Finsbury Park Entrance Exams Tutors and Finsbury Park Entrance Exams Tuition

Personal Description:
I specialise in Maths, English & Science at GCSE level and AS/A-level Maths. I cover all 3 main exam boards including Edexcel, AQA & OCR. I also tutor for 11 plus entrance exams including Verbal Reasoning, Non Verbal Reasoning, Maths and English. I have a high success rate for entrance exams for Grammar & Private schools within South East England.

I have 8 years tutoring experience and am qualified to post graduate level. I have achieved over 90% for most of my A-level modules and `A` grade for GCSEs.

I teach out of a dedicated office space at home. I am available weekday evenings and Sundays and hold a current CRB clearance certificate. A free trial lesson for new students can be arranged on request.

Teaching Experience:
With over 8 years tutoring experience, I am very confident in my teaching. I am qualified to post graduate level and am a high academic achiever.

Over the years I have developed various teaching techniques which I adapt to varied level of abilities in my students. I prioritise on student`s weaknesses and explain key concepts in a way which they understand.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching is in accordance with the exam specification requirements and I focus on what the examiners expect. Each lesson is tailored to meet the needs of each individual student.

I believe past paper practice is essential in ensuring students experience exam environments and get familiar with the format of questions. I have seen a dramatic improvement in my student`s performance improving from E to A grades.

I provide access to a range of preparation material such as past papers, topic specific worksheets, recommended workbooks etc. for my 11 plus entrance exam students. I explain all techniques required to do well in the entrance exams, rather than relying purely on past papers only.

I give weekly homework to my students to ensure learning during the lesson is not forgotten and is reinforced. Regular assessment and review of topics covered previously helps to ensure progress is being made

I have a track record of enabling pupils secure a place at their chosen school and achieve a high grade at GCSE and key stage level. I achieve this by focussing on the pupils weaknesses and explain key concepts and techniques in a way which they understand.

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

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified teacher and have worked as a private tutor since having my first child in 2009. I tutor Maths up to GCSE, offering exam preparation and last minute Easter holiday revision sessions. I also tutor English up to year 9 and specialise in 11+ preparation.

Teaching Experience:
I have six years of full-time teaching experience, working within independent and state schools. In addition, I have tutored a range of children aged between 5 and 16 years of age, privately, and within schools for the National Tutoring Covid Catch-Up Programme. As a result, I have a wide knowledge of the National Curriculum. In total, I have over 15 years of tutoring experience.

Tutoring Approach:
I offer face-to-face tuition which takes place at your home. I am a patient and caring person who can explain things clearly. In addition, I will take the time to ensure that your child understands a concept but I will also set high expectations to push them to achieve their full potential. I believe in positivity and praise to build confidence and enthusiasm, which ultimately will aid success.

I also tutor online using Zoom with shared PowerPoints and websites to create interactive lessons. I have a wide variety of books from which I provide relevant questions for students to practise. Homework can be set upon request, and I can also assist with homework set from school.

Please contact me to book a lesson. The first session is free. Thereafter, it is £60 per hour.

Which subjects do I teach?
*English from Primary to Year 9
*Maths from Primary to GCSE level
*Year 6 SATs Preparation
*11+ Preparation

When am I available?
My timetable is flexible to suit your requirements either during the day or after school. Thanks.

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Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified teacher committed to first class service.

I am flexible and adaptable. I have good communication skills.

Reliable and trustworthy. I am enthusiastic and motivated in teaching children.

I have taught children for over 40 years. I was a head teacher for 28 years and loved every moment of it. I have been a self employed private tutor for over 5 years and my work is so rewarding.

I travel to the pupil and tutor on a one to one basis . I also do on line tutoring .in particular entrance exam preparation and 11 plus.

I am an animal lover and enjoy walking my westie dog in my spare time.

Teaching Experience:
I owned and ran my own private school, namely Woodlands School in Preston , for over 28 years.

I was responsible for over 110 pupils aged from 3 to 11 years of age.

I had a highly professional team of staff. Woodlands school gained excellent comments from ofsted.

I have a great deal of experience tutoring children. I make the lesson fun, exciting and bring along many resources to assist the child in learning.
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Tutoring Approach:
Praise and encouragement. I am patient and understanding. I make my lessons fun and interesting for the child in order to keep their attention.
I enjoy one to one tuition and enjoy teaching children of all ages.

