Machynlleth Entrance Exams Tutors and Machynlleth Entrance Exams Tuition

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 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 graduated from the University of Oxford in 2011 with a degree in Experimental Psychology, and received a Masters in 2015. I have been tutoring for over 10 years, and run a company focused on inspiring students to reach their potential through study techniques based on neuroscientific evidence. This involves delivering interactive workshops for students in schools and colleges across London, as well as through ebooks and other online resources I have created!

I love teaching and thrive on the satisfaction of helping a student reach their goal; I welcome students of all abilities, motivation levels and confidence levels. What sets me apart from most is that as well as tutoring my students, I take the role of a mentor, to motivate, encourage and guide them towards success. My students also benefit from my knowledge of study skill techniques, which I integrate into my teaching to maximise students' memory retention.

For students applying for Oxbridge, I am able to provide valuable advice on interview techniques and personal statements, as well as provide contacts to graduates from Oxford University from a range of subjects. I am also able to tutor students for entrance exams e.g. 11+.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored extensively for 10 years at Primary, GCSE, A-level, and Degree level with excellent results. I have had students move up by up to 4 grade boundaries at both GCSE and A Level; for the 11+ I have helped students secure places (including scholarships) at excellent institutions such as Dulwich College. At degree level, my Psychology students have achieved 1sts and 2:1s. I am happy to provide references on request!

Tutoring Approach:
My first step is always to assess exactly where my student is at so that I can plan the content for sessions accordingly and make sure that they get the best out of each lesson. If there are any gaps in the foundations of their knowledge we can then attack these head on. My approach is thus very organised and tailored to the specific needs of the student, with small goals set per session alongside a long term goal to work towards. I always ensure that my lessons are engaging, and work towards building a good relationship with my students, encouraging them to ask questions without any hesitation. I adapt my approach depending on my students' learning style as I feel this is the key to successful teaching.

At GCSE and A Level, my aim is always to make sure that students are completely familiar with the subject specification and assessment objectives as this dictates exactly where they can pick up most marks. Completing as many past papers as possible is also a step in the right direction, alongside completing assignments set by myself. I always give very detailed feedback so that my students know exactly where they can improve, and how to apply it to their work going forward.

My approach for students studying Psychology at degree level depends on what is required. Most students require guidance with essays, reports, dissertations and write ups; I usually go through the assignment with the student giving valuable, detailed feedback on what can be improved and exactly how they can go about doing so. This can involve several redrafts until the work has been completed to the students' full potential.

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Personal Description:
Hello there,

Thanks for taking a look.

I have been a tutor for over 15 years. Along the way, I have learnt a lot about the role and how significant it can be. For some students, I am a mentor for their whole educational experience whilst others see me as a specialist in one area.

Alongside tutoring, I am a professional actor (hence the posey photo!) and have recently worked at the National Theatre and onscreen. Acting has deepened my ability to connect with others on a personal level, fostering empathy and understanding - qualities that I bring directly into my tutoring. I believe this helps me create a supportive, engaging, and personalised learning experience for every student.

I specialise in tutoring English Language & Literature up to GCSE and A Level, Drama, Maths and 11+ Common Entrance exams. Beyond traditional subjects, I also work as a Communications Coach, where I've helped over a hundred clients improve their Public Speaking, Interview Techniques, and Accent Clarity.

Choosing the right tutor can be challenging, and I'm more than happy to answer any questions you may have. I look forward to helping you or your child thrive!

Nick

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring for over 15 years. This has included lots of online tuition as well as face-to-face. Here is a selection of my clients:

IB English - I worked with Pietro online for over 7 years and saw him through his IB, in which he achieved grade 7 (highest grade).

A Level English Literature (AQA) - worked with Oliver (17) helping with coursework on The Great Gatsby and the poetry of Keats and Larkin. Oliver achieved an A grade.

AS Level Drama (AQA) - helped Yasmin to explore the analysis of texts of Lady Windermere's Fan and A View From The Bridge in preparation for exams, in which she achieved an A.

iGCSE English Literature / Language - I have been working online with Pietro (based in Rome). We have been working on both his school work as well as his wider approach to learning and English.

GCSE English Literature / Language - I worked with Joseph during his final year of GCSEs. Texts included Macbeth, Love & Relationships (Poetry), Jekyll and Hyde and An Inspector Calls.

11+ - I tutored Amaara through her 11+ exams on all papers (English, Maths, Verbal and Non-verbal Reasoning). Amaara gained entrance (including some academic scholarships) to City of London School for Girls, Putney High, Francis Holland and JAGS.

11+ - I worked with Olivia in preparation for her Common Entrance exams on all papers (English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning) as well as interview practice. Olivia is now attending North London Collegiate School (her first choice) but I also prepared her for entrance to Highgate School for Girls, City of London School for Girls and Queen's College.

Primary Help - Worked with brothers Teddy (7) and Alfie (10) mainly on English and Maths but across all subjects generally to improve knowledge, confidence, spelling and vocabulary.

7+ I worked with Inigo on in preparation for his 7+ exams in Maths and English. Inigo is now attending Dulwich College.

7+ Currently working with Ari (5) towards his 7+ exams.

