Shildon English Tutors and Shildon English Tuition

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have been a classroom teacher for 20 years, but have recently branched out to become a PE specialist, whilst I have still teach some maths and English I would like to teach more, whilst still keeping my current position. I am an outgoing friendly but strict teacher/tutor and pupils clearly enjoy being taught by me and respond accordingly with excellent results.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a primary school teacher for 20 years, constantly employed. I have taught all primary age classes and successfully prepared children for local entrance examinations. I am currently employed as Head of Junior Games at QEH Junior School in Bristol.

Tutoring Approach:
I enjoy the one to one style that tutoring provides as it allows me, as an educator, to use my experience to help the student get to grip with difficult issues.
It is a very personal way of learning that I believe is well suited to my style of teaching.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Mila. I have been living in the UK for 15 years. I teach GCSE Russian at the Russian school in Ipswich. I live near Colchester, Harwich, Ipswich. I used to work as a police and court interpreter. Now I work as a primary school teacher.

Teaching Experience:
I have graduated from Saratov State University and my qualifications are: a teacher of English/Russian, interpreter, translator.
I worked as a teacher of English/Russian at Saratov Academy of Economics (now it is Saratov Social Ecomonic University) for 3 years.
Then I moved to Moscow where I worked in a number of foreign companies (American, English, German and Japanese) as an interpreter and a teacher of English/Russian.
I have passed DPSI (LAW) exams - Diploma in Public Service Interpreting (Northampton, UK)
I finished my Teacher Training. and got QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) and PGCE.

Tutoring Approach:
Patience, challenge and eager to help students to achieve their goals.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified, excellent and enthusiastic primary school teacher. I have a great deal of experience working one to one as a private tutor as well as my vast classroom experience. I have taught in both state schools and the private sector.

Teaching Experience:
I have 6 years experience teaching Year 1 as well as experience supply teaching across both key stages 1 and 2. I have tutored privately for years and worked with children from Year 1 right up to 11+ preparation. I am passionate about what I do and achieve excellent results.

Tutoring Approach:
I have tutored many children on a one to one basis, subjects ranging from Maths, Writing, Reading and also Recorder lessons. The most important part of tutoring is understanding the child's specific learning needs. I tailor every session to suit the child and to follow his/ her progress. As a primary teacher, I pride myself on being extremely patient and on making learning fun. There is nothing to be gained from tutoring a child who wishes they weren't there. Once a rapport has been built between myself and the child, progress flies. Enjoyment is key.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a Primary trained school teacher with experience in both KS1 and KS2.
I am a mother with three children, one of which had learning problems as a KS1 child, and understand the frustration of the learner and anxiety the parent feels.

Teaching Experience:
Special needs teaching 1:1
1:1 private tuition
10 years Primary KS1 & KS2

Tutoring Approach:
I enjoy helping children reach their potential by being patient and understanding and helping my tutee's discover their most suited method and style for learning, in the area that they find challenging.
I teach using visual, auditory and kinesthetic methods, depending on my pupils learning style.

Subjects

Personal Description:
All classes start next week online. New for this year I have small group classes in my premises in Benfleet, Essex. These are aimed at Year 10 - catching up on Literature and also Year 11 Exam Practice, essay writing and creative writing, an important skill for gaining a really good English Language Grade.

References available of guaranteed results for English. This year 2025, all pupils passed with great grades and went onto their chosen colleges and universities.

I am a fully qualified teacher of English of 20 years in both Academy and Grammar Schools in the UK with a Full DRB Check.

My background is in the media where I worked for News International Newspapers and in the Film Industry working on screenwriting and film scripts. I entered teaching in 2004 and since then I have taught in a variety of educational settings, Grammar Schools, Independent Schools, Secondary Education, Sixth Form and University degree level Journalism.

I have a passion for English literature, particularly 19th Century English Literature, American Contemporary Literature, Poetry and children's novels.

Teaching Experience:
My positions have included Teacher of English, Head of Faculty, Head of Department English & Media Studies.

I am a qualified examiner for AQA and I am currently teaching for all the main examination boards.

I have a BA (hons) Humanities, Dip HE Commmunications PGCE ITT Masters Level and an MA Education

Tutoring Approach:
With time, patience and care pupils have mastered the skills to succeed! Last years pupils had excellent results with pupils on Level 4 predictions moving to Level 6 and Level 7 in GCSE. 2 pupils gaining Level 9* in both GCSE Lit and Lang.
A Level pupils gaining outstanding results from predictions by 2 grades higher!

