Magherafelt English Tutors and Magherafelt English Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a Headteacher of a successful local school with significant teaching expertise at KS1 and KS2. I am also a qualified SENCO and have vast experience in SEN. I set high standards for all my pupils and help them to achieve academic success. I am able to offer tuition in English, Maths and Science at both key stages and tuition for 11+ and common entrance examinations. I travel to you by negotiation. I can provide excellent references on request from past and present clients who have achieved and continue to achieve success in their studies at all levels. I enjoy seeing my pupils make rapid progress and achieving a high level of academic success.

Teaching Experience:
I specialise in English, Maths, SEN, Entrance Examinations at 7+ and 11+ and tuition for pupils who need to catch up, lack confidence and skills and need support to improve. I have vast experience teaching within excellent local schools and I am currently a Headteacher in a large local primary school. I teach children on a 1-2-1 basis to ensure that they receive the additional input that they need in order to achieve. I specialise in assisting children who lack confidence in specific areas and I am able to assist these children in improving their skill levels within their own school. I can provide excellent references on request from many happy pupils and parents.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a patient and understanding tutor with the ability to communicate effectively with both adults and children. My aim is to ensure that pupils develop additional skills and increased confidence in their studies. I make my lessons fun and enjoyable for pupils so that they are able to enjoy learning and are keen to attend my tutoring sessions. I keep parents updated on their children's progress on a regular basis and encourage children to share worries about specific subject areas so that we can explore them together.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Laura and I am 43 years old. I am originally from Birmingham but have lived in Worthing for over 15 years. I am an intelligent, creative person. I have an English Language and Literature BA from Oxford University. As well as being a tutor, I am a copy editor for UNICEF.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a patient, helpful and responsible individual who enjoys tutoring students and helping them build confidence in their ability to achieve.

Currently my only available slot is Friday 5.30-6.30.

Teaching Experience:
I have 20 years experience working within a school environment, dealing with both primary, secondary age range and adults. I possess a Master's Degree in English together with UK Qualified Teacher Status.

At the moment I work as a Lead Practitioner in a local secondary school in the London Borough of Bexley. I am also tutoring Functional Skills English and ESOL.

I have marked AQA and EDEXCEL GCSE Language papers for the past 5 years, therefore I have excellent understanding of how the marks are awarded for each question in both papers.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that a key feature of effective teaching is balancing the pupils' success against the level of difficulty required to challenge them. Furthermore, I think to teach effectively you need more than good subject knowledge, something that develops with time and experience - professional knowledge and personal style. In my opinion, a teacher should give all the possible help to pupils to gain knowledge and become useful members of the society. Acquiring knowledge in a supportive, fair, friendly and not tense atmosphere is very important. A teacher should be a role model to students, who helps individual pupils to grow and deals with them in an objective way. In my opinion a good relationship between a teacher and pupils helps to overcome the difficulties that may arise during the learning process.

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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.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have been studying Spanish, French and Italian for many years and have gained numerous qualifications. Living in several European countries has also enabled me to develop my language skills to the extent that I am now confident in my ability to teach these languages to others.

I am currently studying for a TEFL course to update my teaching skills.

Teaching Experience:
I am approaching the end of my first year of language tutoring and have enjoyed the experience. I look forward to continuing my tutoring through UK tutors as well as other bodies. I have had one or two lessons to teach and wish to gain more experience by doing more. My aim is to become a freelance tutor.

Tutoring Approach:
I would be interested in teaching TEFL Spanish, and French to either young children or adults. I make use of the latest technologies that will make it a pleasure for you to develop new language skills.

I will help you develop skills in listening, reading, speaking and writing as I think these have an important part in every day life in foreign languages.

