Balham French Tutors and Balham French Tuition

Personal Description:
With nearly 15 years of online and in-person tutoring French Common Entrance/13+, Westminster Challenge, Winchester entrance, GCSE, IGCSE, A-level, Pre-U, and SAT, I`m a 50-year old graduate of the excellent University of Sussex languages course with a First Class Honours degree in French and Russian. I lived for four years in Paris where I mastered the language and the accent!

I have also acted in plays in French, taking on the role of Alphonse in a production of The School for Wives, and touring to schools abroad to perform in front of students learning French elsewhere in Europe.

I like to stay abreast of French culture and society, read Le Figaro everyday, and regularly watch French TV news and discussion shows.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored students at all levels, from 13+ entrance exams, including the Westminster Challenge, to most UK exam boards at GCSE, IGCSE and A-level, and I have also helped prepare students for their SAT in French and the DELF exam. I've taught adults who are complete beginners, or have some vague memories of what they learned at school, as well as helping several students gain entry to Westminster School via their Challenge exam

Since the switch to mostly online teaching, I have become an expert in making the most of the resources available, particularly the collaborative tools provided by Google, among others, which are particularly good for working on exercises and explaining grammar in a clear, helpful way.

Successes from the last (2019-20) academic year included: an two As at A-level, and two 9s at IGCSE, as well as entrance to Winchester College via their own exam.

For A-level students, I have already taught Camus's L'Etranger, Françoise Sagan's Bonjour Tristesse, Joseph Joffo's Un Sac de Billes, and Zola's Thérèse Raquin, and am very familiar with all the other set texts. Au Revoir Les Enfants, Intouchables, Entre Les Murs (The Class) and La Haine are the films I am best acquainted with from a teaching point of view.

Here are some comments from a few previous students - originals available on request.

'We could not have asked for a better result - A*s! He got full marks for the reading paper. Thanks so much for all your help, and patience.' - Margaret (parent of home-schooled GCSE student)

'Henry won a scholarship to Westminster. Exactly what he was aiming for." (Leslie, student's mother)

`Thank you so much for all your patient hard work - you taught her exactly the right stuff and there is no way she could have done it without you! I really didn`t think it was possible to teach the whole year 7 curriculum in a week but somehow you managed it. Tiffin Girls is one of the top state schools in the country and rather competitive. Chatting to the other parents outside the exam, most of the competitors went to good independents or had been tutored over a long period of time. You really knew not only what to teach but how to teach it, which shows you have exceptional skills.` - Anoushka (pupil`s mother)

`Just thought I should let you know I got an A! Thanks for all your help` - Helena (A-level student)

'I ended up with an "A"... thanks for all your help, both my spoken papers improved, over my previous efforts.' - Philip, mature student sitting AS and A2 French

Tutoring Approach:
It is important to tailor lessons specifically to a student's needs, but my general method is to engage him or her at a level just above their 'comfort zone'. Learning is about challenging yourself to do better, and it is crucial for a tutor to be supportive and encouraging, and also to keep the bar high.

Lessons can be conducted entirely in French, or in a mixture of English and French. I can work alongside a student's existing course (that is, from a textbook a student is already following), or we can use course books that I recommend.

Where the level allows, I like to draw upon material from contemporary sources such as French news magazines.

For "conversation classes", I find it is useful to base the discussion on an article or a book to help build vocabulary, and also think that incorporating grammar instruction (where appropriate) can be a good idea.

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Personal Description:
I am a French native and have been living in England since 2006. I studied and obtained my French degree at University in France. I have also completed a course to teach French as a Foreign Language.

Teaching Experience:
I worked two years in Northampton School for Girls as a french Language Assistant. During and since this time, I have also provided French tuition through Language Schools and privately for students and adults.

Tutoring Approach:
I focus on the speaking for the students to be able to use the language effectively, while integrating grammar, vocabulary, writing and reading. I use all sorts of documents (images, dialogues, flash-cards,...), either on printed sheets or interactively. When appropriate, I like to use sound materials as it is a good way to get familiar with the sounds and intonations of the language.