Thank you for taking the time to read my details and good luck with your studying! References available and testimony from happy parents and pupils in GCSE and A Levels.

If you are a family with a child that you require help for and are on a low income please come forward and I will do what I can to accommodate you.

Thank you for reading this and I look forward to working with you.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an enthusiastic and friendly person who has a genuine interest and love for the subject I teach. When not teaching I read a lot, enjoy travelling to a variety of destinations and follow the ups and downs (more often the latter) of Sheffield Wednesday FC!

Teaching Experience:
I have taught English Language and English Literature across the age and ability range for 33 years until I took early retirement last summer. Since then I have tutored successfully at GCSE and A level. The last 12 years of my career were spent as a Head of Department in 2 different schools where pupils did consistently well in external exams at all levels.I am also an en examiner at GCSE for both AQA and Edexcel.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is to respond to the individual needs of the student in a friendly but structured manner. I encourage students to be absolutely honest about what they require and whether or not I am meeting their needs. I am very flexible in my style and can adapt as necessary. My examining experience is very valuable in guiding students in the right direction as is my vast experience in the classroom.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a native English speaking tutor in the Westminster/Victoria area with a university degree in English Literature and Creative Writing.
I developed a love for reading at an early age, which eventually expanded to writing as well, and which led me to study English Literature and Creative Writing at university. I started off teaching English in Japan, but through a strange turn of events ended up in the Financial Industry, where I worked for over a decade. However, through the process of tutoring my own son, and then his classmates and friends, I re-discovered my passion for English, and teaching, and decided to pursue it as a career. It has been an incredibly rewarding experience so far, and I've enjoyed it every step of the way.

Teaching Experience:
I have in-depth experience teaching children composition, comprehension, verbal and non-verbal reasoning for 7/8+, 11/13+ and Common Entrance, and have helped a number of children get into schools such as Westminster, King's College Wimbledon, St Paul's and City of London.
In addition, I work with children already in these schools, and others - including top Grammar schools such as The Henrietta Barnett School and Queen Elizabeth - improve their overall English ability and performance.
I also teach GCSE English Language and Literature, and the SAT/ACT exams (US University Entrance), as well as Common Entrance History.

In the last year I helped children of a variety of ages get into the following schools:
- Westminster Under
- St Paul's School
- King's College School Wimbledon
- City of London boys
- Godolphin
- Alleyn's

Tutoring Approach:
I try to encourage a love of reading and writing in all of my students, both by making lessons enjoyable and by building their self-confidence. While English can sometimes seem a dry and boring subject, I believe it shouldn't be, and that any child can learn to enjoy it given the right approach. A large part of the enjoyment comes from children learning to stretch themselves beyond their existing boundaries, and learning to think in new and creative ways.

For this reason, I approach lessons with patience and humour, but most of all with the intention to help children push past what they think themselves capable of. I find that children usually respond well to this approach, and often develop and improve rapidly as a result.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Kate, a full-time, professional tutor based in Petersfield (MA in Medieval and Modern Languages from St John`s College, Oxford). I design tailored learning plans to help students achieve their potential.

In 2021 100% of my A-Level students achieved grade A*.

You can enter for a GCSE or A-Level with me directly, or have extra tuition to support your studies at school, college or university.

I offer private tuition and intensive course programmes to build fluency in Spanish, German, English, Portuguese, Italian, French, Catalan and Dutch.

No matter what your level, your lessons will be full of real-world language and will deliver the content and vocabulary that you need to achieve your goals.

Teaching Experience:
I began my teaching career in 2008 with the Government of Andorra as Lecturer of English.

I have since taught privately and at schools and colleges in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany, Austria and the UK.

During the last 10 years I have mostly been based in Spain, but have also tutored private clients around Europe. In 2019 I opened a dedicated language school in Petersfield, Hampshire and I now offer online tuition too, with students learning for a mix of personal, professional and academic objectives.

Tutoring Approach:
Each course is created according to the student's needs, and is 100% bespoke.

Your course is designed for you, based on an initial consultation and/or questionnaire to help me to understand your learning style and establish clear goals for you.

Lessons often feel relaxed and fairly casual, because in my experience this is the best way to encourage real communication and thought in your target language!

For more advanced learners, there are plenty of academic resources and authentic materials to allow you to engage fully with your language. Courses can include grammar, linguistics, literature and cultural topics.

