but I have also taught ICT ,Business Studies and EFL.

Tutoring Approach:
Giving confidence to my students is very important and is a springboard to success.Having a plan with achievable targets is useful.Building a good relationship with discussion as to progress and reliability is important.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have been a classroom teacher for 20 years, but have recently branched out to become a PE specialist, whilst I have still teach some maths and English I would like to teach more, whilst still keeping my current position. I am an outgoing friendly but strict teacher/tutor and pupils clearly enjoy being taught by me and respond accordingly with excellent results.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a primary school teacher for 20 years, constantly employed. I have taught all primary age classes and successfully prepared children for local entrance examinations. I am currently employed as Head of Junior Games at QEH Junior School in Bristol.

Tutoring Approach:
I enjoy the one to one style that tutoring provides as it allows me, as an educator, to use my experience to help the student get to grip with difficult issues.
It is a very personal way of learning that I believe is well suited to my style of teaching.

Subjects

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have taught students from countries with widely different cultural aspects, and also have experience of teaching those with learning difficulties. As a result I am an enthusiastic, hard working and culturally aware teacher who plans each lesson with an aim to support and motivate students.

Teaching Experience:
I have 8 years teaching experience, I taught in Peru, Vietnam and the UK both privately and in schools. I am familiar with all types of testing and analysis. I create interactive and re-usable materials, which are useful additions for all levels of learning, which I use for both English and Spanish classes.

UK:

2011- 2020 (EFL - English) - Private Adult Tutoring - Academic, Business & Casual.
2011 (EFL - English) - Burlington School - Ages 14+ to - Levels (KET, FCE, CAE, CPE)

Vietnam:

2007 - 2010 (EFL - English) - American Academy - Ages 6+ to Adult - All Levels
2007 - 2010 (EFL - English) - VUS School - Ages 12+ to Adult - All Levels (FCE, CAE, IELTS)
2007 - 2010 (ELE - Spanish) - Home Tutoring DELE L1 & L2

Peru:

2006 (EFL - English) - Instituto Nova - Ages 8+ to Adult - All Levels

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching approach is all about your comfort and goals.

I can help you with any problem areas that are slowing your learning or confidence in English. I offer all kinds of lessons from 'Conversational' to 'Business' or 'Examinations'.

My first lesson (40 min) is FREE @ my home in Wandsworth, I think it's fair to offer a FREE lesson first, so you can RELAX without thinking about costs.

What courses do I teach?

1. Academic

Exam Preparation for:

• Cambridge: KET (Key English Test), FCE (First Certificate), IELTS, CAE (Cambridge
Advanced).

• Trinity: ISE (Integrated Skills), SELT (Secure English Language Test)

• ETS: TOEFL iBT (Internet-based) & PBT (Paper-based)

2.Business

• General: Meetings & Conference Support, Negotiations, Presentations, Telephone &
Email Support, Marketing & Sales skills.

• Business English Exams: BEC Vantage & Higher and BULATS.

3. Conversational & General English

• Conversational: Pronunciation & Fluency Development, Social Grammar, Phrasals &
Idioms.

• General English: Combined Skills (Pronunciation & Speaking, Reading, Writing,
Grammar and Listening.)

4. Wine Industry: Cultivation, Production & Trade + WSET Exam Preparation.

5. Medical: OET (Ocupation English Test) for Nursing & Medicine

Professions:-

• Dentists
• Healthcare Assistants
• Midwives & Maternal Support
• Nurses
• Paramedics
• Pharmacists
• Receptionists
• Radiologists

Popular Medical Language Skills:

• Medical English: Phrasing & Terminology
• Writing: Patient Reports, Care Plans & Mentorship Assessments etc.
• Communications & Presentation Support for when 'on review'.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Thank you for looking at my profile.

I want to see young people thrive within the learning environment and achieve the best of their ability.

In my previous school I was subject leader for drama. Writing the schemes of work for key stage 3 and 4 (GCSE). Leading the department, monitoring progess, scaffolding learning and applying independent learning plans for students to ensure that they reach their full potential.

The recent class that I taught for GCSE achieved 70% 3 levels of progress and over and 30% 2 levels of progress, beyond the national average.

I believe the key to learning and retaining information is for the student to believe in themselves and their knowledge.

PGCE Secondary Drama

QTS

Teaching Experience:
I have a great amount of experience within the educational system. I have worked with a variety of students. Special needs students in both primary and secondary school settings. I have done a vast amount of work with pupils with self-esteem issues and challenging behaviour. In addition, working with gifted and talented students.

