Penicuik English Tutors and Penicuik English Tuition

Personal Description:
I am an academic and scholar who holds both a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) and a MLitt (Master of Literature) from The University of Glasgow, and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) honours degree from The University of Paisley.

Since 2006, I have been a personal tutor in several subject areas including English, English Language, English Literature, Media Studies, Film Studies, Theatre Studies, and General Writing Skills. I have successfully taught a wide range of students off-line from pre-exam age (11+) to Standard Grade, Higher, and university level, and on-line for pre-exam level (12+), GCSE, AS level, A-Level, university level, postgraduate and the adult learners over this time.

I am the author of four academic books, several chapters in edited collections from the likes of Bloomsbury and Edinburgh University Press and scholarly journal articles. My first book 'Robert Taylor: Male Beauty, Masculinity and Stardom in Hollywood' was shortlisted for the Best Monograph of the Year at BAFTSS Awards 2020, and I have been invited as a guest speaker at events across both the UK and beyond, as well as on a range of radio stations, YouTube channels and podcasts. I was recently invited to present to a sold out audience at the BFI in Southbank, London and later to give a talk in the BFI Ruben Library. I have been requested as a guest lecturer and reader/reviewer for several monographs and journal articles, which have successfully been published. I am currently working on my fifth book and have some chapters in forthcoming edited collections.

Teaching Experience:
A well as being an experienced on-line and off-line personal tutor, I have also had several other academic jobs including:

Lecturer at Forth Valley College

Seminar tutor at The University of Glasgow

Graduate Teaching Assistant at The University of Glasgow

Top-Up Tutor at The University of Glasgow

Step Up to University Lecturer at University of West of Scotland

REACH Tutor at University of Glasgow

Proof Reader at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Note Taker at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Study Support Tutor at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Mentor at University of the West of Scotland

Transcriber at University of the West of Scotland

Exam Scribe at University of Glasgow and Scottish Rural University College

Exam Invigilator at Scottish Rural University College

Reader/Reviewer of academic journal articles and monographs, various publishers

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that learning should be fun and in a relaxed atmosphere but at the same time academic and useful. My approach to teaching is to have the tutor and student both feel that they are getting a lot out of the experience and that the time is being well used. I will break down subjects into easily manageable blocks and make sure that my student understands the unit before moving on. I also like to vary my tutorials by having some in the form of lectures, some in the form of question and answers, some where I will give students feedback on homework they have done and suggestions to improve what they have done, etc.

I also find that on-line tuition is the best method and students can ask questions that they may not ask if they were face-to-face with someone, it is a much more relaxed approach but students get a lot out of it (and can save all the notes from lessons for use later on).

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced and skilled Tutor of French, Russian and English as a foreign language. I have been tutoring continuously on a part time basis for 12 years, typically working with 5 or 6 students at any one time. I have spent several years living and working abroad, so this has given me quite an international outlook. At the same time, I am quite well-travelled within the UK and have a good understanding of English history, culture and customs. As a native speaker of English, I have an excellent grasp of the English language, particularly in terms of grammar, spelling and pronunciation.

I am fair-minded, accepting of the needs of others, multi-culturally sensitive and take genuine pride in the quality of my work and going the extra mile wherever possible.

Teaching Experience:
I possess the PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) and am qualified to teach in Secondary Schools in the United Kingdom. I have four years experience of teaching English as a Foreign Language, and have taught the English as a Foreign Language curriculum at all levels, from elementary to advanced. I have taught a wide range of groups of both children, from the age of 11 upwards, and adults. I am particularly strong in teaching Business English to non-native speakers - I have redesigned and delivered an Advanced Level Business English Course for Masters Degree level students, I have worked with many private students of Business English on their premises, and have also successfully prepared students for the London Chamber of Commerce Exams in Business Communication.

I am very comfortable tutoring French up to A-Level Standard. I have myself lived in France for three years and have been educated in the French Education System up to Masters Degree level. I therefore have a very strong grasp of French language and culture which I love to share. I also actively use my French skills in my everyday employment,and am well used to interacting with French native speakers on a daily basis.

I am educated in Russian up to Bachelor's Degree level and have a similarly broad experience of practising and communicating in the Russian language, having spent five years living and working in Russian speaking countries. I am comfortable tutoring Russian up to A-Level Standard and have a lot of experience working with beginner level students learning Russian for the first time.