Subjects

Personal Description:
A former Teacher of English at a Grammar School in Greater Manchester (Year 7-13), with experience teaching the AQA, Edexcel and Pearson I/GCSE specification.

I hold a BA HONS in English Language and a Secondary English PGCE (Outstanding)-both qualifications were obtained at The University of Manchester.

I have a detailed insight and understanding of the educational system, as I am an Examiner for AQA (GCSE English Language) and a Senior Assessor for OCR (A-Level English Language).

Teaching Experience:
-Former Teacher of English at a Grammar School
-Secondary English PGCE-(Outstanding), with full Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
-Experience teaching AQA, Edexcel, and IGCSE.
-BA HONS English Language degree
-AQA Examiner-GCSE English Language
-OCR Senior Assessor-A-Level English Language

Tutoring Approach:
I ensure that the tutoring sessions enable students to practise the skills that are required for the exam. This practise leads to familiarity and therefore, an increase in confidence. Written responses are marked by myself and I will give guidance by pointing out areas to improve.
I also frequently share the mark scheme for each question, so that students can understand the elements and areas that examiners seek to reward.

Subjects

Personal Description:
PLEASE SEE 'TUTORING EXPERIENCE' BELOW FOR THE MOST IMPORTANT PARTS OF THIS PAGE, THE RESULTS AND FEEDBACK

I am an Oxford graduate (English language and literature, first class), as well as a qualified English teacher, and have been tutoring since 2013. My specialism is A-level English literature.

Please get in touch for online English tuition, particularly if you are or your child is

• Preparing to take A-levels in 2026/27
• Doing coursework
• Working on the basis of continuous assessment, mocks, etc.
• Or planning to do / doing an English degree

I graduated from the University of Oxford with a double first in English language and literature, winning the prize for the best performance in English finals at Mansfield College, and the college essay prize. At school, I was awarded eleven GCSEs at A-star and three A-levels at A.

As well as tutoring, I have worked as a researcher, a copywriter, and a proofreader. I have also completed a PGCE in secondary English at the UCL Institute of Education, the highest-ranking college of education in the world ('QS World University Rankings'), during which I taught all age groups at two west London secondary schools, and received A's for my master's-level assignments. I am currently pursuing a PhD in English literature at the University of Buckingham.

As well as English tuition at any level, I can help you or your child with the following:

• Oxbridge entrance (the admissions process, practice interviews, the ELAT, etc.)
• Essay surgery - how to structure and write an essay
• How to revise - note-taking, organisation, making connections, committing to memory
• Grammar, punctuation, and style (a.k.a. 'usage and abusage')
• Speech-writing and public speaking
• Proofreading and redrafting essays
• Suggested reading and resources, including access to my library of 'TES' resources
• Creative writing
• How to annotate, analyse (and enjoy) English literature - sometimes known as 'close reading' or 'practical criticism'
• If you'd specifically like written feedback on your writing - more like a correspondence course - then I can also provide that.

In my spare time I enjoy cycling, writing, and photography.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring since 2013, teaching English at all levels (including degree level), as well as A-level religious studies and classical civilisation. I have taught AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC/Eduqas, and CAIE (Cambridge International), and am constantly familiarising myself with the new texts that my students are studying. I have experience helping students who have autism and ADHD. And I am interested in the role of generative AI and large language models in education, not to write students' essays for them, but as research assistants for students and teachers alike. It is of course important that students do not get the likes of ChatGPT to write their essays for them, among other reasons because they will not be able to do so in the exams. Tutoring is well placed to discourage this, since it has always been my practice to ask my students many questions about every essay they write.

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A student, June 2025: 'thank you very much for all the sessions! It has not only boosted my confidence in English literature but they really reminded me of how much I love the subject. It's always a pleasure to discuss nuance readings of the texts, and it has been a great help leading up to my exams.'

Charlotte, a parent, June 2025: 'Thank you so much for all your help and support for [L.]. We are so grateful for everything you have done with him and wish you all the best.'

Ann, a parent, June 2025: '[Z.] has thoroughly enjoyed her lessons with you and has gained so much from your guidance. We're very grateful for all the support you've given her.'

A parent, May 2025: 'Thank you so much again for everything you've done to help [G.] prepare for these exams - he has really enjoyed his sessions with you and he and we really appreciate your support'.

A parent, May 2025: '[N.] just received the below. It's an A* if the grade boundaries is same as last year. She couldn't have done it without your help. We really appreciate it.'

