Heriot Entrance Exams Tutors and Heriot Entrance Exams Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified teacher with Cambridge MA, PGCE & DELTA, with 30 years' experience of teaching in a variety of contexts including general secondary school English and Drama, GCSE, A Level, IB, and tuition at university and postgraduate level, including assistance with theses and similar.
I have considerable experience of TEFL/TOEFL and a successful record in teaching Cambridge FCE, CPE, etc as well as Business English classes for non-native professionals.
I recently returned to the UK from Spain for family reasons and I am new to the York area. I'm taking time out for a while to write that elusive million-seller or sitcom! Meanwhile I am a member of SfEP and work part time as a professional proofreader and copy editor. I am very happy to help groups or individuals with their academic needs.

Teaching Experience:
15 years in all key stages of secondary school education in England.
5 years Adult Education, TEFL and private tuition in the UK.
10 years teaching a British curriculum in an international secondary school in Spain at all key stages incl. GCSE, A Level and IB.
Group and individual EFL classes for children and adults, including Business English for professionals and TOEFL in an American-affiliated college.
I have an excellent record of success in preparing students for English and Drama exams - GCSE, A Level, International Baccalaureat and beyond - as well as for Cambridge First Certificate, Advanced and Proficiency in English.
Amongst other notables, I was employed as personal tutor to the actress Rebecca Hall as a child and also to one of Tony Blair's sons!

Tutoring Approach:
I believe in a supportive approach and a friendly relationship, but without forgetting it's work: you're paying me because I can improve your (or your children's) future prospects.

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Personal Description:
I have a passion for the English language and its literature which is reflected in my work. I really enjoy tutoring, because I know the one-to-one learning situation gives students the attention and focus which they need to improve, and which they cannot get in school. I am a parent, a published poet and occasional actor. PLEASE NOTE: Idonot do trial lessons.Please trust my knowledge and experience.

Teaching Experience:
I have 30 years' experience of teaching English to kids of varying backgrounds and abilities (11 to 18 up to A level) so I have built up an extensive bank of resources over the years, which I use to carefully prepare for lessons. I am also an experienced examiner for AQA, which offers valuable insights into exactly how to achieve high GCSE grades .I recently received the JCQ certificate for services to examing. I have been tutoring successfully for seven years now, and my knowledge and expertise would be very useful to students aiming at high marks in GCSE and A level exams. Recently, I have helped a pupil win a scholarship to high-achieving independent QEGS in Wakefield, and others to gain entrance to grammar schools

Tutoring Approach:
I am patient, friendly and easy to get on with. I have always tried to make my lessons interesting, relevant and inter-active. I tailor my teaching to the pupil and know that praise and encouragement are the keys to confidence and progress. A good sense of humour is vital,too.
I have helped to improve the grades of many pupils, some of whom have achieved the highest grade at GCSE, and have coached younger ones through entrance exams to sought-after schools. One student, whom I tutored for three years, progressed from a poor level 4 in year 8 to GCSE grade B, the minimum requirement for A levels in many good schools, while others have achieved the A* grades required for their chosen paths.
I have achieved high ratings from the parents of students I have tutored. A good tutor can make a difference with focused one-to-one attention, and I am a good, committed tutor..NB I offer discounts for online tuition.

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Personal Description:
I am a working actor and a Graduate of the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Before going to drama school I went to The University of Nottingham where I achieved a first class degree in English Language and Literature. I am self-motivated, enthusiastic and passionate about Drama and English.

Teaching Experience:
I currently work as a drama facilitator with West End in Schools delivering drama, history and PSHE workshops in primary schools. I have now been tutoring privately for over 10 years with work ranging from Primary Maths and English, Creative Writing, Drama School, LAMDA and Audition preparation, 11 +, GCSE and A - Level English and Drama. I have also worked with adults on Public Speaking, audition preparation and vocal techniques.

I previously worked as a Maths and English tutor with Explore learning. I taught Maths and English to children aged 4 - 14 of various abilities. I received training in the National Curriculum as well as current tutoring methods. I have a particular strength in preparing students for 11+ exams.

Tutoring Approach:
I am friendly and enthusiastic with a proven record of working well with children. I believe that every child can benefit from one-on-one tuition; whether they need extra help with a subject they are struggling with or they would relish the challenge of extension work. Private tuition can give them the extra time they need to let difficult ideas settle and to encourage them to ask questions and push themselves further. Above all I will try to make every session fun, relaxed and positive. This is not 'school' but a opportunity to bring their learning to life. One recent student said Eleanor is "Very knowledgeable with lots of experience in the world of acting and theatre. She really helped me to realise where I wanted to go with my career and has helped me to start writing screenplays after initially focusing on getting into drama school (I changed my mind and now want to write instead). She is very passionate and has helped me improve in leaps and bounds even in just the past few months. I would highly recommend working with her".

