Manningtree English Tutors and Manningtree English Tuition

Personal Description:
I have a first degree in History and English and a masters in Art History. I have been teaching successfully in London and Norfolk for the past 30 years and can honestly say that I have never had a student fail, whether it be for an entrance exam or GCSE, 'A' level or even at University helping with a final dissertation. I am passionate about my subjects and believe that each student should be approached with tailor made lessons to achieve their desired goal. I have in many cases remained friends with many of the families of the students I have taught. It is a pleasure to work with young people who believe in their abilities to achieve in life.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught at further education colleges in and around London as well as private schools mainly in English and History for G.C.S.E. and 'A' Level students. I am also an Associate Lecturer for the Open University in the Humanities and have been doing so for 14 years. My main strengths are in private tutoring in which I have been engaged for the past 30 years around London and Norfolk.

Tutoring Approach:
In the case of coursework for GCSE or 'A' level I am happy to have students email their work for me to check over and then have a lesson in person or on-line. With regard to working towards examinations, I prefer to use the question papers as the basis for learning as generally each exam board has a preference for the way in which questions are answered especially in the subjects I teach. English and History especially are open to interpretation. I believe the need to read around the subject and offer a wider knowledge than is generally taught at schools or colleges is vital. Regular tuition is therefore preferable, so that all problems can be addressed over a period of time but I am flexible as to how many lessons are needed.I am also happy to teach on-line using Skype or similar if preferred, as I have been doing this over Covid and thereafter.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I am a tutor, conference interpreter, legal executive, martial artis/personal trainer and researcher with a second love in teaching!

I teach from primary to Masters level.

I am keeping my fees reasonable so that my services are accessible as broadly as possible, and would recommend that you only book a ONE hour event / tutorial initially please, and we are free to extend the arrangement after that, should we wish to.

Teaching Experience:
My experience is backed by professional qualifications in each field. I.e. Law, English and Arabic as well as Personal Training under the heading 'self defence' (calisthenics and boxing /martial arts exercises suitable for all ages and abilities).

I have taught both Arabic and English (native speaker) at various levels - up to university undergraduate level, at several London and UK-based schools as well as managing and directing an international language school in the Middle East.

I also tutor law, up to and including undergraduate level, this includes the foundation subjects: Equity and Trusts, Tort, European, Criminal, Public, Land and Contract as well as self defence/fitness.

The martial arts / fitness tuition stems over teaching in clubs and competing in regional and international (primarily Tae Kwon Do, boxing and submission grappling) competition.

Tutoring Approach:
To get to the core of the issues, wrestle it into submission, and master the principles!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a warm friendly, patient, understanding and highly motivated tutor. I have the ability to attend to all your learning needs. I am extremely resourceful and knowledgeable on the subjects I tutor in. I will work out the best way that you learn and teach to your learning strengths. Your success is my success!

Teaching Experience:
I have been a Primary School Teacher and a teacher of English as a Foreign Language for over twenty years. I have experience of teaching all levels of English from pre-school to Business Studies and University essay writing. I have also been a Primary School Teacher for fourteen years.

I have regularly coached students for the SATS tests, 11+, IELTS and some subject specific exams.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is to get to know you the person a little first. I like to establish what specifically you want from the tutoring sessions. When I have established your requirements I can then start to build a profile of your learning; what methods best work for you. Your success is my success.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am flexible and calm. I am always well prepared and very patient. I am punctual and try to make my classes fun whilst ensuring steady progress is being achieved.

I have learnt many teaching techniques over the past 22 years which allows me to adapt my style as per the clients requirements. As a result I have been able to maintain high standards.

In addition, I ensure key mistakes that are being made are noted and not repeated. I've found this has helped gained significantly more marks in the final exams.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored for 22 years and am vastly experienced. I teach across KS1 to GCSE's and entrance exams (11plus).

The subjects I focus on are maths, English and science ( biology, chemistry and physics).

Typically under my supervision my students achieve grade 7 or above for core subjects.

I'm confident I can help identify your weak areas too and help make significant improvements.

Tutoring Approach:
All my tuition lessons are tailored to students individual needs.

I carry out an initial assessment to gauge level of understanding and prepare exmaples tailored to their needs.

I focus on exam techniques to pick up as many marks as possible.

Under my guidance many of my students have improved from obtaining relatively low grades, (C/D) to A/B.

Happy to offer FREE 15 mins consultation.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced tutor that enjoys tutoring children and have made a difference to the lives of numerous students who were struggling before but under my guidance have achieved their full potential and excellent grades.
I am working full time in a London Borough of Ealing school at the moment.I am a very patient and a caring tutor
who can motivate and encourage the strengths of the learner.I tutor from the purpose built study at the back of my house where I have all the resources.I am CRB checked and can provide evidence of all my qualifications and references from previous students and parents about my tutoring skills.

