Surbiton English Tutors and Surbiton English Tuition


Find a private tutor in Surbiton or anywhere in the UK


If you live in Surbiton and are looking for a tutor, we can help you. Even if you live just outside of the Surbiton area itself, we have tutors in the region surrounding Surbiton and right across the UK.


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Alex's profile picture
Subjects: Welsh  |  Entrance Exams  |  English  |  Reading & Writing skills  |  Drama  |  Maths  
Availability: Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: From their home / Online
Info: I graduated from Cambridge University with a BA in English Literature, and then from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, graduating with a BA in acting, where I was the recipient of the Noel Coward Scholarship from 2008-2011. In July 2011 I won th ...
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Personal Description:
I graduated from Cambridge University with a BA in English Literature, and then from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, graduating with a BA in acting, where I was the recipient of the Noel Coward Scholarship from 2008-2011. In July 2011 I won the Michael Bryant Award at the National Theatre, for verse speaking and Shakespeare.

When I'm not acting or tutoring I can be found in the plumbing, plastering, kitchen or grappling with a cryptic crossword.

CURRENT AVAILABLE SLOTS: 9-10am + 10-11am Sundays, weekly.

Teaching Experience:

I have been a private tutor since 2008.

Currently tutoring students in: 8+, 10+ & 11+ preparation (all four subjects); GCSE Maths. Adult English and pronunciation skills.

Previously: English - KS1, KS2, 7+ (Successful entry to Highgate), 11+ (Successful entry to, Haberdashers' Askes Boys, Trinity, City of London School for Boys, Alleyn's, St Alban's), A Level (A at A Level English and Extended English). Maths - KS1, KS2, 7+, 11+, 13+ (successful entry to Oundle, Haberdashers' Askes Boys), GCSE (grade improved from D to A*). University application assistance (Successful entry to Durham and Oxford). English as a foreign language - including public speaking and native pronunciation and grammar for business professionals.

During my gap year I spent some time as a special needs classroom assistant, working closely with a child with Asperger's Syndrome. This involved facilitating the social and academic change between primary and secondary education on a one-to-one basis.

Also at this time I ran Welsh language games sessions for primary children in non-first-language schools to improve and encourage their use of the language outside of the classroom environment.

Whilst at secondary school I taught reading skills to children who had low reading-ages.

I wrote a thesis on the connections between Maths and acting whilst at Guildhall.

Tutoring Approach:

My approach to tutoring is tailored to the individual's needs; firstly finding ways of fully explaining a concept, then cementing them with useful and memorable material to build students' confidence. My main objective would be to aid the student in understanding not only the specifics of the work but also the broader aspects of it, which I believe provides a truer grounding in - and enjoyment of - a subject. By making the work useful and enjoyable, and by finding alternative and effective approaches to study, I hope that my tuition will shed new light on subjects for students.

My passion is building confidence and fostering resilient approaches to problem solving.

I specialise in tutoring Maths and particularly enjoy helping those students whose confidence in the subject has become a barrier to their learning and enjoyment of the subject.

Previous Students' Comments:

'Before I met Alex, as a dyslexic, I was academically unconfident and dreaded having tutors who had never really helped me before. Alex tutored me from Year 8 to 11 and she completely changed my attitude to studying, helped me develop my organisational skills and gave me a huge amount of confidence in my abilities. As I approached GCSEs she tutored me particularly in Maths where I was struggling with a D grade. Without her expert tuition I doubt I would have been able to achieve my A* in Maths.

I think Alex is an amazing tutor because she has an extraordinary talent for making it a thoroughly enjoyable experience to the extent I would genuinely look forward to our lessons. Alex was far more than a tutor to me, helping me through such formative teenage years. I consider her a friend.'

- Tally

'Alex is a truly outstanding and gifted tutor as well as a fantastic person. I have very much enjoyed being her student for over six months, and have not only learnt a lot due to her expertise and impressive knowledge but also grew to love English Literature because of the inspirational nature of her tutoring. Previously, I used to constantly struggle with my assignments since English is not my first language, however, after a few weeks of sessions with Alex my grades and confidence significantly improved. She has an ability to keep the lessons varied and interesting; always well prepared for lessons - she was kind enough to provide me with extremely useful books and personal notes. Her incredible dedication and hard working nature also deserves mentioning as she was willing to help me even in the evenings when I was panicking about coursework and the approaching exams. With Alex's assistance and firm confidence in my ability I have achieved a high A in my A-level English Literature and even a merit award in Extended English. I would enthusiastically recommend Alex to anyone who wants to succeed in their exams and learn heaps of interesting information.

- Natasza (Graduated with an MA from Oxford University)

Subjects
  • Welsh
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£60 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£60 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£60 p.h.)
  • Entrance Exams
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£60 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£60 p.h.)