I am flexible, approachable and patient and will tutor you to whichever level you need.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced teacher with good subject knowledge.
I like to adopt a deductive style teaching and go on to inductive in areas were a tutee has difficulty.
I am teaching in school so my tutoring times will be evenings, flexible weekends and holiday time.
My main subjects are English/Literarcy, History, RE/RS and some other Humanites.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience spans from primary to adults.
I have been a teacher / tutor for over ten years.
I am able to teach and communicate across the board.
I am able to pick up tutoring from its 'abc', meeting the tutee where they are and bringing them to a successful ending.
I can confidently say I have been tried and tested with the 2023 GCSE results.
My ability to break down complex information to simple understanding and employing comfortable vocabulary enhances the tutee's ability to engage properly.
I am able to manage challenging behaviour.
I have been teaching mixed ability children.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is to figure out challenging areas for the tutee and work on them. I strive to get them to overcome, be comfortable at them, and put the student ahead of their present topic.
Giving homework and marking to assess progress and achievement.
Using both verbal and interactive styles of learning example demos and ICT.

Subjects

Personal Description:
James is a freelance theatre director who trained at RADA and the Kings Head Theatre in London.

I have directed several theatre productions at drama schools, fringe and off-west end theatres. As an Associate Director, I have worked in the West End on numerous productions including The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe and the Olivier and Grammy-nominated Amelie The Musical. I have also worked at the Royal Shakespeare Company as an Assistant Director on their sell-out show A Christmas Carol starring Adrien Edmondson.

Teaching Experience:
In my early career I taught at Theatrix Performing Arts School and directed students through Trinity College London acting examinations as well as public performances. My students achieved a 100% pass rate with Merits or Distinctions in their performance examinations. Theatrix recently gained notoriety after alumni Ambika Mod starred in the hit Netflix television series One Day.

I have been a guest director at three drama schools including Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, Drama Studio London and Court Theatre Training Company.

Tutoring Approach:
I focus predominantly on text analysis when working with students on the practical and performance aspects of theatre. I use exercises, improvisations and games to engage them with the scenes they are working on.

I try to facilitate a students' personal creativity when working with them on theoretical theatre work; I encourage them to use their own ideas and opinions. It is my view that theatre is not objective, so allowing personal style is very important.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Learn English at your home or work.
Personalised lessons for individuals and small groups.
General English / English for work / Citizenship Test Preparation / Cambridge English Exam preparation

I am a qualified English teacher (English as a Second Language), teaching adults at all levels from beginner (A1 : Elementary) to advanced (C1).

If you have come to the UK to live, work or study, I provide private lessons for individuals and small groups to help improve your use of English according to your particular needs.

Teaching Experience:
I have 14 years full time teaching experience in General & Business English for adults in Brazil, Italy, Switzerland and the UK.

From 2005 to 2010 : Full time Teacher of General and Business English in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Individual and group lessons both privately and working with private language schools.

Language schools : Link Idiomas, Alt Idiomas, Bridge Lingua-Tec

From 2010 to June 2015 : Full time teacher of general and business English in Northern Italy and Switzerland.
Individual and group lessons with private language schools, companies and at University.

Language Schools : Linguapoint (Reggio Emilia) / Corsi di Lingue (Varese)
University : University of Parma : Teaching Business English for the Masters in Marketing Management (2011- 2013)

Principal Companies : Ermenegildo Zegna (Lugano, Switzerland),
IBSA Pharmaceuticals (Lugano, Switzerland),
Max Mara (Reggio Emilia, Italy),
Vodafone (Varese, Italy),
Carl Zeiss (Varese, Italy)

From September 2015 to Present : Teaching private English Lesson in the UK.

Tutoring Approach:
Real life communication is central to the lessons and I always aim to make lessons as interesting, useful and relevant to the individual student as possible.

Subjects

Personal Description:
***11+ Subject: Having successfully tutored my son 11 Plus exams for Tiffin School, I decided to teach other students in preparation for Grammar School/Independent Schools entrance exams and have great success since. I coach specific techniques, short cuts and tips which enable students to gain competitive advantages, to be "ahead of the games".

I cover 11+ VR, 11+ NVR, 11+ English and 11+ Maths subjects.

