St. Ives English Tutors and St. Ives English Tuition

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

Currently my only available slot is Friday 5.30-6.30.

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

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an MFL teacher with bags of enthusiasm and an immense passion for education and children. I currently work part-time in a secondary school in Surrey, and have previously in a Boys Grammar School in North Kent, as well as having enjoyed spells living in Quebec and Aix-en-Provence in the past. I find empathising with students easy, and have girls and boys between 6 years old and adult on my books. I currently tutor in French, Spanish, English, Maths and 11+ preparation.

In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, reading and cycling, having recently completed the London to Brighton cycle in aid of the British Heart Foundation.

Teaching Experience:
I currently work part-time in a secondary school in Surrey, and have previously in a Boys Grammar School in North Kent. I have also done a year's supply in South Yorkshire, as well as in a primary school in France. I have held departmental and pastoral TLR positions at various schools, and have tutored for over ten years. References available.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to support students in their learning by being thorough, professional, but approachable. My effective tutoring in the past has helped students to feel more confident, happier and ultimately this shows in their results. I am often very proud of my students when they make progress in areas such as confidence, as well as ability.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello, I'm Begum - a qualified science teacher and tutor!

I have been tutoring for over 13 years, having first started out in London then moved to Surrey and now Berkshire. I am online only and specialise in SEND students. I now teach at a secondary school and run my own tutoring business.

My students get the best grades they are capable of, continuously get above target grades and some of my best success stories include students going from a grade 3 to a grade 8 with two years of regular tuition.

I remove all anxiety around a subject for a student, and help them figure out what they don't know and how to effectively leverage their time to make the most out of their revision.

Teaching Experience:
Students feel at ease with me. I am easy to talk to and students find they can relate to me. This helps with building a relationship and trust. Most students will learn better with tutors they trust and even look up to.

I provide pastoral support as well as academic and take an all rounded "coaching" approach, allowing your child to benefit from not only academic tuition, but also help with study skills, scheduling revision, planning revision, all embedded into my sessions.

Tutoring Approach:
The first session is a paid trial and then payment is made monthly in advance. I have a two week notice period.

I have three levels of service you can choose from, because "one size does not fit all". :)

Core £60 for 50 minutes - Focused teaching and guided practice, Verbal feedback during session, Homework set weekly, Homework reviewed briefly during sessions

Progress £75 for 65 minutes - Everything in Core, Homework set weekly, Homework reviewed during sessions, Topic tracking and targeted support, Exam-style practice and personalised resources, Lesson notes / key tasks after each session

Intensive £105 for 90 minutes - Everything in Progress, Homework marked outside of lessons, Personalised revision plan, Ongoing weakness analysis, WhatsApp support for quick questions, Priority support during exam season

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have over 10 years of tutoring experience and have tutored students of all ages. I have worked in education for many years and have an in-depth knowledge of requirements for all exam boards.
Personally, I have a passion for English Literature and foreign languages and work hard for my students to achieve the best possible results.
I enjoy learning and communicating in foreign languages as well as understanding other cultures. I have been learning Chinese for 6 years.
I have lived and taught in a variety of countries making me adaptable, resilient, creative and resourceful. This enables me to pass on important life skills to my students in addition to coaching through the demands of a GCSE or A Levels in their chosen subject.

Teaching Experience:
I am a fully qualified teacher who has spent the last 20 years in education including time as a full-time teacher, head of department, tutor and moderator. Additionally, I taught English as a foreign language for 3 years in Quebec, Spain and the Czech Republic. I have tutored students in English Language, English Literature, French, Spanish and German. I obtained my Secondary PGCE in 2009 and have taught in three outstanding schools (Ofsted rated).

Tutoring Approach:
I offer tuition to GCSE in English Language, English Literature. I tutor online through Skype, Zoom or Google Meets. My aim is to get my students to enjoy the subject as this is key to achieving academic success. My students describe me as a creative, motivational and enthusiastic tutor who focuses on progress before perfection.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Susannah is a Master's graduate from Trinity Laban Conservatoire, London, where she was supported by the Dame Felicity Lott Bursary and The Seary Trust.

