Stockton-on-Tees English Tutors and Stockton-on-Tees English Tuition

Personal Description:
I have been teaching for 12 years in a range of schools across Teesside. I will support children to achieve their best no matter what ability they are. I will work alongside and their current school to support what they find difficult. I use a range of strategies and resources to engage and enthuse my students so that they can achieve their potential. I provide a fun and friendly atmosphere in order for my students to achieve. Being a Primary Teacher I have taught all Primary subjects but my strengths are in Maths, English, ICT, Science and Music. Some of my parents said about me: "You have been such a positive influence on our daughter and she has loved having you as her teacher". "You are an exceptional tutor and I feel that the loss of your ability and personality will significantly reduce the fabric of the school". "Thank you for all that you have done for our son during Year 3. He has enjoyed everyday of school and I believe that is down to you".

Teaching Experience:
I have taught in a range of schools across Teesside but have always upheld the same vision. My vision for education is one where every child is both different and special. Although each child may learn in different ways I believe that, if they are to learn to their full potential they need to be exposed to a well balanced, broad and meaningful curriculum. It is important that they are provided with a learning environment that not only facilitates their learning by different strategies but one in which the children want to learn and have fun. I believe that an atmosphere where the children are not afraid to make mistakes, where what they are learning is relevant and one in which they are treated fairly, irrespective of their social background, colour or gender, will help them to become independent learners. I believe that children have a right to their own opinions and must be encouraged to respect the opinions of others when differing from their own. They also have a right not to be bullied, ridiculed or intimidated.

Tutoring Approach:
I have tutored on a 1:1 basis during my time in school, helping one child get from L3 to L4 in maths in Year 6. My approach was to reinforce what the child needed and to always put their needs first. I would use anything that I felt appropriate that would engage and get the best out of my students. I am an energetic, hardworking person who is fully committed to raising standards. I provide a friendly and fun learning environment with excellent management skills whilst having high expectations from the children. I am not afraid to take risks that challenge the children and to introduce new methods in my teaching in order to get the best out of my students, myself and that make my lessons fun and exciting. The student is the priority in the lesson and I am prepared to make sure that they succeed in what they are trying to achieve no matter what stage the child is at.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I always seek to organise lessons around the student's areas of interest.
I expect lessons to be both fun and challenging, and set clear goals and objectives for each student, both short- term and long- term.
I have lived and taught in France, Germany and the UK.

Teaching Experience:
6 years in a London Montessori School, age range 5- 16.
3 years in a London comprehensive, age range 11- 19.
3 years in a West Midlands comprehensive, age range 11- 16.
10 years in a Cheshire comprehensive, age range 11- 18.

Tutoring Approach:
Tutoring is a serious investment of time and money on the part of both student and teacher, and so I always spend part of the first session making sure that everyone is clear about the aims and objectives of the tutoring.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm in my early sixties, married with four children and three Grandchildren aged 5-9 yrs. I have 40 years' experience of teaching all ages from pre-school (I used to child mind) to A level and FE students. I have taught children aged 4-14yrs in an Independent Christian School and I have helped many older students with dyslexia, ADHD and ASD to resit their English GCSE successfully. I enjoy working with adults too especially using my language teaching skills (I am CELTA qualified). I help people who have particular difficulties and those who just lack confidence, to see their very real strengths and to build on them. I can show them techniques for learning and improving their writing style, comprehension skills and spoken English in a way that suits them as individuals. I always make sure that whether or not you want to pass exams, the English you use is fit for whatever need you have - so if you just need help in speaking to Doctors and Nurses in hospital, I can help with that or if you want to start at Uni I can meet your study needs too at whatever level. I am extremely passionate about education and have a purposeful approach which takes account of students' individual learning styles. I am happy to travel to you at a cost of 45p per mile but if you prefer to work online using zoom, that is fine too.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught in homes, Primary and Secondary Schools, Colleges and Community Centres. My comprehensive experience in leading Employability , Drama and Speech workshops has been most fulfilling but I also love teaching English as an additional language and singing with crafts etc. for people with learning differences. You can see from this that I am a teacher who loves teaching - education is my passion! I also love reading and researching so I can help people with dyslexia and other learning difficulties. I have been trained in this area and I have always taken opportunities to improve my teaching skills. My students are very proud of their achievements in exams etc but most of all they thank me for building their confidence and allowing them to work at a pace which suits them so that they really enjoy what they are learning. I have taught the Cambridge ESOL qualifications using the CLT technique as well as GCSE, functional Skills City and Guilds and A Level English Language and Literature. During the pandemic I taught on the National Tutoring Programme and I have volunteered with young asylum seekers. I help people with Special Needs to access the curriculum and to enjoy doing so! My most recent experience is as Head of English in a school for children with moderate learning difficulties, especially autism aged 11yrs to adults.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to give personal attention to my tutees and to tailor the lessons to their needs but am happy to teach online up to 3 people together to reduce costs if that helps. We work on Language skills such as pronunciation, vocabulary and grammar in ESOL lessons with plenty of practice for tests if needed and when studying literature at a higher level, I encourage my tutees to relate what they are reading to current issues and events in the world so that it is relevant and interesting for them. We have lots of fun but at the same time we work intensively, reading aloud to proof read and to practise using strategies for spelling, punctuation and organising essays etc. It is a great way to prepare for further academic study and I can help to prepare students for interviews or to give that all important presentation which could lead to promotion.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a well qualified and experienced Primary School and EFL teacher. I have a wide range of experience in teaching students from the age of 5 through to adults. I graduated from Warwick University with a degree in Ancient History and Archaeology followed by a Primary School PGCE from the University of Roehampton and a Masters in Education from the University of Bath.

