Retford Film Studies Tutors and Retford Film Studies Tuition

Personal Description:
I am an academic and scholar who holds both a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) and a MLitt (Master of Literature) from The University of Glasgow, and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) honours degree from The University of Paisley. My first academic book 'Robert Taylor: Male Beauty, Masculinity and Stardom in Hollywood' (University Press of Mississippi, 2019) was shortlisted for the Best Monograph of the Year at BAFTSS Awards 2020 and my second academic book, 'Tyrone Power; Genre, Gender and Image in Classical Hollywood Cinema' (Edinburgh University Press, 2021) was released in February 2021. Among my other publications are chapters in anthologies for Palgrave Macmillan (2016) and Bloomsbury Academic (2021). I have contributed to several academic journals and been requested as a guest lecturer, guest speaker and reader/reviewer on several occasions. I am currently working on my next book, some academic papers for journals and chapters for scholarly edited collections.

I am a personal tutor with over a decade of experience in several subject areas including English, English Language, English Literature, Media Studies, Film Studies, Theatre Studies, and General Writing Skills. I have taught a wide range of students off-line from pre-exam age (11+) to Standard Grade, Higher, and university level, and on-line for pre-exam level (12+), GCSE, AS level, A-Level, university level, postgraduate and the adult learners over this time.

Teaching Experience:
A well as being an experienced on-line and off-line personal tutor, I have also had several other academic jobs including:

Lecturer at Forth Valley College

Seminar tutor at The University of Glasgow

Graduate Teaching Assistant at The University of Glasgow

Top-Up Tutor at The University of Glasgow

Step Up to University Lecturer at University of West of Scotland

REACH Tutor at University of Glasgow

Proof Reader at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Note Taker at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Study Support Tutor at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Transcriber at University of the West of Scotland

Support Worker at University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Exam Scribe at University of Glasgow and Scottish Rural University College

Exam Invigilator at Scottish Rural University College

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that learning should be fun and in a relaxed atmosphere but at the same time academic and useful. My approach to teaching is to have the tutor and student both feel that they are getting a lot out of the experience and that the time is being well used. I will break down subjects into easily manageable blocks and make sure that my student understands the unit before moving on. I also like to vary my tutorials by having some in the form of lectures, some in the form of question and answers, some where I will give students feedback on homework they have done and suggestions to improve what they have done, etc.

I also find that on-line tuition is the best method and students can ask questions that they may not ask if they were face-to-face with someone, it is a much more relaxed approach but students get a lot out of it (and can save all the notes from lessons for use later on).

Subjects

Personal Description:
I studied English Literature at Edinburgh University, graduating with a First Class Masters in 1999, before going on to train as an actor at the prestigious London Academy of Dramatic Art (LAMDA) in 2001. Since graduating, I have worked extensively as an actor in theatre, television and radio and since 2007 I have worked very closely with acclaimed theatre company The Factory as an associate producer and director as well as an actor. I have a wide-ranging interest in the arts (from contemporary music through to cinema and the visual arts) as well as an active interest in politics and current affairs. I have worked as a free-lance tutor since 2005 and love not only the obvious flexibility it affords but, far more importantly, the mental, creative and social stimulation it provides both me and, hopefully, those I teach.

Teaching Experience:
In 2005 I registered with a private agency and taught English Literature as a freelance tutor at GCSE level for them that year.
I have wide and extensive experience teaching and creating drama with young people: I have worked on schools and youth projects with Shakespeare's Globe, the National Student Drama Festival and the Carney Academy of Performing Arts as well providing private tuition for drama school entrance and audition technique.
I occasionally work for the University of Westminster as a free-lance actor, working closely with director and academic Helen Eastman.

Tutoring Approach:
I passionately believe that education needs to be grounded in passing on, developing and deepening the love of a subject and that, as such, learning shouldn't be results led. I also believe that people are different and that an approach to tutoring and education should reflect that.

