Henley-on-Thames English Tutors and Henley-on-Thames English Tuition

Personal Description:
I am SEN trained in the areas of Dyslexia (Language), Dyscalculia (Math), Attention (ADD/ADHD), Dysgraphia (Handwriting) and Autism and am a qualified remedial therapist (Davis Facilitator).

I am a Whole Brain Practitioner with the Kobus Neethling Institution. I also have a Finance Degree and Art Therapy background.

Over the past 10 years, I have owned numerous Maths and English Reading Centres and have worked with hundreds of children. I have specialised knowledge in eye kinetic, perception development, learning and behavioural difficulties.

Teaching Experience:
During my years of owning my Maths, Langauge and Reading centres, I have worked with hundreds of children. Most of the children that I worked with were struggling before working with me, but sometimes I got children who were very bright but were not reaching their full potential. I have a special interest in Giftedness and was able to extend those children and make them exceptional.

Early on in my working career, I worked in Investment Banking in London and internationally, before changing careers to teaching, focusing on remedial therapy.

I practice now as a specialised remedial therapist (SEN) and focus on learning and behavioral issues.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a fun and creative approach to tutoring.

I make a huge effort with every person I work with and really connect with them.

I like to use various mediums, games and methods to make the learning experience more enjoyable and help the information to embed more easily. It is sometimes necessary to build a concept in a 3-dimensional format, before working through methodology on paper.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am 38 year old Property Lawyer based in the Cheshire area. I have over twelve years experience in private tutoring. I am fond of reading, debating, eating and discovering new things. I am quite lively, not too difficult to get on with, very ambitious but also with an equal dash of a patience. I am a massive fan of education and self development. I tend to be never too far away from reading a book or learning something new to further myself.

Teaching Experience:
I have over eleven years experience in private tutoring having taught students as young as eight years old to adult learners covering a wide variety of modules, assignments and exam boards within Government & Politics, Law, History and English. In recent years I have worked closely with public tutoring centres and across the Manchester area. I am confident that my experience, approach to tutoring and methods have been substantial in helping each student to progress onto the next stage of their education and beyond. I offer my collective experience, professional and patient approach to any potential tutee who desires to take me on board and achieve their aims.

I believe I can approach any teaching scenario and offer the required angle to ensure success for student and or parent alike.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor my approach to each unique request made and scenario presented. I like to begin with an informal but analytical conversation with the student, parent or both in order to assess strengths and areas where we can develop a plan of action. I aim to take each stage step by step until both you and I are satisfied that we are confident in understanding and coherently explaining the information or context of the material at hand. I am professional in my approach but highly understanding and patient. Most importantly any work set during the session will be wholly relevant, comprehensible and creative in order to match your needs.

I incorporate digital media where required. I do provide PowerPoint presentations for some subjects, when needed, with an interactive projector for lessons and presentations. Presentations can be sent via email at any time as well.

*For any LPC students I can also tutor and instruct in Property Law and Solicitors accounts too.

* For any Northern Ireland students, I can also teach the equivalent of the LPC.

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Personal Description:
I always seek to organise lessons around the student's areas of interest.
I expect lessons to be both fun and challenging, and set clear goals and objectives for each student, both short- term and long- term.
I have lived and taught in France, Germany and the UK.

Teaching Experience:
6 years in a London Montessori School, age range 5- 16.
3 years in a London comprehensive, age range 11- 19.
3 years in a West Midlands comprehensive, age range 11- 16.
10 years in a Cheshire comprehensive, age range 11- 18.

Tutoring Approach:
Tutoring is a serious investment of time and money on the part of both student and teacher, and so I always spend part of the first session making sure that everyone is clear about the aims and objectives of the tutoring.

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Personal Description:
I have taught around 100 non-English speakers since 2010 and enjoy seeing their progress at every level. Some of them are working in major businesses in Surrey and others are working as au pairs, or are the partners of people who are working here. I am also a journalist so have a love of English grammar and enjoy teaching people to speak, and write English. I am particularly adept at teaching for Cambridge exams and have lots of students who have passed the First Certificate and the CAE. Have recently helped an Eastern European teenager pass her English GCSE.