A parent, February 2025: '[S.] is really enjoying studying with you and has gained a lot of confidence in English. I truly appreciate the effort and dedication you put into teaching.'

A student, January 2025: 'thank you ever so much for your kindness and creative encouragement the past months. What is very special about you as a tutor is that you have never told me "what to write". Instead, you have asked me questions about my work that have led me to discover what I truly wish to write'.

Kate, a parent, December 2024: 'We're so pleased [G.] is enjoying his sessions and seems to be really motivated to read widely in between sessions, is making useful structured notes (which he didn't do before) and his confidence and awareness of what he needs to do when essay writing is really building. Thank you!!!'

Eleni, a parent, December 2024: 'I just wanted to let you know that [D.] received an offer […] today! She is super happy! […] I wanted to thank you again as [D.] found your sessions incredibly helpful and inceased her confidence during the exams process.'

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A-level results, August 2024:

'I wanted to write to say a huge thank you to you for all the help, support and inspiration you have given [E.] over the past year. You have not only given her the technical advice and support to help her make the most of her essays and exams, but more importantly you have helped her keep the love of the subject alive. I know a big part of the reason she is so excited to study English at university is because of how much she has enjoyed your conversations, and how you have helped her to consider texts in a way that the rather narrower scope of teaching at school does not allow. I am so very grateful to you and I really appreciate all the time and effort you put into her sessions - thank you so very much. […] You've been so great, and any other student/parent would be lucky to have access to your teaching.'

'I have just opened my results and am happy to confirm that I am off to Bristol this September with an A* in English! I just want to thank you again for making this possible.'

'I got an A in English, and will be going to Exeter, so mission accomplished. I wanted to thank you for all your help, not only for helping me to get what I needed, but for giving me back my confidence and enjoyment of the subject in the process.'

'Just to let you know [I.] got her results this morning and achieved an 'A' in English. We are over the moon […] Thank you again for all your help with the English, it's much appreciated.'

'thanks for your help this past academic year! Got two A*s in English and Philosophy'.

'I got a B and I was accepted into my firm university (Durham) which I am very happy! Thank you for all your help and support.'

'I was really happy to receive […] A in English Literature […] I secured a placed at my firm university. I will be studying English Literature at Durham University this September and I am very excited! Thank you so much for all of your support, I really appreciate it!'

'i got into Warwick with […] an A* in English!!!!! I am very happy :) Thank you for all your hard work, wisdom and wit over the last year or two'.

'Thank you so much for all your coaching and advice that you shared with [L.], it made such a difference to his confidence leading up to his exams. He is (as are we) delighted with his English result.'

'an A awarded in English […] so she is off to her first choice of Edinburgh University to study History of Art and English Literature.'

'Results day went well and I'm going to the university of Kent. Thank you so much again for all the time spent helping me to prepare for my exams it means a lot I'm very excited to continue my English literature journey.'

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A student, June 2024: 'Thank you so much for being the most amazing English teacher! It has been an immensely rewarding and interesting journey exploring so many books […] I have learnt so much from GCSEs to continuing with more amazing literatures in A-levels'

A student, June 2024: 'I […] wanted to say thank you for the tremendous help you have provided with the English content throughout the A level period. The resources that you provided for me were quite helpful in refining my knowledge in many areas of the syllabus so thank you very much.'

A student, May 2024: 'I've just received the results for my english coursework and wanted to thank you for all the help and feedback!!'

A parent, February 2024: 'your help has kept her love of the subject and her enthusiasm alive and I can't thank you enough for that.'

A parent, February 2024: 'You were such a huge help to [S.], we will always be very grateful to you.'

Kath, a parent, February 2024: 'We would both like to thank you for all your invaluable help, especially all the helpful feedback on the coursework essay. [S.] has definitely learnt a lot and grown in confidence, especially in her knowledge of Twelfth Night.'

A student, January 2024: 'I just wanted to let you know that I got an offer from Oxford! Thank you so much for checking over my personal statement and all the help that you have given me since GCSEs. I really enjoy our sessions every week, the discussions keep me constantly creative and thinking.'

A parent, January 2024: 'Thank you as always for all your continued help and support for [E.]. I know she gets a tremendous amount from your sessions and I'm very grateful.'

A student, January 2024: 'Just emailing to let you know I did get an offer from […] Cambridge yesterday so thank you so much for all your help! It is really appreciated and I'm really looking forward to starting my degree in October!'