As such I aim to keep engagement and enjoyment at the centre of the process. I encourage pupils to engage with their subject through lateral and creative thinking in the belief that good results follow when a student can enter into a dialogue with the work they are being asked to do and not the other way round.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I studied architecture then moved into the world of film and commercials as a set designer,training at the BBC and moving into the freelance world working on Films and Commercials (Production Design,Art Direction and Set Dressing).Drawing skills have always been central to my varied art and design career .
In film I collaborated with a variety of creatives including directors ,lighting,costume,makeup,special effects designers,which was enriching and inspirational.Then I began to paint for other designers on their projects and my artwork became a larger part of my work.
Now I work mainly from my studio in Wimbledon on commissions (including painting ) for films & interiors,portrait commissions and my own personal projects in between tutoring.Drawing,painting,photoshop,collage,photography and model making are used in many of my projects.My work has been exhibited at The National Portrait Gallery,The Mall Galleries with The Royal Society of Portrait Painters and Aubergine Gallery.I exhibit twice a year at the Wimbledon Art Fair and had a painting in the BP Awards 2016 at The National Portrait Gallery,London,then in Lincoln and finally to The Scottish National Portrait Gallery in Edinburgh until the end of March 2017.
I continue to be passionate about the visual world,creating and sharing my skills and experience, carefully designing my sessions to respond to the students requirements in an enjoyable and rewarding way.

Teaching Experience:
In recent years I found people came to my studio for advice and inspiration. I was then invited to be a visiting artist at a school in Kingston and began taking workshops for groups of varying age groups and abilities.
I have designed and run workshops for 'Gifted and Talented Children' and have recently been invited to devise workshops for the V&A.Recently I devised and supervised a project for a final year textile design student at Manchester University to work on a project with a working designer .The students I work with at the moment age from 6 years to adults. From Scholarship Applications to students needing help with university projects to professionals requiring assistance with projects.
My City & Guilds course for Delivering Learning enabled me to carefully design the projects to suit the students and their individual requirements.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a great believer in the unique value of creative skills to build confidence and enrich our lives in so many ways.
My sessions are carefully considered and devised to encourage my students to develop their talents and make it an inspirational and enjoyable experience.One-to-one Tutorials are a great opportunity to work on your own skills to enable you to produce that art & design portfolio,better pieces for your GCSE course work ,for the practising artist or designer to inspire innovative ideas & concepts,alongside the exploration of materials,process and techniques,or for anyone with a desire to enrich their life creating art!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an arts enthusiast with incisive critical engagement skills and 16 years private tuition experience. I'm able to draw from a wide range of critical theories and approaches when analysing arts and performance related texts. A big fan of film, theatre, visual art, music, literature and comedy. I have taught up to MA level, have directed productions at RADA and currently hold the post of Contextual practice lecturer at Italia Conti Drama school.

Teaching Experience:
I hold an MA from The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and Kings College and graduated from Royal Holloway in 2011 with the highest degree grade of the graduate year. I was approached by many of my co-students to advise them on essays and creative work and was employed by the Drama department to run workshops for prospective students. I'm now a professional theatre-maker, freelance drama practitioner and public speaking trainer. I have led workshops with a wide spectrum of people from ages 10 up to 75 years old and for organisations including BPP law school, RADA, Italia Conti, University of Bolton, Central Film school and UWL. Alongside tutoring I currently offer essay and dissertation guidance, proofreading and editing services. I also offer audition guidance and monologue tuition for actors and acting students.

Testimonial from Ina:

"Thank you for all your help with my Film Studies, I ended up getting an A* and also an A* in Media Studies. so I got my place at the University of Exeter to study Management with Marketing, thanks a lot, I couldn't have done it without you!"

Testimonial from Nadia:

"Dean's tuition was fantastic! He is patient but he still pushed me to do my best. I am much more confident writing about drama and theatre. Dean made sure I understood everything we talked about which meant I didn't forget it in my exam and I ended up getting an A!"

Testimonial from Yin:

"Dean's guidance really got the best out of me and he pushed me to explore my arguments in my dissertation. He gave me very precise, useful feedback on my dissertation. He is very nice to deal with and speak to and I was so happy with him. He also increased my English vocabulary!"

Testimonial from Kevin:

"I was really unsure and didn't know where to start with my first A2 exams but Dean's help made everything much easier and I feel much calmer and more confident about the rest of my course. Thank you."

Testimonial from Anna:

"Dean tutored my daughter via Skype for her Film Studies A Level. He went out of his way to accommodate the times she was available as this varied greatly week on week, sometimes organising other commitments around her. He always asked in advance what it was she wanted to cover so he could prepare for the session and was very good at explaining things that she didn't understand in some of the films, looking at them in more depth and detail with her. He also helped her with exam technique and she felt that she really got a lot out of the sessions. She has ended up with A A B so she is pretty pleased with that."

Tutoring Approach:
I like to spread a love and enthusiasm for arts and humanities subjects with an emphasis on the potential for personal as well as academic development. I am an adaptive tutor skilled at relating the work to the student's own experiences, ensuring they establish their own academically applicable opinions, ideas and approaches. I'm a meticulous problem solver and am able to pinpoint areas that need attention, particularly in essays, coursework and presentation work. I'm a natural entertainer but always maintain focus on the task at hand, offering insightful, productive and engaging tuition sessions to my students.