  • English
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£60 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£60 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£60 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£60 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£60 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£60 p.h.)
  • Reading & Writing skills
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£60 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£60 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£60 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£60 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£60 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£60 p.h.)

  • Drama
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£60 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£60 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£60 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£60 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£60 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£60 p.h.)
  • Maths
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£60 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£60 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£60 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£60 p.h.)


Use the search box above to find Surbiton private teaching and Surbiton home tuition

Colin's profile picture
Subjects: Economics  |  Maths  |  English  |  German  |  French  |  English (Foreign Language)  
Availability: Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Travels to you / From their home / Online
Info: I am 43 years old and hold a Masters degree from Oxford University. I work full time as a tutor, now offering lessons online and face-to-face. ...
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Personal Description:
I am 43 years old and hold a Masters degree from Oxford University. I work full time as a tutor, now offering lessons online and face-to-face.

Teaching Experience:

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

Tutoring Approach:

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

Subjects
  • Economics
  • GCSE or Standards (£38 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£38 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£38 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£38 p.h.)
  • Maths
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£38 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£38 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£38 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£38 p.h.)

  • English
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£38 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£38 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£38 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£38 p.h.)
  • German
  • 11+ (secondary) (£38 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£38 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£38 p.h.)

  • French
  • 11+ (secondary) (£38 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£38 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£38 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£38 p.h.)
  • English (Foreign Language)
  • GCSE or Standards (£38 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£38 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£38 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£38 p.h.)


Try the search box above to find Surbiton home tutors and Surbiton private tuition

Emma's profile picture
Subjects: Chemistry  |  Biology  |  Physics  |  English  |  Entrance Exams  |  Maths  
Availability: Weekdays (evenings)
Types of Tutoring: From their home / Online
Info: I am a bubbly, outgoing person who loves teaching. I was made redundant from my role on the Crime and Disorder Partnership where I was challenged to proactively tackle crime in the area. I then decided to persue my career as a private tutor and tea ...
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Personal Description:
I am a bubbly, outgoing person who loves teaching.
I was made redundant from my role on the Crime and Disorder Partnership where I was challenged to proactively tackle crime in the area.
I then decided to persue my career as a private tutor and teacher, having done it as a hobby for 3 years and found I have a passion for this field, this is now my sixth year of tutoring and have had lots of successes and am proud of all my tutees; past and present.
I can sometimes travel to you if required but prefer if I can tutor from my home.
I am available evenings and daytime and will allow single lessons or block bookings.

Teaching Experience:

I currently teach maths in a secondary school and previously taught functional skills IT to level 1 and 2
I have 2 years experience in the Public Sector working with young people and adults tackling crime and disorder through engagement and educational projects.
I have previously tutored many children to GCSE Maths and can provide references if required

Tutoring Approach:

I treat each child as an individual and relish the challenge of helping each boy or girl achieve their targets. I have an excellent rapport with children and all those I teach feel that I am very approachable, easy to talk to, kind and caring. I try to make learning fun.
I can provide one off sessions to tackle problem areas or intense revision help.

Subjects
  • Chemistry
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£30 p.h.)
  • Biology
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£30 p.h.)

  • Physics
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£30 p.h.)
  • English
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£30 p.h.)

  • Entrance Exams
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • Maths
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£30 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£30 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£30 p.h.)


Use the search box above to find Surbiton local teachers and Surbiton home tuition

Alex's profile picture
Subjects: English  |  Latin  
Availability: Weekends / Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Travels to you
Info: I'm an experienced stage and television actor with a degree in English (2.i) from Trinity Hall, Cambridge and a 2-year post-grad qualification from the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. I live in central London (Westminster) and enjoy balanci ...
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Personal Description:
I'm an experienced stage and television actor with a degree in English (2.i) from Trinity Hall, Cambridge and a 2-year post-grad qualification from the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. I live in central London (Westminster) and enjoy balancing out the right brain activities of acting with the rather more left brain activities of teaching - especially Latin, which I studied through A-Level to degree, taking a Latin translation and literary criticism paper in Part 1 of my Cambridge Tripos.

Teaching Experience:

I have taught both privately and at a range of different schools and colleges for many years. My private client base has principally been in teaching Latin for Common Entrance and GCSE. In terms of classroom experience, I have worked as a supply Latin teacher at Eaton House Schools and as an A-Level English Tutor at Collingham Tutors. The majority of my work is as a private tutor travelling to people's homes and offering additional support to 10-16 year olds who are struggling with their Latin. I have a huge success rate in terms of results, regularly turning C-grade students into A-graders.

Tutoring Approach:

My approach is both pragmatic and personal. Every child is different and therefore every child requires a subtly different approach. In terms of teaching English Literature my principle objective is to inspire. In terms of teaching Latin my key concerns are rigour and attention to detail. With the right approach it is often very easy to turn a child who hates Latin at school into one that (even if it is secretly) both loves it and does very well.