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Personal Description:
I am a warm friendly, patient, understanding and highly motivated tutor. I have the ability to attend to all your learning needs. I am extremely resourceful and knowledgeable on the subjects I tutor in. I will work out the best way that you learn and teach to your learning strengths. Your success is my success!

Teaching Experience:
I have been a Primary School Teacher and a teacher of English as a Foreign Language for over twenty years. I have experience of teaching all levels of English from pre-school to Business Studies and University essay writing. I have also been a Primary School Teacher for fourteen years.

I have regularly coached students for the SATS tests, 11+, IELTS and some subject specific exams.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is to get to know you the person a little first. I like to establish what specifically you want from the tutoring sessions. When I have established your requirements I can then start to build a profile of your learning; what methods best work for you. Your success is my success.

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Personal Description:
I studied at the University of London - the London School of Economics and Birkbeck College. I am a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and a Member of the Royal Historical Society. I am now a professional full time private tutor and I have an exemplary track record, with over 200 five star reviews on various tutoring websites, of coaching students to success across a range of ability: entrance to Oxbridge and the Russell Group universities and 13+ and 16 + entrance for the top UK private schools. Or for students who merely need to improve their grades somewhat, restore confidence after a mock exam or recover their composure and achieve good UCAS predictions. My overall knowledge and experience of the UK and international education system is next to second to none.
I am a specialist in UK and international A-Level / Level 3 qualifications such as AQA, EDEXCEL, OCR, EDUQAS, CIE, iAL, IB and pre-U. I also support all GCSE and iGCSE syllabuses and Middle Years IB. I was a Head of Geography and then a senior manager at a successful Sixth Form College in London. I am currently a Senior Examiner and Moderator for Edexcel in Geography and EPQ Diploma Dissertation and have been an examiner for Geology. I was also an Examiner for Geography for AQA, CIE (OCR) and the WJEC. I am an author of GCSE / A-Level books and resources and a keen historian, specialising in 20th Century history.
I tutor online to provide support for a wide range of students, particularly 11/13+/scholarship, Year 10/11 GCSE and Year 12/13 A-level students. I can also provide fully planned sessions to support remote learning or missed teaching for all students in Years 7-13, whether or not they are facing examinations imminently.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching Geography, Geology and Environmental Science at GCSE / A-Level standard for over 30 years and previously taught English and History outside the UK. I also teach GCSE History privately. I have over 32 years' experience of private tuition and have worked for the same period as an examiner variously for Edexcel, WJEC, OCR, CIE and AQA. Having amassed over 22,000 resources, I can support almost any scenario - SEN; enforced Gap Year / re-take / improving grades; re-starting after ill health; moving school; moving country; home study; post-lockdown support. I have also organised Easter revision classes and conferences and also ran a widening-participation programme for A-Level Geography.
I can also offer support for physical geography, geology and earth science up to undergraduate courses and assist with dissertations at undergraduate or Masters level, by negotiation. I can also assist with the International Baccalaureate (IB) course for Standard or Higher Level ESS, History and Geography and pre-U. I am a specialist in supporting the NEA (coursework) for EDX, AQA, WJEC and OCR specifications and coursework for GCSE History.

Tutoring Approach:
I currently work with UK and international students and their families from multiple countries, across all time zones! About 70% are UK based and the remainder in the EU, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas.
I have helped students at all levels from Year 6 and 11+ preparation through to Masters Level. I believe in a student-centred approach, which can be tailored by arrangement. I like to develop a mixture of skills, concepts and knowledge. By building conceptual skills and subject-based knowledge and case studies, a student is better prepared for the pressure of the examination. But, good subject and syllabus-focus is essential. My lessons can concentrate on exam practice (using a large bank of resources), case study revision, they can be skills-based (e.g., decision-making, data response) or focus on theory and concepts or a combination of all these. Teaching and learning programmes can be organised to suit personal needs. Some students want intensive 'power lessons', others just want extra exam question practice, some just want someone knowledgeable to bounce ideas off! I can offer integrated packages for GCSE History and Geography together. I can also provide fully planned sessions to support remote learning or missed teaching for all students in Years 7-13, whether or not they are facing exams this year.

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Personal Description:
I work in tutoring, teaching and PhD proof-reading. I am currently working in local colleges as an English GCSE teacher. I am currently tutoring students in English GCSE and A-Level.