I maintain an industry standard cancellation/no show policy, please ask for details.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am very passionate about films, theatre, the media industry. I am currently in my second year of a BA Hons in Film Studies at Edge Hill University, living away from home during the week but always available on weekends. I am hardworking, dedicated to my studies and after my undergraduate degree I am hoping to continue my studies with a Masters degree.

I also love to learn languages, currently able to speak 4 fluently (English, Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi) and also learning Spanish in my free time.

Teaching Experience:
I have a younger sister who is following my path into Film Studies, not knowing a thing before starting her A Level in it she is now predicted an A*. I have held short after school lessons for her and other family members in this particular field and the outcome has always been satisfying.

I have also started my TEFL course (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) which helps me gain a qualification in teaching the English language.

Tutoring Approach:
The lessons will be about the student, and not the teacher. Therefore everything will be tailored to areas you wish to improve (spoken communication, written skills, reading, accent, listening)

I have a calm and relaxed approach to tutoring, understanding the problems and weaknesses in people and using those to bring out the best in them. If I can see passion within the student then I will do my personal best to bring out the potential in my students.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a very approachable person who enjoys being around people and helping them to achieve their goals, I am currently doing a Masters in Publishing.
I am also a university graduate in Broadcast Media Production and I took Photography and Creative Media at A level.
In my GCSE'S I took Graphics and History/Geography.
In my spare time I do archery (which I've been doing for 11 years) and climbing (for 1 year) I also enjoy reading and travelling.

Teaching Experience:
I have previously worked in a college as a supported learning assistant working mainly with dyslexic students onna variety of subjects.
I volunteered as part time help at Luddington and Garthorpe primary school in North Lincolnshire. I help when I am not busy, this is experience for me as it is something I am considering as a career path for the future, I help with the children, and I help the class teachers when their TA's are ill or busy elsewhere, I have also answered the phones when the receptionist hasn't been in.
I have also been volunteering at John Leggott College in the media department as an assistant to the staff and the young adults, this has given me more of an idea of what it is like to teach older children and a possible career choice. I help them with their pre and post production and general help through out the lessons.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is research what they're doing in school and asking them how they learn - weather it being visual, auditory or kinesthetic - I myself prefer a practical/kinesthetic - "hands on learning" as you can learn whilst doing things. Another way I like to teach is by a reward system which works to help the student feel like they have achieved something they may not have been able to learn by them selves or by classroom learning.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have over 15 years teaching experience, the majority of my work has been at secondary level, where my specialisms are Drama, English, English Literature, Film studies and History. However, I also have extensive experience in primary education where I have taught across the breadth of the curriculum.

My preoccupation with academia was nurtured at a competitive Grammar School, RGS Worcester, a top school with high expectations. I went on to acquire a first class degree. I remain now, as I have always been, a high achiever.

I also work in the creative arts, as actor, tutor and director, inspired by performance art in all its forms. My current artistic interests include revising classics, puppetry, theatre in non-traditional spaces, and working as a freelance drama consultant to help smaller scale theatre companies realise their artistic aims and consolidate their working practices.

Recreationally I enjoy martial arts, exercise and the outdoors. As an avid reader I am particularly drawn to epic literature and sprawling worlds, beguiling first person narratives, comparative religious and spiritual studies, psychology, philosophy and history.

Teaching Experience:
Secondary Level Education:
- I worked for 6 years as a secondary school teacher, delivering Drama and English lessons, including GCSE and 'A' level, from year 7- year 13.
-I devised and delivered a formal curriculum to teach Year 9 Drama (in line with Key Stage Guidelines).
-Extensive experience in coursework, marking, moderation and exam preparation.
-On 2 separate occasions, following Ofsted observations, I was given an 'Outstanding' classification (the highest classification).
-Quantitative end of term reports always placed my classes amongst the highest in terms of achievement and student retention.

'A' level Education:
-I taught for 6 years at 2 different Further Education Colleges. I taught English Literature, Drama and Film Studies 'A' level.
-Students were offered extra-curricular tutorials to help them achieve their desired results according to their own set of educational needs.
-I emboldened students for university entrance with interview techniques, UCAS procedures and university level preparation.
-The coursework I devised with students for their final A2 Drama and Theatre Studies was picked up as an exemplar of excellent practice, and is still used to this day by Edexcel examination board.