Subjects
  • English
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£40 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£45 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£45 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£45 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£50 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£45 p.h.)
  • Latin
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£40 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£45 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£45 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£45 p.h.)


The search box above can be used to find Surbiton local teaching and Surbiton home tuition

Isabel's profile picture
Subjects: English (Foreign Language)  |  English  |  French  |  Spanish  
Availability: Weekends / Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Travels to you / From their home / Online
Info: I have a BA in English Linguistics from the University of Malaga (Spain) and I am a fully qualified teacher based in a comprehensive secondary school, specialised in Spanish and French. I am very enthusiastic, friendly and approachable teacher with ...
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Personal Description:
I have a BA in English Linguistics from the University of Malaga (Spain) and I am a fully qualified teacher based in a comprehensive secondary school, specialised in Spanish and French. I am very enthusiastic, friendly and approachable teacher with a fascination for Spain and the Spanish speaking world, along with other countries and languages particularly French and German. I am a native Spanish speaker. In my spare time I enjoy outdoor sports like running and walking and playing with my own children in the park.

Teaching Experience:

I'm a fully qualified teacher. I have been teaching for fourteen years in a comprehensive secondary school in England. I am currently teaching Spanish from year 7 to A level (KS3, KS4 and KS5), French from year 7 to GCSE (KS3 and KS4) and English from year 7 to GCSE. I am also an AQA and Edexcel GCSE examiner for the Spanish component but I am also very familiar with most of the exam board (AQA, Edexcel, WJEC and OCR). I have also taught IB for two years. I have conducted speaking exams and moderated written assessment for GCSE, IGCSE and A level. Therefore I have great experience with exams boards/specification.

Tutoring Approach:

I'm a very patient person and ready to help to build up student's confidence. My lessons are always planned to meet my students' needs. I always include the four skills ( listening, speaking, reading and writing) in all my lessons. I believe that practising exam techniques are the keys to achieve the best results in your exams.
For GCSE Spanish and French I focus on speaking exam practice ( role-play, picture-based and conversation questions) and writing exam practice focus on key phrases/ sophisticated vocabulary to excel the 90 and 150 words tasks.
For A level Spanish students, learn to read and analyse a literary text/film in Spanish which is challenging and rewarding. I help them get to grips with the set works and to refine their essay-writing skills for Paper 2. Loads of essay writing practice are essential part of my teaching session.

Subjects
  • English (Foreign Language)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£35 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£40 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£45 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£40 p.h.)
  • English
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£30 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£35 p.h.)

  • French
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£35 p.h.)
  • Spanish
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£35 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£40 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£45 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£40 p.h.)


The search box above can be used to find Surbiton private tutors and Surbiton home tuition

Kathryn's profile picture
Subjects: English 
Availability: Weekends / Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Travels to you
Info: From my experience in the classroom I realise that many students benefit from much more individual help than school can provide. I enjoy being able to help students on a one-to-one basis as it is very rewarding being able to improve their achievement ...
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Personal Description:
From my experience in the classroom I realise that many students benefit from much more individual help than school can provide. I enjoy being able to help students on a one-to-one basis as it is very rewarding being able to improve their achievement and confidence.I am very grateful to my students and their parents for the relationships we have struck up, many of which have continued through the years.

Teaching Experience:

I am an English teacher with over 20 years experience teaching to GCSE, A-level and Oxbridge entrance.I have taught in both the independent and state sectors, in a large comprehensive and a small independent school. I have also tutored in Oxford and London for students from 10 to 19.

Tutoring Approach:

One to one or small groups of 2 or 3.

I aim to develop confidence by supporting the students and understanding their needs as a priority. I then encourage them to explore and develop ideas, giving them support while they grow in this. The key is building an excellent relationship in which high expectations enable them to make progress while always supported.

Subjects
  • English
  • A-Level or Highers (£30 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£30 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£30 p.h.)

Use the search box above to find Surbiton private teachers and Surbiton private tuition

Beckis's profile picture
Subjects: Drama  |  English  
Availability: Weekends / Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Travels to you / Online
Info: Oxford-educated and experienced English tutor, with a fantastic track record of guiding students to phenomenal success. I am an enthusiastic, supportive and encouraging teacher with a sense of humour, bolstered by a true passion for English Literatu ...
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Personal Description:
Oxford-educated and experienced English tutor, with a fantastic track record of guiding students to phenomenal success. I am an enthusiastic, supportive and encouraging teacher with a sense of humour, bolstered by a true passion for English Literature and Drama.

Students often describe me as friendly, hard-working and reliable and I love to help them to achieve their academic goals. I help with
rigorous academic preparation and a sharp focus on the demands of the exam syllabus, often helping tutees to jump several grades.