Teaching Experience:
General English and Business English: I have been teaching since 2010 providing general English, English for Cambridge exams and business English. I have a background in business and am a journalist. I have now worked with over 100 students from all over Europe, particularly Spain, Italy, France and Switzerland, but also Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia. I have also taught students from Japan, China, Brazil, and many more places. I am happy to teach everything - grammar in particular, writing, speaking, listening skills, pronunciation. The people I have trained for Cambridge exams have had successful results in FCE and CAE. I teach business English as well as general and provide exactly what the student needs in their daily life.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is to get the student to do most of the work, speaking and writing English, and thinking for themselves rather than all the prompting coming from me. I tailor the work to their needs.

Business: if it is a business client we look a the situations they encounter in their work and using role play we practise English in the workplace. If presentations or speaking in meetings is relevant I get the student to stand up in front of me as if I were the client or colleagues.

General: or if you're new to the UK I can help you with cultural differences and British ways of doing things. For example, you may need to make phone calls to get a plumber, or to take your car for a service. We can role play these calls.

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Personal Description:
Over the past 12 years, I have enabled hundreds of students to maximise their potential in GCSE, AS/A-Level and IB examinations.

I completed my PhD in 2015 (University of London), which was about the philosophy of folly in Shakespeare's plays. Having worked as a school teacher, university lecturer and held fellowships at Kingston University and the University of Athens, I currently teach Shakespeare at the CEU and run my education company. I have published two books, one based on my PhD and one on social psychology, as well as numerous articles on literature and philosophy.

Whereas English Literature, Language and Philosophy are my primary disciplines, I have also taught German and History up to A-Level standard in schools in Britain. I believe education is not simply a means to an end; rather, it offers exciting and new ways of thinking about ourselves and the world around us. In my spare time, I enjoy writing and skiing.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience is fairly extensive and I have taught both in the UK and abroad. I have taught at schools (GCSE, IB and A-Levels) and universities in the UK, as well as leading Shakespeare workshops across Europe, when I worked for the British Council.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe the key to successful tuition is communication. I set clear goals for my students and ensure that they are always prepared and confident in their exams.

Depending on the students needs, I assist with academic writing and how best to fulfil the exam boards' specific Coursework Assessment Objectives or we focus on exam techniques to ensure the best possible outcome. Alongside my personal tuition, I provide my students with extensive digital resources, developed by my company, for free. I encourage discussion and debate and enjoy learning from my students. Over the past 12 years, I've found them to be consistently engaging and inspiring.

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

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a Marine Biologist (PhD) and lecturer in Education. I am currently based in North Berwick, Scotland and have a wide-range of interests such as paddle-boarding, kayaking, hiking, cooking and spending time with my family and friends. I am available for online tutoring in the evenings and the weekends (anytime) and face-to-face for North Berwick.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught English as a Foreign Language for 22 years in the UK and in Japan. I have also worked with students with learning difficulties, which I enjoy very much. I tutor Biology to students across the world including University level and Science up to G.C.S.E /Nat 5.

Tutoring Approach:
Exam technique, technical language, repetition-based learning (English as a foreign language). Kinaesthetic learning.
Patient approach, with the aim of student's gaining confidence in the subject area.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I hold a First Class Honours degree in English Language and Literature (University of St Andrews) and a Doctorate / PhD in English Literature (University of Leeds).

In the recent past I have worked as a University Professor in English and have published books and articles on English and Media. Some of these are standard set study texts. I have also served as an Examiner and as a University Admissions Tutor. I am qualified to teach under the PTLLS scheme.

Dr Ian is based in Birmingham / West Midlands and has been described as friendly, patient, sympathetic and approachable. Tuition is offered to improve exams and coursework for school, college, or University. Recent work has included AQA GCSE and A-level Engish Language and Literature.

I am also able to provide support if you are new to the UK and want academic editing and proof-reading for you MA, MSc or PhD.

Teaching Experience:
I have undertaken teaching and training in Schools (Primary and Secondary) and in the University Higher Education Sector (to Post Graduate level) over a period of twenty-five years.

