Llanfechain Entrance Exams Tutors and Llanfechain Entrance Exams Tuition

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
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'm a Cambridge graduate and Fellow of the University of London, with fifteen years of experience tutoring Religious Studies and Philosophy. My students have a strong track record of A/A* grades. I tutor it full-time across OCR, AQA, Edexcel and other exam boards. I can offer hundreds of exemplar essays and resources.

Get in touch for a free 1-hour trial session!

Extracts from letters of recommendation (available in full on request):

"James is an extremely capable and sensitive tutor."
Mother of RS (OCR) A-Level student
Grade received: A

"My daughter got a D in her mock earlier this year ... for her to get an A really was at the top end of our expectations."
Father of A-Level RS (Edexcel) student
Grade received: A

"I cannot recommend James highly enough. He is punctual and thoughtful and I would not hesitate to hire him again in the future."
Mother of Religious Studies (Edexcel) student
Grade received: A

"James immediately established a very good working relationship with my daughter which encouraged her to really engage with the subject…I would highly recommend James as a tutor."
Mother of Religious Studies (OCR) student.
Grade received: A

"James was brilliant."
Mother of twin daughters taught in Religious Studies (OCR) and Philosophy (AQA).
Grades received: A

RATES
Free 1 hour initial lesson. If there is a results-based bonus I am happy to negotiate the hourly fee.

Teaching Experience:
I have thousands of hours of tuition experience built up over ten years of full-time tutoring. Some of the specific subjects I have taught include:

Cambridge Pre-U Theology & Philosophy
Philosophy A Level (AQA, OCR and Edexcel)
Religious Studies (OCR, AQA and Edexcel) GCSE, A Level
Government & Politics (Edexcel and OCR)
Theology and Religious Studies at degree level (I have helped six different students receive good grades for third year RS dissertations)
Oxbridge applications and interview practice

Tutoring Approach:
Receiving tuition can be a bit daunting at first, so I try to make sure my students feel I`m on their side and there to help them with anything they might not feel able to figure out at school.

My approach to tuition is to assess what specific needs a student has and then to organise the sessions around those needs. Some students need essay technique help and some have a specific set of topics they want to go over. Others might need an entire course taught to them as they have left school or are being home educated.

In my years of tuition, I have built up a cloud-based digital archive of hundreds of handouts which can help a student get back on track and achieve the highest possible grade.

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Personal Description:
I am a british born multi-skilled Business Management Post-Graduate with a flexible and proactive approach to work. I hold many transferable skills gained in positions, detained alongside studies since leaving school. I am a friendly, approachable individual with a smart appearance and professional manner. My fee is dependent on lesson plans, books/course materials required, travel time/expenses incurred and the number of hours requested.

Teaching Experience:
I have been working as a p/t Tutor for 7 years, Assisting primary school students up to Key Stage 3 in English, Maths and preparing for 11+/SATS Exams. I have also worked at various tuition centres and colleges.

Completed:

Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable Adult's training
Child Protection training
Childcare & Classroom Work programs
Support Work in Schools course
Training, Assessment, Quality & Assurance course
Enhanced CRB
Employment Related Services course

Additionally, I help adults with ICT, Business studies and Employment Advice e.g CV'S, Cover Letters, Application Forms and Proofreading. I am based in Kings Heath but can also do home visits. Please email me for further information.

Tutoring Approach:
I am passionate about helping pupils and strive to improve their learning. I have a strong belief in getting students to reach their full potential and even exceed it. I can build good relationships with students and have a caring nature. I believe that every child matters and that understanding a child's individual needs is paramount to their academic success. I also believe that confidence in their ability has a lot to be accounted for. Therefore, I offer not only a boost to their ability but to increase their academic success!

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Personal Description:
Growing up in London, I understand firsthand the challenges young people face and the many distractions that can impact their academic progress. Having spent years tutoring students from diverse backgrounds across the UK, I've come to appreciate the value of personalised lessons tailored to each student's unique strengths and weaknesses. This approach ensures that every individual gets the support they need to overcome obstacles and succeed.