Teaching Experience:

I have been a successful private tutor for over ten years, as well as having taught English and Drama in some of the best schools in the country, helping to guide many students to phenomenal exam success. I have taught at Stamford High School and Oakham School - teaching all ages from key stage 3-5 and specifically including GCSE/A Level and IB. I also rigorously prepared students for university entrance at these schools, helping with personal statements, interviews and reading material. I helped many students achieve top grades, founded discussion groups, led the debating society at Stamford, coached the winning house play entry at Oakham and assisted on multiple interview panels. I also led a Shakespeare day, assisted with creative writing, organised multiple theatre trips and led specific workshops on set texts.

I cover a range of specialisms in my tuition, encompassing Shakespeare, poetry, drama texts, novels and essay-writing skills, as well as being highly skilled in exam and coursework technique and 're-teaching' Literature texts in a short space of time to students who feel their tuition has been below par.

Tutoring Approach:

I believe strongly in finding the best approach for each individual student. I don't believe in 'one size fits all' tuition and never have; we are all so gloriously unique and different! I do believe passionately in helping students to feel confident as quickly as possible and, as such, I tend to ensure that for each text, task or question, there is the opportunity for the student to quickly put into practice whatever has been taught. This might be quickly re-writing an introduction, re-ordering a thesis or perhaps simply writing a single line of analysis and quotation. Sometimes little and often is best, as English can be overwhelming for some students and they need continual practice in the art of forming articulate and well-informed sentences at every stage of an essay!

I believe in finding opportunities for the students to enjoy the texts they study, in addition to coaching them rigorously in the necessary set of analytical skills they need to write top notch essays or descriptive/narrative pieces. I enjoy assisting students at all stages of their education and have experience in teaching all key stages. In addition to preparing students thoroughly for public examinations, I have been able to help pupils explore a variety of texts and genres and discover the joy of great writing

I enjoy helping students contemplating Higher Education - having helped students look at different courses, selecting modules and advising them on their personal statements; it has been rewarding to try and help students play to their individual strengths. I have delivered several specialist seminars for University applicants and assisted in delivering intensive mock interviews, both at Stamford and Oundle School, assisted with interviews and entrance examination preparation.

I am also a professional actress and writer and have lots of experience guiding young people in the realms of theatre auditions and Drama GCSE and A Level. In addition, I hold an MA from The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and further training at The Drama Studio in London and am also available for individual coaching for scholarships, drama school entrance and professional auditions.

I was Theatre Director-in-Residence at Kings College School in Wimbledon, directing many plays and productions, establishing a new writing group and adapting and creating Brighton Rock from an original adaptation, as well as leading the large scale community production of Macbeth. I have touring experience of my solo show and working in the industry which can be shared with students and especially help those wishing to join the profession.

I am based in Lincolnshire and, as such, I tutor all my tutees online.

Subjects
  • Drama
  • GCSE or Standards (£75 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£75 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£150 p.h.)
  • English
  • GCSE or Standards (£75 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£75 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£150 p.h.)


The search box above can be used to find Surbiton private tutors and Surbiton private tuition

David's profile picture
Subjects: Entrance Exams  |  English  |  Greek  |  Latin  |  Spanish  |  French  
Availability: Weekends / Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Travels to you / From their home / Online
Info: Welcome! A freelance tutor and singer, I give "Personal tuition in the right key". I can help you get the highest grades in exams, and study in the "key" that best suits you. Like the right song choices, I often inspire my students to succeed. - ...
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Personal Description:
Welcome! A freelance tutor and singer, I give "Personal tuition in the right key". I can help you get the highest grades in exams, and study in the "key" that best suits you. Like the right song choices, I often inspire my students to succeed.

- Which subject(s) do you teach?

French, Spanish, Latin, Ancient Greek, English as a Foreign Language, Creative Writing, Singing, Oxbridge Interview preparation.

- Tell me about your qualifications.

Master of Studies in European Literature (Spanish) from Exeter College, Oxford University;
Master of Arts in Classics and Modern Languages (French) from New College, Oxford University;
PostGraduate Certificate in Education and Qualified Teacher Status from the Department of Education, Oxford University;
Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera (Spanish Diploma) from Salamanca University, Spain;
Advanced Certificate in Careers Education and Guidance from Canterbury Christ Church College;
Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (Level 5, CELTA equivalent, 140 hours) from EDI and i-to-i Volunteering.
Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts ("Working for 21st century Enlightenment")

- Where do you teach?

I teach online via FaceTime and/or Skype from my home and at students' homes. I live in Abingdon, in Oxfordshire, in the UK, and am prepared to drive up to c30 miles from home if online lessons are not possible, to include nearby towns such as Oxford, Wantage, Bicester, Henley, Reading, Newbury, Thame, Wallingford, Marlow ... I teach pupils online anywhere in the world, latterly in UK towns such as Northampton, Cheltenham etc. and abroad in Hong Kong, Russia, Kazakhstan ...