I have also delivered private lessons in order to prepare students for Private School entrance. I typically work with students on GCSE or A-Level preparation and have an excellent track record in delivering strong results in these areas. I have worked with family groups who were all keen to learn a foreign language together, as well as those seeking to learn for professional or business reasons, and both modes of tuition have also proved to be very rewarding for me. I prefer to build stable medium term teaching relationships, and retained one student for over 5 years, even if this meant my arriving dutifully every Saturday morning for our 9am class!

Tutoring Approach:
In a word: flexibility. I make every effort to really take on board and respond to the wishes of my clients. I am clear and proactive in communication regarding expectations and always seek to ensure mutual agreement with my students and parents as to setting realistic targets and the most appropriate learning strategies for their needs.

I am a great believer that learning should be fun and always seek to make my classes varied, challenging and stimulating, drawing upon as wide a range of learning skills and strategies as possible.

I have an excellent grasp of both spoken and written English, and am a strong believer in developing confidence in these areas through regular practice, setting realistic targets and offering plenty of praise and encouragement.

I prefer to work with individuals or smaller groups in a relaxed, purposeful atmosphere where there is plenty of tutor input or explanation as required, but also where students are given every opportunity to practise and develop newly acquired skills.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am 45 years old and hold a Masters degree from Oxford University. I work full time as a tutor, now offering lessons online and face-to-face.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring on a one-to-one basis for over 20 years. I also sometimes teach small classes. I am happy teaching children, teenagers, university students and adult learners.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching uses traditional methods and lively interaction. I expect the student to complete tasks between lessons. Without repetition and revision no-one can be expected to remember. Therefore, I am not afraid to go over the most basic elements until they are well known. Solid foundations are the basis for confidence.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am 37 years of age and have a first degree in Education.My specialist subjects are Mathematics and Geography and I am able to offer tuition in groups or on individual basis up to A level . I have also worked with students of varied age groups and have an in depth knowledge of the student curriculum at all levels.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring Mathematics to primary, secondary and A level students for the past 4years both in schools, as a supply teacher and to private tutees. Recently I have been working as a supply teacher of Mathematics and Geography in secondary schools and as a tutor in a private tuition centre. I can assist your child with their SATs (for year 6 pupils),GCSE (all exam boards) and A-level (Edexcel, AQA ,OCR and Cambridge ). For any questions please be in touch.

Tutoring Approach:
I always tailor my teaching to the individual and through my patient and positive attitude I always get the best out of my students. I also believe students learn best in a more positive,fun and friendly environment.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced teacher, with subject specialisms in both Literacy & Numeracy. I have over 12 years experience of working in educational settings from Secondary to Higher Education. I have a PGCE teaching qualification with Qualified Teaching & Learning Status, a BA Hons degree in Social Science and a Master's degree in Multimedia & E-learning. I am a strong advocate of Lifelong Learning with a commitment to delivering high standards of teaching.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 12 years experience of teaching Literacy/English, Study Skills including research skills & academic writing skills for undergraduates and access students; Reading and Writing Skills for all ages and levels of ability, GCSE & Functional Maths and Sociology for both GCSE & A'Level. I have taught at a variety of educational establishments including York College & York St John University, as well as private training companies and individual tutoring.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a calm, patient and friendly approach to teaching and believe in the importance of individual learning styles and approaches. I am able to apply an adaptable approach to teaching, which enables learners to remain motivated whilst working towards success in their goals.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have a passion for creative writing and literature, and have taught ESL, Business, and General English along with English for Academic Purposes, IELTS and Cambridge exam preparation. I also teach focused reading, writing, listening and speaking communication skills classes, as well as pronunciation and creative writing classes. I teach GCSE and A Level English Language and English Literature and can plan focused lessons in particular areas which need closer guidance. I am also an AQA GCSE/A Level English Language/Lit examiner.

I teach all ages, from 3 years old to adult. Over the past 10 years, I am proud to say my students have gained excellent results in their A Levels, GCSEs, IELTS, Cambridge and Trinity examinations.