Primary:
-I devised a range of workshops, and delivered these to selected primary schools. These workshops raised literacy levels, written and oral communication. They were delivered to year 4, year 5 and year 6 students.
-My work with Redditch Borough Council as Literacy and Outreach Officer earned me an 'Outstanding personal Achievement Award'.

Adult Education:
-I've worked with young people trying to get back into education following exclusion, this involved working with charities like CentrePoint.
-I often work with adult learners re-taking their GCSE English.
-Postgraduate students have sought my help in the past, particularly International Students looking to improve the precision of their essays.

University Level:
-Delivering Theatre and Drama lectures, seminars and workshops to students at university level, including The University of Birmingham, University of Worcester, University of Bristol, and University of Warwick.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring involves the mutual balance of 2 equally important intentions: a sensitive awareness of what a student needs and establishing a conducive rapport.

I have a flexible communication style, informed by exposure to hosts of different students, I am adaptable and responsive, a necessity built on the recognition that effective learning can only happen when tutor and student understand each other, and are mutually inspired.

At first, my focus with a new student is to provide gentle provocations on different aspects of the subject matter- a process which allows me to see where their strengths and weaknesses lie, also allowing the student to start seeing the subject matter from varying perspectives, and to extend their range of problem-solving and communication strategies.

My approach always depends on the specific needs of the student, most commonly students ask for:
-Information building and comprehension
-Essay writing technique
-Filling in historical/ social/ political or cultural context to areas of study (particularly at 'A' level)
-Response to examination questions
-Improving literacy level, reading and comprehension, grammar (particularly at primary level)
-Extending and developing powers of expression

You will find me a generous tutor, I am not a clock watcher, it does not matter, for instance, if a class runs over. I will work hard for you between lessons, marking, researching, and developing new lessons and academic exercises. My tutoring style is tempered by profound understanding and experience of examination board and national curriculum requirements. Moreover, my many years working as an educator entailed the need to develop a flexible range of teaching strategies correspondent to the varying learning preferences of my students.

Some recent feedback:
'I wish you had been my tutor before, I feel a lot more confident'
(Chitra, GCSE English, Adult Learner)
'Great attitude and rapport with my son very engaging'
(Sarah, mother of 'A' level; Film and Studies student)
'We are delighted to have Chris helping my daughter and her friend with the written exam In the last few weeks of their Drama and Theatre `A ` level. Inspiring, flexible, fun -knowledgeable about the plays, their history and context- he is a fantastic tutor.'
(Felicity, mother of 'A' level Drama and Theatre Studies student)

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have over 25 years experience as a successful and motivational teacher. I was an A Level teacher in Lincolnshire for twenty years and before that, a lecturer in Higher Education (De Montfort, Leicester).

I have a great deal of experience both in and outside education, particularly in the media, and have worked for several years as an independent arts practitioner. I have a degree in Fine Art (Leeds) and a post-grad Diploma from St Martins, London, where I studied Film and Video.
I continue to work creatively on independent commissions. I have my own radio show in on SoundArt Radio 102.5FM, Totnes, Devon.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked as a teacher in Lincolnshire for twenty years and previously in Further Education and H.E. (De Montfort, Leicester). Specialising in Film Studies and Media Studies, introducing these subjects to the Sleaford Joint Sixth Form in 2002.
I have taught BTEC Art, headed the Creative and Media diploma at St Georges Academy. My main subjects have always been A Level Film Studies and A Level Media Studies. I have also taught A Level Theatre Studies, Culture and Communication, and Photography,
I was Assistant Head of Sixth Form at Kesteven and Sleaford High School and was a Sixth Form tutor and teacher at St Georges Academy where I worked until retirement last year. As a Tutor I have a wealth of experience in preparing students for Higher Education and writing their personal references for University. I have also worked as a marker for the University of Lincolnshire Media department.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is flexible, friendly and creative. I am a supportive, enthusiastic and empathetic teacher. I use discussion, questions and experiment to find the best way for each student. How we learn is something personal and finding out the most suitable pedagogical approach for the individual is the key to them progressing with their education.