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Personal Description:
Bonjour à tous!

Are you struggling with French or looking to enhance your language skills and confidence? As a native and qualified teacher with a PGCE/DBS and 15 years of dedicated teaching experience, I specialize in crafting personalized French language learning experiences. My teaching background includes both private and state schools, where I have achieved an impressive success rate of 90% in A* to B grades for A-level students and 7 to 9 grades for GCSE.

I now primarily offer one-on-one tutoring, group sessions, and tailor-made programs. Whether you're aiming for academic excellence, professional language proficiency, or simply want to indulge your passion for French, my approach revolves around your comfort, unique learning style, and the joy of learning. In addition, I host interactive workshops that emphasize real-life language usage and conversational skills. I also provide customizable drama and creative writing workshops.

Teaching Experience:
Success rate of 90% in A* to B grades for A-level students and 7 to 9 grades for GCSE.

Tutoring Approach:
- A communicative approach for improved speaking and authentic
communication.

- Tailoring learning to students' interests and learning styles.

- Exploring the intercultural aspect of language learning.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Paola
Online lessons nationwide and face to face based in Aberdeen.

I am a native Italian speaker with British nationality and fluent in both English and French.

I have a long working knowledge of English, having worked for several years as a librarian in Aberdeen and for the oil & gas industry (GE and NOV) for 8 years. I also worked for RGU prior to start teaching full time.

I offer Italian, French and English tuition at all levels, from complete beginners to advanced.

I studied English language and literature with French and Italian at La Sapienza University of Rome, Italy, where I obtained my PhD.

After graduation I spent a long time working in France in Disneyland Paris. This gave me the opportunity to hone my French language skills.

I have experience teaching students of various age and nationality, both school children and adults who need to pass exams.
I have a PVG check.

Teaching Experience:
University of Aberdeen
Rosemount Community Centre, small groups - Aberdeen
University of Aberdeen language department
Tutoring agencies

Tutoring Approach:
I offer distance learning tuition via Skype for all beginners, intermediate and advanced learners.

I describe myself as enthusiastic, friendly and patient.

I am committed to delivering high quality tuition by offering tailor-made classes to suit different students' needs.

I think that a good tutor should guide the student towards the learner's goal with confidence and be able to explain clearly and in a friendly manner.

I am committed to bridge the gap between the textbooks and the demands of modern learning making the learning process fun and adaptable to each student.

Learning a new language should be fun. I am passionate about creating activities for the learners and make them feel at ease and comfortable during the class.

I have experience teaching school children and adults one-to-one, one-to-two, and small groups for different organisations across the UK such as private schools and community centres.

I offer flexible hours so my students can arrange the classes according to their needs and availability.

Learning a new language is a great opportunity to discover the culture of another country.

Cultural awareness is part of the language experience. Therefore, I love sharing the culture of my country and my knowledge of other cultures with my students.

For my teaching, I use different techniques and media. I love sharing online resources such as videos, articles and podcasts for listening activities and guided speaking exercises.

I can prepare for school and university exams, including GCSE and National 4 and 4 English, French and Italian and EFL exams.

For learners who take regular classes I can correct short written exercises.

During the first class I can assess the student's level in order to plan a suitable course tailor made to the learner's needs.

I am enthusiastic for using new technologies to add to the learning experience.

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Personal Description:
I have a BA in English Linguistics from the University of Malaga (Spain) and I am a fully qualified teacher based in a comprehensive secondary school, specialised in Spanish and French. I am very enthusiastic, friendly and approachable teacher with a fascination for Spain and the Spanish speaking world, along with other countries and languages particularly French and German. I am a native Spanish speaker. In my spare time I enjoy outdoor sports like running and walking and playing with my own children in the park.