***11+ Verbal Reasoning (VR) is problem solving using vocabulary, language and mathematical skills. I coach students how to complete sequence, work out numerical codes, logical reasoning, mathematical reasoning, alphabet reasoning, word codes, patterns, anagram and coded sequences etc. My tuition helps developing students' word power, vocabulary range and reasoning skills.

***11+ Non Verbal Reasoning (NVR) is solving problems by patterns and shapes. I emphasize tackling questions on analogies, codes, similarities, series, components, patters, layering, movements, manipulations, odd one out, matrices, elements and logic etc. There are about 21 types of question set by GL Assessment, e.g. identifying or rotating the missing coded shapes etc. Strategies of ensuring students to master techniques thoroughly to a high level are implemented. My students will be able to "think on feet" and to solve problems in logic ways.


***11+ English: I prepare students for their Comprehension and Creative Writing skills, including story ideas, structure, dialogues, endings, character development, literary knowledge, vocabulary, sentence structure, spelling, grammar and punctuation.

***11+ Maths: Apart from training mental arithmetic and core maths skills, I ensure students not to get bored with numbers and formulas by introducing an element of fun into lessons, e.g. playing maths games, puzzles at the end of the session.


****Maths subjects(KS2, KS3, GCSE, A Level): Familiar with the National Curriculum, I stretch students' abilities and potentials. GCSE and A level Maths students have improved their grades and confidence following my tuition. I have proven records of raising Grade E to C, Grade D to B and Grade C to A Star.

****QTS Numeracy Skills Test: Focusing on practices of Mental Arithmetic and interpreting statistical information, I am experienced in helping candidates to pass their QTS Numeracy Skills Tests. My "Speed Methods" of calculation enable candidates to solve Mental Maths questions against limited time; "accuracy and speed" coming hand in hand. In addition, I teach Interpretation of Graphs and Data, helping candidates to identify trends and patterns; interpret statistical information; make comparison and draw conclusions when answering multi-stage questions.

I help students to make notes; look out for key phrases; draw on the graphs; identify students' common mistakes.

A basic "spoon feeding" style makes my tutees understand the techniques easily and quickly. They soon become competent and pass their QTS Numeracy Skills Tests easily after my effective coaching.




****Mandarin Chinese: HSK Exams. I am a native Mandarin Chinese speaker, very experienced in tutoring for children and adults at all levels whether it is for business, exams, travel or leisure. Familiar with the required syllabus and criteria, I'm efficient to prepare GCSE, IGCSE, IB, A Level and University Degree Chinese exams. HSK.YCT.

For the Pre-Modern Chinese Literature exam, translation, interpretation, comparison and comment on Chinese Classical Poems are taught, focusing on essay writing skills for Chinese History and Thought Exams.

I helped university student's Mandarin Grade from "Fail" to "2:1", tackling four areas of Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening skills improvement.

****A Level Sociology and Psychology: Lots of practices of exam style questions and exam techniques are the keys to gain that top mark. I aim to improve student's exam performances by going through examples and activities to develop their abilities of self-assessment or peer-assessment, thus focus on teaching essay writing skills in the format, styles used by major exam boards' Mark Schemes following the syllabus and specifications.

Students will be asked to practise past papers questions under timed condition. After weak areas are highlighted, a checklist of comments and marking will be provided.

I teach how to have most focused way to approach exam questions in order to gain maximum marks in a variety of ways:

-write balanced essays as close as to the "Model Answers".

- "read questions" (to understand what is exactly being asked), to select relevant materials, to plan and construct essays with a sharp opening, main content and closing paragraphs, using link sentences, attention on grammar and punctuation.

- using "key phrases/words" throughout an answer,link data item to the questions,giving more focused responses rather than a "knowledge list".

-develop students' abilities of evaluation, analysis, interpretation and application integrate knowledge and understanding with context and testing claims, leaving a "critical edged flavour" to the essays.

-provide alternative claims and refer them in the answer.