English for Foreign Learners - Helped 8 year old Augustinos (Greek) with reading and homework to improve English, as well as taking him on educational trips around London.

Voice and Elocution - Helped Law Student Amar (20) with speechmaking and projection for use in debating.

SEN - worked with Dean (20), a law student with dyslexia, upon exam preparation and practice.

Communications Coaching - I am a trained communications coach and have worked with over 100 clients one-on-one from Public Speaking, Interview Technique, Accent Clarity and Communication Techniques.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that the key to effective tutoring is strong communication. My approach is entirely student-focused: together, we'll figure out the most productive way to work and make the most of our time. While I always come prepared with a plan, I'm flexible and responsive - if something comes up, we can address it right away.

Above all, I aim to make our sessions enjoyable and something to look forward to. I ensure that lessons are practical and engaging. Even if we're tackling a subject you find daunting, I welcome the challenge of helping you discover a way to enjoy it.

If you have any questions or specific requests, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here to help!

I am happy to give a 10% discount to online tuition.

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Personal Description:
Dr. Mohammad, a Lecturer in Medicine at the University of Oxford, with a stellar academic background, holding a PhD from the University of Cambridge. With over 3500 hours of teaching experience across esteemed institutions such as King's College London, University of Cambridge, and University of Oxford, his expertise spans various academic levels - from GCSE and A-level to Undergraduate, Master's, and PhD.

In addition, Dr. Mohammad holds a Master's degree in Public Health (MPH) from the University of Sheffield, a Master's degree in Psychology (MSc) from the University of Liverpool, and a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (PGCert TLHE) from the University of Oxford. His educational journey commenced with a First Class BSc in Biomedical Science from King's College London, and he is currently pursuing his MB BCh BAO (Medicine) degree at Queen's University Belfast.

Dr. Mohammad has published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and conference presentations in prestigious journals, covering a wide range of multidisciplinary research areas. His work spans neurosurgery, surgery, neuroscience, cell biology, neurobiology, pathology, mental health, stroke, neurology, psychiatry, and global health. His publications are highly cited by leading researchers worldwide.

In his teaching approach, Dr. Mohammad adeptly tailors his methods to cater to individual student needs, guiding them toward unlocking and realising their full academic potential.

Several noteworthy accomplishments of his former students include:

● 92 students received undergraduate Medicine offers from UK universities (including Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, King's College London, University College London, Barts, Edinburgh, Exeter, etc.)

● 73 students received undergraduate Oxford and Cambridge offers, including Natural Sciences, Biochemistry, Psychology, Human Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry, etc. (excluding Medicine)

● 16 students received undergraduate offers from Harvard, Stanford, Johns Hopkins, MIT, UC Berkeley, NYU, Chicago, Toronto, etc.

● 6 students received undergraduate Medicine offers from the University of Sydney, the University of Melbourne, Monash University, and National University of Singapore

● 21 students received Master's offers from Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, UCL, King's College London, Edinburgh, University College Dublin, etc.

● 14 students received PhD offers with scholarships from Oxford, Cambridge, Cardiff, King's College London, UCL, St Andrew's, Bristol, Southampton, etc.

● 27 students received the Gold Medal in the British Biology Olympiad (BBO)

● 3 students received 1st place in the National Brain Bee

● 32 students received offers from top highly competitive UK independent schools and top grammar schools, including Wycombe Abbey, St Pauls Girls, Ardingly College, Brighton College, Magdalene College School Oxford, North London Collegiate School (NLCS), Westminster School, King's College School Wimbledon, Queen Elizabeth's School (QE), Dulwich College, Wellington College, etc.

Teaching Experience:
●+3500 Hours of Teaching and Tutoring Experience in London, Cambridge and Oxford (GCSE, A-Level, Undergraduate, Master and PhD)

● Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience, Natural Sciences, Anatomy, Physiology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Immunology, Chemistry and Cell Biology tutor

● University (Undergraduate and Postgraduate) Admission Mentor

● University of Oxford Physiology and Anatomy Lecturer

● Laboratory Demonstrator and Supervisor for Natural Sciences Tripos University of Cambridge

● Member of Lincoln College and Merton College University of Oxford Senior Common Room

● Postdoctoral Scientist in Cancer Biology and Pathology, University of Oxford

● UCAT, BMAT, and ESAT preparation tutor

● Editorial Board Member for PLOS, Frontiers and Springer Nature scientific journals

● International Biology Olympiad, British Biology Olympiad, Intermediate Biology Olympiad, and Brain Bee Mentor

● Scientific article publication and international conference presentation mentor

● OSCE mentor for medical students

Tutoring Approach:
A holistic and comprehensive approach characterises Dr. Mohammad's tutoring and mentoring services, seamlessly blending guidance and instruction. His methodology encompasses motivational strategies, deductive problem-solving techniques, and a specialised 'Pyramid Technique' for tackling questions.

Emphasising the crucial skills of time and stress management, Dr. Mohammad excels in preparing students for examinations through question-based strategies, including the use of mock exams. His expertise extends to diverse aspects of academic writing, covering essay composition, coursework development, dissertation support, proofreading, and adept referencing. This proficiency applies to both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

In the realm of natural sciences, Dr. Mohammad offers analytical insights across disciplines such as anatomy, biology, neuroscience, molecular biology, biochemistry, physiology, organic and inorganic chemistry, immunology, molecular and cell biology, genetics, molecular genetics, and developmental biology. Additionally, he provides specialized preparation for the BMAT and UCAT exams.

