Presteigne English Tutors and Presteigne English Tuition

Personal Description:
For over a decade now I have worked with a diverse range of students, engendering a passion for learning as well as producing tangible results. I prefer a flexible and dynamic approach crafted from an understanding that we are each upon a unique learning pathway according to our particular styles, aspirations, aptitudes and needs.

"Thank you very much for the great work you did with my daughter Sophie. She progressed from a 'C' grade to an 'A' grade in the space of 6 months and I would have no hesitation in recommending you to friends." - Billy, Bangor

Teaching Experience:
"The learning exercises were always set around my interest areas, making tuition both fun and effective. Following my sessions with Andrew, I have developed a more concise way of communicating. My writing now has more flow, which helps me say what I need to say." - Neil , Newtownabbey

I'm passionate about nurturing the potential of each student with whom I have the privilege to work. With over 8 years experience as a Learning Coach with countless individuals and groups, Diploma in Life Coaching as well as a successful university graduate (1st class hons in Philosophy) and additional Masters research degree in Developmental Psychology, I previously taught at Secondary school and most recently trained nursing professionals to pass their IELTS exams.

I am also a regular public speaker and workshop leader in the private health sector, delivering courses in areas from stress-management and communication skills, to self-care and personal development.

Tutoring Approach:
"Andrew was very professional in his approach to tutoring. My daughter gained confidence in her ability to understand her subject and to recall information using association techniques which proved very useful in her examinations."
Grainne, Randalstown

This coaching-based approach I take has proven highly successful. I approach each student and the sessions with an open mind to learn what I need to be of support.

Combining motivational coaching techniques, I offer a uniquely engaging, personally attuned service. The first lesson typically consists of a complimentary educational assessment (usually 30 minutes) to help identify key areas for improvement . All results can be shared with the parent/guardian. Based on this initial assessment, a 100% individual and tailored programme of learning is created. While encouraging the student to adopt high yet realistically achievable targets for their own education, I am also sensitive to the level of each student and what he or she is ready to adopt.

3 EXAMPLES OF HOW I HELP FOR LITERATURE-BASED TASKS:

1. Working from the question to the answer: appreciating and understanding key requirements of a question, and any relevant marking criteria.

2. How best to structure and qualify sentences so that the answer is complete and accurate.

3. Most effective study / revision / exam techniques such as mind-mapping, worked answers, memorising.


AREAS COVERED / WHAT TO EXPECT

My specialist subjects at all most levels are literature-based and the human sciences particularly philosophy, religion and ethics. Alongside these, I also specialise in 'study skills', offering a very personalised, tailored approach that incorporates motivational coaching on exam and essay skills, ensuring maximum value for investment of your time, money and effort.

**Upon request I am also able to provide emotional literacy around life skills such as: motivation, communication, self belief and concentration.

"I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for tutoring Philip this year; he adapted well with you as his new tutor and enjoyed your approach to teaching.
"I would have no hesitation in recommending Andrew as a tutor. I found him to be polite, courteous, reliable, and accommodating."
- Doreen, Ballyclare

Subjects

Personal Description:
I always like to have a friendly relationship with my tutees, although I try to employ a professional manner at all times. I have an easygoing and pleasant demeanour, a nice sense of humour, and generally get on well with my tutees.

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced teacher with a PGCE, who has taught privately one to one for a number of years. I have primarily taught English on a one to one basis for tutees who are preparing for their GCSE and "A" level examinations, but I am also experienced in helping tutees improve their literacy skills from a young age. I also have experience of teaching English as a Foreign language on a one to one basis. I have taught in a number of language schools over the years, and at one point started a language school in southern Italy. I have considerable experience teaching English up to "A" level standard in secondary education, and I have over fifteen years experience to draw upon.

Tutoring Approach:
One to one teaching, by its nature, is very intense, so it is very important to introduce variety as much as possible. A mixture of written work, as well as oral work, if required is essential to keep the tutee focused and interested in what you are teaching. It helps, sometimes, after an intense session, fot the tutee to have a short break, before continuing.

Subjects

Personal Description:
PSYCHOLOGY
I have a BSc (First Class Honours) in Psychology from Brunel University (2007), and a PhD in Psychology from the University of Cambridge (2011). I have worked as a research fellow and subsequently as a psychology lecturer at various universities in the U.K. My research is mainly in social, health and cognitive psychology, but I also teach research methods (both quantitative and qualitative methodologies), statistics and SPSS, as well as effective academic writing, including dissertations and research projects. In addition, I have sufficient competence in personality (i.e., individual differences) and clinical psychology to be able to teach these at undergraduate level. I have published over a dozen peer-reviewed articles, including some in world-leading journals, and have over 1300 academic citations of my research. Some of my research interests are: The attitude-behaviour relationship, behavioural interventions, motivation, cognition, and emotion, dual-process models of cognition, cognitive dissonance, self-affirmation, and information processing, emotional intelligence, mindfulness, health psychology, meta-cognition and self-knowledge, persuasion and social influence, intelligence and problem-solving, psychology of music, and psychology of religion.

PHILOSOPHY/CRITICAL THINKING/RELIGIOUS STUDIES
In my own research in psychology, I have drawn on several philosophical ideas, and have integrated different philosophical perspectives into my work. In addition to critical thinking, I am able to teach humanistic philosophy, social cognition, epistemology, existentialism, and related areas. I also teach how to build philosophical arguments for academic and commercial purposes. In terms of religious studies, I have a particular interest in the Abrahamic faiths, as well as Hinduism, Buddhism, and related philosophies.

MUSIC
I am a performer and teacher of Indian classical music (Northern style), and teach the instruments of dilruba, esraj, taus, taar shehnai and a bit of sarangi. I have been learning for 18 years, and been performing for the last 10 years. I teach beginners and intermediate students in basic and advanced raagas (from Yaman to Darbari) and taalas. I also teach vocal and harmonium.