My passion for teaching and world culture has taken me around the world and so I am experienced in teaching English to children and adults from a multitude of backgrounds and faiths. I have also supported and taught English to refugees from across the globe.

Prior to teaching, I spent 7 years working as a Practice Manager for a well-known town planning consultancy. I have recently acquired a publisher and my first novel will be published in early 2026.

Teaching Experience:
I am a First Class (1:1) BA (HONS) Creative Writing graduate (Birkbeck, University of London). I graduated the MA in Creative Writing at Goldsmith's, University of London with Distinction. My portfolio was longlisted for the Pat Kavanagh Prize, awarded each year for an outstanding piece of work from the Goldsmiths MA in Creative Writing programme.

I am also a Cambridge-qualified English language teacher with a pass 'B' CELTA (on average, only 23.56% of over 10,000 candidates worldwide receive this pass 'B' every year) and have over 10 years' experience. I have taught KS3/KS4 GCSE English for seven years.

I have taught ESL and English Literature all over the world including Ecuador in south America, China, Italy and Holland. My last permanent role was as EAL Lead and Teacher of English to KS3 and KS4 at Harris Invictus, Croydon ("Outstanding" Ofsted rating), and prior to that, I was at an all-boys Catholic school (the 12th best state school in the country) in Purley. I teach all examination boards including OCR, AQA, Edexcel and Cambridge. I have worked in many schools London-wide, in East and West Sussex, and have excellent pupil management skills. I am firm and fair but also fun, and my students never seem to forget me (nor I, them!).

In terms of ESL, I have taught in many schools worldwide, and significantly, I designed and coordinated the English programme at The British School in Quito, Ecuador. I also taught Business and Academic English to the executives of multinational companies in China. Between 2012 and 2018, I taught summer classes for the UK's no1 ESL school, Wimbledon School of English.

Tutoring Approach:
It is important to get to know and understand my students' needs, strengths and weaknesses; why they need extra tuition and what their timeline or deadline or objective is, if any; I will then tailor the lessons to suit. I actively encourage my students to immerse themselves in language in all its' forms. Learning doesn't stop when the lesson stops. I set homework relative to each students' needs and set learning objectives accordingly. By working together, we can ensure that learning aims become positive and successful achievements!

My classes and lessons are interactive and I try to use realia and real life situations to model language and grammar. I use contemporary and classic fiction and a range of non-fiction texts. I also use lots of visual activities and promote literacy and good computer and handwriting skills too. I believe that whilst it is important to pass exams, learning experiences should also have a good dose of fun, at all ages!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am Brazilian and I've been living in the UK for about 25 years.
I have a passion for languages and can speak Italian, French, English and Portuguese.
Although I come from Brazil many of my students want to go to Portugal and I am prepared to teach European Portuguese as well as Brazilian Portuguese.
I'm also a qualified DPSI (law) Interpreter and currently, I am running an English course for international students.

Teaching Experience:
I've been teaching Portuguese for about 18 years in the UK. I've taught in different Adult Education Centres and now I have private groups and private students. I also have experience in Corporate teaching in the UK.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching is more focused in speaking. I do lots of exercises to make the student speak from lesson 1 and they do!
I use pictures, resources from the internet, white board and lots of repetition.
I have been doing it for many years and many of my students are fluent speakers.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have an LLB in English and a diplome in French law. I have worked in 2 different Swiss banks as a lawyer, in Geneva and in London before starting a family. I currently work as a French and Spanish teacher at a local private school in Esher and I also teach French, Italian and Portuguese to adults and children in their homes. For the last 8 years I have helped children of all ages improve their maths and english work.
I speak 5 languages; English, French, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese.

I have an Italian father and a Brasilian mother who has lived in France for more then 20 years.

Seeing my nephews and own kids grow up with 2 different languages has given me the opportunity to help them with their english and with any other subject they have fallen behind in due to the language barrier.

Teaching Experience:
I have key stages 1,2 and 3 teaching experience in all subjects.

I currently teach French and Spanish at a local private school in Esher and I also tutor English, maths, French and Portuguese to adults and children in their homes. I have been tutoring for 10 years now.

Being multilingual and raising bilingual kids, I feel it is important to teach children from an early age the basics in maths and english in a fun and structured way either in their mother tongue language or in english, depending on the preference of the parents.