Teaching Experience:
I have more than 20 years of teaching experience where I have worked with varied age ranges.I have also worked with special educational needs children.I have experience of the different exam boards so can give exam practice according to the mark schemes to get the best results.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is based on the individual's needs.I assess the pupil first and then cater the lesson accordingly based upon individual needs.The lesson progresses according to the pace of the learner.I differentiate and meet the needs of the pupil.I break the information up into easy steps for some or go straight to the next step for others depending on the student.I praise and motivate the pupil and enhance their confidence.
After teaching a certain topic I also provide a piece of homework to reinforce knowledge.There is continuous on going assessment so that I am aware which topics need more practice.

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:
My Profile:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an Italian national, living in the UK since the beginning of 2010.

I hold a BA (Hons) in Language Studies (Open University), with English and French (and a module of Spanish).

Apart from a brief teaching experience in the 90s, I have mostly worked in marketing.

Oh, yes, I also ran a restaurant for a few years (beginning of the 2000s), so I am quite knowledgeable about food, wines and stuff.

Currently, I am teaching English and Italian online, I have students from Russia, the UK, Portugal, Poland and Hungary.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught Italian in the past, at a language school in Budapest.

I also have attended to a 120 hour Advanced Online Course TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language), back in 2013.

In 2016, I have obtained a CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) from Cambridge Assessment English (University of Cambridge) after a course at International House Budapest.

Since then, I have taught English at the International House in Moscow, at Language Study Centres and Education First (EF) in Brighton.

I am currently teaching English and Italian online, working with International House Moscow (Russia), International House Torres Vedras (Portugal), Angol Intézet (Budapest, Hungary), as well as private students.

I have been doing since 2019, when I came back from Moscow where I have had been working as a teacher from 2016.

Tutoring Approach:
Communicative approach.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an enthusiastic, patient teacher, with a love of the English language, I teach English as a Foreign Language as well as English for exams. I have travelled extensively and have had a varied career.

Teaching Experience:
I taught around other jobs for over five years until I concentrated on teaching full time in 2014. I have taught all ages from 7 to 70 and lots of different nationalities including French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic and Indian. I teach all levels from beginner to advanced including business English. I have taught exam preparation for Kent test, GCSE language & literature, IELTS, TOIEC and Cambridge exams, amongst others.

Tutoring Approach:
Student led, I adapt to individual students using the most appropriate method. I begin with a test and needs assessment, identifying areas of focus ensuring lessons are specific and manageable. I cover all elements of the English language ensuring improved ability in all areas.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am currently a science teacher at a secondary school.

Teaching Experience:
I have 10 years of private tutoring experience and 5 years of teaching experience at secondary school level.

Tutoring Approach:
Teach the way students want to learn - not how teachers prefer to teach.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi! :)
I am a fully qualified, DBS checked amd s
Safe Guarding trained Primary school teacher with QTS. Experience of all year groups and abilities from SEN to Higher (nursery to year 6). Dedicated and experienced. Specialise in Maths and English.

Teaching Experience:
5 years full time teaching experience in all year groups- currently in Early Years as a Reception teacher.

Tutoring Approach:
Online tutoring through Zoom , Skype and Microsoft Teams

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.

*

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.'

*

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.'

*

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:
Hi! My name is Kathryn and I am a primary school teacher and mummy to two young children. I have been teaching for 9 years and my specialism is Early Years, although I have plenty of experience across the primary age range. I am hoping to do some online tutoring on the side of my day job. I am able to work evenings, weekends and occasional weekday hours. Looking forward to hearing from you and your little ones!

Teaching Experience:
I achieved a BEd in Primary Teaching with specialism of Early Years at Chester University in 2011 and achieved Qualified Teacher Status in 2012. I have always been in a permanent job role and worked my way up to become and Early Years Leader. I am currently teaching in Year 3 and have experience across Foundation Stage, KS1 and KS2.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to build up positive working relationships with children and their families and get to know the learning styles of individual children. I then deliver my tutoring in a way that meets the needs, abilities and interests of the children. This ensures we get the most out of the time we spend together in a session and enables children to work towards their full potential.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello! ¡Hola! Bonjour ! Hallo!

My name is Rochelle and I am a French, Spanish, German and English language tutor with seven years teaching experience. I have a BA (Hons) French and Spanish (1st) from Queen's University Belfast and a Master of Research degree (Distinction) in Arts and Humanities, focused on Spanish studies.

I teach French and Spanish to primary school, secondary school/GCSE and sixth-form students/A-level students and can provide support to university students on their language work. I offer German classes to primary school and secondary school/GCSE students, in addition to casual Spanish, French, and English (as a foreign language) classes to students of all ages.