Teaching Experience:
Experienced Tutor with a Dual Background in Dentistry and Chemical Engineering

With over 10 years of tutoring experience, I specialise in helping students excel through personalised, engaging lessons tailored to their individual needs. My academic background includes degrees in both Dentistry and Chemical Engineering, giving me a unique ability to explain complex scientific concepts in clear, relatable ways.

I have extensive experience working 1-on-1 with students, including those with Special Educational Needs (SEN), where I focus on creating an inclusive, supportive environment. My lessons are fun, interactive, and designed to keep students motivated, fostering a love for learning and a drive to achieve more. Whether you're looking to improve grades or deepen your understanding, I'm dedicated to helping you reach your goals.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching methods include a variety of approaches, from videos, challenges and interactive sessions.
My pupils have fun whilst they learn and get the grades they need!

I am aware each student is an individual, with varying levels of ability and so the lesson would be determined using this. Analysis of each lesson and how the student responds to different techniques of teaching will be made, to tailor for the ideal teaching session. This will ensure content will be covered in a time efficient manner, while keeping the student engaged and motivated.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
Hi! I graduated from the University of Warwick with a degree in Mathematics in 2017, and I'm currently a full time professional tutor with over 500 hours of experience. I specialise in boosting confidence and working with students who want to learn and are curious.

"Happy to find a right tutor for my daughter- reliable, patient and punctual."
"Tom is reliable and professional and the sessions are a real confidence boost"
"Due to the help received by Tom I achieved an A in C4, an A in C3 and a B in M1. I would highly recommend Tom over all other Maths tutors."

I am particularly adept in curriculum mathematics, having achieved 95+ on all my Core modules in Maths and Further Maths at A Level, although I can also readily teach extra-curricular A Level examinations such as STEP, MAT, AEA and the Senior Maths Challenge (among others). I also achieved highly in Physics, with 100% in the two final papers, so if you need help with this (especially the Applied Maths side of Physics) then I am very able and ready to help.

I attained 3 A*`s in Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics at A Level, so I know exactly what is required for the top grades. I also achieved Highest Ever in School for the Senior Maths Challenge and a distinction in AEA Mathematics. My MAT grade was enough to earn me a non-STEP offer from Imperial, and I passed all three STEPs, STEP I in Lower Sixth.

Beyond my grades, I work hard and have a dedication for my subject. Mathematics is the cornerstone of every science, and a proper understanding of it is essential. I love sport and cars, and keep up with the latest technology.

Teaching Experience:
Throughout my education I have tutored those younger than me and worked with some of the brightest young minds, who are now top of their year in the highest ranking universities. I am flexible in tutoring a range of abilities, and have experience from mentoring Year 7 students just learning algebra, through to Year 12 students retaking GCSEs, all the way to STEP tutoring and preparing for university entrance exams.

Post-graduation, I have tutored over 500 hours over the course of 2 years. I have recent experience tutoring students preparing for GCSEs and A Levels, from a wide age range and level of abilities.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a strong believer that every student is different, and that they each have their own way of learning that works best for them. A great academic record does not necessarily mean a great tutor, however I think that I have the right approach whereby I learn first how the student works best, then implement learning techniques which will drive the best results.

I also strongly encourage an inquisitive and questioning behaviour, where the student is aware that not everything I say should be taken for granted. The key skill universities are looking for is an inquisitive nature, so I do not lecture to the student, I let them give feedback and treat them as an equal, and in most examples let the student lead the session. This way they develop an ability to think for themselves.

My first session is normally spent working out the best tutoring technique, how motivated the student is and what sort of ability they are. For example, in some cases I like to set small amounts of homework which actually help develop a deep understanding of the question, rather than bundles of questions that encourage method-learning repetition.

From here, each session can build on the previous and will depend a lot on the current progress of the student, upcoming examinations, strengths and weaknesses and how confident they are. In general though, I like to go through the content as fast or as slow as necessary, and then do some past paper or textbook questions with the student. Each session I will set an aim determined with the student and work towards that aim.

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Personal Description:
I am a specialist English tutor. I am an expert in this subject, and have successfully taught up to Undergraduate level. I also teach Science up to GCSE level.

