Dronfield Entrance Exams Tutors and Dronfield Entrance Exams Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a qualified teacher and former Headteacher of a successful school with significant teaching expertise at KS1 and KS2. I am also a qualified SENCO and have vast experience in SEN. I set high standards for all my pupils and help them to achieve academic success. I am able to offer tuition in English, Maths and Science at both key stages and tuition for 11+ and common entrance examinations. I travel to you by negotiation. I can provide excellent references on request from past and present clients who have achieved and continue to achieve success in their studies at all levels. I enjoy seeing my pupils make rapid progress and achieving a high level of academic success.

Teaching Experience:
I specialise in English, Maths, SEN, Entrance Examinations at 7+ and 11+ and tuition for pupils who need to catch up, lack confidence and skills and need support to improve. I have vast experience teaching within excellent local schools and I am currently a Headteacher in a large local primary school. I teach children on a 1-2-1 basis to ensure that they receive the additional input that they need in order to achieve. I specialise in assisting children who lack confidence in specific areas and I am able to assist these children in improving their skill levels within their own school. I can provide excellent references on request from many happy pupils and parents.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a patient and understanding tutor with the ability to communicate effectively with both adults and children. My aim is to ensure that pupils develop additional skills and increased confidence in their studies. I make my lessons fun and enjoyable for pupils so that they are able to enjoy learning and are keen to attend my tutoring sessions. I keep parents updated on their children's progress on a regular basis and encourage children to share worries about specific subject areas so that we can explore them together.

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Personal Description:
I am a very motivating person, willing to explore more opportunity, l have taught at multi cultural school and also in other European countries EU ONLY. Very flexible and open minded. Ready to work on short notices . Computer literate and have PGCE and QTS at the University of Birmingham. I also have Post Graduate in Pure and Applied Mathematics

Teaching Experience:
Over 15 years of teaching experience. l have taught at the American school, International schools and local and colleges .My main subject areas are IB, AP`s and GCSE in mathematics , Calculus, Physics, chemistry, and Further Mathematic

Tutoring Approach:
One to One approach . Make the student to participate in the explanation and check on the weakest points of the student to assist the student to improve this will enable the student to reach his or her desired grade.
Simple and straight forward explanation on any topic even those which seems difficult for students to understand.

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

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

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

Most recently I have taught English at an independent school in Sutton, and previous to that I taught Academic Writing for East Anglia University for several years. Nowadays my tutoring is split between English for the 11+ and Common Entrance (13+) exams, English for KS2 and KS3 SATs, and English, Spanish, Economics and Politics & Government for the GCSE and A-level exams (all boards).

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

KS2 and KS3 SATs
I usually start tutoring for the KS2 SATS in Year 5, and in Year 8 for the KS3 SATs. I tend to use a mixture of focused texts and past papers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
Super-tutor with a 1st Class Masters from Cambridge University and over 14 years of experience.

I have tutored internationally for high-profile and UHNW families, but also work online with students on a weekly basis. My style is fun and engaging, with a focus on confidence-building as well as achieving academic results.

Teaching Experience:
- 1st Class B.A. (Hons) in Education Studies with English and Drama from the University of Cambridge, 4 As at A-level (English, Biology, Geography and Theatre Studies) and 11 A*s at GCSE.
- Over 14 years (4000+ hours) experience as a Private Tutor.
- Have tutored around the world, travelling with families and living with them domestically.
- Extensive experience with students suffering from dyslexia, petit mal, ADHD and anxiety.
- 100% success rate in improving GCSE and A-level students' performance by a minimum of 2 grades or to the top possible grade.
- Successfully helped students get into schools including Eton College, Harrow, Westminster, Kings (Wimbledon), Sevenoaks, Winchester, St Paul's Girls, City of London, Godolphin & Latimer, Francis Holland School, Harrodian, Sussex House and Putney High School, and universities including Cambridge, Bristol, Edinburgh and Georgetown, US.

Tutoring Approach:
I am the tutor who is also the friend, always working to ensure the child learns to love the subject and want improvement for themselves, not because I demand it of them. As a result of my time, I want the child to develop positively as a person as well as within the subject we are working on.