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Personal Description:
I am a bubbly, outgoing person who loves teaching.
I was made redundant from my role on the Crime and Disorder Partnership where I was challenged to proactively tackle crime in the area.
I then decided to persue my career as a private tutor and teacher, having done it as a hobby for 3 years and found I have a passion for this field, this is now my sixth year of tutoring and have had lots of successes and am proud of all my tutees; past and present.
I can sometimes travel to you if required but prefer if I can tutor from my home.
I am available evenings and daytime and will allow single lessons or block bookings.

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

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

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Personal Description:
I currently work as a QA Engineering Lead at Globacap. Before this I received a Double First Class in Mathematics.

I am 33, fully CRB checked, and a member of STEMnet (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics network), as well as being An associate member of the IMA (Institute of Mathematics and its Applications).

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring around the West Midlands for over 5 years, Manchester for 2 years, and currently due to COVID, I've been teaching online for another year. All parents / tutees who I have supplied private tutoring to are happy to recommend / provide references should you wish to seek clarification, on the quality of tutoring I am able to provide.

All students I have tutored have seen an increase in grades over the time I have worked with them, with an average improvement of 1 and a half grades!

I am happy to also offer a free first half session in order to gauge a students requirements, as sometimes parents aren't aware of this.

N.E.W Academy - Cover Supervisor and Academic Coach
Years 2009/10 and 2010/11

Self Employed - Private Tutor
2012 till present

Tutoring Approach:
I will provide materials, course guides, and encourage young students to be creative in their methods of tackling problems. I have lots of experience with working with students from the E/U borderline-category all the way up to A/A* candidates.

From the Ages of 14 onwards (Year 9+) I teach all subjects from scratch, with a view to proving why concepts exist and introduce topics from first principles. This I believe will improve retention, help pupils understand concepts better, and also allow them to remember test questions better - It really does work!

Where parents request extra work, I can provide monthly progress sheets, homework tasks, and an extensive list of past papers. Pupils are also encouraged to not just tackle past papers, but to try and understand how papers are conceived, helping them prepare for the unexpected, should it arise in their relevant exams.

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Personal Description:
I am a Depute Head Teacher based in the Motherwell area. I have fourteen years teaching experience with ten of those based in the classroom. I have taught in a variety of primary and SEBN schools in North Lanarkshire. I use a wide of range of innovative, inspiring techniques and strategies to engage the young people in my care.

Teaching Experience:
I am a Depute Head Teacher in North Lanarkshire with seventeen years teaching experience. I was classroom based for ten years and have had the pleasure of teaching a variety of young people ranging in age from 7-16 years old.

I look to build positive and lasting relationships with all young people in my care and use relationships to develop an in-depth understanding of what the needs of each individual child is. I use this information to derive a detailed individualised plan to meet the needs of your child. In addition to this I strive to use an assortment of teaching tools and approaches to ensure all learners are confident in understanding what is being taught.

Tutoring Approach:
As a private tutor I strive to give your child a positive and enjoyable learning experience, in turn enhancing their self-belief and self-confidence in a classroom environment. I use both practical and interactive teaching tools to help make all areas of the curriculum clearer and easier for a child to understand.

I use current and up to date materials to help give your child a better understanding and grasp of the curriculum as taught in his/her own classroom.

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Personal Description:
I am an outstanding,experienced Primary School teacher, specialising in 11 Plus, Maths and English.I prepare children for 11+ and Year 6 SATs exams, hence I am up-to-date with the changes and expectations imposed by the Department for Education. I hold a BA in English Literature,an MA in Media and Human Rights, and a qualification in Primary School Education (age range 5-11). I have a keen interest in Literature related to Mathematical phenomena and novels.I am a native English speaker and fluent in Turkish.

Teaching Experience:
I have been working in education since 2011 and currently a Year 6 teacher. In addition, I have previously taught Years,2,3,4 and 5, and have worked and continue to work with SEN children.

I have 11 plus students who have been offered places in a range of selective schools, i.e, Latymer, Dame Alice, Henrietta Barnett, Channing, QE, HABS,St Albans and more.

Tutoring Approach:
I like building a dialogue with my pupils which allows them to enjoy and take ownership of their learning. Once targets are identified, I put together lesson plans that will cater to my pupil's needs and learning style. At the core of my practice lies keeping my pupils engaged and passionate about learning. I succeed in this through the use of hands on resources(i.e.numicom,maths mats,word banks,puzzles), varying tasks, scaffolding and discussion.

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Personal Description:
I am patient, calm and relaxed to enable the student to feel comfortable to engage in their learning quickly.

Lessons are dynamic and interactive with a multimodal approach to learning using electronic and interactive materials.
Student say that they love coming to my home as it's comfortable and calm, where they can really focus on studying as well as developing their own independent approach to their learning.
Each Student improved and achieves when they apply themselves to the process of learning.