- Over 8000 hours experience
- Mentoring and tutoring for the last 10 years.
- 100% achievement record. All my students reach (or exceed) their targets.
- Successfully mentored students to gain 11+ scholarships.
- Track record of helping to improve by two or more grades.
- Successfully tutored students in the new syllabus to achieve Level 9.
- I have a wide range of highly specialist resources.
- Experienced in assisting students with SEN, including dyslexia and ASD.
- I am currently studying at the prestigious Institute of Education, London.
- I apply the Growth Mindset to unlock student potential.
- I use the latest research in pedagogy and child psychology to plan and deliver my lessons.
- I am mentored by world-class English teachers and have been graded Ofsted 'Outstanding'.

I help students engage with texts, learn how to extract meaning and improve their written communication. I work with students who are struggling to connect with the subject or just need an extra boost to reach their target.

I assess a student's strengths and weaknesses and create a bespoke tuition plan. We then work together to tackle their weakest areas and enable them to reach their goal. I have curated a wide range of engaging resources, and utilise different mediums to add interest to my lessons.

I strictly work with only a handful of families at a time, so I am able to give you focused support. Please contact me for availability.

If you have any questions, please get in touch.

Teaching Experience:
Testimonials

"Bushra is a devoted focused person who teaches with passion and great depth of knowledge. She cares about my son and really wants him to do well and achieve his full potential."

"You have opened my eyes."

"You are the best English tutor we have ever had."

"The lessons are over so quickly, I really enjoy English now."


Top Student Achievements 2016/2017

Student studying new GCSE syllabus achieved the highest grade possible, Level 9.

11+ student secured scholarship for London School for Boys and Merchant Taylor School.

Undergraduate student, after mentoring and tutoring, went from 3rd to 2.1

A-level student achieved grade `A` in coursework assignment after a few months mentoring.

GCSE student went from grade `D` to a final grade of `B` within 3 months.

Tutoring Approach:
I assess students strengths and areas for developments. I then create a bespoke tuition plan.

All lessons are tailored and resourced. I have an extensive range of resources, including model answers and examiner's guidance.

I believe in building students confidence and appreciation for the subject and coaching them to apply their knowledge effectively.

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Personal Description:
I am a highly experienced and well-qualified tutor helping students prepare for the 11 plus, private school exams and Mathematics Key Stage 2 SATs. Exam techniques is one of my specialist skills.

My 11+ tuition courses have been designed to prepare children for all aspects of the 11+ in Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools, South West Herts Schools, and QE Boys entrance exams. They are relevant for children preparing for independent school entrance.

Understanding my pupils and devising a personalised programme of study lies at the core of my teaching practice. I have very small class sizes, typically 3 to 5 children in each. This means your child will have valuable one to one attention when they need it.

I can offer `1 to 1` and `2 to 1` tuition, please get in touch to discuss your requirements.

Your child will benefit from a modern and well-equipped classroom for optimal learning.

The working environment is friendly and stress-free. Pupils will have opportunities to build confidence as they interact with each other and socialise the learning of harder topics.

Teaching Experience:
I have helped students gain offers from one or more of these schools:

- Watford Grammar School for Girls
- Watford Grammar School for Boys
- St. Clement Danes
- Parmiters
- Merchant Taylors` Boys School
- Queen Elizabeth`s School
- St. Helens (Northwood)
- Northwood College for Girls
- Dr Challoner's Grammar School
- Dr Challoner's High School
- Rickmansworth
- St. Paul's (Boys)

I would be happy to put you in touch with parents for references.

- up-to-date Enhanced DBS Certificate
- academic background in science. I hold a B.Sc (Hons) degree in Physics

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is problem-based and diagnostic. This means that the student is actively engaged in solving problems for almost the entire lesson whilst I am responding to their answers by asking questions which reveal any underlying misconceptions.

I work on the basis that student difficulties usually arise from an insufficiently rich understanding of 'easy' topics. By investing time to revisit some of these easier areas and studying them in a more thorough and enriching way, students can subsequently make rapid progress whilst gaining an appreciation and enjoyment of their studies.

My teaching style is calm and informal. Although class discipline is always maintained I strive to make learning a fun process.

As parents have come to realise, it's essential for children to be able to successfully apply what they have learnt under the potentially stressful conditions of an exam or test. Additional support via exam techniques helps children take advantage of the knowledge they possess and have recently acquired.