ENGLISH LITERATURE
I specialise in creative writing, particularly short stories, and can teach students techniques in textual analysis and interpretation, especially using the hermeneutic method. I am also interested in how characters in stories (all genres) are given psychological depth, as well as how story structure and character development go hand-in-hand.

URDU
Urdu is my mother tongue, and is one of four languages that I speak fluently. I can teach beginners and intermediate students in grammar, reading and writing, as well as conversations. And I also teach advanced students in conversation. My particular interests in Urdu literature are 18th and 19th century poetry, especially ghazals.

DANISH
I am a native speaker of Danish, and spent the first 22 years of my life there. I can teach all levels of the language and its literature. Some of the key authors that I have an interest in are Søren Kierkegaard, Karen Blixen, H C Anderson, and we can also discuss Danish film, cinema, and culture. Danish is very similar to Swedish and Norwegian so by learning Danish you will be able to read those languages quite well, and you might be able to understand speech in those languages to some extend. There is also some overlap between Danish and German, though not as much.

Teaching Experience:
I taught psychology to undergraduates at the University of Cambridge from 2008-2011. I then taught at King's College London from 2011-2014, followed by the University of Bath from 2014-2017 and then Bath Spa University from 2017-2022. I also supervise BSc, MSc, and doctoral students. I'm currently lecturing at the University of Hertfordshire.

Tutoring Approach:
I aim to use an interactive approach that encourages active involvement of the tutee. My main goal during tuition sessions is to stimulate an interest in the subject and facilitate independent and critical thinking. This, I believe, allows the tutee to become an independent thinker and to enjoy the learning process, which is rewarding for both parties.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified teacher, I teach as a supply teacher currently.I have approximately 30 years teaching experience both in mainstream and private home tutoring, also 1-1 tutoring. I have recently been an international teacher in Central America Panama and Yangon, Myanmar.

Teaching Experience:
Recent teaching experience , Plymouth city council 2000-2015.I also am a private tutor I also have recently enabled students to enter university through upgrading their marks in English . I now live in Weymouth. I have been international teaching in Panama and Myanmar. My most recent experience is teaching in Poole Dorset and Ian a supply teacher currently.

Tutoring Approach:
I am always focused on the needs of the pupil, recently I concentrate on essay writing, depending on which subject is required.
I am student focused and work in their needs at the time.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a fully-qualified professional teacher with more than 30 years of teaching and tutoring experience, both in the UK and abroad. I regard myself as a friendly and approachable tutor, as well as honest and conscientious, and I pride myself on being able to communicate with students of all ages, from pre-teen to pensioner.

I am the father of two boys, and we live in the Sutton area. My wife and I successfully tutored our sons for Sutton's grammar schools (WCGS), and they have since both graduated from top Russell Group universities. My hobbies are limited to reading these days, and I am particularly fond of English Literature. Dickens and Hardy are two of my favourites, but I am also keen on modern and less serious writers, such as Tom Sharpe and the two Rankins - Robert and Ian.

Teaching Experience:
After obtaining my first degree in Spanish with Politics and Economics, I started teaching abroad; first in Spain, then in Turkey, and later in Central Asia and the Middle East. Since retraining as a teacher of English, I have taught for more than 15 years in the UK and almost 15 years abroad, where I was Head of Department at an Institute of Higher Education for three years.

Most recently I have taught English at an independent school in Sutton, and previous to that I taught Academic Writing for East Anglia University for several years. Nowadays my tutoring is split 50:50 between English for the 11+ and Common Entrance (13+) exams, and English, Spanish, Economics and Politics & Government for the GCSE and A-level exams (all boards).

11+ and 13+ (Common Entrance)
I am very happy to report that all but one of my twelve Eleven Plus tutees passed the SET (Selective Eligibility Test) for Sutton's grammar schools last September. Of these, 100% of them passed the second stage exam and obtained their first choice of grammar or independent school. I use a selection of published materials and those of my own creation, and insist on a high standard of weekly homework in reading, writing and language knowledge. For 11+ pupils I start tutoring in Year 4 or 5, whereas 13+ pupils begin in Year 7 or 8.

GCSE and A-level
I am equally happy to report that all of my most recent GCSE and A-level students have passed well, with top grades from B to A* (A-level) and 6-9 (GCSE). The majority of those have gone on to their first choice of further and higher education institutes, and in most cases this has been achieved by my insisting on regular homework done to a high standard. For GCSE pupils I prefer to start tutoring at some time in Year 10, whereas A-level students typically begin around Year 12.

I also provide individual tutoring in ESSAY WRITING and STUDY SKILLS, as my experience has taught me that many students at GCSE, A-level and undergraduate level face real problems in these areas. By working together on your essays, substantial improvements can be made in style, organisation, argument, presentation, and much more. This way, I can teach you how produce more effective and mature essays, and thus help you to obtain better grades and increase your confidence in producing written work.

Tutoring Approach:
With every tutee I carry out an initial assessment of his/her needs and abilities, and my teaching begins from there. Typically I work on improving their weaknesses and consolidating their strengths, and this essentially involves them producing high-quality homework on a regular basis. I use both established published materials and those that I have created myself over the years. This approach appears to be successful, and I can provide references.

Over the past twelve years I have successfully tutored students for the following schools and universities:

Schools: Sutton Grammar, Wilsons, Wallington County, Wallington High, Nonsuch, Whitgift, Trinity, Wimbledon High, Kings School, City of London, Reigate Grammar, Caterham School, St John's, Westminster, Epsom College, Ewell Castle, and many others.

Universities: Manchester, Warwick, City, East Anglia, St Martins, Lincoln, Kings, LSE, UCL, Nottingham, Reading, Birmingham, Bournemouth, and several others.

Please note that my fees are very affordable, bearing in mind that I travel to your house and offer a personalised tutoring programme.

I currently charge between £45 and £50 per hour, depending on subject and level.

NB: Any tutoring that involves more than 6 miles travel (round trip) usually incurs a small extra charge.