Teaching Experience:
I'm a fully qualified teacher. I have been teaching for fourteen years in a comprehensive secondary school in England. I am currently teaching Spanish from year 7 to A level (KS3, KS4 and KS5), French from year 7 to GCSE (KS3 and KS4) and English from year 7 to GCSE. I am also an AQA and Edexcel GCSE examiner for the Spanish component but I am also very familiar with most of the exam board (AQA, Edexcel, WJEC and OCR). I have also taught IB for two years. I have conducted speaking exams and moderated written assessment for GCSE, IGCSE and A level. Therefore I have great experience with exams boards/specification.

Tutoring Approach:
I'm a very patient person and ready to help to build up student's confidence. My lessons are always planned to meet my students' needs. I always include the four skills ( listening, speaking, reading and writing) in all my lessons. I believe that practising exam techniques are the keys to achieve the best results in your exams.
For GCSE Spanish and French I focus on speaking exam practice ( role-play, picture-based and conversation questions) and writing exam practice focus on key phrases/ sophisticated vocabulary to excel the 90 and 150 words tasks.
For A level Spanish students, learn to read and analyse a literary text/film in Spanish which is challenging and rewarding. I help them get to grips with the set works and to refine their essay-writing skills for Paper 2. Loads of essay writing practice are essential part of my teaching session.

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Personal Description:
I am a very experienced English teacher, having taught the subject for 17 years to date. I am currently the Head of English at a local school. I have a B.A and an M.A in English Literature, as well as a PGCE in English teaching, so my subject knowledge is extremely advanced. I am also an A grade A Level English and GCSE English examiner, so have developed knowledge of exam criteria and working to the assessment objectives. I have taught AQA and OCR GCSE English, AQA English Literature, AQA English Language and AQA English Lang & Lit.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught English for 17 years in total, across the secondary sector and in Further Education. I have taught across all levels in Key Stages 3, 4 and 5; teaching English to years 7-9, GCSE English, Functional Skills English, A Level English Language (AS and A2), A Level English Literature (AS and A2) and A Level English Language & Literature (AS and A2). I am currently an Advanced Skills Teacher in English and an A Level English Language and GCSE English examiner. My students get good grades in their courses, with 100% pass rate (A*-C) in GCSE English and 100% pass rate (A*-C) in all A Level English courses. I have advanced knowledge and understanding of all areas within English, including: linguistics, literary analysis, creative writing, analysis of non-fiction/media texts, grammar, spelling and punctuation. I am a current GCSE English Language examiner so I have a developed understanding of the requirements of the exams.

Tutoring Approach:
I am an experienced tutor, having tutored for twelve years and I have a very good track record of success, all of my tutees have gained the grades that they needed- including 10 A grades in GCSE and 5 A grades in A Level English. I am extremely passionate about students achieving to their potential, gaining the grades that they need to succeed. I check the tutee's current level and then set targets for them, linked to their written work. I am supportive and encouraging towards my tutees and I am dedicated to their achievement and success.

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Personal Description:
I lived and worked in France from 1982 to 1985. I have always spent the summer holidays from the age of 12 living with a French family and feel equally at home in France or England. From school age I knew I wanted to travel and find new places learning the language as I went. I love to communicate and enjoy meeting people and getting to know them and want to pass on the enthusiasm I feel for all things French. I enjoy reading, music, films and French food isn't bad either.

Teaching Experience:
My initial teaching experience was with 'Le Club Francais' where I was in charge of a weekly after school club of 5 - 11 year olds. This was great fun as learning was channelled through games.
My friend's son had extra lessons after school to pass his oral French which he did with flying colours and commendation from his teacher.
A teacher from a nearby school wanted to move to France, so asked for help with pronunciation and grammar.
I have also translated a marketing leaflet for a company in Bradford and am the voice at the end of a help line for French speaking residents who wish to move house.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that enjoyment is the motivation for learning. To make sure that a lesson is visually, orally and kinaesthetically appealing to students will ensure maximum attention span and maximise learning and long term memory retention. I have quite an approachable personality and am a good listener, which is important in establishing boundaries (for both learner and teacher) and to iron out any potential problems or misunderstandings that could arise. I have a very flexible approach to tutoring because every student has a unique way of learning and therefore am always open to suggestion to improve my knowledge.