Navigating the complexities of the UCAS application process, Dr. Mohammad offers tailored support for OXBRIDGE applications, including mock interviews to enhance preparedness. His guidance extends to interview preparation for Undergraduate, Masters, and PhD admissions.

For those seeking assistance with dissertations, essays, and coursework at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, Dr. Mohammad's expertise ensures comprehensive support.

Dr. Mohammad also offers specialised courses to help students publish scientific articles and present at international conferences.

***Notably, the first session with Dr. Mohammad is fully refundable if satisfaction is not achieved, underscoring his commitment to the success and contentment of his students.***

Credentials:

Dr. Mohammad, PhD, MPH, MSc, PGCert TLHE, BSc (Hons) | MB BCh BAO (c)

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Personal Description:
Brilliant 2017 Results: Six students received more than 18 offers from both prestigious independent schools and top grammar schools, including City of London School Girls, Bancroft's School, Chigwell School, Woodford County High School For Girls, Ilford County High School, Forest School, Colchester Royal Grammar School. One of my clients won full scholarship from Brentwood School (only top 10 students from more than 553 applicants are eligible for full scholarship). I am pleased that this is the forth consecutive year for 100% pass rate.

My name is Yang and I am a fully qualified Maths teacher (Qualified Teacher Register no. **Telephone Number Removed** working in an Ofsted "Outstanding" rated school.I have also been appointed by the examination board - Edexcel as a senior examiner for Edexcel GCSE/ International GCSE(IGCSE) Maths.

Graduated from LSE (London School of Economics and Political Science) with first class honours, I completed my master degree from Imperial College London with distinction and obtained PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Mathematics)) from King's College London. I was working in a top investment bank as trader assistant ( yellow jacket ) before changing to become a maths teacher. I have over nine years experience in primary, entrance exam, GCSE and A-Level maths tutoring. In this capacity I have extensive experience in preparing students for 11+ entrance exams. I am very familiar with the type of questions that students will face in these exams and what is needed to do well in them. I am always passionate for tutoring and I know how to make students' learning process enjoyable. My strong reputation has been built on my ability to improve my students' varying skills, ability and exam skills. I have unrivaled patience and understanding and I am able to bring the best maths tutoring experience to my students.

I am also a member of British Mathematical Association (BMA), London Mathematical Society (LMS), Association of Teachers of Mathematics (ATM) and British Society for Research into Learning Mathematics (BSRLM).

For your peace of mind, I am Enhanced DBS checked. I will bring my Enhanced DBS certificate and school staff ID at the first lesson.

Teaching Experience:
Currently I am working as a Maths teacher in an Ofsted "Outstanding" rated school. I am also working with many Tutoring Agencies as five star rated executive tutor like Top Tutors, Griffin and Bell Education and Holland Park Education, etc. Unlike other tutors, I only teach limited number of students to ensure quality. My A-Level students successfully entered top universities like LSE, Warwick University, Imperial College and other elite Russell Group universities. 11+students successfully got through entrance examination to top schools like City of London School, Bancroft's School, Chigwell School, Woodford County High School For Girls, Ilford County High School, Forest School, etc.

Education:

Imperial College London
MSc. in Pure Mathematics (Distinction)

King's College London
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Mathematics) (PGCE)

LSE (London School of Economics and Political Science)
BSc in Mathematics (First Class Honours)

Tutoring Approach:
Quality is everything for me. International Student Assessment (ISA) shows that Chinese students ranked best in the world at maths ( UK is ranked 28th for maths, Source: google "Shanghai students ranked best in the world at maths and science", The Telegraph).

As a British Chinese, I can tell you the secret of Chinese learning maths. I have a unique method of tutoring which can be adapted whatever the skill level and also unique exam techniques. But my first objective is to target my students' enthusiasm for the subject so they will be passionate to learn mathematics. Practice is also essential for learning maths, but a good tutor knows how to design different questions for effective practice. Finally,I usually believe that learning is a continuing process and if I am honored to be your tutor, I can not only help you learn the knowledge, but also master the art of learning until one day, you will be able to help others like I do.

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Personal Description:
I am an experienced tutor with a wide range teaching experience over the last fifteen years, including the following subjects: English Literature, English Language, English as a Second Language, IELTS, Creative Writing, GCSE, A Level, PSHE and Drama. I completed my PGCE with QTS in Secondary English in 2020, working across two schools in Cornwall, before moving to Bristol to teach full time. I have a Master's in Creative Writing at Kingston University and a BA(Hons) in English Literature with Creative writing. I also have a TESOL qualification certified by Trinity College, which is one of the highest acclaimed foreign language qualifications. I am British but I grew up in Hong Kong and Thailand, so I really enjoy working with people from different backgrounds.