Teaching Experience:
Nearly 10 years experience since qualification in 2007.
11+, GCSE, IGCSE and A level, and Entrance exams.
Academic and creative writing, reading comprehension, study skills.

I am a fully qualified English language teacher with 12 years experience of training for the academic university entrance IELTS examination in all four skills, listening, reading writing and speaking. I do teach at university.

I also have a post graduate diploma in people management, adult learning, psychology and development. I have people management experience of over 25 years as well as training junior staff in writing skills and effective communications. I have professional Membership of the chartered institute of personnel and development.

I am currently researching movement, neurology and the positive effects on learning.

I volunteer as a creative arts and movement pratitioner with learning and physically disabled people in theatre and dance.
I have a protective behaviours certificate and working with diverse groups.
I am a qualified facilitator in conflict resolution for international ONGs.
I speak Portuguese and Spanish having lived in both desert and Colombia working with the communities in the arts and social change.

Tutoring Approach:
My students success is due to the interactive process I deliver with them.

Depending on need and level the lessons of personalized with materials to suit the individual as it is student centred.
We plan homework together with fun stories to develop narrative and creative writing techniques.
Support with English for academic synthesis and analysis depending on level and need. A little or more practice daily.

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Personal Description:
I am a native Chinese speaking fluent standard Chinese Mandarin and English, and have taught Chinese Mandarin for over 18 years in Birmingham, and currently work part time for a local mainstream school in UK.

I am also an experienced English and Maths tutor and a certified 11+ teacher and have a very good success rate with all of my pupils for passing 11+ tests, successfully grabbed places in local grammar schools and private schools, and achieving higher GCSE grades.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught Chinese Mandarin for over 20 years to students from different countries with diverse linguistic backgrounds in UK. I have experience in teaching Chinese at various levels including GCSE, A level and HSK. I currently work part time for a local mainstream school in UK.

I am also an experienced English and Maths tutor and a certified 11+ teacher and have a very good success rate with all of my pupils for passing 11+ tests, successfully grabbed places in local grammar schools and private schools, and achieving higher GCSE grades.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a patient, passionate and dedicated female teacher and have a track record of helping students achieve top grades and dramatically improve their attainment. My lessons are tailored to meet each student's need, interesting and motivating.

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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 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!'

*

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:
Hi, I'm a year 13 student with currently 3 offers for medicine and awaiting to hear from the 4th, I have tutored other students from year 3 up until year 9. I really enjoy working with students to help them feel more confident in their subjects. I got 9 for GCSE maths, biology, chemistry and physics and would love to help anyone that is struggling in those subjects. I got all A's in my first year of A level Chemistry, Biology and Maths and am consistently getting A*'s in the second year. In my UCAT I scored 2890, which was in the 92nd percentile and I also got a Band 1 for the situational judgement test. I appreciate that the medical application process can be daunting so I am more than happy to help with that! I am happy to offer support with the UCAT, personal statement and interview prep :) I got offers from both the Russel group universities I applied to (Sheffield and Nottingham) and also I got an offer from HYMS. I believe education opens doors to many opportunities and I find it a privilege to aid children in opening these doors.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring children for the past 2 years in person, from year 3 to year 9. I support the students in maths, english and science. I support them with questions that they struggle with and believe in taking an individualized approach, so that the needs of individual students are met. I often mark practice papers and questions that they do and also set them with additional questions that I create so that they have a variety of resources to practice what they are learning. I liaise with parents to address their concerns while still treating the student's confidentiality with utmost respect. I also spend time supporting fellow peers with aiding their understanding of recently taught topics. Tutoring has given me many other transferable skills, it made me much more adaptable as I had to take on different styles of teaching based on age, and how they like to learn. It also helped to develop organizational and time management skills. My tutoring experiences have enabled me to become skilled at capturing the attention of students for periods of time, in order to explain concepts to them. I have done summer schools from University of Leeds, and Hull York Medical School and I have also done an online UCAT course with the university of Sheffield and so I am familiar with a few universities and would be able to offer support individualized to the university of Sheffield and Hull York Medical School. I also occasionally teach Sunday School at my church, I have done this both in person and online and so I am comfortable teaching children of a range of ages. I am also able to read and give guidance on personal statements as I have read personal statements for my friends and I have also received support for my own personal statement from other sand so I am able to give good support in that area as well.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that tutoring should be individualized to the needs of individual students and so I do not take a blanket approach with tutoring and I prefer to discuss with my students to arrange a plan of support ideal to them. What I usually do is working 1 topic behind what they do at school and consolidating exam technique on those topics and revising them together or another way to is teach ahead of the syllabus so when they cover it in school it will be like revision for the student. I usually explain topics using diagrams and examples and by teaching handy mnemonics to aid retention and recollection.