Susannah is a member of the Aureus Trio, exploring works for flute, cello and piano.

Whilst at Trinity, Susannah was chosen to participate in the conservatoire's side-by-side orchestral project scheme, performing alongside professional flautists from the Philharmonia Orchestra and Welsh National Opera Orchestra. With numerous ensembles, Susannah has played at Blackheath Halls, St. James Piccadilly, Institute of Contemporary Arts and St John's Smith Square, among other venues.

Susannah is a keen chamber musician, and has played with a wide variety of instrumentalists and singers, and has participated in the British Isles Music Festival for several years.

Susannah is pursuing a freelance performing career; working with various ensembles as well as playing in chamber music recitals. A 2019 highlight was performing as the Aureus Trio on a cruise around the Indian Ocean.

Teaching Experience:
Flute and Music Theory: I have over 4 years of teaching experience. I have taught absolute beginners up to Grade 8 flute and advanced. I teach up to Grade 5 theory. I have a 100% pass rate for my students' exams- many usually achieving merit or distinction. I can teach both ABRSM and Trinity College London exam boards

Having studied music up to Masters level, I can also prepare students for their GCSE and/or A-level courses: both performance elements and written exams.

Tutoring Approach:
I'm a friendly and supportive teacher. I give lots of time to each of my students.

I can be flexible with lesson times.

I want my students to play the best they can by encouragement, and I do not put undue pressure on them.

Subjects

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I qualified with the GTCS in 2008, after a successful probationary year in a Lanarkshire school.

After this I was permanently employed in state schools in North Lanarkshire, Glasgow and Stirling before moving into the private sector in 2015.

I've taught and presented candidates at all levels of secondary school, including National 5 and Higher English.

Teaching Experience:
I was permanently employed in state schools in North Lanarkshire, Glasgow and Stirling before moving into the private sector in 2015.

Tutoring Approach:
I don't complete homework with your child, instead we will work on the skills needed to boost their grade. This means that during my time with them, we'll work on the areas crucial to the exam. I may set additional homework.

Please note that I can't help your child to write their folio and can only give generic support to help them to generate ideas, plan and develop their writing.

Subjects

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I graduated thirty years ago and have taught many pupils in the UK and Greece. I am still a teacher so I am fully up to date with current ideas and methods. I understand how pupils achieve and more importantly recognise what may cause a negative impact on learning. Because of this I will be able to support, assess, monitor and give swift feedback so that all pupils reach their true potential. I love teaching and tutoring.

DBS enhanced on update service.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a teacher for thirty years. I have worked in both private and state schools. I have taught from Years 1-7 inclusive during the past twenty years. I have taught in England and in Greece. I have taught a wide variety of students from many backgrounds; SEND, (Autism, Down's, ADHD) EAL and Gifted and Talented. I have also been a tutor and have tutored children and adults up to GCSE level in English and Maths.

DBS Enhanced on update service

Tutoring Approach:
I am aver calm and friendly teacher and tutor. I will provide all resources needed.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have a First Class law degree from the University of Oxford and have almost 10 years of tutoring experience. At university, I was the Editor-in-Chief of the prestigious Oxford University Undergraduate Law Journal. During my time at Oxford, I also published an article in the journal which was awarded the 'Best Private Law' prize, as adjudicated by the former President of the Supreme Court, Lord Neuberger. I also regularly won prizes for my academic work. Alongside my academics, I also mentored several students with various access schemes and assisted with outreach programmes.

I have been tutoring law to undergraduates from diverse law schools for the past three years. We have covered core subjects such as Tort, Land and EU law in the run up to exams. In addition, I have marked past papers, created notes and tweaked exam technique to give students the best chance. I developed my tutoring skills by teaching a range of disciplines, from Maths to English, with the UK access scheme `Into University`. I have also supported students with their Oxbridge applications. This has consisted of fine tuning their personal statements, holding mock interviews and discussing important debates in order to foster a deeper understanding of the discipline of law.