Assessment and progress reports

Based on your child's initial assessment, we create a plan that sets their individual targets for verbal, non-verbal and numeric reasoning. All lessons throughout the course are designed to develop these areas. Tuition plans can be revised to ensure they meet the current needs and challenges of the student.

You will always have the same point of contact for progress updates thereby ensuring continuity of your child's preparation for the 11+ exams. Coupled with high levels of contact time with the tutor feedback will be regularly provided.I would be happy to put you in touch with parents for references.

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Personal Description:
Experienced teacher of 12yrs with an MEd, able to tutor in 4+/7+/11+ common entrance, EFL, IELTS preparation, lower primary English/maths/homework help, homeschooling, language and literacy support, early years, Phonics and end of year exam preparation. Can also offer drama, voice & beginners guitar tuition. Will travel locally. Enhanced DBS checked.

Teaching Experience:
12 years in EFL, Early years education and general primary education in the UK independent sector and in international schools overseas. 8 years experience as a private tutor. IB PYP, Montessori, UK EYFS, KS1&2 and US Common Core training and experience.

Tutoring Approach:
Tailored lessons to suit individual needs, aimed at heightening engagement for younger learners as well as thinking skills, confidence and curiosity. 1:1 attention with homework help and distance learning or homeschooling. Available on weekdays. Reduced rates for online tuition.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A-level results, August 2024:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A-level results, August/September 2022:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Speaking

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reading

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

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

Writing

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

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

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

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

Why study English?

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
Due to my background of teaching, I have a very caring attitude towards teaching. I will listen to all students needs and I will take care with all resources I create for my students. I will ensure that I take as long as the student needs to understand specific concepts of the language.


Whether you want extra support with conversational classes for trips to Spain, or full lessons for whatever reason I will ensure I will take every care to ensure you gain the best experience learning Spanish

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching since 2016 in Spain, Argentina, USA, Dominican Republic, Cambodia, Spain and of course Northern Ireland.
For each student I will understand exactly what you want to learn and I will take the approach to teaching as the pupil wants.
I can offer to help students with their homework, speaking skills, writing skills, reading skills and listening skills with excellent resources some of which created myself. I can help with essay writing and reading comprehension. I can teach from primary through to a-level and can offer some tuition for primary pupils.

Tutoring Approach:
Whether you want extra support with conversational classes for trips to Spain, or full lessons for whatever reason I will ensure I will take every care to ensure you gain the best experience learning Spanish.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a passionate, hardworking, skilled, and outstanding teacher. I am fully qualified and experienced Primary School teacher specialising in all primary phase subjects. I am extremely professional, energetic, and up to date with the demands of the current Primary Curriculum and the requirements for Early Years Foundation Stage, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, preparation for SATs, SEN and learning support.

Teaching Experience:
Throughout my 15-year teaching career, I have gained extensive skills in teaching and working directly with children within the Primary Phase (4-11 years). I have an excellent proven track record of students achieving way above what they may have been predicted.

I have considerable experience in helping students who are on the SEND register and most recently I have worked as an Acting SENCO. This involved devising, delivering and monitoring the curriculum for students with moderate and severe learning difficulties as well as those with highly complex needs. I have recently attained the SENCO award qualification from Edge Hill University.

Tutoring Approach:
I am extremely positive, calm, and nurturing. I believe that every child can reach their goals in learning and I will help them to realise their true potential, improving academic performance and developing self-esteem to build a successful future.

After an initial assessment, I will create a personalised learning journey plan and I will ensure that I use motivational interests and strengths to work on areas of new learning and any misconceptions.