Tutoring Approach:
I like teaching younger children in a fun and structured way, so I use a variety of props, music, colourful stories and scenarios, all this to keep them interested and entertained.

Older children and adults I teach in a structured and varied way where my aim is for them to learn and absorb the passion I have for the subject. Each have their own lesson plan and I check their development through quizzes and tests.

Subjects

Personal Description:
As a child, I learned by being told, by beatings, shaming and a strict examination system. As you can imagine I didn't learn much that I could later apply to my academic life. As a result, I became an inveterate learner, always interested in learning the next thing. At one point, the drive to learn was because I didn't see myself as being good enough. Later on, that drive became an interest in discovering my own abilities as well as about helping others. I have now learned so much about how not to teach that I have gained good insight into how learning happens. I am keen to ensure all my learners learn how to learn and understand how to apply what they discover.

Teaching Experience:
My background is in teaching, training and facilitation. I have over 25 years experience of teaching in different forms having worked within primary, secondary and further education settings. I am an NVQ / TAQA assessor and trained and assessed Parenting Practitioners and other candidates up to Level 5 in Health & Social Care. I have specialist skills in Personal Effectiveness subjects such as Report Writing, Speed Reading, Presentation Skills.

Tutoring Approach:
Being a private tutor used to be the preserve of only those with the highest qualifications and the greatest experience. Now all that's changed.

However good a tutor is, the learner needs to be astute in order know if the tutor is a good match for her / him. Importantly, making the right choice can be complex.
Here are three tips to help you decide if I am or someone else is right for you. The following tips describe how I teach and how I will enable you to be an independent learner.

1. Look for a tutor who can teach you how to learn
Here's a funny thing… learners study a subject, sometimes for months and years and can come away with no long-term memory of the underpinning principles of the subject. As disturbing, they have no ongoing understanding of the subject. They are unable to apply what they tried to learn. This is easily resolved by clearing up past issues with learning. In Applied Scholastics it is now well known that if as a learner, you are helped to do so, you can learn any subject. This is central to how I teach.

2. Look for tutors who understand the main barriers to learning and can help you overcome them
There are three main barriers to study. They relate to confusion over an idea, missing out critical steps and having unclear ideas about the subject under study. Gaining a day to day facility with overcoming those barriers is key to effective and efficient study. I use these methods to help my own reading and study. I will introduce them to you so that you can use them too.

3. Look for tutors who can help you find the information you need so that you keep expanding your own understanding of the subject

Sometimes, a learner during a course of study will find that s/he wants to give up. Have you ever experienced this? Whenever that happens it is because there is something - an idea, a symbol, a form of punctuation, the use of a word, or something else - that you did not understand. Without the proper factual information on this and without the correct knowledge of why and how this happens, the learner will struggle. Without knowing what remedies to apply, the learner will give up.

When you study, you are investing time and energy. In this case, money too. If you want to discover more about how you learn, what your barriers to study are and how to understand more, you will benefit from being an independent learner. That will repay your investment.

Those three critical points should help you decide if I could be right for you. They briefly describe the way in which I would work with you and enable you to be an independent learner.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have worked in the educational sector both in the UK and overseas. I teach children of primary and secondary school age in both mainstream and special schools. I teach Mathematics, English and Science.

I use the Teacch, Pecs and Makaton to teach individuals whom I support as a small group and on one to one. I recently completed a Makaton training for professionals.

I am conversant with the educational curriculum.

I do have good communication skills, strong interpersonal skills and have the ability to motivate children to achieve their highest potential.

My passion about helping children of all ages and abilities to learn have always added value because, I aim to satisfy the academic needs of each child.

I am the owner and manager of a new business that allows children of primary and secondary school age the opportunity to enjoy the facilities of supplementary educational services. Aimed at distinctively making a difference by developing a child's academic potential that will help him or her make that connection with the real world.

Receiving tuition at the centre cost £20.00 per hour but if I have to travel to pupil`s home, tuition cost is £35.00 per hour.

Contact me and discover how to invest in your child's future.

Teaching Experience:
I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. This qualification has given me a general overview of how to identify misconceptions children have in learning the concepts and, methods to devise different ways to deal with it. Also, employing different ways of representing the same knowledge because, there are more than one way in the teaching and learning experience.