I am also tutoring younger students in their creative writing. I am interested in drama, poetry and art. I have performed spoken-word poetry in Manchester and headlined a couple of nights.

I have 12 years' experience teaching A-Level and GCSE English, as well as tutoring and teaching Latin. I also have experience of teaching English to other language speakers. I have also worked with adults taking the written elements of practical exams, such as massage and nail-tech.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked for six years as a tutor to students aged 10 and over, helping with English, Maths, Latin and Creative Writing.

For the past ten summers I have taught university entrance and study-skills at Southampton University, helping students to improve their essay-writing and critical reading.

I am also confident in being able to explain English grammar and writing structure in a fun and interesting way and I can also help students prepare for university courses and to study A-Levels and Access courses.

I have also taught Latin, Study Skills and GCSE Maths. I have designed and run a Latin evening course, as well as several programmes of creative writing for children.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to make lessons interesting and encourage students to work creatively. We can work together to discuss an upcoming or recent exam and look at the strategy. We can also look at the syllabus and decide which aspects to focus on. Often it helps to work on structure and on managing time effectively in exams.

I believe that learning can combine fun and practical skills, such as self-editing, lateral thinking and creativity. These skills will help students pass formal exams through overall writing confidence.

Students need to enjoy the subject in order to understand it fully. When they approach questions from a position of confidence and relaxation, they can answer them more effectively. This sometimes involves discussion of the topics involved, especially when studying literature.

A tutor works best when they are providing an alternative to school-based education and a good tutor will enable their student to explore around a topic and to discuss any particular issues and concerns.

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Personal Description:
JULIA
Drama, Performance and Voice Tutor
English Tutor

I am an enthusiastic and dynamic individual and am passionate about all aspects of performance. As well as going to the theatre I enjoy singing and going to festivals
I gained my LLAM Diploma from London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art in 2003 and since then I have been teaching hundreds of students across the country.

I can tutor English Key stage one and two. Each lesson will be a combination of grammar and writing.

Are you keen to learn more about acting but not sure where to start?
Desperate to perform but too shy to audition?
Do you need help to improve your public speaking and presentation skills?
Does your voice require further development and training?
Interview skills need further attention?
Struggling with GCSE or A level drama?
Do you want help with drama school auditions?
Do you want to enter drama examinations and festivals?

I can help with all these.

Teaching Experience:
In 2000, I created "Stand and Deliver" Drama Schools which I ran for 15 years.I have taught Speech and Drama at a number of major schools in Bristol and the South-west including Taunton Preparatory School, Red Maids School, Redland High School and Clifton College, For the past 15 years I have been a Drama, Performance and Voice Tutor at Bristol Grammar School. I also ran my own boutique theatrical agency in London and Bristol. Many of my students appeared on television and in theatre. Credits include "Skins", E4, "Larkrise to Candleford", BBC1, "Mistresses", BBC1, "Billy Elliot", West End Production,

In January 2019, I formed Stand and Deliver Youth Theatre and now have 2 successful youth theatres in Bristol. I also tutor from home,

Tutoring Approach:
Teaching English and Drama is not a job but is a passion for me - I believe every student has a unique voice and that is my philosophy when teaching. My dynamism and passion is infectious and promotes excellent learning. My aim is to ensure that students have the same passion as I do, by fully involving them in all aspects of my sessions.
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Personal Description:
Since 1995, I have been teaching mathematics. About 3 years ago I moved from London to Canterbury and have been teaching at Canterbury Steiner School as well as Canterbury FE College. I have many years experience delivering the Mathematics GCSE and A-level courses. I consider it an integral part of the course that the students develop their exam techniques during the course.

Teaching Experience:
I have about 20 years experience teaching GCSE annd A level mathematics. I also have several years experience teaching maths to primary school children.

Tutoring Approach:
To engage my students I always aim to create an inspiring, supportive and dynamic teaching environment. This motivates the students to enjoy the course and to feel confident enough to express themselves during the lesson.

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Personal Description:
I am a well-qualified and experienced private tutor working online, providing preparation and support for GCSE and IGCSE in English Language, English Literature and French (AQA / Edexcel / Cambridge etc) and for 11+ entrance exams in English and Verbal Reasoning (including CEM/GL style 11+).

I also teach English as a foreign language at all levels, including preparation for PET, FCE, CAE & CPE exams and IELTS and 'Life in the UK' for UK Citizenship, covering all aspects of English from Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing to Grammar and Pronunciation.