I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching key stage 3 and GCSE English. I understand the challenges of this subject and how students may need extra support to excel.

I have taught Drama to both GCSE and A-level students, I have supported students through course work and controlled assessment.

I have worked in various schools in Sheffield and Birmingham.

I am currently teaching in a Sheffield secondary school.

I have worked with primary school children, building confidence and challenging behaviour. In addition literacy ( children with dyslexia).

Tutoring Approach:
To work with the student on identifying the areas in which their are struggling to reach their full potential and why. Whether it is because they are struggling to understand or they lack in confidence in the particular subject. I would then work with the student to build the gaps in their knowledge and build confidence through interactive and individual learning. A combination of both styles of learning secures knowledge and the belief that the student has the knowledge.

The students progression will be monitored through continual assessment.

The student will also be a part of self-assessment to recognise their own needs and development.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

Subjects

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

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

Several schoolchildren went on to study English at university

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
** Qualified teacher and examiner with years of experience. Proven exam results for SATs, GCSEs, A'levels and IB. 100% pass rate for the Eleven-Plus **

I graduated from Lancaster University with first class honours in English language and literature, I was also awarded the Pendle College prize for linguistics. I then went on to complete my PGCE at St Martin's College. I gained qualified teacher status at Clitheroe Royal Grammar School.

I have always had a passion for education and this has enabled me to inspire and motivate my students. I have achieved high results with pupils in previous years and most students progress an additional two grades after tuition. Some students achieve higher progression and have been known to gain three grades higher following tuition sessions.

I teach GCSE English language and literature, A'level English language and literature and the eleven-plus. I also have experience teaching a wide range of curriculum subjects with great success and results. In addition, I tutor students for the SATs exams and previous students have had excellent results, often the top of their year group.

I regularly help students prepare for entrance examinations and have 100% rate in this area. The schools I have previously helped pupils gain entry to are: Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School, Bury Grammar School, Manchester High School for girls and Bolton School. I am familiar with the CEM and GL Assessment specifications.

I am fortunate to teach students both in the UK and in many parts of the world. I currently teach students at the British School in Voorschoten (Netherlands) and at the British School in Shunyi (Beiijing) in addition to students based in the UK. Furthermore, I am able to offer a range of subjects to my students including: English, French, Classical Civilisation, Spanish and History.

Previously students that I have taught have gone on to Oxford and Cambridge in addition to Russell Group universities. I have also helped students prepare for the Oxbridge tests and the writing task on the BMAT exam (BioMedical Admissions Test).

I am a versatile, professional and friendly tutor who will work hard to help students achieve their full potential. I believe strongly that education changes lives.

I am currently a postgraduate student at the University of York (Mphil by distance).

Teaching Experience:
10 years working at secondary schools in Lancashire.
Over 10 years experience as a private tutor.

Tutoring Approach:
I am friendly, dedicated and enthusiastic in my approach to tutoring students. I create bespoke resources for my students, tailored to their individual needs. Homework after sessions is always set to help consolidate learning and develop feedback for improvement.

I always go beyond the usual expectations of students, I aim to offer tuition support between sessions to help students progress.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A-level results, August 2024:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A-level results, August/September 2022:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

Speaking

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reading

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

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

Writing

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

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

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

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

Why study English?

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a qualified Spanish Teacher and native speaker with in-depth expertise in the Spanish language, grammar, and literature, and an immense range of vocabulary. I have a vast experience working with people from different backgrounds, cultures, and of different ages; and worked for the public and private sectors: schools, colleges, universities, language schools and companies. I have been a Spanish Teacher and an English Teacher since 2002, and have worked as a Secondary Spanish Teacher and as a Secondary French Teacher.
I have extensive expertise in linguistics, and expert knowledge of the English language, grammar and literature. I studied the Bachelor's (Hons) degree in English Language and English Literature, and French language and Italian language at university.
I have a wide range of skills: verbal and written communication skills; keen listener; empathetic; open-minded; respectful of people's personalities, needs and requirements; and excellent analytical skills.
Some of my achievements having worked as a teacher include:
- teaching English, Spanish and French to speakers of other languages;
- developing the students' abilities, skills, and self-confidence;
- increasing the students' knowledge of the foreign language and cultures;
- encouraging students to reach their full potential despite barriers; and
- designing projects to practise vocabulary and previous knowledge using different methods and tools.