In addition, I have a Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Studies in Education (Inclusion and Special Education Needs). With this qualification, I am well equipped to devise, implement and evaluate systems for identifying, assessing and reviewing students' special education needs. I ensure children have conceptual knowledge which will help them make progress.

Also, I do have a Master degree in Special Education Needs. This has further foster my understanding of children with specific learning needs and how to ensure that their learning objectives are met.

Thus, my university and work experience have created in me an enthusiasm to develop an environment for learning, that would make a huge impact in the lives of all children by using my skills and experiences to help them develop to their full potential for learning.

Tutoring Approach:
I employ personalised teaching technique that is tailored to meet the need of the individual child.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello, my name is Robert. Learning and teaching in some form has always been part of my life; my personal motto is "Never stop asking questions....". I am a dad of two lively children (10 & 7), a primary teacher and a private tutor. I have a can-do approach to life and am never happier than when I am busy with my work or with my family. I play classical guitar, always have at least one book on the go, and love to walk in the countryside whenever our busy lives permit.

Teaching Experience:
I have 12 years' experience as a teacher, the first years spent gaining experience, the later years in positions of responsibility culminating in being appointed Head of Science responsible for delivering the whole of the curriculum to years 7 to 13. I taught Combined Science up to age 14, Physics and Chemistry to GCSE and Physics and Geology A' levels. In addition to my classroom experience I have a TEFL qualification which I put to good use while I was living and working in France for 12 years tutoring French people on a 1:1 basis. I taught both children and adults to learn English in the spoken and written word. Since returning to the UK just over a year ago, I have been working as a supply teacher in local primary schools delivering the complete curriculum, and I have started my own tutoring business and have a number of students whom I see after school for Maths and/or English tuition.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe the greatest benefit of 1:1 tutoring (or tutoring small groups), is that it is so much easier to tailor the learning to the student's needs, aiding understanding and building on that towards mastery of a subject. Progress is often swift because as has been so often stated, 1:1 tuition for an hour is probably the equivalent of several days in the classroom! My initial approach is to assess the student's needs in the first couple of sessions, using the information gleaned to build a program of study that is particular to that student. With regards to TEFL, having lived abroad for 12 years I appreciate just how difficult it can be as an adult to learn a foreign language, so I have great empathy with my adult learners and love helping them get to grips with our complex language.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have wide and successful teaching experience, high expectations of myself and of all my students and a deep love of language, stories and teaching. I have kept up to date with educational research and can therefore offer the best evidence-informed practice to make a real difference to the children I teach. I believe passionately in the power of reading for pleasure as a lever for improving academic success and have converted hundreds of children into confident, independent readers.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught for over 20 years, in state and independent schools and in every year group from Year 1 to Year 13. I have also tutored children 1:1 and in small groups to prepare them for 11+ exams, senior school scholarship exams and to help them keep up if they are falling behind. I have even assisted university students with their dissertations. I am therefore as confident with students of A level Greek as I am helping young children who are struggling with phonics. My students have a track record of success in exams but also learn to love learning.

Tutoring Approach:
Experience has taught me how to adapt teaching to a student's individual needs, experiences and interests. Tutoring is powerful because it is tailored, so I offer personalised lessons which will support, engage, encourage and challenge my students. For English, I generally write my own tuition resources which are adapted specifically to suit the needs of an individual child. For 11+ preparation, I use some published resources to assess where children's strengths and weaknesses lie but then provide my own materials for teaching. For Latin or Greek, I would use courses to structure language learning but, again, supplement this with my own materials.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

Teaching Experience:
Personal statements

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

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

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

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

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

French
I teach French to A level and

I teach Classical Greek to GCSE.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a friendly, creative and dedicated tutor, whose key area of focus is English Literature A-level (Edexcel; AQA), English GCSE (AQA; Edexcel; OCR; Eduqas) and English IGCSE (Edexcel) tuition. I have a strong track record in helping students achieve their hoped-for grades (up to 9/ A*).

I aim to support students in their exam preparation and technique, understanding and analysis of texts, essay writing (A-level) and coursework (A-level).