I am able to build strong relationships with my tutees in order to raise their confidence and attainment levels. I ensure that my lessons are interactive, enjoyable and meaningful to allow students to reach their potential whilst having fun.

I am able to hold tutoring sessions in my classroom in Farnborough or online via Zoom.

I love to travel and have relished the great opportunities of teaching in Spain, Thailand and the Czech Republic. I also enjoy adventures with my three young sons, cycling, camping, swimming, music, drawing and reading.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked as a Primary School teacher (state and independent) for over 20 years in the UK and at International Schools abroad. I have also had the pleasure of tutoring a variety of students and helping them to achieve excellent results in SATs tests, entrance exams and 11+ or providing them with that bit of extra help and confidence needed to succeed in the classroom. In addition I have worked with students from across the globe, helping them to improve their English language and communication skills.

Tutoring Approach:
Each student is different, not only in terms of their needs but also in terms of their learning style. I believe it is necessary to set up a clear learning programme to establish goals and targets that can be ticked off and celebrated to ensure that both confidence and attainment are improved. I am patient and supportive and try to include fun activities in each session to ensure that students enjoy their learning and strive to achieve their best. Through assessing each student's starting point and the progress they make I am able to adapt learning programmes and set appropriate challenges depending on the needs of the individual.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced tutor and secondary school teacher with experience at teaching English as an academic subject and as a foreign language.

Teaching Experience:
I am a qualified secondary school teacher with experience teaching in secondary schools and further education colleges. I have twenty years' experience of teaching GCSE and A level English and am an examiner for AQA GCSE English and have previously been a examiner for GCSE English Literature and English KS3 SATs tests.

Tutoring Approach:
I have several years tutoring experience on a one to one basis and have found that students can make exceptional progress when the teaching is targeted to their needs and level. I have enjoyed considerable success at enabling students to reach their full potential and particularly enjoy working with the student to towards exam success.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Clementine. I am living on the Isle of Man. I am looking to pass on my knowledge to the next generation. I went to Newcastle university where I studied Applied Sport and Exercise Science (BSc). Following this I became a personal trainer receiving level 3 and finally went onto doing a PGCE course where I received my QTS and an outstanding grade. My school recently had Ofsted, where I was observed by two members who both gave me outstanding lesson observations. I am a friendly character just wanting to help children.

Teaching Experience:
My school recently had Ofsted, where I was observed by two members of Ofsted who both gave me outstanding lesson observations. I have been in three different schools with many different children. I have had a CRB check. I have taught in year 4 for three years and two years in year 3.

Tutoring Approach:
Never say never ! There is no such thing as 'can't' ! With a little nurturing and guidance anything can be achieved !

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a very positive person and have full empathy with students barriers to learning.
I am friendly and approachable and like to aim to raise student self-esteem and attitude to learning, focusing on positive recognition of achievements and constructive reinforcement of learning strategies.

I work just as easily with adults as I do with children.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 30 years of teaching experience teaching from pre schoo level up to GCSE level and adult learning for returning to work.

I also teach children within the care system who have missed a lot of the early building blocks through lack of education as opposed to lack of ability. This also includes overcoming huge barriers to learning !

Tutoring Approach:
I aim to develop an individual learning strategy to accomodate the students learning style and empower them to achieve and gain confidence through a positive learning programme suited to their individual style and needs.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Very personable and hardworking.My teaching style can be the catered to the needs of each specific individual learner.
I also try to use humour to balance out the serious side of teaching, in order to develop a strong working relationship with the person(s) I am helping.
Teaching styles can and will include a variety of techniques, depending on the topic area at that time. I am comfortable working wth learners of all ages, and have worked with those from primary through to Adult learners.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught film and media at Knowsley community college for 13 years, and also taught communication studies in my final year at the colllege. Though it was mainly A level, I have also taught Btec units, and can teach gcse film and media studies, too. I have written one film book, and been published extensively with other journal articles for film and media topics - e.g. "Media Magazine" (English and Media centre) and "Splice" (Auteur publishing) film journal.