"Richard is a very flexible, engaged, knowledgeable and committed tutor who really knows the A level Film Studies specification. Building my son's confidence and understanding he helped him to make a real connection with the demands of this subject and achieve a top grade."
Parent, August 2022.
The above quote is from a parent whose child was at a 'D' in January, who went on to achieve an 'A' in the summer exams, with my support.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Adobe Certified Expert | MSc, BA | Multidisciplinary Digital Artist & Educator
I have 15 years of working experience in Design, Photography, Virtual Production and Media, allowing me to maintain a wide variety of skills that assist in supporting students and professionals involved in the Creative industries. Currently, I'm doing freelance work, tutoring, researching, and teaching MSc Design at the University of Edinburgh.
Since 2015 I've continuously been one of the very few Adobe Certified Instructors and Experts. Because of my comprehensive knowledge of Adobe techniques and digital media theory, I received a series of certifications from Adobe, such as Educator Specialist in Visual and Video Design, Digital Imaging and Digital Creativity Expert for classrooms, Expert in Digital Media and Creativity Training and Adobe Education Trainer, accrediting me to train other educators.
I have achieved an MSc in Design and Digital Media (with distinction) from the University of Edinburgh, where I chose to work with 3D, Motion Graphics, VFX, UI/UX, Video Game Design and AR/VR. I specialised in VR experiences made with Unreal Engine and particle systems. I have also achieved a 1:1 BA (Hons) focused on Photography and Audiovisual Arts, where I had the opportunity to experiment with different forms of visual and digital art whilst specialising in Architecture Photography and Image Editing. Moreover, I hold a Digital Photography certificate from the University of Harvard.

Enhanced PVG/DBS available

An interview about my work with Adobe, at Pearson: certiport.pearsonvue.com/Blog/2021/February/Expanding-Creativity-with-Adobe-Certification

Teaching Experience:
Since I started teaching in 2013, I have taught other educators, art directors, creative professionals but also students of all ages (5 to 75!) and abilities, including individuals with learning and behavioural difficulties. Moreover, I have delivered bespoke training for design teams in companies such as Warner Bros. Discovery, BBC, SKY, WWF, NHS, ILGA, Roche, The National Gallery and several Universities and Colleges.

My latest experience is focused on delivering lessons and lectures in Design and Digital Media as well as my freelance projects.

Tutoring Approach:
Above all, I have successfully employed a motivational approach when teaching and found that this led to many positive student outcomes, such as developing their creative thinking. A key part of my career is helping students reach their full potential, which I work towards by focusing on creative and critical thinking when teaching. .

Subjects

Personal Description:
I hold a Fine Arts Degree with Specialized Honors, a Bachelor of Education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) in Toronto. I have taught Visual Art and Design, Film, Art History and History as well as Arts Business and Small Business Marketing courses. I have also been a long term supply teacher in various subject areas including languages (I speak French and Italian and have studied primary German); English Literature, Biology, Social Sciences and even Yoga. I am also a professional artist who has lived and exhibited internationally in North America, Europe and Asia.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught since 1997 in many secondary and college levels as well as one on one online and in person.
A full list of experience is available upon request.

Tutoring Approach:
I employ observation and interaction, diagnostic tactics and tests according to curriculum. Lessons should be well planned and organized, and the planning should
clearly demonstrate that the lesson will address the needs of individual students.-Engaging knowledge itself to taking students from mere complacency to passion.

I am an international artist who has lived in many different parts of the world.
I am a business woman with many accolades.
I also speak Italian and French and am ready to influence those interested in these languages with the history, art, music, film and food of these cultures.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have a University degree in Film Studies with Film Production and I enjoy making films in my spare time. I have had one of my short films shown at the BFI cinema in London as well as in Fact in Liverpool City Centre.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught small subject groups at both Alevel and University degree level. The peers that I tutored got high grades within their work and strive to learn more and do better.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to open a project with multiple solutions or approaches and discuss which is the option that stands out most. Then develop and evolve this choice into a more substantial solution. I find that using visual aids, such as power points really help, as well as using video examples where necessary. I believe that engaging open discussions about the subject at hand also helps flesh out more opinions or even conserns that an individual may have.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have spent many years travelling the world. I am an exponent of Tai Chi, karate and have a particular interest in world religions.
I am a life long lover of cinema, keen amateur photographer and a prolific reader.
I am a winter sea swimmer and a hiker . I am attracted to wild environments and spent much time in ashrams in India and the the Himalayan foothills.

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced drama teacher, having worked right through the UK educational system from pre-school to university level.
I worked a great deal with children at risk of exclusion and with general behavioural problems.
I taught screenwriting at Swansea University College, Wales.
I have also been a European screenwriter, having written four produced films. I am also an actor having performed in film, TV and theatre.
I worked as a creative writing tutor at Holloway women's prison.
I have a particular interest in the therapeutic importance of myth and the possibilities of narrative therapy in addressing teenage marginalisation and isolation.