A student, December 2023: 'So thank you so much again for all your help; your insights have been very useful and I have really enjoyed talking about literature with you.'

Tara, a parent, November 2023: 'you are really helping [R.], he is becoming much more confident. Thank you so much'.

Paula, a parent, November 2023: '[M.] is always delighted with your teaching. You are asking questions no one else does. My husband and I see her grow academically after every session with you.'

Liz, a parent, October 2023: 'Thank you so much for all the work you have done with, and the kindness you have shown, [E.] to date. She really enjoys her sessions with you, and you've helped keep her enthusiasm for English very much alive. I'm so grateful.'

Kim, a parent, August 2023: 'I cannot tell you how happy we all were and your help was clearly instrumental in that. Not sure if he told you but he got 12 points above an A* and it was his best A level result!'

A student, August 2023: 'I really enjoyed our lessons and think it has really helped prepare me for the Oxford style tutorials.'

A student, August 2023: 'wanted to let you know I ended up getting an A* in English, thanks so much for all the help!'

Mark, a parent, June 2023: 'Many thanks josh for your help this year. [E.] has said to me it has really helped, you started assisting her at a time when she felt behind her class mates for the whole of the first year, having switched to English half way through term one.'

Melanie, a parent, June 2023: 'Thank you so much for all your time and effort with [T.]'s English literature. She really enjoyed your sessions together and it really boosted her confidence and inspired her to think more deeply and critically about the texts. It also confirmed that she is happy and excited to study a literature based course at degree level.'

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A-level results, August/September 2022:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

Speaking

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reading

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

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

Writing

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

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

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

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

Why study English?

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a qualified primary school teacher with 17 years teaching experience and over 4 years tutoring experience. I offer after school and during the day teaching sessions for primary aged children (including families who have chosen to home educate and may seek extra support).

I have a friendly, patient, yet thorough approach, as well as enthusiasm to support children overcome any learning challenges they may face.

Sessions can be one-to-one or small group, depending on the families requests or the child's needs. I can offer face-to-face or online lessons.

Teaching Experience:
As well as my teaching and tutoring experience. I am an expert in early reading intervention. During my teaching career, I trained as a 'Reading Recovery' Teacher which involved one-to-one tailored sessions aimed to provide accelerated reading progress.

I have a thorough knowledge of teaching the curriculum within early years through to year 6, and wherever possible, will tailor lessons according to the children's loves and interests to increase motivation.

My teaching style can be adapted to support children who are home educated and perhaps may seek a more informal or holistic approach to teaching. Similarly, with children attending school, I have experience and knowledge in closely following the national curriculum. I can target 'known' gaps in learning that may have been noted by parents or teachers, as well as provide assessment sessions which will give me clear targets in order to achieve progress.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is to devise tailor-made, fun and interactive learning activities that will challenge but engage your child to achieve their next steps in learning. I am flexible to offering half hour sessions, particularly for younger children (aged 4 or 5 years old) that may struggle with a 45 minute or one hour session.

Lessons are often pacey, varied and interactive in order to achieve maximum motivation for your child.

I am also willing to incorporate time to discuss next steps with parents/carers in order to support your children's progress outside of the tutoring session. I can provide extra learning materials on request to allow your child further practise in a skill during the week if necessary.

Due to the age of the children I tutor, face- to-face sessions tend to work best, although some upper junior children cope well with zoom lessons.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a friendly, approachable Oxford graduate and Deputy Head of English in one of the nation's leading grammar schools.
I am a passionate English tutor, and I always try to foster an enthusiasm for literature in all my students. When teaching, I aim to provide clear and concise explanation, assess understanding and provide detailed feedback and encouragement.
Education is not just for exams. I aim to build confidence, encourage independence, and inculcate positive habits which last for life.

Teaching Experience:
Deputy Head Of English
3 years experience as a full-time classroom teacher
Currently working at a top 10 ranked grammar school in the UK

Tutoring Approach:
I can offer:
- Tailored lesson plans to suit the learner's needs.
- A comprehensive program for all main exam boards and literature texts.
- Verbal feedback during sessions and detailed written feedback on optional assignments.
- Lessons adapted for a range of abilities.
- Warmth, enthusiasm and (occasionally good) humour.
I am well versed in the most popular English Literature Exam texts and well acquainted with the Edexcel and AQA exam boards.
In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I organise the school's debating team, guiding them to the finals of the English-Speaking Union Public Speaking Competition.
My students typically go on to achieve the top grades in GCSEs and A Level.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am studying at METU in EFL department. This is my last year and my GPA is 3.90. I have been giving online English lessons for three years via Zoom. I am here to help you improve your English and make you love English! I got my approval and I will go to Canada to Alberta University for my master's degree.