I have also more recently taught media at two pupIL referral units on merseyside, working with learners who are no longer suitable for mainstream education. Since 2015, I have been an examiner for A.S. film studies since 2015.
Since 2016, I have been a tutor in English, including working on on one with primary pupils (e.g. SATS exam prep, literacy and numeracy work) and also pupils studying foundation English/GCSE/igcse courses etc.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is to fulfill the potential academic ability of each student I work with, regardless of their starting point.
Though my approach is obviously a serious one, I can also ensure a light hearted tone when the time is right during any lesson, also. My significant teaching experience means I have applied a range of techniques, and methods of differentiation to get the best out of the learner.Clearly one to one teaching requires a different approach to that of one used when teaching over 20 plus learners.
My aim is to link the teaching the learning to the work the student is currently doing on their academic course, to ensure the the best outcomes for the learner, and build on the progress already being made. I always start by making contact with the teacher/tutor where relevant, and use this as a starting point before beginning my own tuition.

Subjects

Personal Description:
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A DEDICATED, PROFESSIONAL AND EXPERIENCED PRIVATE TUTOR?

I am a highly experienced and successful private tutor in English language and literature, with over 40 years teaching experience in secondary and further education.

I have been a private tutor for the past 10 years, and find it extremely rewarding to continue to use my expertise to support students preparing for challenging English qualifications, which are so vital for success in life.

This is what my most recent private tutee's mother has to say about my support for her son, who has just completed his GCSE English language and literature exams:

"Isla is a wonderful, dedicated tutor and I really couldn't have wished for a better tutor for my son's GCSE English. Isla's lessons are extremely well-planned, resourced and delivered, and she has created an excellent method of teaching which helped my son to engage and focus on his preparation for the exams. Most importantly, however, was the strong teacher/pupil relationship that Isla built with my son. From the first lesson, my son had great respect for his tutor, valuing her feedback and acting upon the advice given. I realised after the first tutorial that Isla's teaching style is perfect for today's students. Thank you so much Isla for your guidance, We are grateful for all your help!"
Mrs PD, Grantham, July 2024
Footnote: this tutee who has dyslexia gained a level 6 in both English Language and Literature.

(You can see more reviews in my testimonial section below.)

MORE ABOUT MY TEACHING EXPERIENCE:

After I retired from the full-time teaching post I held for 23 years, I decided to continue teaching by becoming a private tutor, because I love teaching.

Formerly, I taught Key Stages 3, GCSE and A Level, and in my work I had an excellent track record for enabling my students to achieve their academic potential; my school pupils achieved consistently good or excellent GCSE and A Level grades and this has continued to be the case with my private tutees.

I love my subject and I am a rigorous teacher dedicated to raising standards of literacy through my teaching of English language and literature, and to the educational and personal development of young people more widely. Reading and writing skills are vital to success, and I want to empower my tutees by helping them to acquire those essential skills.

As well as teaching my academic subject, I was a sixth form personal tutor ( Years 12 and 13) in my school for 18 years, monitoring my students' academic progress, and guiding and mentoring those applying to university, assisting with UCAS applications and personal statements, or helping tutees plan for a gap year or for employment - a role which I found particularly fulfilling. I am available to support UCAS application personal statements. I get on very well with all my students and oerhaos especially those aged 16 - 18.

I also have experience of teaching in further education and have taught mature students from different cultural backgrounds.

I have also supervised sixth form students taking the AQA Extended Project Qualification. I greatly enjoy one - to-one tuition.

TUTORING EXPERTISE

In my long teaching career, I have built up extensive subject knowledge and teaching expertise, which I can adapt to students ranging from 11 years to adult, and taking exams with various examining boards, with my main focus as a private tutor being on GCSE and A Level.


A selection of TESTIMONIALS

I love working as a private tutor, helping my tutees to gain confidence in essential reading and writing skills and to achieve exam success.

In addition to the one above, here is a selection of testimonials from former tutees and their parents:

GCSE:

"When my daughter was about 14 it became apparent that she was really struggling with English. She had other difficulties going on that had made the subject very difficult for her. Her main problem was she didn't know how to approach answering questions and didn't understand how to structure an answer. We realised the importance of getting our daughter extra support, not only for her English Language and English Literature GCSE but as a foundation to other subjects and her future in life. We were very lucky to find Isla, who had experience of the exam board that we were using and many years teaching experience. She worked with my daughter on a weekly basis, through Year 10 and Year 11; Isla always planned our sessions and she covered all areas of the curriculum across both English GCSE subjects. By the time my daughter came to take her exams she was really prepared and had a new found confidence. I know that whatever her results are they will be better than they would have been. Do not hesitate to get support from Isla, she will work flexibly with you and listen to your needs."
Mrs LC, Stamford, July 2022
Update following exam results August 25 2022: this tutee is very pleased to have achieved a level 5 ( strong pass) in GCSE English Language and a 4 ( standard pass) in English Literature.