Teaching Experience:
As Editor-in-Chief of the prestigious Oxford University Undergraduate Law Journal, I spent a lot of time reviewing academic work and collaboratively fine tuning scripts to publish in the journal. In addition, I launched a blog which published more accessible legal articles. I have therefore had the privilege of working with an even wider pool of students then perhaps I would have done had I only worked with authors of journal submissions.

With regards to tutoring undergraduates, I have covered Contract, Public/Administrative, Jurisprudence, Medical, Land, Tort, EU and Trusts and am comfortable teaching any core subject. I can also assist students in writing their dissertation and essays.

I have also helped numerous students with their Oxbridge Applications as a tutor for 'Oxbridge Applications'. My work has consisted of holding mock interviews, reviewing personal statements and setting exercises which provide a good insight into how best to tackle the LNAT. I am also currently a mentor for Brightstart, which supports students going into their A-Levels and with the university and subject choices.

Tutoring Approach:
I take a very hands on approach by closely following the relevant curriculum and asking students to submit answers to past paper questions. I regularly mark answers, and have provided sample answers so that students have a better idea of the level of detail required to get a First Class mark.

Students have thanked me for my 'understanding teaching skills', and I have only ever been awarded 5 stars from former students.

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 have done bachelor in arts. I got best teacher certificate from an institute.

Teaching Experience:
I have almost 5 to 7 years experience of teaching in different institutions. I can teach early years to primary level students all subjects.

Tutoring Approach:
Explaining of topics from basic level with practical examples to get better understanding of the topics.
Try to improve reading, writing and learning skills. Activity based learning is perioritsed.My aim is to develop good skills in my students and make them satisfied.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a high-achieving graduate with a strong background in technology, passionate about both learning and teaching. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I've helped students excel across a wide range of subjects, from Primary Arithmetic and English, through GCSE and A-Level courses, all the way to Undergraduate studies. My extensive knowledge spans core academics, arts, sciences, languages, and admissions preparation, allowing me to tailor lessons that meet each student's unique needs and goals.

I truly enjoy making complex topics accessible and inspiring a love of learning in every student I work with. Technology plays a big role in how I approach education, allowing me to create engaging, tailored lessons that spark curiosity and build confidence. By creating a supportive and engaging environment, I encourage students to overcome challenges, develop critical thinking skills and realise their full potential at every stage of their academic journey.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 9 years of tutoring experience, primarily working online but also providing private in-home tutoring. During my academic years, I volunteered as a mentor and tutor for younger students, which laid a strong foundation for my teaching approach. I have supported students across all age groups from primary and secondary levels to A-Level and university and I'm actively expanding my work with undergraduate learners.

My tutoring has helped many students achieve significant improvements, including successfully gaining admission to private schools through the 11+ exam, and boosting GCSE grades by an average of 4 grades above expectations within six months.

I cover a broad range of topics and themes across multiple subjects and educational stages, tailored to the specific needs of each student. For primary and secondary levels, I teach core subjects including Arithmetic, English, Science, Geography, History, Religious Education, Spanish, and Computing. At GCSE and IGCSE levels, I cover subjects such as Maths, English Language and Literature, Combined and Triple Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Business Studies, Computer Science, Art and Design, Geography, History, Media Studies, Film Studies, Food Preparation and Nutrition, Religious Studies, Spanish, and Accounting.

For A-Level students, I provide tutoring in subjects including Film Studies, Health and Social Care, ICT and Information Technology, Journalism, Media Studies, Modern Languages (Spanish), Technology and Design, and Travel and Tourism. At the undergraduate level, I support academic writing, cinematics, media studies, research methods, and Spanish.