Tutoring Approach:
I am less interested in simple academic tutoring and more concerned with the relevance of the subject to the students actual life. I want to enrich the student's life by using the subject to better understand themselves and the world around them. As far as Film Studies are concerned, my interest lies in helping the student to see film as a user-manual for actual living. Therefore I see Italian 50s neo-realism as pertinent as the latest Mission Impossible movie. Ideally the student's exploration of the subject is an exploration of themselves.
With photography I teach that a photograph is a language whether is modern expressionalistic, surreal or journalistic. We have to try to understand what the photographer is in fact seeing. Don McCullin and Man Ray are both expressing not only a critique of the outside world but are providing a window into themselves, their deeper nature.
With drama I want the student to experience somehow what the actor is experiencing of what the director wants the audience to feel and/or learn. I'm particularly interesting in conveying the immediate appeal of Peter Brook and finding out, with the student, where Brook and all the other dramatic explorers, what they are saying to us and where they want to take us.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a Cambridge and Royal College of Art graduate with five years of freelance tutoring experience. This is primarily at BTEC, A Level, University and for independent adult learners.

I have been in co-ordination with art and cultural institutes and regeneration programs both in Kent and London to teach film in public workshops including working with the Royal College of Art institute, Stories and Suppers, Dartford Arts Network and Medway Film Festival. I have worked for NGO`s in India teaching art and media, and I have four years of experience working freelance on film productions both pre and post.

Alongside teaching I work as an actor, improvisor and creative theatre practitioner. My hobbies are medieval history, cinema, art, horror and hiking.

Teaching Experience:
Devised curated film studies programs practical, theoretical and historical. Assigned study, development and critical engagement with the following:

- History of French Cinema
- History of German Cinema
- Hollywood Golden Era
- New Hollywood
- The Avante Garde and Experimental Cinema
- Foundation to Film Studies
- Genre
- Documentary
- Production
- Silent Film
- Cult Cinema Classics
- Contemporary British Cinema


Alongside tutoring I currently offer essay and dissertation guidance, proofreading and editing services.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor the classes to fit the needs of the student, and I work a direct goal oriented approach. Whether this is for an exam, essay or specific aspect of information, I will strive to help you develop and understand what is required to reach the desired learning outcomes.

The classes are built upon a teaching foundation developed through my years of study, research, practise, and mentoring, all of which takes place in a well structured and fun environment. For me lessons are most memorable when they are engaging dealing with relatable content, robust context and a decent dosage of humour! I strive to make the teaching environment a space for nurturing creative and critical thinking around the desired subject.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, my name is Michelle.

With 25 years of teaching experience, at local FE and Independent Colleges, I have a passion for film, media and photography and a wealth of experience to share my knowledge with my students and to achieve the best results possible.
I am educated to Masters level, in Design & Media Arts from the University of Westminster and hold a PGCE in teaching certificate, from the University of Greenwich.

Teaching Experience:
I first taught Art and Photography to adult SEN students, as well as teaching City & Guilds Photography evening classes for adults. I progressed to BTEC course co-ordinator and lecturer for two years at Richmond-upon-Thames College, also teaching A level film studies and media.

I became BTEC Media Team Leader at Harrow College teaching Level 2 and 3 in 2004, focusing on vocational aspects such as creating music videos, documentaries, adverts, final major projects, from practical to theoretical. I also co-ordinated and taught the A Level Film Studies course using WJEC specification, teaching a range of film theoretical and practical, from French New Wave, British Film, US film comparisons and World Cinema, with an emphasis on exam practice.

I have taught A level Film and Media at private institutions such as Chelsea Independent college, Duff Miller, and more recently at Harrow College on vocational courses such as the UAL Creative Media course, as well as adult photography courses . I have also worked as a media and literary specialist with SEN learners part time whilst still teaching film/media, improving their literacy, comprehension and grammar.

I have also taught English to adult learners from abroad, correcting their pronunciation and grammar, with general conversations about daily life, culture and news.

Student comments:
"I am a past pupil of Michelle, and consider myself to be extremely fortunate to have had someone of her calibre as a tutor. Her expertise and teaching methods bring out the very best in every individual. Her understanding, patience and personable approach to teaching equates for a student to achieve their very best.'
Cuisle - ex UAL Media student

Tutoring Approach:
I believe all students need the additional support from an individual perspective, tailoring the lessons according to each students' needs throughout each stage of their course and help prepare them for exams and coursework requirements.

This enables my students to reach the highest grades and to progress successfully.