If you are looking for a fully-qualified, highly-experienced and versatile tutor, you need look no further. Here are a few messages from some of my most recent successful tutees:

Hello Jeff, I just got my IELTS results and I FINALLY passed it! Listening 8, Reading 7.5, Writing 7, Speaking 7.5 and it's 7.5 overall. I would like to THANK you sooooo MUCH for your help and all advice you have given me! It would not be possible otherwise. (Vanja)

Sam got into Wilsons and we are pretty sure that his English performance carried him through. Sam said we ought to say 'thanks' to you as you made a massive difference to his standard of English in a very short period of time. Not sure how, but you made something click in his brain where his school teachers had failed! (Cathy)

Hi Jeff, hope you are well. I am extremely delighted to tell you that Rick has a place at Westminster, and we are going ahead with that. He has also had offers from HABS, KCS and RGS Guildford. Thank you so much for all your support. (Animesh)

Hi Jeff, just to let you know that Dillon got a place at Sutton Grammar on Monday. He also received places at Whitgift, Trinity and Epsom. We have decided to accept Sutton Grammar, and thank you for all your help and time.
Thanks - Paulomi and Dillon.

Dear Jeff! Thanks you so much for tutoring me last year. You have helped my English greatly and without your advice and guidance I would have had a nervous breakdown when I was given the task of an essay. You taught me about causal connectives, signpost words, paragraph structure and much more vital strategies of writing an amazing essay.
Finally, I am happy that I got a place at Wilsons and know I would have failed the English language test without what you taught me. I am very grateful that you gave up your time to help me pass.
Yours Sincerely, Makar

Hi Jeff, I hope you're well. I just wanted to let you know that Andriy got offered a place at Whitgift and we have accepted it. Thank you very much for helping and recommending this great school to us. Andriy is really excited about it and cannot wait to start.
(Oksana)

Dear Jeff, sorry for the delayed reply as we are in India. Rishi has done well, has received English Language 9 and English Literature 7, and scored 8 in six other subjects. He could achieve good results only because of your support. Thanking you.
(Chandra)

Hi Jeff, I am pleased to inform you that Mahati cleared the 2nd round. Her cut-off score is 354. We hope she gets into either of the two schools. Thanks a lot for your support throughout.
(Sassi)

Hi Jeff, Tamana's results have come in for the Sutton Stage 2 test. She has passed with a relatively good score of 315, and based on last year's stats, she should get in comfortably to Nonsuch or Wallington. Thanks for all your lessons that significantly helped her in the preparations.
(Vedant)

Hi Jeff, hope you're doing good. We have got the exam outcome, and Samrudha is able to apply for Nonsuch. Her score is 309, and the highest total score is 389. Secondly she has cleared Tiffin's Stage 1 test and has been invited for Stage 2 on November 11, and we would like to take your help whenever possible.
(Kirthi)

Hi Jeff, I just wanted to let you know that Ed passed the entrance exams for all three schools. Thank you so much for all your support! (Emma)

Hello Jeff, I hope you are well. Vivaan passed the exams for Wilson's, Wallington and Sutton. He also got through Tiffins Stage 1. Thanks very much for your help and support! His English improved massively under your guidance.
Kind regards
Jyothi

Subjects

Personal Description:
I work as a Solicitor, working in a busy High-street Firm. I have been working for 10 years. I have been tutoring for the past 7 years and it is something I enjoy immensely.

I am able to obtain all exam papers and mark schemes, in order to help the students.

I am very patient with my students and can keep a calm temperament. I will assist my students in any way possible, in order for them to reach their maximum potential.

As a person, I am very approachable and like-able. This is also my approach as a tutor as I aim to make my students feel comfortable. All the students I have taught have provided me with positive feedback, as they have enjoyed sessions and feel they can relate to my style of teaching.

I am also able to provide sessions in order to assist with coursework deadlines etc and general English speaking and writing.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring for 7 years, with a wide-range of students, from GSCE to Degree level. In addition to this, I have continued tutoring my younger brother, who has now completed his LLB and he further provides me with constructive feedback and the up-to date course material.

I have taught around 40 students, with varying abilities levels, although I have succeeded in helping them improve.

Tutoring Approach:
I take tutoring very seriously and approach each student on their own merits. I am recently qualified I'm my area for work, therefore my approach to teaching is relatively up-to date and contemporary. My recollection of School confirms that the classes in which I excelled, were the ones where the teacher would take an active-role in class. I have incorporated this into my teaching method. I have an individualised teaching approach and adapt my style to the student's needs.

If any students require one-off sessions, for help with coursework or exams, I am able to provide this.
With the exam period forthcoming, I have experience in going through exam techniques and revision methods.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Tim and I'm based in the Caerphilly area. I am happy to work anywhere in Caerphilly, Cardiff, Newport or the Valleys. I am a primary school teacher and have 24 years experience working with children within the age range 6-11.
I have worked in London and in South Wales and have taught in a range of primary schools, teaching children from many different types of background. I have a current CRB check and can provide excellent references.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a primary school teacher since 1986 and have worked across the age range from 6 to 11. I have a good deal of experience teaching children in Year 6 and preparing them for the step up to secondary school. I am able to give tuition in any primary subject but have a specialism in maths as I have been maths co-ordinator in more than one school and have an in depth knowledge of how children learn in this subject and how they can be helped to enjoy their work here and achieve good results. I also have experience of tutoring children in individual sessions and have always been able to help them to improve their standards and become more confident across the curriculum.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a very friendly tutor who has always been able to establish a good rapport with children of primary age. I am extremely patient and calm in my approach as a teacher and believe in using humour to help children relax and enjoy learning. I take into account the preferred learning style of the child and tailor all lessons to their needs. I will try to include an element of challenge in all sessions to help children build up their confidence through success on progressively more difficult tasks. I have a huge range of resources I can use to help make sessions interesting and am prepared to be flexible in terms of rates, location of sessions and times.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I love teaching! This is my passion and my job. It gives me great satisfaction and fulfills my professional ambitions. I am optimistic and open-minded what makes my students more eager to enrich knowledge and expand communication. I am demanding but rewarding as my goal is to provide effective training. What is more, my international experience has developed my methodology creativity. Last but not least, organisational skills are definitely my second nature.