During that period I have worked with very gifted students as well as children and adults who have needed special support in order to reach their full potential. Recently I have work with PhD students from India, Poland, Jordan, Iran, China, Pakistan, Japan, and the UK.
My specialist areas are English Language and Literature; Study, Exam and Revision Skills. Short, intensive 1-to1 courses are available for exam revision and exam technique. Reduced rates are available for longer contracts, or for students living in the locality.

Tutoring Approach:
ONLINE teaching only.

My teaching is always adapted to YOUR specific needs and is informed by critical and creative strategies that have a proven track record.

I work in partnership with YOU in order to identify YOUR most urgent needs and and the goals to be achieved. Together we address issues of motivation and the acquisition of key subject study skills. The process builds on creative strategies for self-improvement which leads to enhanced enjoyment and success.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an enthusiastic and flexible teacher who likes to encorporate a range of styles and approaches to help my pupils achieve their full potential. I believe in tailoring support and approach to the individual learning needs of my students and provide a safe and creative environment in which to learn.

I have taught in Year 6 for over 10 years and work in a good school with good SATs results.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught in a variety of primary schools over the last 18 years and am currently a senior manager and Year 6 teacher in a large primary school. I have experience across all primary phases and have worked with a wide range of abilities and special needs.

Tutoring Approach:
I am dedicated to encourage and enable children to learn and achieve their full potential. Success, even in small steps is paramount to build self esteem and confidence and I believe that this is a key part of my teaching style.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am currently studying English Literature at the University of Edinburgh. I love reading, writing and reading some more. I also enjoy sketching while listening to music. I am a frank person, have an straightforward approach to everything in life and like people to behave the same way with me (which always does not happen). I love to have a laugh, but don't worry, I can be serious when needed( for example, when teaching your children English and History).

Teaching Experience:
While I have never tutored for money, I have an extensive tutoring experience. I volunteered to teach illiterate students English as a part of a volunteering program from my high school in India and have been a part of that program for the past two years. I also used to tutor my two siblings in History, Geography and English.

Tutoring Approach:
I feel that children learn best in a stress free environment. If they feel it is fun and challenging, they will be more willing to learn than if they feel it to be an obligation. English is an easy subject and children enjoy learning it, once they realize the joys that English has to offer. History can be challenging due to the vast amounts one has to learn by heart but steady habit of writing down answers to questions helps more than reading the material ten times. Other than that, History is a vastly interesting subject which helps us understand the workings of the present society and of course, knowledge about our ancestors. Geography is relatively straightforward subject. A lot of practice and a dedicated perusal of it should be enough to get good scores. While it can be relatively dry, it can be made interesting with pictures and videos.I focus on exam technique, past papers as well as text work (English Lit.)

Subjects

Personal Description:
Trusting me to tutor your child ensures fresh ideas and intervention, reliability and meaningful interaction allowing them to successfully achieve personal goals. I offer patience, lots of encouragement and tailored feedback, all with a view to improving your child's performance.

I take a keen interest in developments within my profession and maintain an up-to-date working knowledge of educational initiatives and learning strategies. I have an enthusiastic and compassionate nature and enjoy supporting students to achieve their goals.

Teaching Experience:
I am a fully qualified Primary School Teacher and have been teaching since I qualified over 9 years ago. I have experience of teaching from early years through to upper stages of primary school; however my main strengths lie in the upper school having taught P6 & P7 now for the last 7 years, successfully preparing children for high school. I have a particular interest in literacy and numeracy. I have training and experience of teaching children with Autism and Asperger's Syndrome as well as ADHD. I am happy to develop skills in literacy and maths, support homework tasks or design an individual learning programme suited to the child's needs.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a fun and approachable person and this reflects in my teaching. I believe in implementing a variety of teaching approaches and strategies to motivate and engage students.

I enjoy getting to know my students and tailoring my teaching approaches to their individual needs. By taking prior learning into consideration, I can ensure that learning experiences remain challenging therefore increasing interest and motivation.