Teaching Experience:
I taught years 9 through to 13 at Clifton College for the last five academic years, where I was responsible for multiple GCSE and A Level Groups, seeing them all through successful examination results. I taught Edexcel IGCSE for first language English and Pearson Edexcel A-Level, studying a range of non fiction texts, poems and other literature such as To Kill a Mockingbird, The Merchant of Venice, A View from the Bridge, Jekyll and Hyde, King Lear, The Handmaid's Tale and Frankenstein. I was also responsible for English as a Second Language GCSE groups, using the Cambridge IGCSE exam, as well as teaching IELTS for several years.

I started teaching when I was 18 years old and so have a range of experience in teaching English at all levels and for a range of purposes. I have taught in Thailand and Australia, as well in London, Cornwall and Bristol. I have been a private tutor for almost as many years and I am comfortable with working with all ages and abilities. I have successfully carried students through the 11+ entrance exams for private schools in London.

Tutoring Approach:
I begin tutoring sessions with an informal meeting where we get to know each other. Tutees will complete a language assessment questionnaire which will help me determine what level they are at. By finding out tutee's strengths and weaknesses as well as what they want to achieve, I can create lesson plans beneficial to their learning.

One of my main aims when teaching English is to try and foster a love for reading in my students, so that they can approach language and writing with enthusiasm and confidence. I also try to encourage creativity at every opportunity and will often include exercises for students to produce their own pieces of creative writing, so they can implement the techniques and language they have read in books. This can be an incredible confidence boost for children and adults alike to see that they can produce their own creative and engaging pieces of work.

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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:
Hi, I am currently a 20 year old university student living in Birmingham, studying Medicine at the University of Birmingham. I enjoy working with children and passing on my knowledge in an understandable way, as someone who has recently undertaken GCSE's and A levels myself I feel that I can offer the highest degree of teaching and revision to students aged 11-16 through use of my recent personal experiences of coping with exams and figuring out effective learning and revision methods for certain areas of each subject

Teaching Experience:
I have mentored year 4 students in maths before as part of a scheme within school, as well as year 7 students. In total I have tutored 8 students over the last 2 years, all of whom achieved what they set out to achieve when I started my tutoring, from getting into the Liverpool Blue Coat School (the school that achieved the highest national GCSE grades the year that I sat GCSE's), to getting a grade 8 in maths (A* equivalent)

Tutoring Approach:
I feel that my unique selling point is that as a student myself, I can relate to the struggles that other students encounter when subjects are taught and delivered to them. My weaknesses and qualms during the GCSE and A level period were only resolved by my own active learning to teach myself topics which I couldn't grasp correctly from lessons, and I feel that these are areas and topics many students will find difficulty in understanding, whether it be in Maths, Biology or Chemistry, and so I believe I can effectively pass on my knowledge to help students achieve the highest grades by learning the trickier topics from a different perspective. I can also tutor in other subjects such as Physics, however my strengths are definitely greatest in the subjects I have listed, as well as in tutoring for 11+ exams.

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Personal Description:
Cambridge educated, and an Oxford University prize winning teacher, I have recently passed my latest OFSTED inspection. I specialise in :

11+
English Language (GCSE and iGCSE)
English Literature (GCSE/iGCSE/A Level/ELAT)
GCSE/ A Level Business Studies
GCSE / A Level History
Creative writing (adults)
Business English (adults)
ESOL (adults)
UCAS statements
Mock interviews

I am DFE authorised to teach the subjects I advertise.

I hold an excellent degree in English, a PGCE in English/History, a Cert Ed.in Drama, an MA in creative writing from the number one UK writing programme, and a post graduate in teaching creative writing from Cambridge University.

I am a published author and editor.

I have taught students from:

Independent Senior : Rugby School, Gordonstoun, Warwick School, The Kingsley School, King's High School, Kingham Hill, King Henry 8th, Princethorpe, Bablake.

Independent Junior: Crackley Hall, Warwick

State Selective: Lawrence Sheriff, Rugby High, Alcester Grammar, Ashlawn, WMG Academy, Stratford Girls' Grammar, Kings Edward's Boys Grammar, newport Girls' High School.

State non-selective: Kenilworth School, Finham Park, President Kennedy, Babington Academy, English Martyrs, Bilton High, Houlton, The Harris, Avon Valley, Walsall Academy, Joseph Leckie Academy, Myton, North Leamington, Ernesford Grange, Southgate School, East Barnet School, Attleborough Academy, Southfield Girls' School, Rugby Free School.

State junior: Potters Green, Long Lawford, Holbrook, Park Hill, Dunchurch, Hillmorton, Cawston Grange, Abacus Academy, Our Lady of Assumption, Henry Hinde, St Anthony's.

University: Cambridge, Warwick, BCU, Keele, York.

I have taught students in the UK, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Russia and South Korea.

I am a native English speaker - this is highly advantageous to English as a second language students.

Scholarships gained: Rugby School, Warwick School.
Bursaries gained: Bablake School, Princethorpe College.
Grammar Schools: King Edward's Boys, Lawrence Sheriff Boys', Alcester Grammar, Rugby High School.

Having a grammar school education myself has been most useful and that my children were educated in the independent sector gives me an insider insight.

Many of my pupils have gone onto Oxford University, Durham University, and elite Universities to study subjects such a medicine and dentistry. One of my GCSE students moved from grade 3 to grade 7 in three months and another moved 4 levels from grade 5 to 9 in 6 months.