Teaching Experience:
I have been gaining valuable international work experience as English Teacher since 2000. I have been in intensive cooperation with leading English, Australian and Polish schools of English teaching children, teenage and adult students. I have found fulfilment in providing General and Business English courses to groups and individuals on all English levels ranging from A1 to C2. I have also conducted FCE, CAE, CPE, BEC, IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC and EAP courses and specialised English Training Workshops successfully. My TEFL experience is with students of different cultural background. I facilitate their different pronunciational, lexical or grammatical difficulties what proves my expertise and adaptability to students. Moreover, I was responsible for developing General English and TOEFL/IELTS curriculum and its further coordination. On a regular basis I work online and provide Grammar, Vocabulary, and Speaking classes to students. Moreover, I enjoy working as a translator of economic, financial, legal and technical texts, and as interpreter at business meeting and negotiations.

Tutoring Approach:
How do I conduct classes? I always set the goal of providing effective training. However, I alsways create a detailed lesson plan, based on recommended course books or my own materials and following both language and personal goals. Most of the time they refer to my individual approach to students and make lessons tailored to their specific needs. I believe that effective teaching must be a combination of work and fun. My priority is to make classes varied, engaging, and memorable. Varied as they cover all skills and types of activities. Engaging as I want my classes to be student-centered with the main focus on communication. And memorable as there use fun games and language equipment. I believe that not only planning, but also monitoring and reporting play a great role. To get the full picture of the learning process, I provide students with sufficient feedback and reports.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have a BA Honours Degree in English Studies from Aleppo University in Syria in 2000. I embarked on two Postgraduate Diplomas at Aleppo University one in Linguistics (2002); the other in Education and Qualification in 2003. In both of these Diplomas I was awarded a Distinction. In 2002, I was fortunate in gaining a scholarship to study in the UK and was nominated to study in the department of Language and Linguistics at the University of Essex. I found this course to be immensely useful to me as a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) professional as I was able to observe a range of different EAP (English for Academic Purposes)classrooms; make academic presentations and really developed my love of scholarship which fired me with the enthusiasm to read for a PhD degree. I finished my doctorate in TESOL at the University of Ulster entitled "EAP Teachers Approaches to Giving Written Feedback on Academic Writing in British and Syrian ELT Centres". . I am extremely interested in teaching the language skills (as my recent doctorate shows). I am extremely hard working and sociable. I have good comparative knowledge of Western and Islamic societies which I could share with students where pertinent. I also have two qualifications from Ulster University in Peer Mentoring and Counselling.

I have strong interpersonal, communication, and classroom management skills and self-motivator. Apart from being an interesting experience in itself, tutoring is an ideal opportunity for me at this stage of my career as the area of this job is interesting to me and I have got the enthusiasm and motivation and energy to do it well and to develop things.I would like consider offering online tutorials (email writing tutorials for students who can not attend some classes).

Teaching Experience:
In the Diploma of Education and Qualification, I have been trained how to teach and how to deliver lectures in Arabic and English and also how to prepare lesson plan. I have experience of teaching university students in Syria as I was a lecturer at Aleppo University from 2002 to 2013. I enjoy teaching and lecturing and love my profession as I am particularly interested in communicating with individuals and groups. My colleagues and supervisors all say that I am a natural communicator and this, coupled with my knowledge of the field, leads me to think that I would make a good teacher. My mother tongue language is Arabic, yet my knowledge of written and spoken English is very good as well. I am also interested in materials design and curriculum development in ELT and could make useful contributions in these areas. I have also specialized in ESP, Materials and Methods in ELT, Language Teachers in Classrooms and Vocabulary and would be interested in teaching international students. My job in Syria was delivering pre-sessional programmes in academic English language to Syrian postgraduate students. Those students have to attend some EAP and ESP courses and pass the final exam which will enable them to pursue their high studies in Syria or in some English speaking countries like UK, USA and Canada. My teaching experience gives me a deeper insight and understanding of actual teaching/learning contexts. When I did my MA degree at Essex University, I taught some international students as part of the "Teaching Practice" module. I have been trained how to write a lesson plan for international students and how to use the PowerPoint for delivering lectures. Furthermore, I am very au fait with technology in the classroom.

Tutoring Approach:
It is the application of an integrating approach for the development of communicative skills in the lesson, in which the four skills in the acquisition of knowledge of a foreign language can be taught in a coherent way, and practiced together, with a distinction of the importance of one upon the other. One image for teaching English as a second or foreign language (ESL/EFL) is that of a tapestry. The tapestry is woven from many strands, such as the characteristics of the teacher, the learner, the setting, and the relevant languages (i.e., English and the native languages of the learners and the teacher). For the instructional loom to produce a large, strong, beautiful, colorful tapestry, all of these strands must be interwoven in positive ways. For example, the instructor's teaching style must address the learning style of the learner, the learner must be motivated, and the setting must provide resources and values that strongly support the teaching of the language. However, if the strands are not woven together effectively, the instructional loom is likely to produce something small, weak, ragged, and pale--not recognizable as a tapestry at all.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Cambridge educated, and an Oxford University prize winning teacher, I have recently passed my latest OFSTED inspection. I specialise in :

11+
English Language (GCSE and iGCSE)
English Literature (GCSE/iGCSE/A Level/ELAT)
GCSE/ A Level Business Studies
GCSE / A Level History
Creative writing (adults)
Business English (adults)
ESOL (adults)
UCAS statements
Mock interviews

I am DFE authorised to teach the subjects I advertise.

I hold an excellent degree in English, a PGCE in English/History, a Cert Ed.in Drama, an MA in creative writing from the number one UK writing programme, and a post graduate in teaching creative writing from Cambridge University.