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Personal Description:
I am a native French tutor with over 20 years experience in training, coaching and lecturing.
I am currently the official tutor for Newstead Wood grammar and I also support a number of students from Bromley High school and Sevenoaks school. I have received consistent high level of positive feedback from parents and teachers alike and am passionate about teaching, ensuring my students get the highest marks and making it into a fun and rewarding experience.

Testimonials

I am currently studying A level French and I am very pleased to be able to say that my French has improved more than I ever thought it would since starting tuition with Michel. In just over one month, I have improved by two whole grades, which has been evident from mock exam results in class at school. I thoroughly enjoy my lessons with Michel because I do not feel embarrassed to ask seemingly simple questions, which I feel I cannot ask in my class at school.
E. H. - Bromley

My daughter who is doing A level French was really struggling before we found Michel. He has really motivated her and has made lessons more interesting . She has 2 hour lessons but she is surprised how quick the time goes. I would highly recommend Michel. I can see he gets pleasure helping his pupils make progress. My daughter`s accent has also greatly improved with Michel`s help.
Mrs G - Croydon

I`ve just received my results and I`m very happy to tell you that I got an A for my French I-GCSE. Thank you for all your help because it really made a difference! - G - Bromley

Hi Michel,
Thank you for your help. I got A* in my French oral! - C. Sevenoaks School

I just wanted to say thank you so much for all the sessions, they really helped me get a high grade for speaking and an overall A. Thank you so much - S - Orpington

I have enjoyed Michel`s teaching immensely. I would very much recommend Michel to other students- he`s really quite adaptable and has used some creative approaches to teaching which was really helpful for me.
Karen C. - London

Teaching Experience:
Over 20 years tutoring, coaching, including seven years classroom based training. Currently teaching all ages from beginners to advanced, city professionals including a number of GCSE and A Level students.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to use a great variety of methods, videos, conversations, audio recordings in my French lessons to speed the learning process and keep my students as entertained and engaged as possible.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am friendly, enthusiastic, patient and flexible. I am also hard-working and extremely reliable.
I enjoy working with children and adults alike!

Teaching Experience:
I am a qualified Primary School Teacher with over 10 years experience (both KS1 and KS2).
I can provide tuition/ support/ exam preparation in any primary subjects. Having a degree in English and having been Maths coordinator for a number of years, I can provide high quality tutoring in these two subjects. I am also able to provide tuition in primary Science and any other areas your child may need help with.

In addition, as a native speaker of French, I can offer language lessons tailored to any level, whether you prefer informal conversation classes or more structured sessions to practise a range of skills.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe it is essential for any learner to feel relaxed and motivated and I work hard to stimulate and inspire my students. I am particularly aware of the difficulties encountered by children with special educational needs. Whoever the student is, I am always keen to obtain feedback and suggestions on how to make the sessions more suited to their needs.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Bonjour !

I am a French native tutor with 7 years experience of teaching French to pupils of various ages and levels of expertise.

As I am back to France, I deliver now online lessons and conversations through the internet.

What you will need is very simple: a computer with Skype on it or Zoom or Google Hangout, earphones and a good Internet access.

So, if you haven't yet found your French teacher to help you with your learning or if prefer to learn in the comfort of your home and spare the travel time, please contact me!

Teaching Experience:
ADULT
2011 - now: varied experiences in one to one or two to one tuitions:
- from survival to intermediate + GCSE exam preparation, A level exam preparation.

2011 - 2016: group class in a company, Trend Controls, Horsham- A1/A2 level
2012 - 2016: group class in a company, Trend Controls, Horsham- A0 level

CHILDREN
2015-2016: Maitresse for lespuces, Horsham, Early years French Clubs
2013- 2014:
- French teacher for Year 1 (KS1), Kingslea Primary School, Horsham (Volunteering)
2012-2013:
- French teacher for Reception (Fundation), Kingslea Primary School, Horsham (Volunteering)
- Private tuition with a 4 years' boy.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that having a native teacher is a huge advantage for students of the French language wanting to perfect their pronunciation, improve fluency and knowledge of both proper and currently spoken French.