I hold QTS and DBS. Unlike tutorial centres, I focus only on one student in a session, ensuring better progress.

I teach students between the age of 8-adult.

I lecture in Creative Writing.

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced, successful online tutor. I update my teaching skills annually. I have completed my Safeguarding Certificate, Sexual Harassment Awareness, PREVENT training, and my GDPR certificate.

I have worked with Grammar Schools, Independent Schools, Public schools, selective and non-selective state schools. I have been a Head of English and Senior Leader in a highly successful Birmingham school. I have taught writing to post-grads at Cambridge Uni, Warwick Uni, Hull and York University. I have published educational research and resources, edited publications and mentored writers.

I have been an examiner for KS2 SATS, English Language and English Literature and am an Arts Awards Assessor.

I am familiar with the following curriculum:

AQA, EDEXCEL, OCR, EDUQAS, iGCSE, Essex 11 Plus, Warwickshire and Birmingham 11 Plus, IELTS,Trinity ESOL, British Council ESOL.

I have worked with pupils struggling to perform at schools which have not served them well. I have worked on behalf of schools, providing one to one tuition for LAC pupils. I have worked with very good pupils at very good schools in order to support pupils to become excellent.

I am willing to do unlimited prep. I do not pluck activities off the internet and hope they fit as I design work especially for my pupils.

Tutoring Approach:
Your child won't be placed in a group with other children who have different needs and work at different levels!

I have high expectations of your child - this helps them to reach their goals.

I will tell you the truth about your child, sharing information and assessments.

I standardise my marking in a secondary school every year.

Successes in 24-25* ( grade boundaries moved up)
100 % eleven plus passes
100% Grade 8 and 9 at GCSE Language.
100% Grade 7, 8 and 9 at GCSE Literature.

testomonials:

'Thank you ...as your support has very much enabled this success.'
'I am short of words to thank you, for all the help and support you gave.'
'She couldn't have done it without your support.'

2023- 2024 Academic year* ( grade boundaries moved up)

NR-9, 8 GCSE Eng Lang and Lit
LS- arrived in the UK with no English and has made 3 levels of progress within 6 months.
JR- gained an 11+ place at King Edward's Grammar School
AN-gained an 11 + place at LSS Grammar School.
AS-gained a place at Lawrence Sheriff Grammar School
RM- gained places at The Kingsley and Princethorpe independent schools
SG- gained a place at Bablake Independent school
SS- gained bursaries at Bablake and Princethorpe Independent Schools
HJP- an adult ESOL learner from South Korea, has progressed from A2 to C1 British council levels, and gained a distinction at GCSE speaking and Listening in less than 9 months.


Testamonials

LR- " We DID it!!!! Thank you so muchhhhhhhh. The scores gets him into the best grammar school - KEGS!Thank you so much for your perseverance and amazing teaching!!!"

SC-" We think you're best English tutor there is so no surprises with your ofsted rating."

Successes 2022-2023.

AC-9, 9 GCSE Eng and Lit ( school predicted grades were 6,6)
ES- 9,8 GCSE Eng and Lit ( school predicted grades were far lower)
HH- 8, 8 GCSE Eng and Lit
WN- 8,7 GCSE Eng and Lit ( school predicted grades were 4,4)
PH- 6 Eng Lang ( school prediction was a 3)

LH gained a place at Medical School and met the offer.
NQ gained a place at University, and met the offer, when the school stated she was not able to.
KS- gained several places at university for Mechanical Engineering and met the offers.

Successes 2022

FO - gained a music scholarship at Warwick Snr.

WH- gained 225 in his 11 Plus exam, entitling him to places at two top grammar schools.

HG- gained his place at a highly competitive Grammar school sixth form- in July of Year 10 he was told he was 'pushing' grade 5 by his teacher.

TW- gained his GCSE score two grades above his September working at grade and 1 grade above his target grade.

SDP- gained a place at a competitive independent school, with a massive bursary

SR- gained a place at a competitive independent school, with generous bursary

HA- passed 11 plus at 249 marks

EK- passed 11 plus at 226 marks

FO has gained a place at his chosen Independent School- he was the first to have been accepted while only in Year 5.


Successes 2020-2021

HL-invited to a medical school interview

KC-Grade 8 in GCSE Business Studies- he was a grade 5 in September and had a target of grade 6.

QN- Grade 5 in English Lit after three months of tuition and beginning at Grade 3.

BJ- Grade 5 in English Language despite predicted grade of 4.

Successes 2019-2020

VY- Grade 8 in English Language- was struggling to maintain a good grade 5 in school.

MS-Grade 7 in English Language and in English Literature- was working at Grade 5 in school.

HL- Year 13- grade 7 in Eng Lang GCSE November re-sit- HL started with me on a very low level 5 and has worked with me for less than one year.

SK-Grade 6 in English Language- was a low grade 5 in school.

WL-Grade 6 - was low grade 5 at school.

LS- Grade 5 in English Language after working with me. School gave him a Grade 3 in their August teacher Assessment GCSE.
BJ- Year 11 - BJ was working at a grade 4 in mid September when I began working with him. He gained a grade 5 in the Eng Lit exam.