Firstly, I will always aim to find the areas the child is having the most difficulty with and break it down to its simplest form to help them understand. Once a child has understood the basic principle of what we are learning, I aim to push them as far as I can with their learning - my memory of the best teacher's I had at school were the teacher's who pushed me even further than I needed to go, and who gave me more knowledge and information than I needed to know. I then found that I entered my exams relaxed and confident, knowing that I had excess knowledge. Rather than learning just to answer set questions in an exam, I felt I truly understood those subjects.




TESTIMONIALS:
"Thank you for working so hard with Annabel. She has improved so much and genuinely enjoys all her sessions with you, which is a huge achievement for time spent doing maths and english in my view!"
Mother of Annabel (11+ Preparation)

"Lucy has been the best teacher ever and has taught me so much. If I pass any exams, it will be because of her awesome advice!"
Hana (11+ Preparation)

"I would like to thank Lucy for giving Julian such a thorough preparation so that he had confidence to deal with the tasks. His brilliant results are largely thanks to her help."
Mother of Julian (English Lit GCSE)

"Cecilia is deeply dyslexic and Lucy was able to take her from a modest level of writing to an A in English Literature. She was absolutely amazing, the best tutor my daughter ever had. Her ability to organise and simplify the work were crucial in achieving this result. But more importantly she was able to give Cecilia the self confidence she was lacking."
Mother of Cecilia (English Lit A-level)

"It was fantastic having Lucy here with us and she slotted into everything with such ease. She was a delight to have around."
Father of Etta and Artie (Year 2 homeschooling, domestic)

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Personal Description:
Hi I'm Meghavi and I am a BSc Physics graduate from Imperial College London and I have a QTS (Qualified Teaching Status) at grade 1 - Outstanding. Currently, I work as a Consultant in the Digital Transformation space. I have always been interested in teaching, from my GCSE years, I began helping my friends with their school work. Moving to A level years I started helping out some of the teachers in my school to run after school sessions to help kids with their Homework. I would say I am very patient and will sit there till the concept is clear in their minds. I am not the kind of person who gives up easily so I will do what it takes to make sure an idea or concept is understood. As a person I am very friendly and bubbly. I like to have a good laugh and I'm a good listener.

As far as personal interests go; I love to travel, I love music, movies and Food. I enjoy cooking. I like trying out new things and exploring new places and meeting new people.

Teaching Experience:
My interest in teaching began when I started helping my sister with her school work. I started teaching in 2009. I worked at Kumon (one of UK's largest supplementary education provider) for a year. I then started tutoring AS Students for AS Physics at Lampton School which involved spending my free lessons and after school sessions to help them with any conceptual problems, homework, exam practice or just a recap of any topic in AS Physics. These students felt comfortable coming up to me at any time during or after school to ask any queries they had about the subject. (References Available)

I have helped out in Maths classes and planned my own lessons under the supervision of my teacher. I have also worked as a learning mentor at Lampton School and helped students with any homework or classwork in various subjects.

More recently (2013 - 2014) I have been a tutor for various students; teaching A Level Physics, A Level Maths and Further Maths, GCSE Maths, Primary Maths and GCSE Science (Biology Chemistry and Physics all inc).

Tutoring Approach:
Clearly each student is different, and so the way of teaching each one will be different. However I believe that if the foundation is strong nothing can go wrong. I will first try to ensure that the concept and the base of the subject is strong before we go on to a number of past paper questions and exercises. I believe that the best way to learn is to see how any problem can be tackled, go through the thought process and then apply what you know to the specific problem and solve it.

I will first see what the student finds most difficult and what their weaknesses are and then strive to overcome them. Each student will have their own learning methods, some may learn by understanding the whole concept then going into the exam questions, some want to go through exam questions while they are learning the concept to see how the theory can be applied to the problems. Some may learn visually with experiments or examples whereas others will learn through trial and improvement of their own. I will spend the first session finding out how they like to learn and design a program just right for that individual student.