Diligent and enthusiastic about my subjects, I was awarded the Queen's Scholarship Foundation for the highest academic achievement in French and Spanish within the year group in 2018. In 2021, I graduated with a distinction in French and Spanish oral and received the Xavier Giralt Prize and the Christopher Shorley Prize for exceptional academic performance in final year Spanish and for the highest mark in the core module of final year French respectively. Moreover, I was awarded the Bulletin of Spanish Studies Postgraduate Bursary as the student with the highest marks at undergraduate level to have been accepted for a master's in Spanish studies at Queen's.

Currently, I'm an ELA in the Universidad Surcolombiana, Neiva, Colombia. From September 2024, I will be taking a PGCE course in Modern Languages at the University of Oxford.

Teaching Experience:
I have a passion for modern languages and foreign cultures and have developed my knowledge of these during my travels. In 2019, I was a summer au-pair for a family in Auvergne. In July 2020, I studied French at the IEF, Montpellier for four weeks and was awarded a C1 certificate in the French language. I also worked as an English Language Assistant with students aged 3-18 in Asturias 2019-2020 and in Galicia 2022-2023.

From 2017-2018, I was a personal tutor at the Homework Clubs organisation which is run by Queen's. I helped young people with their languages homework and prepared them for their GCSEs and A-levels.

I also volunteered at the Barnardo's Saturday Club from 2014-2019 where I worked with young people from the age of 5 - 11 with learning difficulties, including ADHD and Autism.

I have been giving private tuition for seven years to students of all ages and am familiar with a variety of exam boards (Edexcel, AQA, CCEA, Cambridge International).

Tutoring Approach:
Everyone is different and so I make it my aim to get to know each student individually and adapt my teaching methods to their needs. I find out from every student what they need help with and what they want to achieve and then create a structured plan with them. I can assist with vocabulary and grammar, in addition to listening and reading comprehension, and speaking and writing/translation skills. Furthermore, I can help with homework as well as preparation for GCSE and A-level examinations and university language assignments.

I understand that language learning can be difficult and demotivating at times, so I use a variety of interactive methods to engage students, including music, videos and games. I have a laptop, tablet, printer and a wide range of academic resources which allow me to provide my students with all the materials they need to learn efficiently. For online students, I create them a personalised Drive folder online in order to share files.

I am patient, positive and perseverant and love to share my passion for languages with other people.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a television producer who is currently looking to build upon the work I have previously done in education. I enjoyed school and learning, but I realise that I was fortunate enough to experience an ideal set of circumstances (including good teaching) and that many people find studying difficult, challenging and/or unenjoyable.

I really love working with people to plug the gaps in their knowledge and/or formal education, and I take a person-centred approach to finding what's right for each particular individual. I believe that this style allows people to feel empowered, makes things "click" in a way that is natural to the individual, and ultimately allows that person to walk away with a feeling of satisfaction and confidence in their abilities.

As a TV producer, I have worked around the world with a multitude of different types of people, and I pride myself on the ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life. I am half Spanish, so have always had a knowledge of and been surrounded by the language. I am currently working on perfecting my fluency, so am working through the formal qualifications this year, currently operating at Pre-Advanced (B2). At this level, I am more than equipped to tutor in Spanish up to A Level.

Teaching Experience:
I trained in dance from the age of 3, and when I was about 13/14, started helping with the teaching of the younger children at the school. This was where I discovered my passion for helping others to learn. I took a huge amount of pleasure in helping people figure out a way to finally crack something they'd been finding difficult.

When I then went to uni, I spent my spare time working at Salford Young People's University to lead marketing and radio production workshops, amongst others. Upon leaving education, whilst trying to start my career as a television producer, I worked part time in a local high school as an administrative assistant, exam invigilator and cover support officer, covering classes when teachers were absent. Having obtained majority A grades at school myself, I found a great deal of joy working across all national curriculum subjects to help students complete their work and understand things that they were finding tricky.

Over the last decade, I have spent a great deal of time outside of my day job leading workshops in schools, universities and other teaching organisations to inform, educate and empower young people to pursue a career in television. I have also mentored upwards of 80 individuals, each time taking a person-centred approach to figure out what is right for that particular person. My mentees describe me as someone who is gentle, patient, knowledgeable and inspires confidence. There are testimonials from some of my former mentees. I understand the importance of finding the right tutor, and am happy to supply a full CV prior to commencing any tutoring.

Tutoring Approach:
I love working with people to plug the gaps in their knowledge and/or formal education, and I take a person-centred approach to finding what's right for each particular individual, i.e. I do not follow a set formula with every person. I believe that this style allows people to feel empowered, makes things "click" in a way that is natural to the individual, and ultimately allows that person to walk away with a feeling of satisfaction and confidence in their abilities.