KC- Year 10- KC was a low level 3 at the start of year 9 - gained a high grade 5 in GCSE Eng Lit at the end of Year 10.

II- Year 10 - II was a low grade 3 - gained a grade 5 in Eng Lit GCSE.

NE- Grade 4 in English Language - a very low Grade 3 in school.

AA-Year 6-AA passed her 11 plus.

HL- Year 13- received an offer from a good university to take a great Science course only 15 days after sending her UCAS application in on October 15th. Has two interviews for medicine too.

HS- Year 13- HS began studying medicine at Norwich after working with me to write his UCAS personal statement.

SE- Year 13 -SE lacked confidence when trying to write a UCAS personal statement. With my help, SE is now at a very good University.

BR-First Year University- BR was struggling to write his first academic essay. I taught BR how to reference and the importance of using authentic and serious sources.

Parental/ Learner Testimonials:

20-21

I was accepted into LSS...I would like to say thank you for the help in Business Studies as that helped me ace my exams.

KC- GCSE students

P was so happy with the lesson yesterday. He told me that V taught me more in one lesson than school taught me for the whole year which is fabulous !

PN's Mum (PN attends a Grammar school)


2019-2020

LS's mother-

I wanted to express my thanks again. I have no doubt that LS would not have achieved a level 5 without your tutoring, and it had been left to the school. I had every faith that LS was capable if he applied himself and had the right teaching and guidance but could not see him getting what he needed from the school. He did it. Thanks to you.

2018-2019

E has improved a lot lately with V's help. V is really good at teaching (E's mother)

I wanted to drop you a line to thank you personally for all the help and support you have given L over the last few months. Whatever the outcome is she couldn't have done it without your coaching. Her work has definitely improved which wouldn't have happened had she continued with just the support school gave her. So thank you.( L's mother)

Earlier Successes

2018-2019

KS 2 SATS - NJ had given up working in year 6. After my support he won a prize for writing and scored 113 and 117 in his English papers.

Scholarships - CA was a Grade 4 in History GCSE. He needed a grade 7 to obtain a scholarship. After my support CA gained his grade 7, got his scholarship and recently went on to gain a grade 9 in the actual GCSE securing his place at Rugby School.

GCSE- MS was at a good independent school and in top set. However, she was scoring at grade 2 in her English Language and English Literature mock exams. With my help MS went on to gain two level 7s for both her English GCSE exams.

Post Grads - S, A, I were all on a PGA at Warwick University. To get onto the MA course they needed to gain a distinction on their PGA assignments. With my support, all three transferred to the MA course.

ZN wanted to do as well as possible in his MA assignments but was struggling with Academic English. With my help he scored merits for his essays and dissertation.

H - a dyslexic adult who struggled with having to write personal emails/messages-she overcame this by just sending emojis. With my support H now composes emails using words and has the confidence to send emails / messages whenever she wants to.


2017-2018 successes :

N J-- NJ went from a Level 3 in school mock exams to achieving a Level 7 in the actual GCSE exams despite being dyslexic.

OL--OL went from a bottom grade D in school mock exams to achieving a high grade B in the actual A Level exams, taking up her place at Leeds Art School.

JA-- JA was home schooled and dyslexic. She felt that she was not able to study beyond GCSE. JA decided to continue with her education beyond GCSE as a result of the self- confidence she gained with my support.

AZ--As a result of my coaching, AZ had started to gain additional days work ( AZ has his own business)

Subjects

Personal Description:
Currently I work on many Department for Education projects striving to improve the quality of education across the UK, particularly in the area of mental health and effective teaching. I also work as an education consultant delivering training internationally to students and teachers alike.

I am a supportive and encouraging tutor, with many years experience as a qualified teacher and many more as a private tutor on a 1:1/small group level. I am educated to Masters Level in Health Psychology and Education, so I am certainly no stranger to education myself!

In my "spare" time, I am studying for a PhD in Psychological Medicine at Kings College London.

I have worked with young children starting out on their education journey through to Bachelor and Masters Level University degrees.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked with young children starting out on their education journey through to Bachelor and Masters Level University students.

Whilst my subject specialism is Psychology, I have taught across a range of subjects with enthusiasm, which ensures that I have an excellent track record of students gaining exam results which exceed their minimum target grades, with many meeting their aspirational target grades.

I have taught in a range of education settings which include: primary and secondary schools, Pupil Referral Units, Further and Higher Education. This includes working with individuals of all abilities and backgrounds, including having experience in working with individuals who may have special educational needs or have English as a second language.

This has been in a variety of subjects which include: Entrance Exams, English, Maths, Science, Health, Psychology and Humanities, among others.

I have taught extensively online as well as in person.

I am fortunate enough to be an Examiner of KS2, GCSE and A-Level providing me with a detailed insight into a range of exam boards.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a friendly and supportive tutor who can be relied upon to provide the best quality lessons. I like to incorporate humour and fun, tailoring my lessons to the needs and interests of the students I am delivering to.

For higher level tutees such as those at university. I integrate academic skills whilst supporting then with the planning and implementation of assignments, dissertations, exam preparation and more.

Subjects

Personal Description:
"The object of education is to prepare the young to educate themselves throughout their lives".