From previous experiences I believe the key areas students need help in are:
- learning the foundation of the subject
- how to manage time in exams
- how to structure their answers in an exam
- lots and lots of practice
Hopefully once we start tutoring, the students will feel much more confident with the subject and the key to success for any exam is self confidence. I will always be their as a guide, a mentor, a friend to help them through what they find difficult.

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Personal Description:
Hi,
My name is Andrew, I am in my late 50's and I taught in private schools for 15 years. I then left education for change of lifestyle and other personal reasons. I have been married for over 28 years and have 2 daughters 26 and 24. I am a committed believer and as such the integrity of the teacher student relationship is very important to me; I would always go the extra mile to see that the student achieves their aims.

I have a current DBS. Loads of references available from Senior teachers and Deputy Headmasters past and present. (Present Headmasters are not the Heads for which I worked).

Teaching Experience:
Repton Prep School 1992 - 2006, Maths, ICT to year 8. Head of ICT.

Manor House School 2006-2007, Maths and ICT to GCSE. Head of ICT.

Private tutor, 6 years, A level (not statistics - sorry), GCSE and Entrance Exams.

I have also coached football, hockey and cricket so I have a solid foundation in motivating students.

Tutoring Approach:
Motivational and encouraging. All things are possible with a good attitude. A can do approach. I do NOT subscribe to the "we don't do it like that mentality" , if there is a better way of doing something then I'm positive about alternative methods.
For example, when my daughters were learning their tables I wrote my own simple spreadsheet to enable tables practice on a table by table random basis. This is a completely unashamedly a drill system that produces results. Easily possible to learn all tables to 12 within a couple of months if sufficient time is invested, it is also an enjoyable process that 99% of the children that I taught enjoyed, I used the spreadsheet extensively in the schools at which I taught. Infinitely extendable for the brightest to 13, 14, 15 20x tables; likewise can be simplified to 2x and 3x for those that need more time. Also programmable to practise number bonds with any number of digits.

I have also developed the spreadsheet to enable learning of vocabulaire francais.

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Personal Description:
I have 13+ years of experience teaching in person and online. I have a 1st class Masters degree in Theoretical Physics (York, 2015), a PhD in Theoretical Plasma Physics (Warwick, 2019), 7+ years as an academic physicist, and soon a degree in Medicine (Oxford, 2030).

For the past 7 years I have worked as an academic plasma physics fusion energy researcher, winning multiple national awards during this time and becoming leader of my research team (Turbulence in fusion plasmas). I have had a wonderful career as a plasma physicist, but it is time for a change; I will soon leave this job and start Graduate Entry (accelerated) Medicine at Oxford in September - I am incredibly excited! Below is a brief outline of my tutoring experience and qualifications.

- 13 years of tutoring experience mostly in Maths and Physics. From GCSE to University level as well as adult learner.
- 27 5* ratings on a now defunct online tutoring marketplace
- Experience tutoring for Oxbridge entrance exams, including PAT and MAT.
- Theoretical physics MPhys (1st), University of York, 2011-2015.
- PhD in Theoretical plasma physics, University of Warwick, 2015-2019, awards for best plasma physics PhD thesis in the UK, best physics PhD thesis at Warwick, and postgraduate teaching at Warwick.
- Career as a Nuclear fusion researcher, 2019-2026, UK early career plasma physicist award, research group leader, Chartered physicist
- I have 13+ years of experience teaching in person and online. I have a 1st class Masters degree in Theoretical Physics (York, 2015), a PhD in Theoretical Plasma Physics (Warwick, 2019), 7+ years as an academic physicist, and soon a degree in Medicine (Oxford, 2030).

For the past 7 years I have worked physicist, 29 peer-reviewed publications.
- Medicine (accelerated graduate entry), University of Oxford, Sep 2026 - 2030), I am going back to University to retrain as a medical doctor.
- I have historically taught Maths, Physics, and some adjacent areas such as certain Computer Science and Economics University modules. I am now in a position to also teach Chemistry GCSE and A-level, and the UCAT medical/dental entrance exam.
- > 3000 in my UCAT
- Full and recent (2025) DBS check
- Private pilot with night rating (I can offer advice for the 9 ground school exams and can handily link with Maths and Physics).