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Personal Description:
I have years of experience teaching piano and can also teach guitar to beginners level.
Flexible on musical styles and student's requirements, whether it is to be put in to a graded exam or just being helped with their repertoire.
Cromer and surrounding areas.
1 to 1 lessons preferably at pupil's address but can arrange to teach at home or even online.

Teaching Experience:
Years of piano teaching.
Some experience teaching guitar.
Years of English teaching to Spaniards.
Some experience teaching Spanish.

Tutoring Approach:
Flexible on students needs.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a specialist English tutor. I am an expert in this subject, and have successfully taught up to Undergraduate level. I also teach Science up to GCSE level.

- Over 8000 hours experience
- Mentoring and tutoring for the last 10 years.
- 100% achievement record. All my students reach (or exceed) their targets.
- Successfully mentored students to gain 11+ scholarships.
- Track record of helping to improve by two or more grades.
- Successfully tutored students in the new syllabus to achieve Level 9.
- I have a wide range of highly specialist resources.
- Experienced in assisting students with SEN, including dyslexia and ASD.
- I am currently studying at the prestigious Institute of Education, London.
- I apply the Growth Mindset to unlock student potential.
- I use the latest research in pedagogy and child psychology to plan and deliver my lessons.
- I am mentored by world-class English teachers and have been graded Ofsted 'Outstanding'.

I help students engage with texts, learn how to extract meaning and improve their written communication. I work with students who are struggling to connect with the subject or just need an extra boost to reach their target.

I assess a student's strengths and weaknesses and create a bespoke tuition plan. We then work together to tackle their weakest areas and enable them to reach their goal. I have curated a wide range of engaging resources, and utilise different mediums to add interest to my lessons.

I strictly work with only a handful of families at a time, so I am able to give you focused support. Please contact me for availability.

If you have any questions, please get in touch.

Teaching Experience:
Testimonials

"Bushra is a devoted focused person who teaches with passion and great depth of knowledge. She cares about my son and really wants him to do well and achieve his full potential."

"You have opened my eyes."

"You are the best English tutor we have ever had."

"The lessons are over so quickly, I really enjoy English now."


Top Student Achievements 2016/2017

Student studying new GCSE syllabus achieved the highest grade possible, Level 9.

11+ student secured scholarship for London School for Boys and Merchant Taylor School.

Undergraduate student, after mentoring and tutoring, went from 3rd to 2.1

A-level student achieved grade `A` in coursework assignment after a few months mentoring.

GCSE student went from grade `D` to a final grade of `B` within 3 months.

Tutoring Approach:
I assess students strengths and areas for developments. I then create a bespoke tuition plan.

All lessons are tailored and resourced. I have an extensive range of resources, including model answers and examiner's guidance.

I believe in building students confidence and appreciation for the subject and coaching them to apply their knowledge effectively.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a well-qualified and experienced private tutor working online, providing preparation and support for GCSE and IGCSE in English Language, English Literature and French (AQA / Edexcel / Cambridge etc) and for 11+ entrance exams in English and Verbal Reasoning (including CEM/GL style 11+).

I also teach English as a foreign language at all levels, including preparation for PET, FCE, CAE & CPE exams and IELTS and 'Life in the UK' for UK Citizenship, covering all aspects of English from Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing to Grammar and Pronunciation.

Teaching Experience:
On leaving Oxford University, I started out as a lecturer in French and English at Fareham College, Hampshire, where I taught Higher Education courses to both young and mature adults and was commended by the Principals for my students' achievements.
I used this initial experience to launch a successful career of private tutoring in England and France, with many students coming to me through personal recommendation.

Now, with over 20 years of teaching experience, I privately tutor a range of school-aged pupils from 6 to 16, both native English speakers and those for whom English is a second language. At 11+, 13+, GCSE and IGCSE, most of my pupils have successfully obtained places at top private secondary schools and 6th form colleges.

I also have a portfolio of private Chinese, Ukrainian, Russian, French and English adult students learning English as a foreign language, many of whom return year after year to pursue their learning to ever-higher levels and for the considerable pleasure that brings.