I am a published author and editor.

I have taught students from:

Independent Senior : Rugby School, Gordonstoun, Warwick School, The Kingsley School, King's High School, Kingham Hill, King Henry 8th, Princethorpe, Bablake.

Independent Junior: Crackley Hall, Warwick

State Selective: Lawrence Sheriff, Rugby High, Alcester Grammar, Ashlawn, WMG Academy, Stratford Girls' Grammar, Kings Edward's Boys Grammar, newport Girls' High School.

State non-selective: Kenilworth School, Finham Park, President Kennedy, Babington Academy, English Martyrs, Bilton High, Houlton, The Harris, Avon Valley, Walsall Academy, Joseph Leckie Academy, Myton, North Leamington, Ernesford Grange, Southgate School, East Barnet School, Attleborough Academy, Southfield Girls' School, Rugby Free School.

State junior: Potters Green, Long Lawford, Holbrook, Park Hill, Dunchurch, Hillmorton, Cawston Grange, Abacus Academy, Our Lady of Assumption, Henry Hinde, St Anthony's.

University: Cambridge, Warwick, BCU, Keele, York.

I have taught students in the UK, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Russia and South Korea.

I am a native English speaker - this is highly advantageous to English as a second language students.

Scholarships gained: Rugby School, Warwick School.
Bursaries gained: Bablake School, Princethorpe College.
Grammar Schools: King Edward's Boys, Lawrence Sheriff Boys', Alcester Grammar, Rugby High School.

Having a grammar school education myself has been most useful and that my children were educated in the independent sector gives me an insider insight.

Many of my pupils have gone onto Oxford University, Durham University, and elite Universities to study subjects such a medicine and dentistry. One of my GCSE students moved from grade 3 to grade 7 in three months and another moved 4 levels from grade 5 to 9 in 6 months.

I hold QTS and DBS. Unlike tutorial centres, I focus only on one student in a session, ensuring better progress.

I teach students between the age of 8-adult.

I lecture in Creative Writing.

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced, successful online tutor. I update my teaching skills annually. I have completed my Safeguarding Certificate, Sexual Harassment Awareness, PREVENT training, and my GDPR certificate.

I have worked with Grammar Schools, Independent Schools, Public schools, selective and non-selective state schools. I have been a Head of English and Senior Leader in a highly successful Birmingham school. I have taught writing to post-grads at Cambridge Uni, Warwick Uni, Hull and York University. I have published educational research and resources, edited publications and mentored writers.

I have been an examiner for KS2 SATS, English Language and English Literature and am an Arts Awards Assessor.

I am familiar with the following curriculum:

AQA, EDEXCEL, OCR, EDUQAS, iGCSE, Essex 11 Plus, Warwickshire and Birmingham 11 Plus, IELTS,Trinity ESOL, British Council ESOL.

I have worked with pupils struggling to perform at schools which have not served them well. I have worked on behalf of schools, providing one to one tuition for LAC pupils. I have worked with very good pupils at very good schools in order to support pupils to become excellent.

I am willing to do unlimited prep. I do not pluck activities off the internet and hope they fit as I design work especially for my pupils.

Tutoring Approach:
Your child won't be placed in a group with other children who have different needs and work at different levels!

I have high expectations of your child - this helps them to reach their goals.

I will tell you the truth about your child, sharing information and assessments.

I standardise my marking in a secondary school every year.

Successes in 24-25* ( grade boundaries moved up)
100 % eleven plus passes
100% Grade 8 and 9 at GCSE Language.
100% Grade 7, 8 and 9 at GCSE Literature.

testomonials:

'Thank you ...as your support has very much enabled this success.'
'I am short of words to thank you, for all the help and support you gave.'
'She couldn't have done it without your support.'

2023- 2024 Academic year* ( grade boundaries moved up)

NR-9, 8 GCSE Eng Lang and Lit
LS- arrived in the UK with no English and has made 3 levels of progress within 6 months.
JR- gained an 11+ place at King Edward's Grammar School
AN-gained an 11 + place at LSS Grammar School.
AS-gained a place at Lawrence Sheriff Grammar School
RM- gained places at The Kingsley and Princethorpe independent schools
SG- gained a place at Bablake Independent school
SS- gained bursaries at Bablake and Princethorpe Independent Schools
HJP- an adult ESOL learner from South Korea, has progressed from A2 to C1 British council levels, and gained a distinction at GCSE speaking and Listening in less than 9 months.


Testamonials

LR- " We DID it!!!! Thank you so muchhhhhhhh. The scores gets him into the best grammar school - KEGS!Thank you so much for your perseverance and amazing teaching!!!"

SC-" We think you're best English tutor there is so no surprises with your ofsted rating."

Successes 2022-2023.

AC-9, 9 GCSE Eng and Lit ( school predicted grades were 6,6)
ES- 9,8 GCSE Eng and Lit ( school predicted grades were far lower)
HH- 8, 8 GCSE Eng and Lit
WN- 8,7 GCSE Eng and Lit ( school predicted grades were 4,4)
PH- 6 Eng Lang ( school prediction was a 3)

LH gained a place at Medical School and met the offer.
NQ gained a place at University, and met the offer, when the school stated she was not able to.
KS- gained several places at university for Mechanical Engineering and met the offers.

Successes 2022

FO - gained a music scholarship at Warwick Snr.

WH- gained 225 in his 11 Plus exam, entitling him to places at two top grammar schools.

HG- gained his place at a highly competitive Grammar school sixth form- in July of Year 10 he was told he was 'pushing' grade 5 by his teacher.

TW- gained his GCSE score two grades above his September working at grade and 1 grade above his target grade.

SDP- gained a place at a competitive independent school, with a massive bursary

SR- gained a place at a competitive independent school, with generous bursary

HA- passed 11 plus at 249 marks

EK- passed 11 plus at 226 marks

FO has gained a place at his chosen Independent School- he was the first to have been accepted while only in Year 5.