"My son was really struggling to get any motivation to study either English literature or language in both the first and second year of his GCSE course and so I made the decision to get him some support and contacted Isla to help him. Over a period of about 12 months Isla steadily helped Josh to work through the syllabus and both supported him and stretched him in order to help him maximise his potential. In his finals Josh received a solid B in both subjects and has gone on to study A level literature. I have no doubt he would not have achieved this without Isla's ongoing help and support."
Mrs M.M. Rutland , 2018


" Our son needed help to raise his GCSE English grade from a C to a B. We are so pleased that we found Isla to help him. He thoroughly enjoyed the sessions with Isla, which were paced at just the right level for him. He produced homework each week which was marked before his next session. He responded well to Isla's teaching methods and worked a lot harder than he had at school. Results day was brilliant - he gained an A grade. Fantastic! We would recommend Isla wholeheartedly."
Mrs J R, Rutland, 2017

Isla has helped both of our boys this year - one with his Personal Statement for his University application and one with his Dissertation for his degree. Both boys found Isla very easy to work with, approachable, friendly and very knowledgeable. Both boys have now moved on to University and work - both having benefitted from Isla's fantastic help.
Mrs J R Rutland, 2019


"Knowing her for roughly around two years, I found Isla to be a very professional, sincere, caring and accommodating teacher who has a passion to deliver the best she can offer. With no love for literature at all, my daughter struggled with GCSE English specially the literature where she would get C/low B compared to her other subjects. We were really concerned and wanted to push up her grade in English. That's when Isla came in as a great help. She quickly picked up and addressed the areas of concern and gave enough advice and support on revision techniques preparing her for the exam.. My daughter got a 9(A*)in Eng language and a 7(A) in literature in GCSE. In my daughter's own words: "Isla has been absolutely instrumental in boosting confidence within me without which I couldn't have asked for this result. No doubt - we highly recommend her."
Mrs P, Peterborough, 2017

"Isla provided excellent support during Year 10 and 11 to our daughter in relation to her GCSE studies in both English Literature and Language. This complemented her learning at school and enabled focus on those areas where extra support or explanation was needed. Isla was very flexible in her approach, tailoring her lessons to our daughter's needs and providing additional support on the run up to the exams themselves. Although our daughter isn't continuing her English studies at A Level, Isla is going continue to provide support in relation to essay structure and comprehension in the subjects she has chosen to study. We would highly recommend her."
Mrs R M, Leicestershire, parent of GCSE pupil, 2015

A LEVEL:

Isla is a very dedicated English Literature teacher. I saw the benefit of her lessons from the outset! Isla is reliable and meticulously organised as she always had the session planned which allowed us to make the most of every lesson. I am very grateful to have found Isla as I not only gained a clearer understanding of the books taught, but also my confidence in exam technique improved immensely due to Isla's support. I highly recommend Isla, she is a very kind person as well as an incredibly devoted teacher. Thank you Isla for your guidance and support.
DD, Grantham, September 2023
Footnote: my tutee DD gained a grade B in English at A Level and A grades in Mathemarics and Economics . She decided to take a gap year and is now studying for a degree in Economics at LSE.


"Isla has been a wonderful tutor for my son, and was able to support him enormously in all aspects of his AQA A level English Literature. Isla is very knowledgeable and thorough in her approach and assisted with his research and planning for his coursework, and with close study and revision of the challenging texts my son studied over the course of the 2 years, until he took his final exams in June 2019 . She also supported him in developing and writing his personal statement for UCAS, which resulted in excellent offers of university places. My son found Isla to be very approachable and very easy to work with as her teaching style is friendly, patient and clear, and she was also open to scheduling extra sessions when needed to fit around his studies. Isla"s support has been invaluable and has enabled my son to achieve a good set of A Level grades, including a creditable grade English Literature, and he is now settled into his first term at one of the top universities in the country, studying Economics. We would have no hesitation in recommending Isla as a private tutor.."
Mrs J.M., Leicester. October 2019