Teaching Experience:
I have worked in education, in both mainstream and SEN settings, for six years; I have a BA HONS. 2.1 in English and European Literature (University of Warwick).

Recently taught A-level drama, prose and poetry texts include: Othello, A Midsummer Night`s Dream, Twelfth Night, A Streetcar Named Desire, Doctor Faustus, A Doll`s House, Frankenstein, Wuthering Heights, Mrs Dalloway, Hard Times, The Handmaid`s Tale, Never Let Me Go, Atonement, The Great Gatsby, Skirrid Hill, The World`s Wife, the poetry of John Donne, John Keats and Chaucer, as well as Romantic Poetry, the Edexcel Poems of the Decade anthology and the AQA pre-1900 anthology. I am able to support students in their analysis of unseen prose and poetry.

I have experience teaching GCSE Language reading and writing across the main exam boards. GCSE Literature texts have included (but have not been limited to): Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, The Merchant of Venice, An Inspector Calls, Blood Brothers, Lord of the Flies, A Christmas Carol, Jekyll and Hyde and Jane Eyre, as well as board-specific poetry anthologies.

Tutoring Approach:
I take a pupil-centred approach to tutoring, consistently tailoring my teaching to the requirements of each, individual student.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I am Ana, the founder of a company. It was created from my own passion for languages and entrepreneurship. I am here to help you to learn Portuguese in line with your desired pace and previous experience of learning languages.

Teaching Experience:
I have attended João de Deus University in Lisbon and I also hold a QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) recognised by the National College for Teaching and Leadership UK. João de Deus was a poet and pedagogue whose teaching methods I have adopted in my practice. I work as an Examiner for UK examination boards: Cambridge Assessment International Education & Pearson Edexcel UK.

Tutoring Approach:
I am here to expand your language skills, help you to speak confidently and to achieve your true potential. Positive minds, positive vibes! Learning a language does take time, so be patient and have fun!

Subjects

Personal Description:
Outside of tutoring, I enjoy photography, baking, wildlife gardening, health and fitness, including swimming and woodland walks, as well as spending time with family and friends.

I'm very proud of my daughter and three young grandchildren who also share my interests in photography, forest adventures and baking!

Since becoming a vegan, I have enjoyed creating a wide range of delicious meals which are also enjoyed by family and friends!

I am also passionate about wildlife conservation and have initiated campaigns in my local area to conserve areas of habitat for wildlife. For example, two years ago, I collaborated with local schools and councillors to stop the felling of 43 healthy trees at a historic green space in the town centre.

Teaching Experience:
I am a PGCE qualified teacher in Primary Education, specialising in Special Educational Needs, with 15 years of school teaching experience.

I chose to reduce my hours as a school teacher five years ago so that I could focus my attention on my tutoring business full time.

My main areas of expertise are English and Maths, where I can quickly diagnose a student's tuition needs and plan personalised lessons to help them to reach their learning targets.

I have taught many students with a wide range of learning needs, including learning difficulties such as dyslexia. For example, I recently tutored a boy with moderate dyslexia who was in Year 6. During this time, his confidence in his abilities in English increased significantly to such an extent that his grade increased from below to the above expected levels in Year 9.

I embrace all opportunities to keep up to date with developments in the National Curriculum by continued research in the public domain as well as attending training webinars and conferences

Since becoming a Private Tutor 20 years ago, I have helped over 1000 students to increase and exceed their grades in Maths and English Lanuage and Literature, sometimes by up to three grades.

I have also successfully coached adult learners for Functional English and Maths tests from Level 1 to Level 3, as well as students who speak English as a second language, for GCSE and IGCSE English and Maths exams.

Additionally, I tutor students in entrance test preparation skills for the 8, 11 and 13 plus exams.

I am always extremely proud of them when they exceed their predicted grades in their exams and gain entry into their chosen independent school.

Here are some recent reviews:

`Thank you Tina for helping me to take a long way in a very short time. My English was grade 2 at the beginning of the year 11. With the support from Tina, I have achieved grade 5 in both English Language and Literature. Thank you so much.`

`Tina`s teaching style allowed me to learn at my own pace and she always had a clear plan for each lesson.`

`She is patient and thought provoking, encouraging her students to `learn to learn`, rather than reproducing someone else`s ideas.`

"My daughter`s confidence in English has dramatically improved in both herself and in the classroom, thanks to Tina."