- Describe your arrangements for online tutoring.

I use Skype or Apple FaceTime. The video feed can be switched off at my student's request, or if it degrades the sound quality. Tests and exercises are sent to the student and returned to me for marking by email.

Teaching Experience:

- What kind of experience do you have?

Two years teaching Scholarship Latin and Greek in a local prep school (Cothill House);
Previously spent 25 years in the classroom in independent and state schools in the UK, France and Peru, teaching all ages;
Sometime Head of three academic departments (one of which I founded at Abingdon School);
c10 years one-to-one private tuition to all ages, latterly often online or through local agencies.

- Do you have an up-to-date DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service, formerly CRB) Certificate?

Yes - fully listed on the DBS update site.

- Where and with whom did you train?

University of Oxford, New College and Exeter College;
University of Oxford Department of Education;
Salamanca University;
Christ Church College Canterbury;

- Do you belong to any professional organisations?

I am a member of the General Teaching Council, the Association for Language Learning, sometime Chair of the Oxford Education Society, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and the Academy of St Cecilia.

Tutoring Approach:

"David has been tutoring our son via Skype for the last year, since his Spanish teacher said she did not want to put him in for GCSE Spanish as she thought he would fail. David has been marvellous with coaxing and coaching him and giving him confidence. Just the one to one attention has been hugely beneficial, and the bonus that "tech" was involved, and that there was no time lost in driving to and from lessons has been a real godsend too. David is incredibly supportive and encouraging without being at all patronising, and really strikes the right balance to get the best out of his students. Can recommend unreservedly."
Mrs F, Gloucestershire,

"Our son has flourished under David's tutelage; the balance and content of homework and classwork has been very carefully gauged and enabled our son to progress rapidly, with great enthusiasm for his studies. The weekly reports David submits have been of immense value to us as parents trying to support our son's learning, as has the clear structuring, marking and regular review of work." Dr M. and Mr E.

"David has provided my daughter with an excellent grounding in Spanish prior to her starting the subject at school. He has guided her through the basics in a clear, thoughtful and well-informed way and has formed a very good relationship in which she has felt engaged, supported and motivated." Mrs W.

"My two children (ages 9 and 10) have progressed rapidly in their French learning with David. His lessons with them are focused and thorough, and his approach is patient and clear. He has great enthusiasm for languages and significant experience in teaching them, which show through in his lessons. My children both very much enjoy their lessons and are even happy to do the homework! David is also very helpful in working with us to find the best ways to support their learning between lessons. " Jenny T

"Dear David, Thank you so much for all your help and guidance when I applied for the Chaplaincy. It was good, too, to see you there when I went for interview" Revd. Michael P"

Subjects
  • Entrance Exams
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£65 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£65 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£65 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£65 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£65 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£65 p.h.)
  • English
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£65 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£65 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£65 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£65 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£65 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£65 p.h.)

  • Greek
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£65 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£65 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£65 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£65 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£65 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£65 p.h.)
  • Latin
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The search box above can be used to find Surbiton local teachers and Surbiton private tuition

Sasha's profile picture
Subjects: Maths  |  History  |  English  
Availability: Weekends / Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Travels to you
Info: I am currently doing a degree in teaching. I am very patient and a great listener. I can help you overcome any problems you might have in the subjects. ...
View Sasha's profile or  Quick View

Personal Description:
I am currently doing a degree in teaching. I am very patient and a great listener. I can help you overcome any problems you might have in the subjects.

Teaching Experience:

A years teaching in primary school working with both key stage 1 and 2.
Worked in a special needs secondary school for half a year.

Tutoring Approach:

Games approach is the best way to help children learn. You are able to remember things easier when you are having fun.

Subjects
  • Maths
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£10 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£15 p.h.)
  • History
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£10 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£10 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£15 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£15 p.h.)

  • English
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£10 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£15 p.h.)

Use the search box above to find Surbiton local tutors and Surbiton private tuition

Jonathan's profile picture
Subjects: English 
Availability: Weekends / Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Travels to you / From their home
Info: I trained as an English Teacher twenty-five years ago. I love teaching. ...
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Personal Description:
I trained as an English Teacher twenty-five years ago. I love teaching.

Teaching Experience:

I've taught in all sorts of settings, mainly in secondary schools, but also at City College (Plymouth), the University of Plymouth, and classes in Exeter for the WEA (adult education). I'm an AQA Examiner in English Literature. I've helped dozens of private students get the results they need at GCSE and at A-Level, in both English Language and English Literature.

Tutoring Approach:

I can give you the confidence you need to achieve the results you deserve. I'll boost your command of the English language, and your understanding of what it is that writers of all types are trying to do with words! We'll develop your skills in both creative writing and in creative reading (of all genres). How to tackle the exams - this will be our focus.