Outside of work and study, I am qualified private and licensed skydiver and generally enjoy all things aviation and outdoors.

Please see below for a breakdown of my tutoring experience, the services I can offer, and my approach to tutoring.

Teaching Experience:
I specialise in bespoke 1-to-1 lessons with students, but I can also offer group lessons upon request. Lessons are usually by the hour, but can be in the format of a "crash course" in a subject over, for example, a weekend.

I am happy teaching in-person at your home, but equally comfortable teaching online using Zoom Pro.

Here is a list of things I have taught in the past and am able to teach now:

Maths - A-level / GCSE / International Baccalaureate.
- Physics - A-level / GCSE / International Baccalaureate.
- Chemistry - A-level / GCSE / International Baccalaureate.
- UCAT preparation (medical and dental school aptitude test).
- Medical school interview preparation.
- Cambridge and Oxford maths, physics and engineering entrance exams (e.g. PAT, STEP)
- Scottish advanced highers maths.
- Scottish advanced highers physics.
- First year university physics.
- Second year university physics.
- First year university maths.
- Second year university maths.
- First year university mechanical engineering.
- Second year university mechanical engineering.
- First year university maths for economics.
- First year university maths for computer science.
- Maths/engineering HND diploma.

I am fortunate to be able to, in some instances, be the sole tutor for all of a student's A-level subjects. For instance, if you have a child studying Chemistry, Maths, and Physics A-levels with the aim of doing a Physics/Maths/Medicine degree; I would be able to tutor your child in all these subjects as well as entrance exams and university interview preparation.

If there is something not on this list that you would like help with than please feel free to message me so we can explore our options. I am happy to offer either a 50% discount on our first hour, or a free 30 minute trial lesson.

Tutoring Approach:
I find an informal style works best, particularly with secondary school students. The 1-to-1 (or small classroom) nature of tutoring lends itself well to this style, and over the years I have found that creating an environment in which the student is at ease and not afraid to make mistakes is essential to the learning process.

Having discussed the content of the lesson with the student / parent(s) prior to the lesson, a typical lesson would usually start by clarifying what the student expects out of the lesson and what knowledge I hope to impart upon the student. Using A-level Maths as an example, let's assume for the moment that the student is completely stuck at differentiating using the quotient rule (a common complaint I've received from students). I typically set the student a warm-up problem and ask them to do it whilst I watch. I watch and make mental and written notes of the key steps where their understanding is lacking or where their procedure for doing the question could be improved. I then discuss this with the student, and often, I take the time to derive the rules from first principles, with the aim of forming links in the student's brain so they don't "think" about answering the question next time. As an example, the quotient rule and be derived from the product rule, and once I show them this (not often done at school), the logic behind it is no longer opaque, and the student is often able to perform better on subsequent problems.

We then typically work through a subset of increasingly more challenging problems, and I resist the urge to tell the student the answer, instead asking targeted questions to guide them in the right direction. I almost always set homework problems, including at least one stretching problem, which are tailored to the needs of the specific student I am teaching, and we begin the next lesson by clarifying anything from the problems. Most lessons, I naturally make links between the content and my own career or another example from the world of work. I find this gives the students context and enthuses them.

Importantly, I don't recommend further tuition when it is not necessary. As an example, you may decide to start with hourly lessons twice per week. As your child's understanding and confidence grows, we may decide together that we feel comfortable dropping down to once a week. This is an excellent outcome that we can take pride in. I view my job as not only to impart knowledge and turn that A into an A*, but also to give the student the tools they need to direct their own learning.

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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"

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Personal Description:
I previously taught full time in both KS1 and KS2 for 5 years, however I now work teaching children who are not in mainstream education on a 1:1 basis-.

Teaching Experience:
I have a wide range of experience of tutoring SEN children, using a range of different strategies and approaches to engage them in various aspects of the primary curriculum.

Tutoring Approach:
I pride myself in tailoring lessons to the interests of the child to ensure they gain the most out of their sessions. I make learning fun and engaging and ensure the child feels at ease.