Successes 2020-2021

HL-invited to a medical school interview

KC-Grade 8 in GCSE Business Studies- he was a grade 5 in September and had a target of grade 6.

QN- Grade 5 in English Lit after three months of tuition and beginning at Grade 3.

BJ- Grade 5 in English Language despite predicted grade of 4.

Successes 2019-2020

VY- Grade 8 in English Language- was struggling to maintain a good grade 5 in school.

MS-Grade 7 in English Language and in English Literature- was working at Grade 5 in school.

HL- Year 13- grade 7 in Eng Lang GCSE November re-sit- HL started with me on a very low level 5 and has worked with me for less than one year.

SK-Grade 6 in English Language- was a low grade 5 in school.

WL-Grade 6 - was low grade 5 at school.

LS- Grade 5 in English Language after working with me. School gave him a Grade 3 in their August teacher Assessment GCSE.
BJ- Year 11 - BJ was working at a grade 4 in mid September when I began working with him. He gained a grade 5 in the Eng Lit exam.

KC- Year 10- KC was a low level 3 at the start of year 9 - gained a high grade 5 in GCSE Eng Lit at the end of Year 10.

II- Year 10 - II was a low grade 3 - gained a grade 5 in Eng Lit GCSE.

NE- Grade 4 in English Language - a very low Grade 3 in school.

AA-Year 6-AA passed her 11 plus.

HL- Year 13- received an offer from a good university to take a great Science course only 15 days after sending her UCAS application in on October 15th. Has two interviews for medicine too.

HS- Year 13- HS began studying medicine at Norwich after working with me to write his UCAS personal statement.

SE- Year 13 -SE lacked confidence when trying to write a UCAS personal statement. With my help, SE is now at a very good University.

BR-First Year University- BR was struggling to write his first academic essay. I taught BR how to reference and the importance of using authentic and serious sources.

Parental/ Learner Testimonials:

20-21

I was accepted into LSS...I would like to say thank you for the help in Business Studies as that helped me ace my exams.

KC- GCSE students

P was so happy with the lesson yesterday. He told me that V taught me more in one lesson than school taught me for the whole year which is fabulous !

PN's Mum (PN attends a Grammar school)


2019-2020

LS's mother-

I wanted to express my thanks again. I have no doubt that LS would not have achieved a level 5 without your tutoring, and it had been left to the school. I had every faith that LS was capable if he applied himself and had the right teaching and guidance but could not see him getting what he needed from the school. He did it. Thanks to you.

2018-2019

E has improved a lot lately with V's help. V is really good at teaching (E's mother)

I wanted to drop you a line to thank you personally for all the help and support you have given L over the last few months. Whatever the outcome is she couldn't have done it without your coaching. Her work has definitely improved which wouldn't have happened had she continued with just the support school gave her. So thank you.( L's mother)

Earlier Successes

2018-2019

KS 2 SATS - NJ had given up working in year 6. After my support he won a prize for writing and scored 113 and 117 in his English papers.

Scholarships - CA was a Grade 4 in History GCSE. He needed a grade 7 to obtain a scholarship. After my support CA gained his grade 7, got his scholarship and recently went on to gain a grade 9 in the actual GCSE securing his place at Rugby School.

GCSE- MS was at a good independent school and in top set. However, she was scoring at grade 2 in her English Language and English Literature mock exams. With my help MS went on to gain two level 7s for both her English GCSE exams.

Post Grads - S, A, I were all on a PGA at Warwick University. To get onto the MA course they needed to gain a distinction on their PGA assignments. With my support, all three transferred to the MA course.

ZN wanted to do as well as possible in his MA assignments but was struggling with Academic English. With my help he scored merits for his essays and dissertation.

H - a dyslexic adult who struggled with having to write personal emails/messages-she overcame this by just sending emojis. With my support H now composes emails using words and has the confidence to send emails / messages whenever she wants to.


2017-2018 successes :

N J-- NJ went from a Level 3 in school mock exams to achieving a Level 7 in the actual GCSE exams despite being dyslexic.

OL--OL went from a bottom grade D in school mock exams to achieving a high grade B in the actual A Level exams, taking up her place at Leeds Art School.

JA-- JA was home schooled and dyslexic. She felt that she was not able to study beyond GCSE. JA decided to continue with her education beyond GCSE as a result of the self- confidence she gained with my support.

AZ--As a result of my coaching, AZ had started to gain additional days work ( AZ has his own business)

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Personal Description:
Ciao! I'm a native Italian speaker fluent in Italian, French and English, with a First-Class Honours degree in Humanities, specialising in History and English Literature. Since 2014, I've been helping learners of all levels develop confidence and fluency in English and Italian-from beginners taking their first steps to advanced learners refining their mastery.

I bring more than just expertise to my lessons-I bring a deep love for language and its structure. My teaching is tailored to each student's goals, pace and interests, fostering a dynamic and collaborative environment. I believe that great teaching is a two-way exchange: both tutor and learner grow through the journey.

Whether you're preparing for exams, brushing up your conversational skills, or simply exploring a new language, I'd be delighted to support you!

Teaching Experience:
Ciao! I'm a passionate educator with over ten years' experience helping learners grow in confidence, language skills, and exam success. I hold a First-Class Honours degree in Humanities (English and History), a TEFL qualification, and I'm currently training towards a PGCE in Lifelong Learning-giving me the tools to support both young learners and adult students alike.

For GCSE students, I provide clear, structured support in English Language and Literature, helping learners approach exams with confidence and clarity. My sessions are tailored to your goals-whether it's mastering unseen poetry, tackling tricky grammar, or refining essay technique-with an emphasis on building skills that last beyond the classroom.

For Italian-speaking adults, I offer a warm, welcoming space to build your English or Italian skills at your own pace. Whether you're learning for work, travel, or pleasure, I bring patience, cultural insight, and a flexible approach to make language learning enjoyable and rewarding.