Subjects
  • English
  • GCSE or Standards (£20 p.h.)
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  • Further/Higher (university) (£20 p.h.)
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Try the search box above to find Surbiton local teaching and Surbiton private tuition

Joshua's profile picture
Subjects: Study Skills  |  Entrance Exams  |  English  
Availability: Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Online
Info: PLEASE SEE 'TUTORING EXPERIENCE' BELOW FOR THE MOST IMPORTANT PARTS OF THIS PAGE, THE RESULTS AND FEEDBACK I am an Oxford graduate (English language and literature, first class), as well as a qualified English teacher, and have been tutoring since ...
View Joshua's profile or  Quick View

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Teaching Experience:

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

A-level results, August 2024:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

A-level results, August/September 2022:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

Tutoring Approach:

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

Speaking

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reading

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

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

Writing

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

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

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

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

Why study English?

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

Subjects
  • Study Skills
  • A-Level or Highers (£65 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£65 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£65 p.h.)
  • Entrance Exams
  • A-Level or Highers (£65 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£65 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£65 p.h.)

  • English
  • A-Level or Highers (£65 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£65 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£65 p.h.)

The search box above can be used to find Surbiton private teaching and Surbiton home tuition

Alan's profile picture
Subjects: Media / Communication Studies  |  Film Studies  |  English (Foreign Language)  |  English  
Availability: Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Online
Info: Sorry, I only tutor online. I have a few spaces available for students from June 2025. Hi, my name's Alan and I'm a friendly, approachable and hardworking tutor, having now tutored full-time for three years (part-time for 24 years alongside my te ...
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Personal Description:
Sorry, I only tutor online. I have a few spaces available for students from June 2025.

Hi, my name's Alan and I'm a friendly, approachable and hardworking tutor, having now tutored full-time for three years (part-time for 24 years alongside my teaching career).

Teaching Experience:

I have taught since 2002 in a range of secondary schools, as well as primary provisions, GCSE evening and weekend schools and both online and face to face for individual tuition from Primary level (Year 2) to Adult learners. I have been Head of Department for English and Media and also responsible for whole-school Literacy, including working with students who required extra support in moving from KS2 to KS3. I have taught English Language and Literature at most levels, English as a foreign language, Media and Film Studies and Study Skills, amongst other things. I have full QTS in the UK as well as Europe and a full, clean, updated DBS available.

Tutoring Approach:

I take a very technical, scientific approach to teaching English and Literacy - looking at each area of development in turn and working towards mastery. For GCSE, I offer an approach that is designed to meet the requirements of the mark scheme without too much stress: students find my approach easy to access and engaging, using both official and my own personal resources. Students receive the PowerPoint of notes at the end of each session for revision purposes and I often use low-stakes testing to revise and review key areas of learning. I also regularly set and assess via exam questions to further check understanding and ensure students are making progress.

Subjects
  • Media / Communication Studies
  • GCSE or Standards (£40 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£40 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£40 p.h.)
  • Film Studies
  • GCSE or Standards (£40 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£40 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£40 p.h.)

  • English (Foreign Language)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£36 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£40 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£40 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£40 p.h.)
  • English
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£36 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£36 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£40 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£40 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£40 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£40 p.h.)


The search box above can be used to find Surbiton private teaching and Surbiton home tuition

Bensu's profile picture
Subjects: English (Foreign Language)  |  English  
Availability: Weekends / Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Online
Info: 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 g ...
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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
  • English (Foreign Language)
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£17 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£17 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£17 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£17 p.h.)
  • English
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£17 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£17 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£17 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£17 p.h.)


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Ahmed's profile picture
Subjects: English  |  Urdu  |  Portuguese  
Availability: Weekends / Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Travels to you / From their home / Online
Info: I am someone who likes interacting with people, with strong skills in building rapport easily with people of different backgrounds. Having Lived in Portugal for a part of my life I have gained an insight to the language and the culture and so current ...
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Personal Description:
I am someone who likes interacting with people, with strong skills in building rapport easily with people of different backgrounds. Having Lived in Portugal for a part of my life I have gained an insight to the language and the culture and so currently mainly teach Portuguese, whether its reading or speaking I have got you covered. I can also teach urdu but only speaking and listening.

Teaching Experience:

I have got some experience with private tutoring as I have taught a number of different age groups which helped me build my skillset and now can comfortably teach any age group as long as they have the passion for the language. Message me to get started and we will go on this journey together.

Tutoring Approach:

The style depends on the client needs but I generally teach face to face, using different techniques of teaching including, video translations, text interpretations and story telling.

Subjects
  • English
  • Adult/Casual learner (£25 p.h.)
  • Urdu
  • Adult/Casual learner (£25 p.h.)

  • Portuguese
  • GCSE or Standards (£15 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£25 p.h.)