Teaching Experience:
In my role as a teacher, I have been responsible for:
- teaching from basic to advanced English and Spanish language courses to children, teenagers, and adults from different backgrounds and nationalities;
- giving one-to-one and group lessons;
- curriculum design;
- planning and teaching lessons for schools, colleges, universities, language schools and companies according to the students' needs, requirements and goals focused on communicative skills;
- adapting lessons and prioritising learning contents and tasks;
- creating learning resources;
- designing evaluations and marking tests;
- planning and teaching exam preparation courses;
- using ICT to support teaching and learning;
- organising course contents for students to give presentations;
- promoting different activities, learning resources and events;
- evaluate students' level of proficiency;
- keeping records of the students' performance, progression, and attendance;
- teaching languages for Specific Purposes: business, medicine, geology, accounting, and tourism;
- teaching Academic Writing;
- carrying out administrative tasks: course contents, curriculum design, registers, attendance, lesson plans, students' progress, records of assessments and evaluations, filling in forms, and students' enrolment;
- working with academic coordinators and supervisors collaboratively to ensure the students' goals are met efficiently;
- designing and teaching different workshops: English exams (IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC), English grammar, conversation, pronunciation, listening, writing, and reading;
- proofreading essays and dissertations of university foreign students in the UK, and academic articles that were published on scientific journals; and
- giving one‐to‐one English lessons to managers and directors of different companies and organisations focused on business and communication skills.

Tutoring Approach:
I provide students with different resources to work autonomously: questionnaires, photo cards, mats, sentence builders, surveys, etc.
I like leading students to be active learners by being in charge of their own learning experience, self-evaluation and improvement; and take the necessary steps to achieve the required targets and goals, and thrive on their courses.
I encourage students to be resilient, autonomous, committed and involved in the lessons, and participate actively.
I promote self-confidence throughout the lessons.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Experienced and fully qualified school teacher and university lecturer, teaching in schools and universities for nearly 10 years. Fully trained A Level examiner for Pearson, and private tutor to students from Primary to Postgraduate research - and every stage in between!

I have published my research in International Academic Journals, but also in the E-Magazine for A Level pupils.

Teaching Experience:
Private tutor to students ranging from primary to Postgraduate, and every stage in between!

5 years at Oakham School teaching: IGCSE English Language, and English Literature; A Level English Literature; IB Diploma Programme English Literature; IB Diploma Programme Theory of Knowledge.
Oxbridge Mentor, UCAS references. Marking and setting Entrance Exams.

1 year in Uppingham Community College teaching GCSE English Language and English Literature.

2 Years Tutor, Seminar Leader and Lecturer at King's College London.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor my lessons for each individual, drawing on my broad range of experience to meet my tutee's needs. My experience as an examiner means I can offer the feedback necessary to enable a student to meet their potential. Approachable and entertaining, I enjoy keeping my students engaged and productive.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an enthusiastic and supportive Business Studies tutor with a strong passion for helping students grow in confidence and achieve their academic goals. I hold a BSc in Management with Marketing, and I am currently completing my PGCE in Business Studies, which is allowing me to deepen both my subject knowledge and my teaching practice.

While my formal teaching experience is still developing, I have worked with children and young people in school settings, supporting lessons, helping with group work, and assisting students who need extra guidance. These experiences have strengthened my ability to adapt to different learning styles, communicate clearly, and create a positive learning atmosphere where students feel comfortable asking questions and exploring ideas.

I am familiar with the major exam boards, and I'm confident in adapting my teaching to match exam specifications and student needs.

Teaching Experience:
My experience working in schools has given me valuable insights into how students learn and how to support them effectively. I have worked with pupils of varying abilities, helping them break down challenging concepts, prepare for assessments, and develop more confidence in Business Studies topics.

Although I am early in my teaching career, this allows me to bring fresh, modern approaches to learning. I am committed to continually improving my practice as I progress through my PGCE and gain more classroom experience.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach is warm, structured, and student focused. I believe that every learner deserves support tailored to their abilities, goals, and preferred way of learning. Because of this, each session is personalised and adapted to what the student needs most-whether that's revisiting core content, simplifying difficult theories, or strengthening exam technique.

Students can expect:

Clear, step-by-step explanations that make business concepts easier to understand

Exam-focused strategies, including past-paper practice and guidance on how to structure high-quality answers

Adaptability to AQA, Edexcel/Pearson, OCR, and other exam boards

Practical examples to help students apply theory

A supportive, patient, and encouraging learning environment

My goal is to help students feel more confident, capable, and ready to succeed-whether they're aiming to improve their current grade or push towards top marks.

Subjects