Tutoring Approach:
I would describe myself as a friendly and inspiring tutor who works with students in a calm and encouraging way.

I have been fortunate to teach in a variety of learning contexts, including nurseries, primary schools, secondary schools and colleges, which has enhanced my ability to adapt my expertise to a wide range of differing tuition needs.

I believe that by engaging with each student on a cognitive level, I am able to establish a positive rapport with them.

It is very rewardingl when I see a 'light bulb' moment happen when a student seems to glow from feeling a renewed sense of understanding and achievement.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Lessons will take place in Twickenham in a bright and airy room with a café area for parents to wait comfortably, right in the heart of Twickenham with parking nearby.

I am a dedicated primary maths and English tutor who believes every child can succeed. I create a calm, supportive, and joyful learning environment, making lessons fun, creative, and engaging while building strong foundations, boosting confidence, and inspiring a lifelong love of learning.

Teaching Experience:
My journey in education began overseas, teaching English to children and young adults in Thailand and New Zealand. That experience inspired me to train as a primary teacher, combining my love of working with children with my passion for helping them grow into confident, capable learners. Since then, I've taught in both state and independent primary schools across New Zealand and London, led the maths department at a leading London prep school, and taken on leadership roles that have deepened my understanding of how children learn best.

For me, great teaching is about more than just covering the curriculum. It's about knowing each child, recognising their strengths, and giving them the tools to overcome challenges. I believe that when children feel safe to take risks, proud of their progress, and inspired to explore, they can discover abilities and potential they never knew they had. That's why my sessions focus on building strong foundations, boosting confidence, and developing independent learning skills, while fostering a joy of learning that will carry children through life.

Every session is an opportunity for children to explore, grow, and be challenged in a way that feels exciting and achievable. Seeing the children embrace new concepts, solve problems with creativity, and leave with a sense of accomplishment is what makes learning so inspiring.

Tutoring Approach:
Our approach is built around three guiding pillars:

*Curiosity* - sparking wonder and a love of discovery.
*Confidence* - building self-belief and the courage to take responsible risks and tackle challenges.
*Joy* - celebrating progress and making learning fun.

With extensive experience teaching across the UK curriculum in both state and independent schools, I have led the maths department at a top London prep school and held various leadership roles that have shaped my approach to education. I am experienced in preparing children for 7+, 8+, and 11+ examinations, ensuring they not only master the required content but also develop the confidence and mindset to succeed.

Maths:
My maths programme blends Singapore Maths mastery with White Rose Maths resources, fully aligned with the UK National Curriculum. Children develop number fluency, reasoning skills, and a love of problem-solving.

Each 1-hour lesson follows the CPA approach (Concrete → Pictorial → Abstract), helping children understand concepts through hands-on manipulatives, visual representations, and written methods.

Times Tables: Dedicated practice with a clear progression from basic doubles to all tables 1-12, including fun games and short tests to track progress and celebrate achievements.

English:
My English programme helps children become confident, creative communicators.

Reading: We use the VIPERS framework to strengthen comprehension through Vocabulary, Inference, Prediction, Explanation, Retrieval, and Summarising.

Writing: We guide children through creative and descriptive writing, helping them plan, draft, and refine their work, with supportive tools such as word banks, sentence starters, and prompts to spark ideas and build confidence.

Handwriting & Spelling: Ten minutes of cursive practice plus spelling tailored to year groups (Years 1-2 phonics-based; Years 3-6 statutory lists).

Grammar: Engaging, nature-inspired activities from The Natural Curriculum, linking learning to wildlife and the environment.

My teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every child deserves a calm, supportive environment where learning is a joy. I combine strong subject knowledge with creative, engaging lessons that make even the most challenging topics feel approachable and enjoyable. My aim is always to build solid foundations in maths and English while nurturing essential lifelong skills such as problem-solving, resilience, and curiosity.

Over the years, I've seen children flourish when they feel believed in, inspired, and challenged in the right way.

Each child follows their own bespoke learning plan as part of a small group and works at a level and pace that is appropriate for them. The student to tutor ratio is a maximum of 5:1.

We're excited to offer free trials so you can experience how we can support your child.

Subjects