Regarding exam boards, I am familiar with major UK boards such as AQA, Edexcel, OCR, Cambridge IGCSE, and others, enabling me to tailor preparation to the specific syllabus and exam requirements. I also support students preparing for admissions tests such as 11+, 13+, SAT, and UCAS applications, along with TEFL exam preparation.

If there are specific papers or units you need support with, I can provide targeted lessons aligned with those assessments to ensure confidence and success.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is student-focused, flexible, and results-oriented. I understand that each learner is unique, so I tailor my teaching to suit individual goals, learning styles, and confidence levels. Whether students need help mastering core concepts, preparing for exams, or improving academic performance, I adapt my methods to best support their progress. I focus not only on exam success but also on building confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills. I hold a TEFL qualification, which complements my ability to support language learners effectively.

I incorporate a mix of interactive techniques, including technology-based tools, active questioning, step-by-step support and guided practice, and real-world applications to make learning both engaging and effective. I aim not just to improve grades, but to nurture curiosity, independent thinking, and a genuine love for learning. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I know how powerful encouragement and personalised teaching can be in helping students overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm an experienced tutor from the UK, now pursuing my Master's degree in Communication Strategies.
I graduated from Queen Mary University London with a first class degree, and was selected to present my thesis at the National Conference for Undergraduate Research.
I believe that tutoring is the perfect tool to help learners achieve their goals, through 1:1 attention and in depth exploration.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring since long before I graduated, and I now bring many years of experience to the table along with a varied academic and professional profile.
My students see improvements in their predicted and real grades, along with growth in their academic confidence.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that success depends on a collaborative approach: seeing a positive outcome requires both tutor and student to share a goal which they can consciously work towards.
I set goals with my students early, to make sure that we can use our time together as effectively as possible.
By working with a specific outcome in mind, it's also easier to track progress and plan our next steps.

Subjects

Personal Description:
GCSE & A-Level Tutor | Exam Technique Specialist | Former Examiner:
My teaching philosophy is simple: I believe learning should feel like a discovery, not a duty. I'm a naturally friendly and approachable tutor who lives for those 'lightbulb' moments that incredible spark in a student's eyes when a complex concept finally clicks, or the proud smile when a hard-earned test score comes in. My greatest goal is to transform your child's apprehension about a subject into genuine excitement and curiosity.

I bring a strong academic foundation to our sessions, holding a degree in Mathematics from the University of Birmingham and currently furthering my expertise through a Master's programme. My own academic journey has equipped me with deep knowledge across core subjects including Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, History, and Law, in which I achieved top grades (A/A*) at both GCSE and A-Level.

But beyond the formulas and facts, I am a builder of confidence. I can't wait to help your child conquer their challenges and achieve their academic goals in a supportive and enjoyable environment.

Teaching Experience:
With over 300+ hours of one-on-one and small group tutoring experience, I have a proven track record of helping students unlock their potential. My experience is not just about teaching subjects; it's about mentoring young learners through their academic journeys.

Here's what that experience looks like in practice:

Exam Preparation Specialist: I have extensive experience guiding students through the specific requirements of GCSE and A-Level syllabi for my subject areas. This includes focused revision strategies, past paper practice, and techniques for managing exam anxiety, leading to tangible results such as helping a student improve their predicted grade in A-Level Maths from a D to a final B.

Building Foundational Confidence: I have worked with numerous students who initially described themselves as "just not a maths person" or "terrible at science." Through patience and tailored techniques, I've helped them not only improve their grades but fundamentally change their relationship with the subject, turning dread into capability.

Bridging Knowledge Gaps: I am skilled at diagnosing and rectifying misunderstood concepts from earlier years that are holding a student back. For example, I worked with a GCSE Chemistry student who was struggling with stoichiometry because they had a weak grasp of foundational mole calculations from earlier studies. By dedicating a session to rebuilding that core understanding, we enabled rapid progress in the more advanced topic.

Engaging the Unmotivated Learner: I pride myself on finding the "hook" that engages even the most reluctant students. Whether it's connecting historical events to modern-day politics, showing the real-world application of a physics law, or turning a biology revision session into a interactive game, I make it my mission to find what sparks their interest.