I assess children on an individual basis, discussing with them what they would like help with whilst also discussing needs with parents. This will then determine how to best move forward and what style of support is most appropriate.

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Personal Description:
A very warm hello!

I am experienced and reliable, knowledgeable and empathetic, organised and conscientious, creative and passionate, and, patient and down-to-earth. I have over 10 years of classroom teaching experience as a fully qualified teacher and over 8 years of extensive tutoring experience.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught both KS1 and KS2 in a variety of locations around the UK (Durham, Essex, Norwich, Bradford and Halifax) and have taught all National Curriculum subjects. I completed an undergraduate degree at the University of East Anglia, a Primary PGCE at Durham University followed by a Masters of Education at Durham University too.

I offer private tuition all over Calderdale at a location of your choice (including from my house in Ripponden) at a time of your convenience. Please note, I do not charge an initial joining fee.

Tutoring Approach:
Every pupil is an individual and every pupil develops their knowledge and learning differently. I begin by building a rapport with each pupil, getting to know how they learn best. I start with the knowledge they already possess and build upon these. I try to make my teaching varied and fun and ensure that pupils experience success quickly, no matter how small the steps are. I believe that private tuition is the first step in facilitating future success in life. I work efficiently and professionally to ensure your investment in private tuition meets and exceeds your expectations.

I am passionate about teaching and love to see pupils do well and achieve their potential. My teaching style centres around personalised learning: tailoring my lessons to the individual learning styles of my pupils. I have the ability and patience to work well with a range of pupils and have had a lot of success motivating those who struggle. I get an invaluable sense of satisfaction from seeing pupils experience 'light bulb' moments.

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Personal Description:
I`m an experienced, friendly, and professional tutor specializing in Entrance Exams, 11+, GCSE, and A-Level English and Maths, verified with an Enhanced DBS.

Proven Success:
My 11+ coaching consistently leads to offers from prestigious schools like Eton College, Wellington College, Reading Boys, Kendrick, Abingdon School, Magdalen College School, Reading Blue Coat School, Reddam House, and more. Covering all four skills and creative writing, I emphasize reasoning, boost confidence, and teach effective time management.

Academic Excellence:
In GCSE and A-Level education, my students secure exceptional grades and university placements. I nurture insightful reading and analysis in English and ensure comprehensive math understanding. Additionally, I assist them in developing effective revision techniques, test preparation strategies, and time management skills.

Your Child`s Progress:
Parental satisfaction and student progress are evident in their recommendations and feedback. With over 20 years of teaching experience, I provide personalized support, individualized lessons, and a friendly teaching style that fosters brain development and self-confidence.

Comprehensive Resources:
I maintain a vast archive of materials and standardized tests, allowing me to tailor teaching and facilitate effective progress assessment.

Trust and Success:
I take immense pride in the trust that families have consistently placed in my tutoring services. Over the years, this trust has enabled me to build a strong record of success. But don`t just take my word for it-scroll down to explore the feedback from other parents who have experienced the transformative impact of my teaching. Their testimonials provide valuable insights into the enriching journey your child can embark on with confidence in my guidance.

I offer both online and in-person lessons.

Teaching Experience:
With over 20 years of teaching and 10 years of tutoring expertise, I have a proven track record of helping students thrive. My approach instills confidence and yields consistent academic success.

Parents often express heartfelt appreciation for the progress and growth their children achieve under my guidance. I would be happy to share this glowing parent feedback with you.

It is my privilege to understand each student's needs and create customized plans to support their mastery and achievement. I build strong partnerships with students and parents to pave the way for growth, both in academics and life.

Please feel free to inquire about my background, approach and success stories. I look forward to potentially collaborating with you. Also: kindly be aware that the mentioned fees do not encompass charges associated with home visits.