My tuition is tailor-made and flexible, according to each pupil's needs and requirements.
I ask the pupil to do homework, as there is no learning without personal work.
Depending on the level, I prefer to follow a book, for example Façon de parler 1 for absolute beginners. I of course add exercises, explanations, texts and resources to the book.


Please feel free to contact me for any enquiry: I am available for weekly lessons or for a one-off session!

Alors, à bientôt j'espère !

Subjects

Personal Description:
As far as I can remember, I've always liked learning new things and teaching and considered it as fundamental. I'm really interested in different cultures, languages and ways of thinking. I am French and I've been living in England for many years. I like meeting new people and having fun while teaching. I am a qualified teacher of languages (French, Spanish and Latin) CRB checked and am looking forward to help you progress with your languages.

Teaching Experience:
I am a French native speaker, I have been a teacher of French and Spanish for over 10 years in secondary and in primary schools. I have also privately tutored for 3 years before becoming a teacher.

I have also taught French A levels for 3 years.

I am very familiar with Edexcel and AQA exam boards at GCSE and AQA at A levels.

I have worked with the Cambridge Latin Course for Latin.

Tutoring Approach:
In my experience, I've found that students appreciate learning languages with loads of different material like music, games, films, books, videos and the internet platform in general. I think tutoring has to be interesting and entertaining as well as efficient. I try to be funny, joyful but focused at the same time. And if the tutee is motivated, then I can guarantee that we will work very well together and achieve every target set.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Susie and I deliver personal, professional one-to-one and group tuition for adults face-to-face in Stevenage & online for English, French, Spanish and Italian. I am passionate about languages and I absolutely love sharing my joy for languages with others! Whether you want to brush up on your holiday phrases, pass an exam or move abroad, I can help.

Regardless of your language level, I will coach you to reach your potential and maximise your results, while having a great time learning. As a former student of the Open University, I fully understand the challenges of studying solo and of juggling work, study and personal life. I like to think of myself as a personal trainer for languages; I will be your guide, show you how to achieve great results, but I can't do the work for you. You get out what you put in; setting aside time to study or incorporating your learning into your daily life will be just as important as your lessons.

I offer the first 1-hour lesson completely free of charge and obligation. This time will allow us to get to know each other, discover your current level or start from scratch if we need to, as well as create a learning plan tailored to your skillset and interests.
Lesson plans can be adapted for Specific Learning Differences, neurodivergence or personal preferences; you can have confidence that I am never, ever going to laugh or be disappointed in your level. Everyone is welcome here.

My experience has taught me that confidence is by far the biggest obstacle on the road to learning a language, not aptitude, as you may think or may have been told in the past. I will be there to support you every step of the way on the journey, so you can stop worrying right now about not being good enough. Stop comparing yourself to others; you are unique and the only thing you need to focus on is your own journey.

I have a wealth of experience in exam preparation, in particular for IELTS & Cambridge FCE & CAE exams for English and GCSE & A-level for French & Spanish. Most of my sessions over the years have been delivering tuition to one or two students at a time, however I have run sessions for groups of up to 15 adults. Included within the price, you will receive exclusive access to all of our online teaching materials - accessible during your lessons and 24/7 for self-study to support your learning. I am a full-time tutor, so I offer very flexible hours for my tutoring services and I always endeavour to reply to all enquiries/ correspondence as soon as possible. I work as an independent tutor, as I like to guarantee you consistency, reliability and commitment to you.


Subjects taught:

- French & Spanish: KS3, GCSE, iGCSE, A-level (Spanish only) and adult tuition (beginner & intermediate).
- English as a Second Language (ESL/ ESOL students): All levels, including preparation for the following exams: Cambridge FCE, CAE, PET, IELTS General Training and Academic, PTE academic and ESOL access exams levels 1-3.