My teaching methods for A level Sociology and Psychology enable students to be active learners, not just sit and absorb knowledge passively. Students gained Grade A in their re-sits after my tuition defeating their original Grade D taught by their own school teachers.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching methods have enabled many pupils to successfully get into a variety of Grammar Schools (including Tiffin Girls, Langley. Slough Grammar etc). I am able to assist students in building their confidence, reaching their full potentials and stretching their abilities whilst maintaining high academic performances.

In addition, my teaching style is geared towards building problem solving skills, improving accuracy and speed, providing remedial work for those struggling as well as making study interesting and engaging.

Tutoring Approach:
Flexible approach to suit the students' needs, my methods include using past paper practice, taking direct questions from the student, explaining new topics, reviewing old concepts as well as teaching tricks and shortcuts.

If the distance is far, there will be a travel fee.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a 35 year Principal teacher living in Glasgow. I relocated from Blackpool 11 years ago! I have a degree in drama followed by a post graduate degree in primary education from Lancaster; as well as various sports coaching qualifications.

I am able to teach a variety of subjects and I have also taught maths up to national qualification levels.

I am GTC registered as well as PVG cleared to work with children and vulnerable adults.

Teaching Experience:
I am a primary school teacher but I also have experience of working with high school aged children, particularly in maths. Most of my experience comes in the 5-11 age bracket.

I have worked in both England and Scotland and I currently hold a post as a Principal Teacher within North Lanarkshire. I have a particularly good knowledge of phonics and helping children develop strategies to enhance their reading skills.

Tutoring Approach:
I have high expectations of children as I believe this then fills them with the confidence to push themselves to achieve. I enjoy working with children and like to teach rather than give worksheet after worksheet, I like to use a mix of interactive resources along with more traditional approaches. I am also willing to set and leave homework if that is required.

I enjoy working one to one with children and find it really rewarding seeing the progress children can make in this environment.

If you find that you are out of my tutoring radius you can still contact me and I will try my hardest to accomodate you.
My hourly rate includes travelling costs so there are no hidden charges, however if you are out of my usual radius of travel this can be discussed.

I am available any weeknight after school hours and have some weekend availability too. Sessions usually last an hour, with around 45-50 minutes quality tutoring time, allowing time at the start/end of session for feedback with parents.

If you have any questions please get in touch!

Subjects

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an engaging secondary school teacher of English and English Literature in the Cambridgeshire area. I achieve outstanding results by making the learning relevant and easy to understand for the student. I clearly have a passion for my subject and have secure differentiation skills. I go above and beyond for my students, building a successful rapport which aids the learning experience.

Teaching Experience:
I taught at Impington Village College for 8 years, at Ely College for two years and four years at Neale-Wade Academy, March. I was nomintaed for a local hero award for contributions to teaching in 2017. I have been nominated for the Cambridge University Teaching Awards 2024.

I have a degree from Kingston University, Surrey.

I completed my Graduate Teacher Placement with Cambridge University.

I have various other teaching-related qualifications through Cambridge University.

Tutoring Approach:
Simple and memorable approaches and techniques to understanding the exam papers/tasks. Building a good rapport with the student and giving them a personalised experience in order to make good progress.

Recapping and building on the progress made in the previous lesson. Giving the students confidence with spelling, grammar and punctuation. Using effective resources and setting further learning tasks when needed.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a married mother of 2 grown up children. I am passionate about education, I'm a school governor in my spare time!, but I also enjoy going to the gym and travelling.

Teaching Experience:
I am an ex primary school headteacher with 30 years experience in both the maintained and independent sectors. I am also a school governor and inspector so you can see I'm very interested in education!
I aim to make all my lessons fun and tailor them to the needs of the individual child whether they are working towards their 11+ examinations, SATs or just need that extra boost in their confidence; I have supported numerous children in all these situations.
I have also supported children with additional needs with particular experience in dyslexia, dyscalculia and ADHD.
I am fully insured and have an enhanced DBS certificate.