We turned to a private tutor because our daughter received a disappointing result in her first year of A Level English, but she knew she could do better and wanted to go to a first class University to study English. Her coursework had been excellent and most of her homework was good, too, but her exam technique was less secure. Isla definitely made a difference. She is a nurturing teacher who interacts with the student really well. Isla gave good advice about preparing for the exam paper and gave support in revision of the various texts, which boosted our daughter's confidence. Having achieved the necessary entry grades, our daughter is now at Newcastle University starting her degree course and wants to keep in touch with Isla."
Sally S, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, parent of A Level student, 2016

"As someone who wanted to pursue English at university, my grade C at AS Level was not good enough, so during Year 13 we found a private tutor to help me with my A Level English Language and Literature course. Isla put lots of time into helping me come out with an overall high grade B. She gave me wonderful advice with my creative coursework and really enhanced my knowledge of the two plays I was studying for my written exam. I am so grateful and will continue to keep in touch with Isla as I enter my degree course at Newcastle University for English Literature and Creative Writing."
Emily S, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, A Level tutee, 2016

Update from Emily S, Peterborough (above) received June 27 2019:

"I wanted to send you a quick email to let you know that I have received a First Class Honours from Newcastle University in English Literature and Creative Writing!
I am really thrilled as I wasn't expecting it!
You were a real help to me and my time with you was the beginning of me finding my feet with poetry; I went on to write a creative portfolio of poetry instead of a dissertation and received a mark of 75 for it.
So this is just to say, thank you very much!! "


"Isla has helped both of our sons this year - one with his Personal Statement for his University application and one with his Dissertation for his degree. Both boys found Isla very easy to work with, approachable, friendly and very knowledgeable. They have now moved on to University and work - both having benefitted from Isla's fantastic help."
Mrs J R, Rutland, 2018

I assisted a former GCSE resit tutee in his final year at university . This email arrived from his mother to tell me about her son's graduation:

Just to let you know that XXX got a 2.1 in his Sports Psychology degree!
We are very proud of him.
Thank you so much again for all your help and support.
June 2021

Teaching Experience:
I have been a private tutor for 9 years. Private tutoring enables me to stay in touch with young adults and to continue to use the teaching skills I have developed over a long and successful teaching career.

I greatly enjoy one to one tutoring and my students feel supported and more confident about facing their exams. My tutees tend to be students who are struggling with the subject and have been predicted lower grades than they need. Sometimes there is a specific issue such as spelling, or a student might struggle with a particular aspect, such as reading, or with a particular set text, or with how to write essays and exam answers that will earn high marks. Without exception, my tutees improve their standard and often go in to achieve very creditable grades that enable them to move to the next stage of their school career, or gain the university place they want.

In my last full-time teaching post, which I held for 23 years until my retirement in 2014, I taught English Language and English Literature throughout the school: to pupils aged 11-14 at Key Stage 3, to pupils taking GCSE exams, and to sixth formers taking AS and A level English.

At GCSE and AS/A Level my pupils have obtained consistently excellent results. I have taught a very wide range of set texts for literature and have taught courses by different exam boards, such as Edexcel, OCR, AQA, and the CIE IGCSE.

My school teaching often involved one-to-one sessions with pupils who needed extra support and I have taught those whose attainment in the subject is modest, as well as higher achievers in English.

Other teaching experience includes teaching for a total of 7 years full and part-time in further education colleges, and I have also taught English as a foreign language for the British Council in a Middle Eastern country.

Because I love teaching and supporting young people in their intellectual development, I can't bring myself to stop completely, I have been tutoring privately since retiring from full time school teaching, and I currently tutor students ranging from 14 to 18, assisting with preparation for GCSE and A Level exams. I find it hard to say no to anyone who asks me, so I am busy, but like it that way because I never see teaching as a chore or "just a job."

I have been tutoring students following a range of different GCSE courses and examining boards, including Edexcel IGCSE,mCambridge IGCSE, and AQA GCSE courses, both language and literature qualifications, and also the Edexcel combined A Level Language and Literature, and also Edexcel English Literature . My tutoring role includes assisting my tutees with close study and revision of a wide range of set texts, demonstrating my adaptability in quickly grasping what different exam techniques are required. I have also given advice and support to students in higher education, pursuing English degrees.

My private tutees gained English language and literature grades that exceeded their school teachers' expectations in the 2015, 2016 and 2017 GCSE exams, achieving grades ranging from C (D predicted) to A* (B predicted). In summer 2017 , one of my private tutees achieved a grade A in IGCSE First Language English through working with me exclusively during Year 12 and resitting independently, having achieved only a D in Year 11, which - without improvement - would have damaged his chances of admission to a good university.

Tutoring Approach:
PASSION FOR AND KNOWLEDGE OF MY SUBJECT
I prepare lessons thoroughly and imaginatively, striking a balance between getting through the necessary work - but making it varied, interesting and fun.

I begin by getting to know my pupil, their background, and specific needs.