Since 2020, I have been teaching beginner Italian. I have a competent level of Italian, including a strong understanding of the grammar, which I use with my Italian friends and when travelling in Italy. If you are looking for beginner Italian for personal interest, conversation, casual use and travel, I can definitely help. I do not have any official qualifications in Italian, however my background in romance languages (Italian is a Latin-based language which, broadly speaking, I find to have a very similar vocabulary to Spanish with the grammar of French!) and my methodical nature means I would ensure that every lesson is thoroughly planned and carefully checked; I would never teach you anything I am unsure of, as this can be greatly detrimental. I am not available to help with exam preparation for Italian or to teach more advanced levels. My lack of qualifications in this subject and the fact that I am not fluent are the reasons that Italian lessons are offered at a lower rate per hour than my other subjects.

Teaching Experience:
My qualifications:
Open University (2013) - 1st Class BA (Hons) Modern Language Studies
Open University (2012) - Diploma in French (Other)
Open University (2012) - Diploma in Spanish (Other)
150-hour TEFL/ ESL master course, accredited by ACTDEC
Understanding IELTS, British Council (6-week course)
Understanding language, University of Southampton (4-week course)
Cultural studies & modern languages, University of Bristol (4-week course)
Dyslexia & foreign language teaching, Lancaster University (4-week course)

Tutoring Approach:
What you can expect:
Your first 1-hour trial lesson completely free (although there is a fee to pay to UK Tutors, which we can discuss in your enquiry)
A flexible approach & lessons tailored to suit you.
A specialist in young adult and adult pedagogy.
Flexible tutoring, Monday-Thursday 9am-9pm, Friday 9am-3pm.
Responses to all correspondence within 24 hours (working hours, otherwise next working day).
Development of all key language skills - reading, listening, speaking & writing.
Follow my recommended course or cherry-pick the topics you wish to cover for specific purposes.
Gain confidence with conversation for real-life essential situations, not just in a text book
Exam preparation and study tips.
Discover the culture surrounding your chosen language too; music, film, festivals, celebrations & traditions.
Learn modern colloquialisms, idioms and sayings that will impress the natives
Exclusive access to all of my online teaching materials, accessible in class and at home for self-study.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have been tutoring on a full-time basis for over 20 years, including teaching abroad as part of my degree at Cambridge University. Over this time, I have taught pupils across the whole range of ages and abilities. I offer professional, qualified, friendly tuition in English, maths and foreign languages, always tailored to meet each individual student's needs. Travelling is not a problem, and is included within the fee quoted.

Teaching Experience:
Please see above

Tutoring Approach:
Please see above

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have over thirty years experience of teaching Latin, English, French and essay-writing skills, both in schools and as a private tutor. I specialise in helping students write their Personal Statements when applying to university or to postgraduate courses.

I am the mother of five grown up children, three of whom went to Cambridge, one to KCL and one to Oxford, and I have also guided many other students into achieving offers from top universities, including many to Oxbridge.

After graduating from Cambridge with a degree in English and Classics, I taught for 2 years before going to Drama school, then moved to Granada TV as a researcher and presenter. The next 14 years were spent working for various TV companies, while also writing for national newspapers and magazines.

In 1992, I moved with my family to Salisbury and went back to teaching, first in a college of Further Education, then at a prep school, and subsequently in independent schools: nine years at St Mary's Calne from which I retired in 2015. I was then invited to , come out of retirement to teach at St Swithun's in Winchester and The Oratory School Oxford.

I no longer teach in the classroom, but continue to offer tutoring in Latin, English, French and Writing Skills. A particular speciality is Personal Statements - helping students with their applications to university. I have helped very many students (both pre-university and postgraduates) write successful personal statements for their chosen courses.

As well as the academic subjects mentioned above, I help with any writing task from an A level or IB essay (especially Theory of Knowledge) to university theses and dissertations. I specialise in Oxbridge help, including suggestions for reading, preparation for entrance tests and interview practice. So far I have helped over 20 students gain places at Oxbridge.