Learning with me means engaging lessons, a supportive atmosphere, and progress you can feel. 📚✨

Tutoring Approach:
"I take great pride in helping learners-especially beginners-gain the confidence to understand, speak, and truly enjoy the Italian language. My lessons go beyond grammar and vocabulary, offering a gateway into the richness of Italian culture, history, and daily life. I aim to create a welcoming, engaging environment where curiosity leads the way and progress feels both natural and rewarding."
✨

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Personal Description:
I am a passionate and hard working primary school teacher. I have been tutoring children of a range of ages and abilities for seven years. Examples include Year 4 English, Year 1 Phonics and English, Year 2 Maths, Year 6 Maths and English. I often tutor children in preparation for the 11 Plus exams and I currently have a 100% pass rate. I will adapt my teaching to meet your child's needs and I always strive to build up a child's confidence. I am patient, caring and enjoy helping children to learn, develop and achieve their goals.

Teaching Experience:
I have eight years teaching experience in primary schools and I have taught across the year groups from Reception to Year 6. I plan my lessons using objectives from the National Curriculum. I use visuals and hooks to engage children in the lesson. I then adapt the learning activity according to children's ability and needs. I ensure children have the opportunity to use their new knowledge and skills through challenge activities, where they will need to find a solution or answer to a challenging question independently. This builds children's confidence and problem-solving skills.

Tutoring Approach:
I will assess your child's needs and abilities in the first tutoring session. Going forward, I will use a range of teaching styles to support your child, including interactive lessons, focus activities, questioning and visual resources.

When I am tutoring a child for the 11 Plus, I will also use past test papers, which I will bring with me. I will also focus on areas that your child finds difficult and support him/her to complete activities in these areas.

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Personal Description:
Hi, my name is Sean and I am 57 years of age. I have recently retired as a Deputy Head teacher and from full time teaching, having worked in Primary schools for 32 years. I am a very hard working, conscientious tutor and have always been passionate about children's education and the way in which every pupil has the potential to succeed. I have two grown up children who are currently in the world of work and studying at university respectively. In my spare time I enjoy reading, walking and the occasional game of golf.

Teaching Experience:
I have extensive experience of teaching children in the 7-11 age range and have taught Years 5 and 6 for the last few years. I have worked with children who have a wide range of ability and always get a real thrill from watching pupils progress and develop in confidence. My particular specialism is in English and Maths where I have regularly achieved outstanding results in the end of Key Stage 2 SATs tests.

Tutoring Approach:
I encourage a relaxed yet hardworking environment when working with children, assessing their knowledge and skills, and setting clear, achievable goals. My enthusiasm, patience and ability to teach methods and concepts clearly, ensure that my pupils make substantial progress.

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Personal Description:
Ciao! I'm Esmond. I'm a writer, composer, director and artist, and prizewinning History finalist at the University of Oxford, with experience of a broad range of learning environments and teaching styles, and substantial industry experience in music and the creative arts. Deeply passionate about my subjects, I'm dedicated to each of my students and enthusiastic about sharing the joy of learning with them. I tutor History, Music, History of Art and Latin to A-Level, IB and equivalent, and English, Design and Technology (Graphic Design route) and Maths to GCSE/IGCSE. I also provide mentoring, including guidance on personal statements, submitted work, admissions tests and interviews, for students applying to study History and related subjects at both Oxbridge and other universities. More broadly, I work with students at all levels to develop essay writing, research, problem-solving and study skills.

Currently a final-year historian at the University of Oxford, I hold both academic and music scholarships. I attained a Distinction in the First Public Examination, ranking equal fourth across the University. Besides history, my degree has also involved considerable interdisciplinary work in the visual arts, literature, music and folklore, and substantial language work in Latin, French, Italian and Middle English, in which I have research-level proficiency. I have A-Levels in Music, Latin and History (all above 90%), an AS-Level in Maths (A), and 11 A*s at IGCSE and GCSE. I have extensive knowledge of a broad range of history, music, art and literature, with particular expertise in the medieval, Renaissance and early Modern periods, the eighteenth century, the European folk revival, and - in music - post-tonal and contemporary composition, although I also teach more broadly, including on modern topics. I share details of and blog about medieval and Renaissance Italian art, drawing on my own photography and travels in Italy, at Treasures of Renaissance Italy.

My teaching in Music and Design and Technology is further underpinned by extensive industry experience in music (as a composer, director, producer and singer), graphic design and the creative arts more broadly. I produced and artistically directed my first opera production, Monteverdi's L'Orfeo, in 2016, with an international cast of singers from several leading British and European conservatoires, and I'm currently Artistic Director and co-Musical Director of the semi-professional early music and early opera ensemble, Theatron Oneiron, which I founded as a first-year undergraduate. As a freelance composer, my compositions have won competitions at a national level and been performed by such artists as the BBC Singers. I'm also a classically trained, semi-professional singer, currently a Choral Exhibitioner in the Choir of The Queen's College, Oxford, and formerly a Choral Scholar at Guildford Cathedral and Exeter College, Oxford, and member of the Iken Scholars among many other ensembles; and I frequently perform as a recitalist and as a soloist in oratorios and opera productions. I previously studied both piano and violin. In art and design, my experience encompasses both artistic and technical drawing, product design, poster design, and production design for the stage, and my work includes an award-winning scaled model and card model kit of Guildford Cathedral.

Teaching Experience:
I have substantial experience of a range of learning environments and teaching styles, including home education, project- and inquiry-based learning, the Oxbridge tutorial format, and classroom-style teaching in both the private and the state sectors.

I worked as a Teaching Assistant at Chelsea Academy, London, in 2013-14, as part of RGS Guildford's Outreach Scheme there. I have led and assisted classes for year groups and ability levels from Year 7 to GCSE and top to bottom sets, and previously provided mentoring to Oxbridge applicants. More recently, my experience includes one-to-one tutoring in humanities subjects, English as a Second Language, and Music Theory. I have further developed creative and effective coaching and teaching methods in the course of work as both a musical director and stage director, and clear and engaging communication of content and ideas through seminar talks and presentations in the course of my own studies.