Often, pupils needing extra tuition lack confidence and self-esteem and I care about addressing that sensitively.

In addition, I plan what needs to be covered: making sure I am fully in the picture with regard to the specific course being followed and the exam criteria, and I use the exam boards' websites to source relevant materials such as past papers and teaching resources.

In my tutoring, I aim to give my pupils more confidence in the classroom and in their written work.

BUILDING A GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH MY TUTEES

I always have a clear plan for the session and an aim of what I wish to achieve in the time available.

Equally, I am flexible and nearly always end up adapting my plan to what comes up that day, in terms of what the pupil needs.

I like people and I am a friendly, outgoing person who communicates warmly with a tutee; I greatly enjoy the company of young people and am experienced in putting my tutees at their ease, reducing their anxiety and building their self-confidence, which is vital.

I form friendly, personal relationships with those I teach and am good at listening to them and assessing their needs, and adjusting my strategy accordingly.

A RIGOROUS APPROACH AND DETAILED FEEDBACK
As well as preparing thoroughly, I mark work meticulously and give very detailed and helpful feedback, both in writing and orally. I set relevant work to be completed for the next tutorial, and monitor progress closely; I stay in regular contact with my students and/or their parents via email and phone.

MY COMMITMENT TO YOU
You will find me a hardworking, and sympathetic tutor committed to the interests of my tutees; my aim is to help you to achieve your full academic potential in the subject and gain exam success. I see your progress in English in the context of the whole school or college picture and as part of your personal development. I often stay in touch with my pupils as they move on in life and take a keen interest in how they are getting on. I always treat my tutees with respect, kindness and understanding.

WHERE AND WHEN TUTORIALS TAKE PLACE
I tutor in my own home where I am set up to receive my tutees in a quiet and relaxed environment with my extensive resources and teaching materials readily to hand. During the pandemic I continued to tutor online and since then have continued to tutor online because my tutees often find it saves then travelling time and fits in with their lives better. I will consider face to face tutoring if this is required, or online only, or a combination of the two methods.

Normally I tutor on weekdays, and aim to complete my tutoring sessions by 7.30 p m but my times are flexible. I prefer not to tutor at weekends because of family commitments, though I can do so by by arrangement, with Sunday morning being a possibility.

I am usually able to tutor in school holidays, when I can offer longer, more intensive revision sessions.

I am always willing to try to fit in with a pupil's/parents' needs.


FEES

My professional fee for an hour is £45 for GCSE and £50 for A Level English and for support with UCAS personal statements.

Fees for other tutoring categories on request.

My fee include include preparation for the lesson, marking of set written homework, the actual intensive contact time with me, and follow-up emails and phone calls.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I very much enjoy tailoring sessions specifically to each student I teach. I enjoy the satisfaction tutoring brings when the student gains a new understanding of their subject and when we unlock potential together. Confidence is key and I enjoy seeing this grow throughout our sessions.

I have been a professional theatre actor and freelance drama teacher for ten years. As an actor, my passion for language helps me to understand and analyse literature, and I enjoy applying my politics degree to the work of playwrights. As a drama practitioner, my work with a huge variety of students of different ages and backgrounds helps me adapt to student's personalities and key into their needs quite quickly.

Teaching Experience:
- Improvisation teacher for adult learners, Hoopla Impro, London. 2020 - Present

Tutor, A-Level English, OCR Board, Jan 2018 - Present

- Mentor and Improvisation Tutor, 12 year old boy, Feb 2018 - 2020

- Tutor, SATS, Feb 2015 - July 2016
Prepared an 11 year old girl for her KS2 English SATS. After 4 weeks we tripled her mark in reading and she is glowing with renewed confidence.

- Tutor, London International Tutors Jun 2014 and Feb 2015 - Present
Intensively prepared a 17 year old student for his International Baccalaureat in Drama. Advised on essay structure and strategies, time management, clarified and deepened his subject knowledge, improved his public speaking and presentation abilities, developed his motivation and confidence. All of his other subjects also improved as a consequence of the strategies I used. He is mow ay university doing his first-choice course.

- LAMDA Exam Coach Sep 2011 - Present
Preparing adults for drama school entry, professional actors for auditions and 6-12 year old students for LAMDA Examinations.

-Sep 2015 - Present.
Freelance workshop facilitator and drama coach. Clients are community groups and charities, which include DreamArts Westminster, High Trees Lambeth and Studio 23.

- Drama Teacher, Stagecoach Theatre Arts Sep 2007 - 2015
Planning, designing and facilitating drama and movement workshops for young people aged 7-16, and writing and producing work for performance.