Teaching Experience:
Personal statements

I have helped very many students write their personal statements for application to university - both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. This does NOT mean writing the statement for the student - I do not have the breadth of knowledge to write about Astrophysics or Zoology, but it does mean helping the student clarify his or her thoughts, explain what has prompted the interest in the subject, how he or she has developed this interest, what extra-curricular choices have been made, and why, and how current A levels (or degree subjects) have prepared the student for this application.
For many students, the Personal Statement is the first time they have have to talk about themselves, and for many, it is bewildering knowing how to approach it and what to include and what to leave out.

I help the student by asking him/her to fill in a preliminary questionnaire, (Why this subject? What sparked the interest? Why it's important for the student and for society etc). Next, I ask for a first draft - it doesn't matter how bad or poorly expressed this is. Then, I work with the student - either at home or by Skype/Zoom, talking through the first draft and suggesting adjustments, improvements etc. Next the student writes a second draft, and the process continues until the students is totally happy that the statement says exactly what was intended, and show the student at his/her best.
I have many testimonials from happy students (including over twenty five to Oxbridge) which I would be happy to share on request.

Latin
I teach Latin at Latin Common Entrance, GCSE, A level, and university level. The great majority of my students achieve 9s at GCSE, and As and A*s at A level. Many have gone on to read Classics at university.

English
I teach English literature and language - both critical analysis of texts and and writing skills - from GCSE to university level and beyond. Many students whom I have helped with A level essays have come back to me for help with their university dissertations, applications for Masters, or covering letters for postgraduate job applications.

Essay writing
As well as helping with A level essays in all the humanities (RS, Philosophy, Psychology, History etc) I am an experienced tutor for IB Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essays. I have also advised and guided many students with their EPQs.

French
I teach French to A level and

I teach Classical Greek to GCSE.

Tutoring Approach:
1. My first priority is to let the student know that they are not alone - I am here to help. Just being told this can be immediately reassuring, especially if the student has been worrying for about a subject or project for a long time.

2. The next step is to establish exactly how much the student already knows. Nothing surprises or shocks me, but I have come across students seeking help who haven't got a copy of the relevant book or haven't read beyond the title page. I understand this - life is busy.So I am never critical or judgmental, I am always on the student's side. If necessary, I will provide a copy (years of teaching and a large family mean I usually have several).

3. The next step is to encourage the student into thinking of the subject as interesting. This may mean overcoming any resistance, by chatting, discovering how much they already know (always more than they think - another source of encouragement) and relating it to other areas of interest. One ideas have started to flow the student will begin to realise that not only might this subject/essay not be as bad as feared, it's possible they might find something enjoyable about it.

4. Now we look at the project and ways of approaching it. The key here is structure. Quite often the student's lack of confidence has led to panic and accompanying lack of organisation. So I help sort out files, help put notes in order, and encourage the student recognise which bits of paper are/aren't relevant to their work. This is mental housekeeping - and once order has been established, the student is in a better frame of mind for doing the work.

5. The next step varies according the to the subject.

LATIN.
I ask the student translate until he meets a problem. I then explain the topic- taking care to base it only on what the student already knows and feels confident about. If there are big gaps in knowledge, I start filling them, teaching vocabulary, grammar and syntax in an orderly way and asking the student to record what we have covered in his own written file.We then continue the translation, making sure the student has understood everything we have covered so far. This process is designed to lift the fog and give the student the tools needed to translate confidently

WRITING.
If it's an essay, I encourage the student to look at the title and think about (a) what is it really asking and (b) what ideas can he or she think of in response? These can be written down in any order - at this stage it's a question of getting the thought processes going.
We then discuss how to organise the student's thoughts into a coherent whole. This can be painstaking process - it involves teaching essay structure, and and sometimes even working backwards - going from conclusion back to introduction - but we always finish by knowing exactly what direction the essay is taking.
The final step is to ask the student to write something for next time. It doesn't matter if it's short or badly-expressed, and I always make it relevant to school work. The reason I ask for a piece of writing is
a) the act of writing enables a student to know what he/she wants to say
(b) seeing a student's writing shows me how to approach the next lesson. I can see what element of the writing need work, and plan my lesson accordingly.