Tutoring Approach:
My own teaching style is greatly influenced by my own fruitful experiences of home education (to age eleven) and the Oxbridge tutorial format. I prioritise the greater scope for intellectual flexibility and curiosity, intrinsically-motivated learning, and heightened freedom to range across subjects and pursue individual topics in greater depth according to each student's interests characteristic of both of these learning environments. I combine these foci with rigorous, comprehensive attention to exam syllabi to ensure that teaching and learning remain carefully targeted towards my students' desired grades in any traditional summative assessments such as school entrance exams, GCSEs or A-Levels.

All my tutoring is student-centred, guiding and facilitating my students in their own learning, in contrast to traditional teacher-centred instruction. I work with each student to tailor lessons to their individual learning style and priorities (whether understanding subject material, exam content, or honing particular skills such as analysis or argument). I place particular emphasis on developing a deep-seated passion for learning in my students and on encouraging them to think independently, critically and originally. I am, moreover, dedicated to seeing tangible improvement in each and every one of my students and will always put in extra effort to achieve this end.

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Personal Description:
I'm 28 years old and have a passion for teaching. I love helping and guiding students to gain success and knowledge in all areas but my favourite part is seeing children feel confident after learning a new skills. I'm kind, approachable and fun! I make learning fun and engaging by using different techniques.

Teaching Experience:
I've been teaching for 4 years but prior to this I worked in as a teaching assistant (TA/PSA). I've done tutoring for the last couple of years and love getting to know students and help them with their needs.

Tutoring Approach:
I cater for the child. I adapt lessons to best suit them. Do they need a bit of extra help to meet their age related expectations or do they need to be pushed higher to gain a level higher. Whatever the needs, I want to help!

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Personal Description:
Hello potential students!

My name is David. I was an actor for 20 years, both as a hobbyist and a professional until becoming a writer. I still am both of those things (as well as a voice-over artist), but now would like to pass on my knowledge to other people and see if it helps them.

Until very recently, I worked in customer service for a myriad of companies--all to allow me the space and time to enjoy a career that was never fully stable. I enjoyed them, but only for the opportunity to meet new people and learn from them. True, I may be a tutor, but I will never stop being a student.

I also class as neurodivergent. For decades I lived with undiagnosed ADHD. Learning this was a surprise to many others around me, but not to me directly. The signs were not as well known back then, and somehow I had adapted to learn. These days, we adapt the teaching; so know that whatever background you have, we will find a way to learn together!

Teaching Experience:
Over one year as a private Tutor. Most of my students have been GCSE level (all exam boards) and a few have been adult learners wanting to know more, or Primary School pupils working to better their grammar. I hold a Master's Degree in Creative Writing and a Bachelor's in Drama--both of which give me a unique but well rounded approach to English Literature and Language, as well as essay writing.

Tutoring Approach:
Easy; good conversation, plenty of debates and a whole heap of laughs! For most texts involved in the English Language and Literature courses, it's hard to really analyse what lies beneath the words on the page; especially in a school-style setting. I like to find out what how the student works, and what works for the student. Then, I tailor our sessions around them, their pace, and see if there's more excitement underneath those words!

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Personal Description:
My name is Kierri & I've been a professional tutor for the last 15 years. I genuinely love to learn and believe I learn as much from my students, as they do from me. I'm a writer & a poet & though young people don't always favour these topics, I believe my passion for English, really inspires and motivates students and if they don't catch the inspiration for learning, their grades naturally raise as they go along. So it's a win win for me and for the student.

Teaching Experience:
I've dedicated my professional life to teaching & I much prefer teaching students one on one. They get the generalised teaching at school & then they get the attention they truly deserve in the comfort of their own homes. Schools teach students to pass exams, I tutor to encourage a love for learning and overall development. I've been dedicated for 15 years and have taught hundreds of children and adults, of all ages and at all levels and abilities - including children with SEND needs.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to teaching is tailored to the individual in front of me. If they need a conservative, structured lesson or a more casual, relaxed environment - then that is what they will have. A completely personalised experience, yet not stuffy or boring. Students must take a role in their own learning & not feel like they're under constant authority. Every student learns in a different way and I adapt my teaching style to suit each person.

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Personal Description:
As a passionate advocate for technology and innovation, I hold a degree in Artificial Intelligence & Data Science from Dr. D.Y. Patil Institute, where I developed expertise in Python, machine learning, and data analysis. machine learning enthusiast, currently diving into Neural Networks, particularly NLP and Computer Vision. Since joining the Women Techmakers and Microsoft student learn ambassador community ,I've enhanced my technical and presentation skills, Also in my university journey I have contributed to projects that increased team efficiency by 60%.My confidence help me to tackle complex challenges, and I'm committed to creating impactful solutions that empower others through technology. With a focus on fostering collaboration and promoting continuous learning, I aim to drive growth and innovation within the tech space.

Teaching Experience:
As a member of the Women Techmakers and Microsoft Student Learn Ambassador communities, I have enhanced my Teaching/guiding and presentation skills while fostering collaboration within diverse students. During my university projects, I contributed to initiatives that increased team efficiency by 60%, showcasing my problem-solving abilities and tutoring mindset.

Tutoring Approach:
With my strong foundation in computer science I believe in making the foundtion of my students to be strong My tutoring philosophy centers on fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment tailored to each student's needs and learning style. I focus on simplifying complex concepts by breaking them into manageable steps, using relatable examples, and encouraging active participation.

I believe in a hands-on approach, combining theoretical understanding with practical application to deepen comprehension and retention. For instance, when teaching concepts like machine learning or data analysis, I incorporate real-world projects and coding exercises to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

I also prioritize promoting critical thinking and problem-solving by guiding students to explore solutions independently while providing constructive feedback. By fostering curiosity and building confidence, my aim is to empower students to tackle challenges with resilience and enthusiasm.

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