- Venue Director, The Shakespeare Schools Festival, 2011 - 2014
Completed an acclaimed training course in Shakespearean workshop facilitation based on research by the Central School of Speech and Drama and the National Theatre. Ran workshops with students based on Shakespearean text, delivery and movement. Oversaw the production of Shakespeare plays presented by schools in professional theatres throughout the UK. Delivered critical appraisals of the students' work, and wrote reports on the events.

- Drama Teacher, Helen O'Grady Drama Academy 2010 - 2012
Taught an internationally acclaimed curriculum in speaking, vocal technique, movement and performance to students aged 5 to 16.

- Drama Teacher, North London Schools International Network 2010
Commissioned to deliver a drama workshop with the aim of fostering cooperation and respect between Tottenham primary schools.

- Drama Teacher, Improvisation, Arcola Theatre, London Sep 2007
Designed and delivered an improvisation workshop for children aged 10-14 for the Arcola's Outreach Education programme,
to nurture their confidence and creativity.

- Creative Director, Creative Station, Co. Clare, Ireland Mar 2006.
Founded 'Creative Station', writing and delivering a summer course in Drama, Music and Art, based on Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach. We nurtured 'The Three Cs': Confidence, Creativity and Communication.

- Teacher, Extra Language Needs, Holy Family School, Co. Clare, Ireland 2004 - 2005
Devised and taught programmes in spoken language and literacy to children aged 4-8 who were falling behind their mainstream learning targets. Taught English as a Second Language.

Tutoring Approach:
Every student is an individual and learns in a different way. I like to work with the student to identify any blocks that are holding them back; we gain enormous satisfaction from us moving past these blocks together.
I help students develop their confidence in their own abilities through achievement, and I find that this confidence helps them do better than they ever thought they would. The relationship between tutee and tutor is important and I find building trust is essential for success.

Subjects

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
Does your child needs 1-1 support with English or Maths?

Is your child struggling to keep up with school-work or homework?

I can offer 1-1 support in a comfortable learning environment from an inspirational, patient and friendly teacher.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught in a range of settings for the last seven years. Teaching children from Early Years to Sixth Form. I have tutored privately for over 10 years.

Tutoring Approach:
I am very intuitive to the learning styles of all children. I like to spend some time getting to know a child and how they learn so as when working with them, I can work on their individual strengths to develop their understanding of different subjects.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a practising Head of English currently employed in a local secondary school. I live with my husband, Year 10 daughter, my 17 year old son who is training to be a Land Surveyor and our pets. I have, in previous years, taught Drama (for which I am also qualified), History and Religious Studies as I have a joint honours degree in English and Victorian Studies and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education for English and Drama.

Teaching Experience:
I have 20 years of teaching experience, many of which are in local schools and I am Head of English in a local secondary school which I am really enjoying. Over the years I have privately tutored 11+ and 12+ exams, KS2 English and Maths, Year 6-7 transition skills, KS3 English, GCSE English and English Literature for a variety of exam boards and A' Level English Literature. I have also worked at various times with SEN students with a whole range of issues and I set up and ran the gifted and talented programme at one of the schools where I taught when it was a new Government initiative.

Tutoring Approach:
I really enjoy teaching as a profession and very early on, I realised that it is my duty to treat every child in my care as if they are my own child and that they are getting the teaching and learning experience that I would like my own children to have. It is my goal to ensure that every child becomes the best that they can be and that every child gets the best education which is appropriate to their individual needs.

Subjects

Personal Description:
This year, 14 of my 17 Higher students received an A Grade, two received a B and one received a C grade, which was a personal achievement for that individual. All five of my Nat 5 students achieved an A.Therefore, if you're looking for top grades for your child, you are in the right place. With twenty years of experience, I have a consistent record of helping tutees achieve A passes at Higher. I am a fully-qualified, GTC registered, English teacher with over fifteen years of classroom experience. Moreover, I was an SQA marker for more than a decade, with several years experience marking the new Higher's RUAE. I am a mum of two adult children who no longer live at home. My adorable Ragdoll cats, Oliver and Louis, still keep me on my toes though!

Tuition is very rewarding for me because I like working with young people and supporting them to consistently achieve excellent results. With their whole future before them, they are often refreshingly full of new perspectives. Working hard to build a warm, but professional, rapport with my tutees is the key to bringing out the best in them.

Teaching Experience:
I am a fully-qualified, GTC registered English teacher with over fifteen years of classroom experience. Moreover, I was an SQA marker for more than a decade. This included marking both critical essay for the exam board and Higher Paper 1:Reading for Understanding, Analysis and Evaluation or RUAE (previously Close Reading)

I have taught in several schools in East Renfrewshire, including Williamwood and Mearns Castle.