Tutoring Approach:
• Provide personalized tutoring and coaching to Year 2-5 students preparing for 11+ exams and independent school entrance assessments.
• Boost confidence in areas where students feel unsure or need extra support.
• Build classroom readiness, study skills, and higher SATs achievement to gain placement in top maths, English, and science sets.
• Make learning engaging and enjoyable while developing lasting strategies for independent success.
• Offer tailored 1:1 attention to fill in gaps and complement mainstream schooling.
•Partner with parents to establish efficient home learning routines that set students up for achievement.
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••••• Feedback ••••• (a few of the 45 feedback I have received since 2014):

06/01/2023
5/5 Rating
Ben is an amazing tutor! Very professional, always finds a proper attitude to overcome challenges with tasks! I am amazed how much my son changed since we started working with Ben! Not only he motivated and supported my son throughout all this time, but also helped to overcome his personal resistance to working hard! We are very lucky to have an opportunity to work with Ben and grateful for all his support!

21/01/2022
5/5 Rating
Ben is very understanding teacher who not teach well but also understand child strong and weak points and then accordingly help them to improve and excel. I would highly recommend Ben.

08/09/2021
5/5 Rating
Ben has been tutoring my son for the last few months and has made great progress with him. He is friendly and builds a rapport quickly with both child and parents, so that he can understand what tutoring is required and where more work needs to be done. I would highly recommend Ben as a tutor.

10/07/2021
5/5 Rating
Ben has been tutoring my son for a few weeks now and I happy with the progress my son has made under Bens direction in preparation for his exams. Ben has been quite flexible in providing extra lessons as well and I wouldn`t hesitate to recommend him as a tutor.

09/06/2021
5/5 Rating
Ben is a fantastic teacher, very experienced and engaging. I like the openness in communication and idea sharing that benefits both the student and tutor. My daughter is honing the benefit on both techniques and discipline from Ben.

01/08/2020
5/5 Rating
We are very glad we found Ben . In a short period of time , Ben made a good assessment on my daughter`s status and have devised a plan suitable for her and started classes with her . With in few classes we have seen good progress in her.Ben is very patient with kids and teach them as per individual needs .My daughter totally enjoys his class .I would highly recommend Ben
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05/11/2019
5/5 Rating
Ben has been working with my boys for past 4 months now and I couldn`t happier with my choice. My boys are really happy to be tutored by Ben. They feel that their confidence has increased and look forward to working with him. As parents we feel Ben knows child`s ability and aptitude like the back of his hand. When Ben started working with my boys I was really happy with his systematic approach towards the subject depending on the ability of the kids. It is not one size fits all approach but it is customized. Though being twins they are different and Ben has identified this and understood their uniqueness from the first session. He is a firm, fair as well as fun teacher and the kids seem to like this mixed quality. I couldn't ask for more in a teacher and look forward to working with them. Thanks Ben.
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01/12/2018
5/5 Rating
Ben has taught my son for Eleven plus since September and I can see my kid doing his daily homework himself without expecting our help. We can see the way of reading has changed and now he looks for new words and try to find the meaning.

Most importantly, Ben develops the wrap over the kid and takes control of reading and writing completely, leaving us in the back seat to see he completes the daily homework. This is great, as we don`t want to study class 4,5 again or teach a different method than thought in school.