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:
I am a master's level qualified practitioner with many years of teaching experience. I currently teach at the Royal College of Art, Loughborough University and UAL.

Teaching Experience:
Exams
Portfolios preparation
Portfolio Review
Assessments
Briefs
Crits preparation
Presentations review

Tutoring Approach:
Individual and tailored approach for every individual to achieve really strong and critically engaged outcomes.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Khushali, a healthcare professional. I am patient and a good listener. Post motherhood, I have learnt many tricks of dealing with children, understanding their psychology, their responses and methods to tackle them.

Personally, I enjoy cooking, travel and spiritual reading. I keep exploring new skills.

Teaching Experience:
I have always been interested in teaching from my GSCE years. I began helping my neighbours and brother with their after school homework. When I lent a helping hand to teachers at school, I realised I enjoyed tutoring and hence conducted tutoring sessions simultaneous to my university years. I ensured the basic concepts were clear to the kids and they were confident in their methodology, along with scoring well. We practised similar concepts repeatedly to achieve this.
I taught the primary children with fun concepts of Art. Secondary kids with Maths, Science and language.

Tutoring Approach:
Foundation is the key to success. Each child is different. Each one needs a different methodology to grasp the basics. Understanding the child's strengths and weaknesses helps in a better learning curve. I will spend the initial class, trying to understand these methods and design a program specific to the needs. It could be visual learning, repeated practice sessions or diagramatory approach. These trial concepts help to build a strong relationship.
I ensure to teach older kids tackling time and nervousness during crucial exam periods. How to remain positive and calm.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Tia and I'm an experienced 11+ tutor with over six years of proven success helping KS2 students gain entry into top grammar and independent schools. Having personally navigated the 11+ process as a student at Newstead Wood Grammar School for Girls, I understand both the academic demands and the emotional pressures students face. I specialise in preparing pupils for GL-style exams, focusing on Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Over the years, I have helped students secure places at selective grammar schools such as Newstead Wood, Bexley, Dartford, Tonbridge, and St. Olave's, as well as prestigious independent schools including Highgate and City of London. My tutoring style is results-driven but also supportive, ensuring each student feels confident, motivated, and prepared.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a professional tutor for six years, working with both private clients and established organisations such as Kumon. My experience spans a wide range of abilities and ages, primarily focusing on Years 3 to 6. I have a strong track record in preparing students for 11+ entrance exams, and my lessons consistently lead to tangible academic progress. Many of my students have successfully secured places at highly competitive schools. I pride myself on creating engaging, structured sessions that make learning both effective and enjoyable. I also believe in building strong relationships with parents, providing clear, honest feedback and collaborating to ensure the best outcomes for each child.

Tutoring Approach:
My lessons are built around active learning and tailored to each student's unique learning style. I start with a quick review to consolidate prior knowledge before introducing new material. For visual learners, I incorporate diagrams and visual aids; for hands-on learners, I use practice problems and interactive activities. I encourage students to ask questions and actively participate, as this deepens understanding and builds confidence. Between lessons, I set targeted tasks to reinforce skills, and I expect students to come prepared with any questions for our next session. I also keep parents updated with regular progress reports, ensuring they are informed and involved in the learning journey. My ultimate goal is to help each student reach their full potential while making the process as engaging and stress-free as possible.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a dedicated and enthusiastic tutor based in Muswell Hill, with a real passion for helping students in North London and beyond unlock their potential. I currently work part-time at a secondary school in the area, and have previous experience in an independent school in Hampstead. I have also spent valuable time living in Quebec, deepening my cultural and linguistic understanding.

I pride myself on building a strong rapport with students, making lessons both engaging and supportive. I tutor pupils ranging from 6 years old to adult learners in Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, History, Entrance exams and 11+ preparation, including preparation for London day schools.

In my free time, I enjoy exploring the green spaces of Alexandra Park, browsing the independent shops on Muswell Hill Broadway, and swimming. I recently completed the Parkland Walk challenge.

Teaching Experience:
I bring extensive and diverse teaching experience to my tutoring. I currently work part-time in a secondary school in North London, and have previously taught at a comprehensive in Islington. I have also completed supply teaching across London boroughs, as well as a valuable teaching placement in Birmingham. In my school roles, I have held responsibilities for curriculum developmentand year group mentoring, which informs my holistic approach to student progress. I have been a private tutor for over 5 years. Professional references are available upon request.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach is built on a foundation of professionalism, thoroughness, and genuine rapport. I believe a supportive and structured environment is key to unlocking potential. I specialise in translating classroom material into clear, manageable steps, which directly builds student confidence. This progress in self-assurance, paired with targeted skill development, consistently leads to improved grades and a more positive attitude towards learning outcomes I take great pride in fostering.

Subjects