My students don't just leave our sessions with better grades; they leave with renewed confidence, effective study habits, and the self-assurance that they can tackle any academic challenge that comes their way.

Tutoring Approach:
I know that a one-size-fits-all approach is a recipe for boredom and frustration. That's why my sessions are built from the ground up around your child's unique learning style, goals, and even their sense of humour.

My methodology is built on three pillars:

1. Diagnostic First Steps: I begin by identifying not just knowledge gaps, but also the root of any confidence issues. We'll tackle the 'why' behind the struggle before we dive into the 'what'.

2. Dynamic & Personalised Lessons: Your child's sessions are uniquely theirs. We might use quick-fire quizzes to build speed and accuracy, illustrative drawings to demystify a scientific process, or even create silly memory rhymes to make key facts unforgettable. I am agile in my methods, using whatever tool works to make the material stick.

3. Consistent Reinforcement & Feedback: I refresh my lesson plans weekly to ensure they are engaging, effective, and something your child genuinely looks forward to. I provide regular, constructive progress updates to both students and parents, because everyone should be on the same team celebrating every victory, big and small.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello! I am a first year Law student at the University of Exeter.
I achieved mostly 9s in my GCSE's most notably in English literature, English language, History and French.
For my A levels I obtained an A* in Religion and Philosophy, an A in English literature and a B History.
Hobbies: Piano/Running/Tennis

Teaching Experience:
1) Expertise in the Subject: Strong knowledge and understanding of the subject you're tutoring is essential. My mastery of subject material allows me to explain concepts clearly and answer questions accurately. Thousand of hours of study for both GCSE's and A-Levels has lead me to create excellent A* level notes for students.
2) Effective Communication: Being able to explain complex ideas in simple terms is a key skill for a tutor. My ability to convey information clearly and adapt my communication style to the student's learning preferences is crucial.
3) Patience and Empathy: Not all students grasp concepts at the same pace. Patience and empathy are vital qualities that allow me to work through dilficulties with students and create a comfortable learning environment.
4) Adaptability: Each student has a unique learning style. Being able to adapt teaching methods to suit the individual needs of each student can greatly enhance their understanding and engagement.
5) Active Listening: Understanding a student's challenges and quentons requires active listening. By. carefully listening, I can address their specific needs and tailor your tutoring accordingly.
Tutoring Approach:
Online based tutor using Zoom or Google Meet.

Tutoring Approach:
Online based tutor using Zoom or Google Meet.
1) Assessment and Goal Setting: 1 begin by assessing the student's current knowledge and understanding of the subject, whilst discussing the student's goals and expectations for the futoring sessions.
2) Individualised learning plan: Based on the assessment, I create a personalised learning plan that outlines the topics to cover and the order in which to address them. I consider the student's learning style, strengths, and areas needing improvement.
3) Clear Explanation: Presenting concepts in a clear, concise, and easily understandable manner whilst using real-life examples and analogies to illustrate complex ideas.
4)Interactive Learning: 1 encourage active participation and engagement from all students. Asking questions to check for understanding and encourage critical thinking is the best way to improve.
5) Practice and Application: I will provide practice exercises, problems, or activities that reinforce the concepts taught. We then gradually increase the complexity of exercises as the student's understanding improves.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Primary teacher - Redbridge, 26 years; very experienced


I am an extremely skilled and dedicated teacher with nearly 30 years of classroom teaching experience, within the London Borough of Redbridge. I hold a degree in psychology, followed by a Postgraduate qualification in Education (PGCE), specialising in English. As a result, I achieved my QTS (Qualified Teaching Status).

Alongside my teaching career, I have consistently tutored children on a one-to-one basis, including home educated learners. I have worked with children across a wide range of abilities , helping them to grow in confidence, develop strong academic skills and achieve success in their learning journey. I feel that if a child needs help, the primary school years are the best time to begin developing the right foundations...