I aim to do much more than just increase grades, however I am to inspire, increase confidence and show that learning is something that everyone can do.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hey there - thank you for checking out my profile. I am a qualified and practicing GP based in London. I studied as St Georges University of London, graduating in 2018. I have a wide array of experiences within the medical specialties and several years teaching and tutoring experience. I am a patient, reliable and trustworthy person and ensure any pupil of mine will be encouraged to reach their full potential and much more. I am full of enthusiasm and believe everyone has the ability to obtain good grades with hard work and perseverance in order to have a bright and promising future. This has been proven with all of the tuition jobs I have taken on.
I have special interests in medical school 1-1 OSCE preparation, interview preparation, as well as mentoring students who would like to get into medical school, and currently work in a GP Practice which specialises in work experience for A-Level students as well as clinical placements for medical students, attached to a number of medical schools.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 10 years of private tutoring experience. I also have several years experience as a medical clinical skills tutor, achieving the top 10% as a medical student at university in OSCE examinations. I have played an active role in teaching and supervising medical students from several London-based medical schools for over 5 years. I currently work as a clinical supervisor for medical students during my clinical work as a GP.
I have obtained good reviews across the board and find tutoring a rewarding job to see pupils grow and achieve their full potential.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe in assessing the needs of my tutee and tailoring a programme specifically for those needs. Whilst a systematic and disciplined approach is essential, each student is unique and I believe in working closely with you for target your specific concerns and areas of improvement. I believe the best way for a person to learn is through bursts of theory and a lot of worked examples and practice.
Most importantly, I believe in finding ways to enjoy learning and as a result, remaining curious and inquisitive as medics for the exciting career ahead of you.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a patient and dedicated tutor who tailors each lesson to meet the unique needs of my students. My approach is interactive and engaging, focusing on building confidence and critical thinking skills. I create individualized learning plans and adapt my teaching methods to match the student's pace, ensuring they fully grasp each concept. Regular feedback and consistent support are key elements of my tutoring style, helping students stay motivated and achieve their goals. With a focus on understanding and long-term success, I strive to make learning both effective and enjoyable.

Teaching Experience:
With 4 years of experience in teaching Business Studies, I have successfully guided students across various educational levels. My experience includes working with high school students preparing for exams, as well as college students aiming to deepen their understanding of business concepts. I have developed and delivered comprehensive lesson plans that cover a wide range of topics, from fundamental principles to advanced business strategies. My teaching has consistently helped students achieve their academic goals, with many improving their grades and gaining a stronger grasp of the subject. I am committed to fostering a deep understanding of Business Studies and inspiring a passion for the subject in my students.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach is centered on creating a supportive and engaging learning environment tailored to each student's unique needs. I begin by assessing the student's current understanding and identifying areas for improvement. I then develop a customized learning plan that incorporates interactive and practical examples, making complex business concepts easier to grasp. My sessions are goal-oriented, with a focus on building confidence and encouraging independent thinking. I provide regular feedback and adapt my teaching methods to ensure the student progresses at a comfortable pace. My ultimate aim is to empower students to excel in Business Studies with a deep understanding of the subject.

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Personal Description:
I have always had a profound love of literature and language, and every career decision I have made has revolved around that. After several years teaching English at a boarding school near Oxford, I have returned to London to be closer to theatre and to pursue a few creative projects alongside much private tutoring.

Teaching Experience:
I taught English full-time 2015-23, most recently for seven years at Radley College, a top boarding school near Oxford. I was also Head of UCAS there, where I personally checked and sent about 800 UCAS applications, so I can advise on Personal Statement for all types of degree, not just English.

Tutoring Approach:
I balance rigour with a pastoral approach: I want students to be on top of the detail but I am always happy to zoom out to the bigger picture and explain the value of why we are doing this or that.

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Personal Description:
I offer personalised, structured tutoring for the 11+ entrance exams in Greater Manchester and Trafford, alongside private schools like William Hulme, Stockport Grammar, Cheadle High, MGSB, MGHS & Withington Girls, and many more, tailored to each child's strengths and learning needs. Lessons focus on English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, with clear explanations, strong exam technique, and regular practice using 11+ style questions. My supportive approach builds confidence, accuracy, and readiness for grammar school entrance and beyond.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 20 years' experience as a tutor, having been tutoring since 2006. I began by supporting my own children as well as friends and family, and have since built a strong track record of success, with pass rates consistently exceeding 95%. I offer both one-to-one and small group tuition, supporting students of all abilities to achieve excellent results in entrance examinations.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to teaching is structured, supportive, and student-focused. Each lesson is carefully tailored to the individual child, with strong foundations established before introducing exam techniques and timed practice. Through clear explanations, regular revision, and targeted feedback, I help students develop confidence, accuracy, and independent learning skills. My aim is for every student to feel well-prepared, motivated, and confident in their abilities.

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