Teaching Experience:
On leaving Oxford University, I started out as a lecturer in French and English at Fareham College, Hampshire, where I taught Higher Education courses to both young and mature adults and was commended by the Principals for my students' achievements.
I used this initial experience to launch a successful career of private tutoring in England and France, with many students coming to me through personal recommendation.

Now, with over 20 years of teaching experience, I privately tutor a range of school-aged pupils from 6 to 16, both native English speakers and those for whom English is a second language. At 11+, 13+, GCSE and IGCSE, most of my pupils have successfully obtained places at top private secondary schools and 6th form colleges.

I also have a portfolio of private Chinese, Ukrainian, Russian, French and English adult students learning English as a foreign language, many of whom return year after year to pursue their learning to ever-higher levels and for the considerable pleasure that brings.

Tutoring Approach:
In my opinion the huge advantage of private one-to-one tuition, for both student and tutor, is that each lesson can be tailor-made to suit the student's particular needs perfectly, targeting and strengthening weaker areas while continuing to develop all-round confidence and ability. Lesson content can adapt flexibly from session to session and skills needing more attention can be frequently revisited.

My approach is caring and friendly, and I possess both endless patience and a sense of humour! I am enthusiastic about the subjects I teach and time and again I have seen that enthusiasm transfer itself to students as lessons progress. Encouragement is a great aid to achievement and it is very rewarding to see how this, in turn, leads to excellent results.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A-level results, August 2024:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A-level results, August/September 2022:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

Speaking

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reading

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

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

Writing

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

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

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

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

Why study English?

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
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.

Tutoring Approach:
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.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Pierrette and I provide excellent French and Spanish tutoring for kids and adults based around London and Essex. I am A-Level and GCSE qualified with over 20 years of experience teaching French and Spanish. I create interesting lesson programmes and my material is based on your current skills. I

Teaching Experience:
Are you getting ready for that long deserved French vacation or Spanish holiday? Perhaps you are starting a business that requires a lot of travel and foreign language skills will make things so much smoother and easier? Or you just want to learn a new language so you can add an impressive skill to your resume but you think it might be too difficult to learn? Let me show you how easy it can be to learn French or Spanish.

Tutoring Approach:
will be more than glad to work with you to discover how beautiful French and Spanish languages are. I am very patient and friendly, and I will ensure to help you progress and become fluent in speaking French or Spanish. I can also easily help you with test preparation and essay writing, as well as, reading and homework. I enjoy teaching and I always strive to be the best teacher that I can be. Be more confident in speaking French and Spanish - give me a call now, and I'll make sure to teach you in a creative way and make your learning experience an enjoyable o

Subjects

Personal Description:
Master of Science in Teaching and Learning from Oxford University
Currently taking bookings for Entrance exam tuition (11+ and 13+) and specialist tuition in Latin, RE and History.
My credentials:
* Former GCSE Examiner
* Current Examiner for Common Entrance / 13+ Scholarship exams
* Head of Department with senior leadership / management experience
* 17+ years teaching experience
* Taught pupils who have gone onto achieved academic scholarship awards at their schools and places at Oxbridge
* Hundreds of hours experience of teaching online effectively via Zoom to enable pupils to reach their full potential.
* Experience as a school governor.

Teaching Experience:
17 years teaching experience. GCSE Examiner. Head of Departments of RE and Latin at multiple schools. Master of Science in Learning and Teaching awarded by Oxford University. Member of a school leadership and management team and a school governor. Hundreds of hours of experience of online teaching.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a personalised approach that takes account of the student's learning style and preferred pace of learning. As part of my tutoring service I also provide homework for pupils which is marked, and free access to a range of different learning resources which can be used outside of sessions.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am studying MSc Psychology on campus at University of London. I have a vast experience of teaching A-Level/GCSE Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology having myself scored A grades in the aforementioned.

Teaching Experience:
I have 10 years of teaching experience of teaching Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology. I can also teach Urdu and English Language + Literature.

Tutoring Approach:
I start from topics the students are comfortable with and move gradually towards more complex areas as their confidence builds. I use questions and examples to check understanding continually. I don't lecture to students or ask them to memorise things. But I am very flexible.

Subjects

Personal Description:
University of Cambridge Undergraduate. I achieved 9 A*`s at GCSE and A*A*A*A in my A-Levels.