I truly believe that every child matters. Supporting children to grow academically and emotionally has been incredibly rewarding and I remain most grateful for my career in education.

Teaching Experience:
I have a wealth of knowledge with the KS1&2 curriculum and have extensive experience preparing children for year 6 SATs. In addition, I have worked as a KS2 examiner, to mark SATs papers, giving me valuable insight into assessment expectations and standards.

I have strong experience supporting children with SEND and neurodivergent learners. I understand the importance of adapting teaching approaches to ensure every child feels engaged and capable of succeeding.

I help children in building confidence, exam techniques and independent learning skills to help them succeed academically.

I provide personalised support for primary-aged children, including:

SATs preparation

Phonics Screening preparation

Year 5 and year 6 booster classes

7+ and 11+ preparation

Year 4 pupils Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)

English/ maths intervention

Homework tasks- 'concrete', 'pictorial' and 'abstract' resources.

Home education assistance on specific days.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to teaching is centred around creating a positive, supportive and inclusive learning environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to succeed. I believe that all children learn differently, so I adapt my teaching methods to suit each child's abilities and learning style.

I aim to make lessons engaging, interactive and enjoyable. I place great importance on developing strong relationships with both pupils and parents. Good communication and teamwork between home and school are essential in helping children make the best possible progress. I also understand the pressures of family life and always try to be flexible, approachable and supportive.

Above all, I teach with kindness, patience, encouragement and always strive to make a meaningful and lasting difference in every child's learning journey...

Subjects

Personal Description:
Dr John-Henry Clay, FRHistS, FRSA

Former Assoc. Prof. at Durham | Experienced teacher | Published novelist

I'm a full-time, professional tutor with a unique breadth of experience across a two-decade career:

• Associate Professor at Durham University
• Teacher at a top London independent school ("Excellent" rated)
• Fellow of the Royal Historical Society
• Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts
• Published novelist of historical fiction
• Archaeologist and active academic researcher

I love combining the joy of one-on-one tutoring, seeing students grow and learn, with my life-long passions for history, politics and literature.

For me, tutoring does not stop with passing exams, vital as that is. Just as important is learning how to push intellectual boundaries, encourage creative thinking, and expand the imagination. I want my tutees not just to realise their full potential at school, but to be ready for the challenges that await them beyond.

I take on a limited number of tutees so that I can tailor my approach to each tutee's specific needs, with concrete targets and an approach that will engage, challenge and inspire. I prepare bespoke resources carefully prior to lessons as well as detailed feedback on written work (this is all included in my fee - I will never charge for anything outside contact time). Please get in touch to ask me about my availability.

One of the great things about my varied career track has been the chance to live and work in other countries, with all the mind-expanding experiences that brings. Before my doctorate I also worked as a professional archaeologist. Over the years I have pursued historical and archaeological research in the USA, Mexico, Austria, Germany, France, the Netherlands and the Republic of Ireland.

TESTIMONIALS

"My child went from a predicted D to achieving an A in one year. John gave her confidence, a much better understanding of core concepts and an enthusiasm for the subject. All delivered in a clearly structured digestible way with kindness and patience. I would highly recommend his tutoring skills." - Parent of A Level Politics student

"John was the perfect tutor, helping my son to reengage with English after he lost some confidence based on feedback from his school teachers. My son managed to improve his GCSE grade from 6s at the begginng of the year to 7s in his mock exams to 9s in the final exam. To say we are over the moon is an understatement." - Parent of IGCSE English student

"Thank you so so much - I'm thrilled that I came so far in history - from a C to an A*!! It's such a relief I'm getting into where I want to go on my own merit and I'm so so grateful to you again." - A Level History student