Individual approach, great advice, positive attitude.
Always on time, ready to help, very easy going, intelligent and kind. Thanks so much!
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14/09/2017
5/5 Rating
We have been impressed with Ben`s knowledge, experience and commitment. He is reliable and always turns up on time. Ben started tutoring our daughter only 4 months before the 11+ and he quickly identified her needs and developed a programme for her to follow and appropriate workbooks. Regardless of the outcome of the 11+, he has already helped our daughter feel more confident at school and set her up well for Year 6 and secondary school. Thanks Ben!
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17/10/2016
5/5 Rating
I was able to see tremendous improvement in my daughter for 11+ exam. He knows the tricks to get the best out of the student. My daughter did enjoy the sessions with him and as a teacher, he is really good. So I will definitely recommend.
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13/09/2016
5/5 Rating
Ben has excellent teaching skills and my daughter significantly improved in class from lower to top groups. I`ve seen him working really hard with my daughter while preparing her for 11+ and he knows the tricks to make the pupil understand the exam technique and how to improve academically. He teaches in a very systematic way and the child really enjoys while studying with him. He soon developed good rapport with us and I would say he`s definitely a recommended one!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an enthusiastic and approachable Teacher who is passionate in teaching children to progress and learn. I am well-organised and highly motivated.
I am flexible in my approach to teaching, delivering in the style of the children's needs and their way of learning. I have high expectations of all students and encourage them to reach their full potential. I use various teaching styles and assessment techniques. Positivity and independence from the children are encouraged.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked as a Class Teacher for nearly 20 years in local Schools. Although my subject specialism is in English, I have an interest in both Maths and English subjects.
I also have significant experience of working with children on a one-to-one basis and in small groups delivering a series of Maths and English GCSE sessions. I have delivered interventions to small groups of children and on a 1:1 basis at primary level. Planning & preparing Maths, Reading, Grammar & Writing activities. Involved planning, creating and organising resources, creating fun, engaging and creative lessons, enforcing independence, delivering skills-led series of sessions, encouraging progression of skills and differentiating activities.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a flexible, adaptable and positive approach to tutoring. My aim is to for children to fulfil their potential. I teach in the style of the children's needs and their way of learning. I am flexible and adaptable. I use various teaching styles, such as the VAK (Visual, Auditory & Kinaesthetic) and identify which one would be the most suitable for the child. I also use various assessment techniques and provide feedback.
I begin a topic by addressing any gaps in children's knowledge and learning. The Learning Objective is clearly focussed upon in each session. I always provide stimulating and engaging activities suited to the child's needs. I introduce each topic and model examples, addressing any misconceptions from the child. Children then have opportunity to complete the tasks and then assess their own learning at the end of each session.
Overall, I am to provide a personalised tuition programme for each child adhering to the requirements of the national curriculum. I aim to deepen understanding by linking activities to the other areas of the curriculum and in wider society.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A-level results, August 2024:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A-level results, August/September 2022:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

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Personal Description:
Hello! My name is Vicki and I am a fully qualified primary school teacher with over 12 years experience teaching across key stage one and two in Lincolnshire schools. I hold QTS and an enhanced DBS certificate.

Teaching Experience:
During my career I have been a literacy specialist and tutor for 11+ entrance exams. I have taught whole classes, intervention groups and tutored on a 1:1 basis.

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Tutoring is the perfect opportunity for me to get the most from your child, Working one to one gives me the privilege of being able to tailor and personalise my tutorials to your child's learning style and ability. I am able to assess for next steps in learning in a way that the classroom environment often does not allow and I can develop your child's confidence where it really matters and challenge and extend where needed.

Currently, due to Covid restrictions I am tutoring through Zoom and Bitpaper.

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Personal Description:
I got Physics with Maths teaching qualification (PGCE and QTS). I have been teaching more than eight years in well reputed school in London and still teaching. Well aware of students needs and adapt teaching according to their needs.

11Plus: Helping students in 11plus exams face to face at my home.
KS3 Science (Physics, Chemistry and Biology).
Physics upto GCSE levels.
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From last eight years teaching in different schools in London.

Tutoring Approach:
Face to face.
Setting homework and give feedback in their weak areas.

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Personal Description:
I'm a current second year student at the University of Bath, studying mathematics. I have a passion for my subject and that comes through in my lessons, this helps to enhance my teaching. My aspiration one day is to become a lecture in my chosen subject, and this is a great way for me to learn and become experienced early on in my potential career.

Teaching Experience:
I currently tutor one student in maths, However my experience stems further than this as I have always tutored and taught friends through GCSE and A-levels. A key highlight of my background is that I self taught A-level further maths as it wasn't a subject they offered at my school. This choice further shows my passion and drive for learning, but gave me a deeper understanding of studying and learning.

Tutoring Approach:
my tutoring style is highly adaptable, as I tailor make/ plan my lessons based on the student. No two lessons on the same topic are alike, ensuring a fresh and engaging approach each time! I have good ability at explaining complex concepts clearly and effectively, making my lessons more accessible and enjoyable as nothing is better than understanding a hard concept! my focus on getting students to challenge themselves with the harder problems builds confidence and results in excellent progress.
I always begin my tutoring with an introductory lesson ( a quick chat ) just to get to know the needs of the student, and so you can check to see if you match with my styles.