Hi! My name is Gajan and this is what I believe.

• I am a young and energetic person, able to bond very easily with my students.
• I have been there and done it before. All my recent experiences and learnings help me get through to students.
• I will not give up on anyone, no matter how hard the challenge!

• I graduated in 2009 from the University of Colombo and Middlesex University , with a First Class Honours as a Master of BIT Engineering.
• I work for a GFL company as a Civil Engineer in Wimbledon.

• I will tutor at your home and travel is included in the price.
• I am available after 5pm on ALL weekdays.
• I am available all day on weekends.
• I am eager to start ASAP.

Teaching Experience:
• My most recent students excelled in Maths and Further Maths, getting equal or higher grades than predicted by their schools .
• I have copious experience in teaching students, relatives and friends through 11plus to A Level and above.
• I provide students the understanding of the subject without giving the answers, helping them work independently.
• Detailed feedback is always provided to parents, along with frequent progress charts for student, to make sure they are developing step by step.

Tutoring Approach:
• All of us are different - and I will tailor my approach depending on each student's abilities. I have fun and direct methods that students enjoy and are guaranteed to bring success.
• I specialise in helping with exam technique, time management and confidence - all are crucial for success in exams and the real world.
• Passion and motivation is crucial, and I will help students discover their passion and the importance of education.
• I provide students the understanding of the subject with real-world examples, to help cement the knowledge into their minds.
• I set regular tests and targets to make sure students are constantly progressing, along with feedback for parents.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am currently attending Cardiff University, where I have just finished my first year, studying Accounting. I am currently offering tutoring in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, until October.

I thoroughly enjoying helping people progress and sharing my love of learning! I pride myself on my enthusiasm and my approachable, relaxed nature.

Regarding what I am able to teach -
I currently am offering 11 plus tutoring as well as A Level Mathematics.
I offer C1, C2, C3, C4, S1 and S2 Mathematics modules, across all boards, as well as Biology A level topics, also across all boards. The exam board I took my own exams in was OCR MEI (for Mathematics) and OCR A for Biology.

I am aware the A Level syllabus has now changed from modular to linear, and have tutored a Year 12 student doing Mathematics under the new course. The content is very similar to previous years - it is just the style of the exam that has changed!

Teaching Experience:
I have taken on a number of leadership roles, both in school and in my freetime. I ran House Art, an intraschool competition, during Year 13, and held the rank of Corporal for the last few years of my time as a cadet as part of St John Ambulance.

Prior to going to university, I tutored two students in A level Mathematics (EdExcel and MEI OCR), who both achieved Bs, and one student in A level Biology (who achieved an A). While I have been in Cardiff, I have also been tutoring two students in A level Mathematics (both Edexcel).

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that a good teacher is vital for A level subjects such as Maths and Biology - otherwise it is easy to become lost in class and fall behind, which is where I hope to help! I am open to working with students in different ways depending on their requirements and how they work best, whether this involve helping with homework questions or teaching topics from scratch. I endeavor to establish a connection with students and am always contactable by text or email for help with questions or queries, over the week.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have a BA Hons (2.1) in English Literature, a PGCE in Primary Education, and a Masters (Distinction) in Creative Writing. I have a current DBS.

I have some availability during the week both after school and evenings. I am also able to tutor home educated children during the day.

I am also be available during the day for home-schooled children.

I can travel to you, or tutor in my home - you are welcome to sit in on the session, sit in my living room, or pop to the shops while I work with your child.

Teaching Experience:
I have over twenty years experience teaching children in primary schools, as well as experience delivering one to one tuition.

I have been tutoring for a number of years now, and really enjoy working one to one with children; I am able to offer exactly what each child needs to make sure they make progress and feel proud and confident in their learning. In some instances I have tutored the same child over several years. I have also begun by tutoring one child in a family, and then been asked to tutor siblings as well.

I am currently teaching part time which means I can keep in touch with changes in the primary curriculum.

Tutoring Approach:
I offer English and maths tuition for children in the Foundation Stage (4-5 years old), Key Stage One (5-7 years old) and Key Stage Two (7-11 years old).

There are lots of reasons parents may want their child to have one to one tuition. Perhaps your child needs a bit of extra help with a few key concepts, or is lacking confidence in a class situation, or is falling behind their peers. If your child is worried about the Year 6 SATs some extra tuition can make all the difference.I also offer 11 plus preparation.

I offer calm, patient and fun sessions, tailored to address your child`s individual needs. I use a range of techniques, with plenty of practical explanations to ensure your child grasps what they are learning. I have lots of experience working with young children, which means I understand the small steps each child needs to take to ensure their learning is embedded. I aim to make each child feel confident and proud of the progress they are making. Each session also includes ways you can support your child at home, as well as some short feedback so you know what we have been working on.

Contact me and we can discuss your child`s needs further.

Subjects

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.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

I offer both online and in-person lessons.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

A-level results, August 2024:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

A-level results, August/September 2022:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

Speaking

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reading

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

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

Writing

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

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

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

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

Why study English?