Tutoring Approach:
In my opinion the huge advantage of private one-to-one tuition, for both student and tutor, is that each lesson can be tailor-made to suit the student's particular needs perfectly, targeting and strengthening weaker areas while continuing to develop all-round confidence and ability. Lesson content can adapt flexibly from session to session and skills needing more attention can be frequently revisited.

My approach is caring and friendly, and I possess both endless patience and a sense of humour! I am enthusiastic about the subjects I teach and time and again I have seen that enthusiasm transfer itself to students as lessons progress. Encouragement is a great aid to achievement and it is very rewarding to see how this, in turn, leads to excellent results.

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.'

*

A-level results, August/September 2022:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

Speaking

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reading

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

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

Writing

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

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

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

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

Why study English?

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

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have done bachelor in arts. I got best teacher certificate from an institute.

Teaching Experience:
I have almost 5 to 7 years experience of teaching in different institutions. I can teach early years to primary level students all subjects.

Tutoring Approach:
Explaining of topics from basic level with practical examples to get better understanding of the topics.
Try to improve reading, writing and learning skills. Activity based learning is perioritsed.My aim is to develop good skills in my students and make them satisfied.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a high-achieving graduate with a strong background in technology, passionate about both learning and teaching. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I've helped students excel across a wide range of subjects, from Primary Arithmetic and English, through GCSE and A-Level courses, all the way to Undergraduate studies. My extensive knowledge spans core academics, arts, sciences, languages, and admissions preparation, allowing me to tailor lessons that meet each student's unique needs and goals.

I truly enjoy making complex topics accessible and inspiring a love of learning in every student I work with. Technology plays a big role in how I approach education, allowing me to create engaging, tailored lessons that spark curiosity and build confidence. By creating a supportive and engaging environment, I encourage students to overcome challenges, develop critical thinking skills and realise their full potential at every stage of their academic journey.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 9 years of tutoring experience, primarily working online but also providing private in-home tutoring. During my academic years, I volunteered as a mentor and tutor for younger students, which laid a strong foundation for my teaching approach. I have supported students across all age groups from primary and secondary levels to A-Level and university and I'm actively expanding my work with undergraduate learners.

My tutoring has helped many students achieve significant improvements, including successfully gaining admission to private schools through the 11+ exam, and boosting GCSE grades by an average of 4 grades above expectations within six months.

I cover a broad range of topics and themes across multiple subjects and educational stages, tailored to the specific needs of each student. For primary and secondary levels, I teach core subjects including Arithmetic, English, Science, Geography, History, Religious Education, Spanish, and Computing. At GCSE and IGCSE levels, I cover subjects such as Maths, English Language and Literature, Combined and Triple Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Business Studies, Computer Science, Art and Design, Geography, History, Media Studies, Film Studies, Food Preparation and Nutrition, Religious Studies, Spanish, and Accounting.

For A-Level students, I provide tutoring in subjects including Film Studies, Health and Social Care, ICT and Information Technology, Journalism, Media Studies, Modern Languages (Spanish), Technology and Design, and Travel and Tourism. At the undergraduate level, I support academic writing, cinematics, media studies, research methods, and Spanish.

Regarding exam boards, I am familiar with major UK boards such as AQA, Edexcel, OCR, Cambridge IGCSE, and others, enabling me to tailor preparation to the specific syllabus and exam requirements. I also support students preparing for admissions tests such as 11+, 13+, SAT, and UCAS applications, along with TEFL exam preparation.

If there are specific papers or units you need support with, I can provide targeted lessons aligned with those assessments to ensure confidence and success.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is student-focused, flexible, and results-oriented. I understand that each learner is unique, so I tailor my teaching to suit individual goals, learning styles, and confidence levels. Whether students need help mastering core concepts, preparing for exams, or improving academic performance, I adapt my methods to best support their progress. I focus not only on exam success but also on building confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills. I hold a TEFL qualification, which complements my ability to support language learners effectively.

I incorporate a mix of interactive techniques, including technology-based tools, active questioning, step-by-step support and guided practice, and real-world applications to make learning both engaging and effective. I aim not just to improve grades, but to nurture curiosity, independent thinking, and a genuine love for learning. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I know how powerful encouragement and personalised teaching can be in helping students overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

Subjects