Tutoring Approach:
In Reading for Understanding, Analysis and Evaluation (previously Close Reading), my experience as an SQA marker provides tutees with an invaluable insight into exam strategies needed for success. Certainly, this experience leads me to use a specific question type / specific formula answer approach. Tutees are encouraged to identify a particular question type, e.g. 'the context question', and then use the appropriate formula to gain maximum marks. Thereafter, the tutee is asked to practise this particular type of question whilst also undertaking whole close reading passages containing said question type.

In the critical examination of literature, particular attention is given to structure and developing a mature, yet fresh, personal response. I tend to adopt a modelling approach. Effectively, the tutee and I draft a first core essay on a given text, say, for example, 'Romeo and Juliet' Using this exemplar, the tutee is then assigned further essay questions, drawing upon this core essay as a guideline. Support is given throughout the writing process and constructive feedback is offered in the form of stage-appropriate targets to ensure progress.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Free 30-minute introductory session to ensure we are a good fit.

I specialise in KS2 and KS3 English and creative writing with a particular focus on 11+ exam prep. To date, my students have a 100% pass rate for their intended independent schools.

I was not a great student as a child. Rigid and rote teaching sucked all the appreciation I might have had from learning. That is, until I returned to education in my late 20s and, over the course of two bachelor's and master's degrees, discovered just how rewarding it can be. Partly because of this reason (and partly because I simply love sharing knowledge!), I began a new career in teaching and for the past 9 years - with over 600 hours of teaching logged - I have made a point of injecting colour into a learning world that, for many students, has become drab and monochrome.

Outside of teaching, I love my arts and crafts - from drawing and painting to cross-stitching and model-building. I love being creative! And that feeds into my teaching. I'm fairly laidback and relaxed and try to instil that in my students as well and give them the confidence to ask questions without the fear of being rebuked or ridiculed.

Teaching Experience:
My experience as a tutor ranges from lecturing screenwriting at Anglia Ruskin University, where I am an associate lecturer, to almost ten years of tutoring at an advanced studies summer school at one of Cambridge's prestigious colleges, and over 600 hours of private 1-to-1 tuition. In addition to these regular teaching commitments, I am often asked to give lectures on the art of creative writing to visiting international students at Cambridge University.

After some less than pleasant experiences at school, I returned to education in my late 20s. I attended an Access to HE course specialising in creative writing, English literature and journalism, from which I graduated top of my class with a distinction.
I then achieved a BA (with honours) degree in Writing and Film Studies, graduating again top of my class with a first. In addition, I was awarded the McLeod Prize for highest average mark for any student within the entire faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences and the award for Best Major Writing Project, which were the opening chapters of a novel which went on to win numerous literary prizes.

I followed this up with a master's degree in creative writing on one of the top master's programmes in the world (at the University of East Anglia), from which I graduated with a distinction.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that confidence is a big part of success, and confident students make emboldened decisions in their learning, so I will be your child's biggest supporter. Every child is a unique individual who has their own way of learning so every lesson is tailored to their needs with no comparisons or judgements.

The following topics are covered in both KS2 and KS3:
Comprehension; reading; inference skills/verbal reasoning
Grammar; spelling; vocabulary expansion
Creative writing; sentence and story structure; description and characterisation.

Monthly reports will be issued to parents of students to keep you up to date with your child`s progress.

I also provide creative writing for all ages and novel-writing mentoring; and for older students: essay writing skills and editing of university papers. I am the author of eight published novels, which have won numerous awards, and one screenplay/film. I am so passionate about writing that I am constantly reading about it and keeping on top of new techniques. As a result, I have a wealth of knowledge that is wasted on just me alone and I wish to share it with equally motivated people who want to learn more about English and/or creative writing.

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:
My name is Edwin. I am originally from the United States and have lived in Scotland since 2016.

I enjoy working with children and helping them reach their potential. As a university student, I first discovered my interest in teaching by volunteering in my mother's preschool. And since then, I have worked with children in varying capacities. Outside of teaching, I was a volunteer youth counsellor for five years and a volunteer youth basketball coach for four years.

Teaching Experience:
I am a newly qualified Primary Teacher in Scotland, currently working as a supply teacher. I have experience teaching at all levels of primary education in a variety of school settings.

As a doctoral candidate, I worked as a Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) at the University of Glasgow. In this capacity, I led seminars and helped students plan their essays, which I later marked.

I also used to work as a substitute teacher and after school coordinator in the United States, working primarily with early level students.

Tutoring Approach:
As a teacher and a tutor, I build positive relationships by being both professional and approachable.

Understanding their prior learning is important for creating challenging lessons which engage and motivate my students. Furthermore, I stay up-to-date with educational initiatives and learning strategies.

Pupil welfare must always be the first and foremost consideration, and I strive to teach to their needs and in the style which best benefits them.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are some recent reviews:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subjects