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

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Personal Description:
I am fully qualified teacher and have been tutoring online for over two years. I now work part-time tutoring online, usually from my home, but occasionally from elsewhere. I have two adult children, one just finishing university and the other working in an apprenticeship. I originally tutored in person, but made the transition to online tutoring after the first lock-down. My existing pupils did extremely well at the transition and have continued to grow in confidence, to learn just as much as they did before and to also improve their ICT skills, using the keyboard to write, by using the classroom tools and sometimes sharing their screen.

The other advantages of online tutoring are that I am never held up in the rush hour traffic, there is no need to wear masks and I have even tutored pupils that have travelled abroad or have been living elsewhere, like Norway or even Nigeria, so continuity of tutoring is easier. Children seem just as able to build a relationship with a tutor online as in person, so this has never been a problem and I have had really good relationships with all of my pupils and their families. I really enjoy working with young people and their families. Sometimes I start working with one sibling and then with a brother or sister, or swap around depending on which child needs the most help.

I can be flexible and will try to work around parents' work and home responsibilities and commitments, but I will need to charge if lessons are cancelled within 24 hours.

I charge £35 per hour and that includes lesson preparation, providing homework (including marking if/when required), and providing feedback to parents/carers.

Teaching Experience:
I have been involved in Primary education for seventeen years, mainly in Key Stage 2. I have experience working one-to-one with children with Special Educational Needs, those needing just a little extra support to move them on and to boost their confidence, as well as working with highly academic children that need stretching, to ensure that they are never bored with schooling.

As well as being a fully qualified classroom teacher, I have been a School Safeguarding Governor for more than eight years and have worked with the Local Safeguarding Board, as well as with other Children in Care providers and have personal experience of caring for Looked After Children, so whatever your child's educational needs are, I'm here to help. I believe in teaching children to ensure that every child maximises their potential and I try to find ways to engage them in learning by using activities that they will enjoy. To do this I employ various teaching styles to suit the individual needs of each pupil. Whenever possible, I try to help children to understand how and why they are learning new things, how it relates to the wider world and why it is important for them to try to grasp new or difficult concepts and to take responsibility for their own learning.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to get to know the pupil I'm working with to find out the best way that they learn. Sometimes this can be encouraging them to engage in practical activities, such as cooking/baking, because it engages a child in a way that takes them away from the 'classroom' style of learning and puts them more at ease, as they are no longer feeling under any pressure to 'learn'. I have found that some children learn much more quickly when faced with a practical problem, such as reading a recipe and halving/doubling ingredients etc, with the added incentive and reward of eventually making something that they can eat. In addition, this may also help by giving them a visual and sensory memory of what they have learned. When tutoring I like to find out about each child's learning preference and tailor their tutorial accordingly. I believe in making learning fun and enjoyable, setting achievable goals that will help your child gain confidence and boost their self-esteem, as well as progress them academically.

Most children love ICT, but some are less confident and so involving them in online tutoring can be the best way to help them overcome any fears and concerns they may have, building their confidence as they learn to manage the whiteboard tools and communicate successfully with their tutor. They can also easily and quickly see their own progression. There are many fun and interesting games available for all the different subjects and working through some of these together often leads to children taking more responsibility for their own learning and becoming more eager and more confident to take on greater challenges. Once they become fully competent at a particular activity, they are usually keen to find another one. ICT can also provide a means of recording the subjects that they need to revise and they can then go over these and practise them in their own time.

The thought of taking the 11 Plus test is challenging and can cause a lot of unnecessary stress and upset, for both parents and children. Having taught in a junior school where about fifty percent of the children move on to a grammar school, I am well aware of the pressure that some children are under to 'pass' the 11 Plus. There are many things that can be done to support your child and to help them to reach their maximum potential. Identifying the areas of learning that they find most difficult and overcoming this, is key to their gaining confidence and enabling them to make their best effort whilst taking this test. As well as teaching whole classes of children preparing for the 11 Plus, in recent years I have been working one-to-one with children preparing to take this test. I assist them in the aspects of English and maths that they have found most challenging, including using questions from past 11 Plus test papers so that they have become familiar with the test format. Pupils gain confidence in themselves and then they know that they will do their very best when they take the test.

The 11 Plus test can vary, depending on the school and catchment area. Most grammar schools prefer pupils not to be tutored, otherwise pupils may struggle if they are successful in the test, but do not possess the natural speed of learning required at many of these schools, so my preferred method of tutoring is to help pupils to understand any concepts they struggle with and to help them to become more advanced in these areas. Pupils should work through the appropriate 11 Plus practice materials on their own and identify the areas where they need the most help. This helps them to gain confidence in their own ability and to take responsibility for their own learning. This is very important for them if they are to progress well and if they are successful in gaining entry to a grammar school.

I provide lessons for KS1 and KS2 pupils to help them with any areas of the curriculum that they find difficult. I provide homework if required.

I occasionally tutor pupils in KS3, mainly Years 7 and 8, often helping them with their homework.

I can be flexible and will try to work around parents' work and home responsibilities and commitments, but I will need to charge if lessons are cancelled within 24 hours.

Whatever year a child is in at school, it is important for them to know that every step forward is a step towards greater achievement and understanding. Whatever your child's academic needs, please be assured that I am here to ensure that your child grows in confidence and achieves their maximum potential and will do my very best for them and for you.I look forward to working with your child.

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