The search box above can be used to find Surbiton private tutors and Surbiton home tuition

Melody's profile picture
Subjects: French  |  English (Foreign Language)  |  English  |  Spanish  
Availability: Weekends
Types of Tutoring: Online
Info: I am a television producer who is currently looking to build upon the work I have previously done in education. I enjoyed school and learning, but I realise that I was fortunate enough to experience an ideal set of circumstances (including good teach ...
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Personal Description:
I am a television producer who is currently looking to build upon the work I have previously done in education. I enjoyed school and learning, but I realise that I was fortunate enough to experience an ideal set of circumstances (including good teaching) and that many people find studying difficult, challenging and/or unenjoyable.

I really love working with people to plug the gaps in their knowledge and/or formal education, and I take a person-centred approach to finding what's right for each particular individual. I believe that this style allows people to feel empowered, makes things "click" in a way that is natural to the individual, and ultimately allows that person to walk away with a feeling of satisfaction and confidence in their abilities.

As a TV producer, I have worked around the world with a multitude of different types of people, and I pride myself on the ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life. I am half Spanish, so have always had a knowledge of and been surrounded by the language. I am currently working on perfecting my fluency, so am working through the formal qualifications this year, currently operating at Pre-Advanced (B2). At this level, I am more than equipped to tutor in Spanish up to A Level.

Teaching Experience:

I trained in dance from the age of 3, and when I was about 13/14, started helping with the teaching of the younger children at the school. This was where I discovered my passion for helping others to learn. I took a huge amount of pleasure in helping people figure out a way to finally crack something they'd been finding difficult.

When I then went to uni, I spent my spare time working at Salford Young People's University to lead marketing and radio production workshops, amongst others. Upon leaving education, whilst trying to start my career as a television producer, I worked part time in a local high school as an administrative assistant, exam invigilator and cover support officer, covering classes when teachers were absent. Having obtained majority A grades at school myself, I found a great deal of joy working across all national curriculum subjects to help students complete their work and understand things that they were finding tricky.

Over the last decade, I have spent a great deal of time outside of my day job leading workshops in schools, universities and other teaching organisations to inform, educate and empower young people to pursue a career in television. I have also mentored upwards of 80 individuals, each time taking a person-centred approach to figure out what is right for that particular person. My mentees describe me as someone who is gentle, patient, knowledgeable and inspires confidence. There are testimonials from some of my former mentees. I understand the importance of finding the right tutor, and am happy to supply a full CV prior to commencing any tutoring.

Tutoring Approach:

I love working with people to plug the gaps in their knowledge and/or formal education, and I take a person-centred approach to finding what's right for each particular individual, i.e. I do not follow a set formula with every person. I believe that this style allows people to feel empowered, makes things "click" in a way that is natural to the individual, and ultimately allows that person to walk away with a feeling of satisfaction and confidence in their abilities.

Ideally, I'd have students bring homework they are struggling to complete so that we can work through it together, but if that is not an option, I am very happy to discuss the individual needs and then find appropriate resources. I am happy to work either online or in person.

Testimonial from Spanish tutee:
"I absolutely loved my Spanish lessons with Melody. She prepared bespoke pages for me which we worked through, and gave me little tips and tricks to remember things that helped to improve my Spanish tremendously. She also provided me with extra activities (like watching specific music videos on YouTube) to do outside lessons that further improved my Spanish."

Subjects
  • French
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£30 p.h.)
  • English (Foreign Language)
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£30 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£30 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£30 p.h.)

  • English
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£30 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£30 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£30 p.h.)
  • Spanish
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£30 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£30 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£30 p.h.)


Use the search box above to find Surbiton local teachers and Surbiton home tuition

Ann's profile picture
Subjects: English 
Availability: Weekdays (evenings)
Types of Tutoring: Travels to you / Online
Info: I am a teacher with over 20 years' English teaching experience who has seen the benefits that tuition can provide. I am a keen advocate of how tutoring can make a positive difference to a young person's progress and achievement. I am an enthusias ...
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Personal Description:
I am a teacher with over 20 years' English teaching experience who has seen the benefits that tuition can provide. I am a keen advocate of how tutoring can make a positive difference to a young person's progress and achievement.

I am an enthusiastic and reliable teacher, and gain great satisfaction from working with students to help them achieve and progress.

Unsurprisingly for an English teacher, I can often be found with my nose in a book and am a fan of all types of texts from the latest Robert Galbraith thriller to Jane Austen's timeless classics.

Teaching Experience:

I have been an English teacher in further education for over 20 years and am passionate about my subject of English! I have experience of teaching GCSE English Language and Literature with the 9-1 specification as well as Functional Skills and English for Speakers of Other Languages. I have worked as a private tutor for over five years teaching KS3 students in years 7-9 and KS4 students in years 10 and 11. I am familiar with a range of exam boards for English Language and English Literature as well as the texts included within the literature courses.