Tutoring Approach:
I listen to both the parents and the child and work with them to ensure that they enjoy the sessions and make progress every week. I incorporate games and practical work within my sessions. I work from my home where I have room completely set up for teaching with all my resources close at hand.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

Teaching Experience:
Personal statements

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

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

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

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

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

French
I teach French to A level and

I teach Classical Greek to GCSE.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
I have been teaching English for almost 8 years. Teaching is my passion. Other than that, I love getting to know new people as well as learning about new cultures. I love travelling and exploring new places. I care about environment and animals.I love interacting with people especially children. I love communicating with children. I like learning new things and gaining new experience. I try to improve myself and try to be the better version of myself constantly.

Teaching Experience:
I have been an English teacher for almost eight years. I have worked in a governmental secondary school in Turkey. But I also worked as a tutor in these years and I have provided tutoring for different range of ages like primary,secondary and also adults. I worked in private institutions as a teacher in Turkey as well. I have a bachelor degree in English Language Teaching from Dokuz Eylül University in Izmir, Turkey. I like meeting new people and learning about new cultures. That's why I did Erasmus Student Exchange programme and studied in Artevelde Hogeschool in Belgium. I like improving myself and gaining new experiences. For that reason, I joined several courses and seminars in Turkey such as Drama Techniques in Education, seminar of Special Education Services , seminar of Motivation: Young Learners and Adults.

Tutoring Approach:
Since I have worked with different levels of students with different backgrounds, I know how to adapt my teaching skills to my students' levels. One thing that I care about the most is to make sure that student can feel in a safe environment to learn. I try to build a healthy and positive relationship between us so that learning can happen. I care about student's level and for that reason, I convey skills assessment test to assess the student's level. I try to build a learning environment both my student can learn and have fun at the same time.

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Personal Description:
Spanish was the first language I learned after English, as my grandparents taught my sister and I from a young age. I was fascinated by foreign languages and wanted to learn more, which was how I ended up learning French and German. I took my Spanish and French GCSEs outside school, with help from my grandparents in order to be able to take all three of these languages up to that level.

I am now a third-year student of BA Finnish and Russian at University College London, and I completed A-Levels in French, German and Spanish.

Teaching Experience:
Tutoring began for me online, teaching English as a foreign language. My first tutee was a native Russian speaker, with whom I am still in contact. She now studies at university in English in the US, and has moved on to learn Spanish which I speak well and have continued to teach her via Skype.

In 2018 I had the opportunity to start tutoring a Spanish student alongside her weekly classroom lessons. Upon her recommendation, another member of her Spanish class approached me for her own tutoring and I suggested teaching the two of them together, something I thoroughly enjoyed and which gave me valuable experience working with two tutees at once.

Since March 2020 I have been tutoring regularly online and have built up a network of tutees of various subjects.

My other teaching experience includes a work experience placement in a secondary school in Germany during which I led classroom lessons of English and worked with SEN students. Alongside studying for my A-Levels I worked with younger Spanish students as a teaching assistant within my school.

Tutoring Approach:
What I find most important when it comes to keeping my students inspired is giving them the chance to apply the skills they are learning. It's easy to get bogged down learning grammatical concept after grammatical concept, lists of vocabulary and verb conjugations, but it's vital that we don't lose sight of why we started learning in the first place. With this in mind, I make sure we spend as much time speaking, writing about topics relevant to the student and consuming authentic written and audible media in the target language. The feeling of managing to express something meaningful to you or of understanding a line of a song you love in your target language is incredibly valuable but often overlooked.

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Personal Description:
I am a mother of a child who has dyslexia and I have always supported her overcoming her barriers to learning. We both love reading, getting outside and playing card and board games together.

Teaching Experience:
I have been working in education for almost 30 years. For over a decade, I have previously worked as a teaching assistant supporting individual children, adapting classroom learning to meet their specific needs, both academic and emotional.
I am now a qualified teacher working full time in a local school.

Tutoring Approach:
My passion about children's education has led me to develop a deep understanding of how children learn and how to support children along their learning journey. I believe in a holistic approach and suit my teaching to the needs of each child with adaptive and adjustable methods so that they can achieve to their best potential.

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