Teaching Experience:
This is my third year in online teaching. I have several students coming from different parts of the world including beginner level to upper-intermediate level. Generally, I have many adult students but I adore studying with children as well. You can ask me for references and text me via Whatsapp for your additional questions.

Tutoring Approach:
I give importance to my student's interests and opinions. I try to involve them in my lesson as much as possible and make my lesson fun. I am flexible in time and I arrange my lessons according to my students' time. I always give homework to my students and I prepare a quiz for them each week. My students can text me 7/24 via Whatsapp for their questions.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I currently work as a Senior Global Project Manager for a clinical research company. Since graduating in 2015, I have worked in clinical research, progressing my career in Project Management.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring for the last 5 years from ages 6-16

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is flexible depending on the students needs. I would initially want to understand what areas the focus would be, where I would then plan lessons and ensure there is mutual understanding. I believe it is important to encourage the student with the belief that they can overcome what they feel like they dont understand and be successful

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hey Aliesha here, I'm a college student looking for some extra money on the side to pay for lifestyle things. I would love to tutor your child. I have very good skills in english literature,maths and computer science.

Teaching Experience:
I'm currently studying a Level 3 IT and computing course at college and going on to do maths A level , accounting A level and computer science A level. I got a GCSE grade 8 which is equivalent to a A or B+ in both english literature and computer science and a 6 in maths!

Tutoring Approach:
I like to find out what learning technique works best for the child for example if they're a visual learner or if they learn better from basic instructions. This helps me understand the best way i can get information across and help the child understand and take it in.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi! My name is Jessica, and I hold a BSc (Hons) degree in Psychology from the University of Kent. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience working within the education and healthcare sectors, primarily focusing on supporting young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). My professional journey has been dedicated to enhancing the educational experiences and overall wellbeing of children and adolescents, and I hope to continue doing this through my work tutoring children and young people here.

Teaching Experience:
As a former Paediatric Speech and Language Therapy Assistant, I supported therapists in running language groups and worked directly with children 1-1 to improve their communication, comprehension, verbal and written skills.

I have also helped to support a number of family members with their Maths skills, working 1-1 to tutor their children and give dedicated space and time to work on their understanding and to help them achieve improvements.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach is deeply rooted in empathy, patience, and a personalised understanding of each student's unique needs. Here are the core principles that guide my tutoring methodology:

1. Individualised Learning Plans: Recognising that every student learns differently, I create tailored learning plans that cater to their specific strengths and areas for improvement. This personalised approach ensures that each student receives the support they need to thrive academically.

2. Building Strong Relationships: My background in relationship management and communication with key stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and educational institutions, has equipped me with the skills to build strong, trusting relationships with my students and their families. I believe that a supportive and collaborative environment is essential for effective learning.

3. Interactive and Engaging Lessons: I strive to make my lessons as engaging and interactive as possible. Using a variety of teaching tools and techniques, I aim to keep students motivated and excited about learning. Whether it's through hands-on activities, visual aids, or real-world examples, I ensure that my lessons are both educational and enjoyable.

4. Focus on Wellbeing: Understanding the importance of mental health and wellbeing, I incorporate strategies that promote a positive mindset and emotional resilience. My experience working with Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) allows me to support students not just academically, but holistically.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a 4th year medical student with a strong passion for education and helping others achieve their goals. Alongside my medical studies, I've dedicated my time to tutoring students across different levels and backgrounds. I enjoy breaking down difficult topics and making learning an engaging and rewarding experience.

Teaching Experience:
I've tutored students from primary school all the way up to A-levels, covering subjects such as Maths, Science, and English. I've supported high-achieving students aiming for top grades as well as those needing extra help to build confidence. I also run my own tutoring company, where I manage a team of over 30 tutors and have helped hundreds of students succeed academically.

Tutoring Approach:
Every student learns differently, so I make sure to adapt my sessions to each individual's needs. I focus on building a solid understanding of core concepts, boosting confidence, and preparing students effectively for exams. My approach is patient, structured, and encouraging-creating a space where students feel comfortable asking questions and motivated to improve.

Subjects