I have also worked with home-schooled students and successfully supported them in the achievement of their target grades in English.

I have an up to date DBS check which is available for inspection on request.

Tutoring Approach:

Tutoring takes place either in the student's own home if you are in the Lichfield area, or alternatively online using Google Classroom and Google Meet. This is a reliable platform which enables parents/carers to access materials and work done on a 'teacher' basis so that you can monitor work being completed, and which also allows the student to build up a successive range of work done and materials accessed as the weeks progress.

I work closely with parents/carers as well as the student to assess any immediate needs that the student has in their English studies. I have liaised with school teachers at parent/carer request to gain a clear insight into areas that school teachers believe would benefit from additional input. This means that the tuition I provide can support targeted areas that need further development and help each student fulfil their potential. If short-term tuition is requested, I will put together a brief plan for you to consider and address any key areas that are needed in a logical and structured way so that you can be assured tuition is going to be suitable for your child's needs.

All materials, whether face to face or online, are prepared in advance and are produced to support achievement in English. After each tuition session, feedback is provided to parents/carers either verbally if the session is face to face, or via email/conversation online if the session is remotely delivered. Any feedback is always welcomed.

Subjects
  • English
  • 11+ (secondary) (£32 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£34 p.h.)

Try the search box above to find Surbiton private teaching and Surbiton private tuition

Heather's profile picture
Subjects: English (Foreign Language)  |  English  
Availability: Weekends / Weekdays (all times)
Types of Tutoring: Online
Info: I am 48 years old, young at heart and a professional English Teacher I enjoy writing spoken word, poetry and songs. I have recently found out that I can write songs and can sing! I am going to release a commercial record about a health cond ...
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Personal Description:
I am 48 years old, young at heart and a professional English Teacher

I enjoy writing spoken word, poetry and songs. I have recently found out that I can write songs and can sing! I am going to release a commercial record about a health condition with Basil Gabbidon from Steel Pulse very soon! Basil Gabbidon created one of the most popular reggae bands in 1975 in Birmingham, England. The song is in a rap, poetic style with some singing.

I enjoy teaching English and meeting new people.

Teaching Experience:

I have been teaching student's in England and around the world for five years. I have taught face to face in Schools, Academies, Adult Education Centres Businesses and on line for five years.

Tutoring Approach:

My name is Heather and I have been teaching English on line and face to face in England and in Spain. I work with children and Adults. I can teach English and Business English.

I like to be interactive with the student and can focus in on any particular area that is needed. You may choose to have a conversational type lesson with error correction and pronunciation or a more prescriptive approach, for example grammar or for a specific English Exam.

Please feel free to discuss your needs with me.

Subjects
  • English (Foreign Language)
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£25 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£30 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£30 p.h.)
  • Further/Higher (university) (£30 p.h.)
  • English
  • Up to 11 years (primary) (£25 p.h.)
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£30 p.h.)
  • Adult/Casual learner (£30 p.h.)


Use the search box above to find Surbiton local tutors and Surbiton home tuition

Zaynab's profile picture
Subjects: English  |  Chemistry  |  Biology  
Availability: Weekends / Weekdays (evenings)
Types of Tutoring: Online
Info: Dental Surgery student. Achieved As in A-Level Chemistry & Biology, and A* in A-Level English Literature. ...
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Personal Description:
Dental Surgery student. Achieved As in A-Level Chemistry & Biology, and A* in A-Level English Literature.

Teaching Experience:

I teach GCSE & A-Level online science and English lessons that are centred around mastering exam technique and each student's areas for improvement.

I have 3+ years of online tutoring experience, both GCSE and A-Level Science and English.

As I have completed A-Levels in both chemistry and biology, and achieved an A grade, I have abundant revision resources and an in-depth understanding of revision tips and tricks (that I've picked up over the years!) that will enable your child to succeed in their science learning journey.

Tutoring Approach:

My lessons are customised to each student's needs and will cover the topics they struggle with clearly and in detail. Exam technique is key for excelling in science, and this is what we'll focus on in my lessons. I will enable students to apply the content they learn in the classroom to an exam setting, as well as cover any areas missed by their teachers.

I also teach GCSE and A-Level English Literature / Language online. My lessons will enable students to write with confidence and fluency, as well as be able to analyse texts in detail. My lessons are tailored around each student's strengths and areas for improvement. Having studied English Literature at A-Level, and achieved an A*, I have a unique insight into how good grades are achieved in English.

Subjects
  • English
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£40 p.h.)
  • Chemistry
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£40 p.h.)

  • Biology
  • 11+ (secondary) (£30 p.h.)
  • GCSE or Standards (£40 p.h.)
  • A-Level or Highers (£45 p.h.)

Try the search box above to find Surbiton home teaching and Surbiton private tuition


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