OTHER IDEAS FOR READING ETC
I often recommend extra-curricular ideas to make the subject more engaging - films, YouTube extracts, magazines, even books - the student doesn't have to read a whole book - even dipping in and out is helpful and there is nothing more deadening to the love of books than being told you HAVE to read them.

STUDENTS WHO ARE STRUGGLING.
. I do not only help academic high-flyers. I am also offer warm and sympathetic help to students who - for whatever reason - find academic study challenging. I help develop study skills, suggest organisational strategies (for student and parent) and above all, restore lost confidence by showing the student that he really can tackle - and overcome - any problem - just by taking it slowly and making sure he or she understands each step before going on to the next.

WELCOME TO MY HOUSE.
, I'm a great believer in the comforting powers of a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit, as well as the presence of my 2 cats (who, despite being to every lesson I've given, are still rubbish at Latin). For allergic pupils, however, the cats are banished to the garden.

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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.

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Personal Description:
I am a semi-retired teacher and am a very passionate and experienced teacher. I am a keen sportswoman and musician. I have three adult children.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 25 years of teaching in Secondary schools and since 2019 I have been teaching adults and GCSE and A level French and German. My group of GCSE German students and my A level German students achieved outstanding results in 2023.I also teach private students at highly regarded English independent schools.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is always student-centred and I use innovative methods of teaching to promote and support learning. I encourage students to be active participants in their own learning and support with developing transferable skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking and reflective thinking. I have also worked with several students who have needed extra help and reassurance due to having anxiety issues and with my support, my students are able to take control of their learning and achieve the success they deserve.

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Personal Description:
I am a dedicated and approachable Law and French undergraduate at the University of Bristol with a strong academic track record and extensive leadership experience. I have honed my teaching and mentoring skills through roles such as Vice President of the Debating Society, where I led workshops for younger students. My commitment to clear communication and ability to adapt my approach to different learning styles make me an effective tutor. Additionally, my experience as a volunteer during my year abroad demonstrates my ability to collaborate and provide support in diverse settings. I am eager to bring my enthusiasm and expertise to support students in achieving their academic goals.

Teaching Experience:
During my time at Downe House, I gained valuable teaching and mentoring experience through various leadership roles. As Vice President of the Debating Society, I led junior debating workshops, teaching younger students the fundamentals of argumentation, public speaking, and critical thinking. This role required me to tailor my mentoring approach to suit different skill levels and encourage confidence in their abilities. Furthermore, I've previously tutored students at a GCSE level.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is student-centered and tailored to individual learning styles, ensuring that each session is engaging, interactive, and productive. I believe in creating a supportive and encouraging environment where students feel confident to ask questions and express their ideas. Drawing on my mentoring experience, I focus on breaking down complex concepts into manageable steps, using real-life examples to enhance understanding and retention. I emphasize active learning through discussions, problem-solving, and personalized feedback to help students build their skills and confidence. My goal is not only to assist with immediate academic challenges but also to foster independent learning habits that empower students to succeed beyond our sessions.

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Personal Description:
Native French speaker based in London who genuinely enjoys helping people I split my time between my coaching practice and tutoring, and both come down to the same thing: helping people feel more confident in what they're doing.

Teaching Experience:
I've tutored French for several years, working with adults needing workplace fluency and students preparing for exams. I recently helped a Chinese professional in Paris refine his business French - emails, reports, and presentations with noticeable results that impressed his colleagues and his management.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor every session to what you actually need. Whether it's exam prep, conversational confidence, or polishing your professional French, we'll focus on practical progress. As a stress management coach, I know how to keep things relaxed and judgment-free whilst staying focused on results

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