I will prepare you and guide you through your course, to help you understand the units you are being taught, check through any coursework before submitting, advise you on using subject terminology to enhance your grades and to check for any mistakes through proof reading. Any assignments set by your school/college/university can be discussed and worked on to develop your skills.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I grew up in Northern Italy (Piedmont), and did my University Degree in Italian Humanities, and my MA in Film Studies in Turin (Torino). In 2005 I moved to the UK, because of my fascination with the culture, music and landscape. I was an indie music nerd as a teenager and young man, with a huge passion for obscure bands. I also loved to write and sing, and got a lot of inspiration for my writing from movies and literature. I am still enthusiastic about going to the cinema, or discovering a new novel or a new (or old) band. On top of these interests, I'm passionate about language, poetry, psychology, personal development, nutrition and beautiful coastal landscapes.

Teaching Experience:
Since my arrival in Bristol in 2005, I first worked as an Italian Linguist for an international corporation. After three years, I dedicated some time to focus on my music and writing, but soon I also pursued a career in Adult and Community Education, developing my teaching practice and experience and creating courses, programmes and tailored lessons for groups and individuals. I gained a certificate to teach adults (PTLLS), and have worked both with a great number of private clients, with a college (Redmaids School for Girls, where I have been Italian Teaching Assistant), with adult education organisations (City of Bristol College, Bristol City Council, The Bristol Folk House) and with Language Schools (International House, The Language Experience, Bristol Language School).

Tutoring Approach:
I am happy to teach at all levels, from complete beginner to advanced conversation. I have gained a solid experience due to the diversity of my clients and of the environments where I have taught and I currently teach. I will tailor my lessons exactly to your current needs, and will use and recommend varied strategies for learning according to your preferred learning style, covering Speaking, Reading, Listening and Writing. I also value a focus on Pronunciation: when you study a new language you literally enter a new cultural world of sounds, and it's better to familiarise with it as soon as possible. My lessons are playful and interactive, and my aim is for you to feel at ease, so that you can make mistakes without fear, and therefore enjoy the process of learning.

At intermediate and advanced levels, when students have a basis for an exploration of cultural topics, I'm very passionate about using original cultural texts, from literature to newspapers, from video interviews to films or documentaries. I find it very rewarding to share with my students the excitement of exploration, discovery, beauty and reflection that comes from engaging with culture.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a French student living in Edinburgh. I just graduated 2 licences, one in Film Studies and on in English literature. I also just finished 3 years of prep school. During those years, I was prepared to go into the highest French literature school. I specialised my studies into cinema during those 3 years. Therefore, I can teach everything related to art, literature and subjects that are close to it.

I'm really kind and like to know the people I'm teaching to. I like sports (Handball mostly), music (did 10 years of music school), reading and going to movies.

Teaching Experience:
I already teach music to younger students in my music school (4 years).
I used to tutor students thanks to a tutoring program in my prep school. (3 years)
I coached younger players during my latest handball years. (2 years)

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring depends on the age of the student. For example, for my youngest students, I like to play games to make them learn.
I don't mind repeating myself and know how to explain things in different ways.
My approach is to make increase skills by yourself by unlocking or deblocking things you thought you didn't understand.
I also give advices on how to review your course and learn your lesson. I'm great at giving advises for essays as I had to wrote one every week during 6h, during my prep school.
For every language's subject, I favour speaking and listening to oral comprehension in order to increase your skills.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a high-achieving graduate with a strong background in technology, passionate about both learning and teaching. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I've helped students excel across a wide range of subjects, from Primary Arithmetic and English, through GCSE and A-Level courses, all the way to Undergraduate studies. My extensive knowledge spans core academics, arts, sciences, languages, and admissions preparation, allowing me to tailor lessons that meet each student's unique needs and goals.

I truly enjoy making complex topics accessible and inspiring a love of learning in every student I work with. Technology plays a big role in how I approach education, allowing me to create engaging, tailored lessons that spark curiosity and build confidence. By creating a supportive and engaging environment, I encourage students to overcome challenges, develop critical thinking skills and realise their full potential at every stage of their academic journey.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 9 years of tutoring experience, primarily working online but also providing private in-home tutoring. During my academic years, I volunteered as a mentor and tutor for younger students, which laid a strong foundation for my teaching approach. I have supported students across all age groups from primary and secondary levels to A-Level and university and I'm actively expanding my work with undergraduate learners.

My tutoring has helped many students achieve significant improvements, including successfully gaining admission to private schools through the 11+ exam, and boosting GCSE grades by an average of 4 grades above expectations within six months.