Ideally, I'd have students bring homework they are struggling to complete so that we can work through it together, but if that is not an option, I am very happy to discuss the individual needs and then find appropriate resources. I am happy to work either online or in person.

Testimonial from Spanish tutee:
"I absolutely loved my Spanish lessons with Melody. She prepared bespoke pages for me which we worked through, and gave me little tips and tricks to remember things that helped to improve my Spanish tremendously. She also provided me with extra activities (like watching specific music videos on YouTube) to do outside lessons that further improved my Spanish."

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a profound tutor who provides personalized academic assistance and educational support to students to achieve their educational goals and obtain high-level success to achieve great academic excellence. Furthermore, I provide and actualize limited group instructions for those students who need tutoring lessons to address certain academic issues.
I work to ensure a clear understanding of various topics for my students by clarifying difficult topics, answering questions properly, and creating keys to principles. In addition, I foster approaching academic learning challenges with patience, understanding that every student has an exclusive pace and pattern of learning.

Teaching Experience:
Online, part-time tutor at Christ The King College, Enugu, Nigeria
subject thought: English and Religious Knowledge
2017-2021

Tutoring Approach:
As a tutor, I use a student-centered approach to tutoring, taking into account each person's exclusive learning style and history. Students may ask questions, make errors, and participate fully in their education in the safe and accepting learning atmosphere that I provide. I think that receiving individualised attention may help students reach their full academic potential and develop a lifetime love of studying.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Carla and I am originally from the UK. I previously lived in Hong Kong for 10 years, followed by the Netherlands for 8 years. I now live in Aberdeen, Scotland. I am married with a 13 year old daughter. I love to meet children and adults from around the world, as I can teach them English, but they also teach me about their interesting cultures. I am an accomplished tutor who specialises in tailor made lessons for children and adults.

Teaching Experience:
I am a qualified teacher with 16 years experience in international schools in the Netherlands and Hong Kong. I am a qualified EAL (English as an Additional Language) tutor. I specialise in teaching children and adults, and I am a native English speaker. I have helped students improve grades, support them in essay writing; assisted students in their journey starting and thriving through school; helped foreign students settle into their new life with the development of their English skills.

Tutoring Approach:
I am patient, creative, organised, reliable and professional and I build up an excellent rapport with my students. I create tailor made lessons catered towards the needs of the student. My lessons are fun, yet productive and I provide valuable feedback to the student or parent. I thrive on observing progress in a student. I have been teaching a number of students for over four years and I have witnessed them achieving excellent grades and results. I can teach online or in person within the Aberdeen area.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a friendly, patient, and highly motivated tutor with several years of experience supporting students across a range of abilities. I pride myself on being approachable and reliable, and I build strong rapport with students to help them feel confident and engaged in their learning. I am organised, adaptable, and genuinely passionate about helping students reach their full potential, both academically and personally.

I take a calm and encouraging approach, tailoring my support to each student's needs while maintaining high expectations. I am committed to creating a positive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and developing independence in their learning.

Teaching Experience:
I have over four years of tutoring experience across Maths, Sciences, and Business, supporting students at 11+, KS3, and GCSE level. I have delivered both in-person and remote tuition, with a strong focus on Maths.

Most recently, I provided remote GCSE Maths tutoring to students at the British School Chennai, where I delivered structured one-to-one lessons, created tailored revision materials, and supported students with exam preparation and confidence-building. Teaching in an international and online setting strengthened my ability to adapt my teaching style to different learning needs and maintain engagement remotely.

In addition, I have direct experience with the 11+ pathway, having passed the 11+ myself and studied at a grammar school. This gives me strong familiarity with 11+ Maths content, exam technique, and the level of discipline required to succeed. Across my tutoring experience, I have supported students of varying abilities, tracked progress over time, and adjusted lesson plans to ensure consistent improvement.

Overall, I have delivered several hundred hours of tuition and am confident teaching Maths at primary and secondary level, with a student-centred, structured, and supportive approach.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching approach is student-centred, structured, and supportive. I begin by understanding each student's current level, learning style, and goals, and I tailor lessons accordingly. I break down complex topics into clear, manageable steps and use examples and practice questions to reinforce understanding.

I focus on building both subject knowledge and confidence, encouraging students to ask questions and think critically rather than memorise methods. Lessons are interactive, with regular checks for understanding and targeted feedback to ensure steady progress. I adapt the pace and teaching style as needed and place strong emphasis on exam technique and problem-solving skills.

Above all, I aim to create a calm, encouraging environment where students feel comfortable making mistakes and developing independence in their learning.

Subjects