As someone who has recently experienced what it is like doing the new style of GCSE`s and A-Levels, I understand and recognise what works best in order for students to excel beyond what they think might be their limits. Having achieved 9 A*`s at GCSE(6 "9`s" for GCSE and 3 "A*`s for IGCSE) and A*A*A*A at A-Level recently, I understand what approach works best in order for a student to excel and what the exam boards are looking for so that the pupil can achieve the best grades. I am able to teach a wide variety of exam boards.

My students feel that it is very easy to connect with how I teach and are not afraid to ask questions or approach my teaching in a fun and informal manner. I provide my students with resources that I myself used to achieve my grades, which allows them to truly know whether they have grasped a topic.

I am passionate about developing personalised learning experiences and effective tutoring techniques to increase academic achievement and encourage a love of learning.

Teaching Experience:
With over 3 years of extensive tutoring experience - having clocked in hundreds upon hundreds of hours - I have relished helping pupils sky-rocket their grades. During my time tutoring I have helped students of all ages - helping them with their 11+, GCSE's, A-Level's and University Admissions. Every single one of my students have achieved their desired grades that, in turn, have helped them get admission into their dream secondary school, dream sixth form, or dream university (with many students getting into Oxbridge and other Russell Group Universities). A significant percentage of those I tutor come to me for help in Economics, Maths, Politics and help in their University Applications (from help with their personal statements to Oxbridge support for their desired course).

Tutoring Approach:
In my tutoring sessions, I prioritise engaging and straightforward lessons that are academically stimulating without being overly complex. I foster an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions at any point, thereby maintaining a focused and confident learning space. Through active recall and spaced repetition techniques, I help students retain knowledge efficiently, while constantly assessing their understanding using a variety of resources including past papers and a personalised question bank.

I craft personalised learning plans, tailored to each student's abilities and the requirements of any exam board, filling knowledge gaps and building on existing understanding. Moreover, I keep parents informed about their child's progress and areas for development, fostering a collaborative approach to achieving academic success. My goal is to not only help students achieve their academic potential but to enjoy the learning process along the way.

Subjects

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


I am an extremely skilled and dedicated teacher with over 20 years of classroom teaching experience, within the London Borough of Redbridge. I hold a degree in psychology, followed by a Postgraduate qualification in Education (PGCE), specialising in English. As a result, I achieved my QTS (Qualified Teaching Status).

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

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

SATs preparation

Phonics Screening preparation

Year 5 and year 6 booster classes

7+ and 11+ preparation

Year 4 pupils Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)

English/ maths intervention

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

Home education assistance on specific days.


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

Specialist Experience

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

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

Tutoring Approach:
Why Choose Me?

Over 26 years of teaching experience

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Psychology and education specialist background

Extensive SATs, phonics, 7+ and 11+ expertise

Experienced KS2 examiner

Strong understanding of SEND and neurodiverse learning needs

Outstanding feedback from various Ofsted inspections

Patient, kind and nurturing teaching approach

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello. I am Harjot, a specialist Mathematics, Aptitude and Critical Thinking coach. I focus entirely on preparing candidates for high-stakes, timed exams where rapid calculation, spatial logic and speed strategy make the difference between passing and failing. Having personally cleared 12 elite competitive exams, served as a Government Bank Manager and worked as an engineer, I know exactly what it takes to beat the clock under intense pressure. I bridge the gap between abstract mathematical concepts and practical, real world execution.

Teaching Experience:
I bring a wealth of diverse academic and professional teaching experience. I have served as a University Lecturer, delivering structured, high-yield quantitative principles to advanced students. Over my years of private coaching, I have successfully guided students across multiple specific streams: standard school excellence (11+ Grammar, GCSE and A-Level Maths), Armed forces entrance filters (Royal Navy DAA, RAF CBAT and Army AOSB) and high-tier professional screenings (UK Civil Service Fast Stream, UCAT reasoning subtests, Arctic Shores Assessment and corporate graduate scheme psychometric testing).

Tutoring Approach:
My approach eliminates slow, traditional, long-form formulas. Instead, I focus on equipping you with powerful non-calculator shortcuts, rapid mental arithmetic tactics, and systematic elimination frameworks. We don't just study the material-we study the exam architecture itself. Your first 30-minute trial session is entirely free. During this time, we will evaluate your baseline speed, target your specific exam board or assessment constraints and construct a personalized, step-by-step roadmap to achieve maximum marks in minimum time.

Subjects