"John has tutored my daughter during the Sixth Form and helped her success in gaining an offer to study PPE at Oxford University. In Politics, particularly, he has boosted her confidence and provided invaluable coaching on exam technique. Because he was so knowledgeable and great at explaining, he also engaged her in discussions on topics which she had otherwise struggled to embrace and understand. Also his manner and kindness helped her to enjoy and flourish from his teaching. He is an excellent tutor, and we are very grateful for all his teaching and expertise." - Parent of A Level Politics student

"John's enthusiasm for the Ancient World is very clear but his ability to understand the needs of his student is what sets him apart from others. John delivers clear and memorable lessons. He takes the time to engage and check M's understanding of the topic in a way which makes him feel more confident about his own abilities. […] John genuinely wants M to succeed. Towards the end of the summer, they will visit the British Museum together and this is an example of John's commitment to his student." - Parent of GCSE Ancient History and Latin student

"I recently got my GCSE results, and I got a 9 in history. I wanted to thank you as your tutoring helped me so much and there is no way I could have achieved this result without your help." - GCSE History student

Teaching Experience:
PROFESSIONAL FULL-TIME TUTOR, 2022-present

I have successfully tutored students of various abilities at GCSE and A Level across a range of subjects and exam boards:

• Classical Civilisation and Ancient History (OCR)
• Latin (OCR)
• History (OCR/AQA/Edexcel)
• Politics (Edexcel)
• English (AQA/Edexcel)

I have expertise in UCAS applications, Oxford HAT and Cambridge HAA and interview technique; since 2022 six of my students have received Oxbridge offers, with many others going to top Russell Group universities

HISTORY AND POLITICS TEACHER, 2020-2023

• ISI "Excellent"-rated independent school
• Taught History at KS3, GCSE and A Level
• Taught Politics at A Level
• Sixth Form tutor (particular strength in UCAS applications and personal statements)
• Detailed understanding of the specifications and marking criteria for English, History and Politics at GCSE and A Level

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF HISTORY, Durham University, 2010-2020

• Taught History lectures, seminars and supervisions at every level (undergraduate to PhD)
• Taught Creative Writing lectures and tutorials at MA level
• Pastoral officer for 1st year undergraduates
• Departmental admissions officer (responsible for accepting/rejecting UCAS applications)
• Multiple academic publications in peer-reviewed international journals, as well as papers at international conferences
• Visiting fellowships at the Austrian Academy of Sciences in Vienna (2009-2010) and Institute for Research in the Humanities at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2015-2016)
• Interviewed as an expert in my field on several BBC documentaries and podcasts, and as a guest speaker at the BBC Radio 3 Free Thinking Festival
• I remain an Honorary Research Fellow of Durham and an active researcher in my field

Tutoring Approach:
TUTORING

My approach is based on empathy, encouragement, and enthusiasm. Often students have great potential in a subject, but for whatever reason lack the confidence to realise it. Other times a student has the confidence, but haven't quite learned the skills they need to reach that elusive target grade.

Wherever they are coming from, as a tutor my first goal is to understand my students and see things from their perspective. Then I provide the structure and support they need to achieve their goal. This might be through weekly essay writing and feedback, talking through tricky concepts, providing curated resources to help their development - in fact, whatever they need to succeed.

PERSONAL STATEMENT ASSISTANCE

My career path has given me unique experience of teaching before, during, and after A Levels. This means I understand the student experience from all perspectives. I have seen the pressures and demands of GCSE and A Level study, and as Sixth Form tutor have guided dozens of students through the UCAS process, including multiple successful Oxbridge applications.

My experience as a Durham University admissions officer taught me that, when it comes to the most competitive universities, the personal statement is very often the deciding factor. My experience as a published author means that I can help my tutees sculpt their perfect application, one that showcases academic skill while bringing out their uniqueness and passion.

Just as important, I understand the transition from school to university, and all the challenges it brings. During my time at Durham University I also served as pastoral officer to first-year undergraduates, which involved helping students make the (often difficult) jump to a new level of independence and academic demands. For tutees about to take their A Levels, part of my approach is therefore to help them prepare mentally and practically for that transition.

Subjects