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Personal Description:
Published UN economist and UK Government consultant providing premier support across exam technique, content understanding, and essay writing.

Looking for targeted entrance exam support or a stable mentor throughout your A-Level or IB Economics journey? I am a proven tutor with some available spaces remaining for weekly sessions from September to the end of the current academic year. As a full-time tutor, I have enhanced flexibility and on request I can offer intensive crash-course sessions for students on study leave.

I always offer a free consultation before the first lesson, to understand my clients' needs and to ensure our learning styles fit. My specialist subject is Economics at IB and A Level across the CIE, AQA, WJEC, and Edexcel exam boards. I hold a First in Economics from a Russell Group university and achieved straight A's and A*'s in my GCSEs and A Levels.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored Maths and Economics since 2021, and in that time have received 100% positive feedback from my clients who often go from fail-grades to As and beyond in short timescales. I have also taught English as a second language and Maths in several parts of the world, including Nepal, China, and Thailand.

Tutoring Approach:
I have taught various subjects as a private tutor since 2021, but I specialise in Economics. My lessons are highly interactive for maximum engagement, and I generally require students to have an iPad, tablet, or touchscreen laptop. In all initial lessons, I discuss with the student and/or their parent the student's needs and goals, identifying any weak spots in content knowledge or technique.

My lessons are almost always 90 minutes long, as I find this helps students get into a rhythm of learning and improves content retention. I use a structured but adaptable approach, tailoring each session to the student's progress. A typical lesson includes a brief recap of previous material, interactive problem-solving, and targeted exercises to reinforce key concepts. I also incorporate exam-style questions where relevant, ensuring students develop both knowledge and technique.

I believe in fostering an encouraging and supportive learning environment, helping students build confidence in their abilities. My teaching style is patient and student-centred, and I adjust explanations to suit individual learning styles. Whether working towards exams, strengthening general understanding, or tackling specific problem areas, I aim to make learning enjoyable and effective.

With my years of experience tutoring students from diverse backgrounds, I have developed strategies to simplify complex topics and make them accessible. Many of my students have significantly improved their grades and confidence, and I take pride in seeing their progress.

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Personal Description:
⚡ Cambridge University ⚡

📚 Over 15,000 hours of one-to-one experience 📚

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💡 A-Level Maths & Further Maths Specialist 💡

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I offer a **free 30-minute** introductory class to all new students so we can get to know each other and the technology we'll be using before committing to anything! I have over 7,000 hours of online tutoring experience, so I am well placed to work either online, or in person at my office space in Hoxton where I also run classes and mock exams.

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I love to turn good students into the best, always pushing and stretching my pupils to get the most out of them. For those looking to achieve the top grades, I can offer my experience in fine-tuning exam technique, as well as giving insight and tutoring in more advanced papers (TMUA, ESAT, STEP). I also offer personal and informative preparatory advice for those students applying to Oxbridge.

On the flip side I have seen that the teaching of maths and science in the classroom can sometimes leave students feeling dejected, uninterested, and even unable, often sapping their confidence. Through my tutoring I aim to rebuild this confidence and unlock each student's true potential. Together we can fill gaps in understanding, consolidate material, get ahead of the syllabus and ultimately strive towards better grades.

In any case, every lesson will be tailored to each student's individual needs.

Teaching Experience:
Over 15,000 hours of one on one tutoring experience.

Experienced with Edexcel, OCR, AQA and OCR MEI for Maths and Further Maths A Level.

Being lucky enough to go to Cambridge, I was blown away by the power of small group teaching, having been used to large classes my whole life. I could not believe the amount it was possible to progress in each guided supervision. It's a privilege to be able to provide such a service myself, for my students.

Tutoring Approach:
Learning happens best one on one. I take a very informal, interactive, animated and personable approach to teaching. This is not school, we don't have rules. This is a place to learn and excel. It's all the good bits of the Cambridge supervision system without any of the formality or anxiety.

My lessons are either online or in person at my office space at Hoxton. In some circumstances I can travel but this will incur an additional fee.

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