I cover a broad range of topics and themes across multiple subjects and educational stages, tailored to the specific needs of each student. For primary and secondary levels, I teach core subjects including Arithmetic, English, Science, Geography, History, Religious Education, Spanish, and Computing. At GCSE and IGCSE levels, I cover subjects such as Maths, English Language and Literature, Combined and Triple Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), Business Studies, Computer Science, Art and Design, Geography, History, Media Studies, Film Studies, Food Preparation and Nutrition, Religious Studies, Spanish, and Accounting.

For A-Level students, I provide tutoring in subjects including Film Studies, Health and Social Care, ICT and Information Technology, Journalism, Media Studies, Modern Languages (Spanish), Technology and Design, and Travel and Tourism. At the undergraduate level, I support academic writing, cinematics, media studies, research methods, and Spanish.

Regarding exam boards, I am familiar with major UK boards such as AQA, Edexcel, OCR, Cambridge IGCSE, and others, enabling me to tailor preparation to the specific syllabus and exam requirements. I also support students preparing for admissions tests such as 11+, 13+, SAT, and UCAS applications, along with TEFL exam preparation.

If there are specific papers or units you need support with, I can provide targeted lessons aligned with those assessments to ensure confidence and success.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is student-focused, flexible, and results-oriented. I understand that each learner is unique, so I tailor my teaching to suit individual goals, learning styles, and confidence levels. Whether students need help mastering core concepts, preparing for exams, or improving academic performance, I adapt my methods to best support their progress. I focus not only on exam success but also on building confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills. I hold a TEFL qualification, which complements my ability to support language learners effectively.

I incorporate a mix of interactive techniques, including technology-based tools, active questioning, step-by-step support and guided practice, and real-world applications to make learning both engaging and effective. I aim not just to improve grades, but to nurture curiosity, independent thinking, and a genuine love for learning. With over 9 years of tutoring experience, I know how powerful encouragement and personalised teaching can be in helping students overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Learn Spanish and Film Studies with a Colombian Filmmaker!

Hello! I'm a Colombian filmmaker and a native Spanish speaker, and I'm genuinely enthusiastic about sharing my two passions with you.

In Film Studies, my background is multidisciplinary, with a specialization in post-production, animation, and sound design. I bring a practical, creative approach to lessons, showing you how technical skills like editing directly contribute to powerful storytelling.

In Spanish, I'm not just teaching grammar; I'm sharing my native language and Colombian culture. I love helping students connect with the Spanish-speaking world, offering lessons that are engaging, practical, and fun. Let's start your creative or linguistic journey together!

Teaching Experience:
Film:
I have worked as a teaching assistant for a senior lecturer at the National University of Colombia. Specifically, for the first production workshop that new students will encounter during the film and television production BA. I encouraged student to experiment with their project and to get a good foundation of critical concepts for film making associated to the audiovisual narrative.

Spanish:
I haven't taught Spanish as a second language; however, I have taught English to adults and kids as a personal tutor. I would usually identify their goals and then help them to achieve them.

Tutoring Approach:
Spanish Language & Culture (The Immersion Approach)

My goal is to get you speaking and understanding Spanish confidently in real-life situations.

Cultural Context: As a native speaker from Colombia, I go beyond textbooks. We will integrate Colombian and Latin American culture into lessons-through music, short films, current events, and relevant idioms-to make the language truly come alive.

Communicative Focus: We prioritize conversation and active listening from the very first lesson. While grammar is essential, we treat it as a tool to improve communication, not the central focus.

Personalized Pace: Lessons are tailored to your current level and personal goals (travel, school, career). We'll use a mix of structured exercises, role-playing, and casual conversation to ensure continuous progress.

Creative Practice: I use creative materials-like analyzing Spanish-language film dialogue or listening to diverse music-to make vocabulary acquisition engaging and memorable.

2. Film Studies (The Filmmaker's Practical Approach)

My Film Studies tutoring provides a hands-on, industry-informed perspective that goes beyond academic theory.

Practical Application: Leveraging my experience in production, post-production, and animation, I don't just teach what a technique is, but why a filmmaker chooses to use it. We focus on the intentionality behind creative decisions.

Post-Production Focus: My specialization in editing and sound design means we can deeply explore how the often-overlooked final stages of filmmaking enhance and define the narrative. This is a unique and valuable perspective for students.

Visual Storytelling Workshop: Lessons often involve actively analyzing clips, scene breakdowns, and even exploring technical workflows to demystify the filmmaking process.

Project Guidance: Whether you need help with academic essays, film analysis, or even guidance on your own short film project, I offer support that blends creative vision with technical understanding.

Subjects