Barnard Castle French Tutors and Barnard Castle French Tuition

Personal Description:
Confidence is often the stumbling block for learners, and I always encourage all of my students to feel an early sense of achievement. Enabling students to see real progress quickly is essential to the building of self-esteem. I am very approachable and my style of teaching is relaxed and friendly. I love my job and hope that my own enthusiasm inspires my students to excel. Recently I have added French to my repertoire, for absolute beginners. I am sure French will be as popular and exciting as English and Maths have been.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a teacher since 1976. I have taught all age groups, from nursery to A Level. Teaching is a wonderful and totally satisfying vocation. I moved across to tutoring as I felt I could offer all of my experience in this role. Being a teacher is definitely something I was born to do, and I love it.

Tutoring Approach:
Students can learn by either visiting my home or at a distance using Skype. Every student is assessed as an individual and the content of their course tailored to their needs. I test my students periodically to ensure progress is going smoothly; also testing is a good way for students to observe their own progress. We use a variety of materials: books for writing and reading in English, and for revision in Maths; the computer for visual skills and games, listening and speaking is a major part of the programme for EFL students. Children learn in different ways, and I like to offer my students visual, auditory and kinetic tools, we can see which is most comfortable for the individual. The speed of learning is not as important as the confidence of the individual and their inspiration and motivation to progress.

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Personal Description:
I am a Qualified teacher of Foreign Languages (Greek / French) from Greece. I have studied French Literature and Language (University of Athens) and I hold a Masters degree in Applied Translation Studies (Leeds University). I have also studied Tourism Management and Marketing and Cultural Heritage.

Teaching Experience:
I have more than 15 years of teaching experience as a Greek, French and English teacher at schools and private lessons. I am currently teaching Greek and French as a Foreign Language to adults and children at schools and privately, online and in person.

Tutoring Approach:
Communicative approach. Interactive tutoring / student-centralized (based on every learner's needs). Easy and fast learning of the language with lots of teaching material for the students to keep. Skype and Zoom lessons too.

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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.

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Personal Description:
I am a native French speaker and I recently graduated in Mechanical Engineering. I have always been passionate about Maths and Physics. I like to share my passion with people, especially those whom I can help, and make these subjects accessible to all. I also love promoting my language in as many ways as I can.
I understand that it is very important to tailor learning to individual needs and I adapt myself to any situation.

Teaching Experience:
I have been giving casual tuition at secondary school level as well as University level to friends and family. I also explained Maths and Mechanics to university fellow students and friends when they needed help to understand topics I had mastered.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is to find interesting ways to explain when the student is confronted to a problem he cannot solve. I make a point of leading my students to their goal while setting good working standards. I like to transmit my dedication to my pupils.

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Personal Description:
I am a native French speaker, born and educated in Paris, but I have been living in England for over 30 years and married an Englishman. I graduated from the Sorbonne University with a view to teaching English there but when I came to England as a French assistante. A year later, having completed my Master's degree I cam back to settle in England and soon qualified as a French teacher. I have been working in that capacity until 2012 when I retired from full-time teaching to dedicated myself to private tuition. I am thus very experienced at all levels consider myself an extremely dedicated teacher, eager to see the students progress and enjoy learning about French culture at the same time as they improve their command of the language. I believe that the most efficient way of learning other than total immersion is the one to one approach which has often allowed me to enable the students willing to invest the extra time to progress exponentially, get motivated and achieve their potential.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught French and English to adults (managerial staff and trainees) in the private sector, in small groups and individually.
Subsequently, I have taught French from KS3 to KS5, full-time on permanent contracts for nearly 30 years in total. At the same time I have tutored my own son to passing his French G.C.S.E. with the top mark in the country, and his French A Level with flying colours. As a result he is now reading French at Oxford University and he continues to call on my expertise whenever needed. A few years ago, one of my A Level students whom I tutored privately obtained the top marks in the country in every module of the Edexcel exam. I am extremely experienced in coaching students to success in their G.C.S.E. and A Level French exams and the overwhelming majority of my students systematically achieved their potential or better. For over 10 years I took on virtually all the A Level French teaching at my last school and have always acted as teacher-examiner for both G.C.S.E. and A Level. This year 2017 all the students I prepared for Oxbridge achieved the grade required to fulfil their conditional offer.

Tutoring Approach:
First, I assess what each student is aiming to gain from the private tuition, whether it be coaching for written and/or oral examinations, building confidence in communicating within a given context, improving pronunciation,mastering the finer points of grammar, studying French literature etc. I also quickly evaluate the level and ability of individual student through gentle probing and questioning. I go on to prepare an appropriate programme of study and gather material such as PowerPoint presentations, tailor made practice exercises, Past Papers, relevant websites, use visual and aural aids to add interest. I set homework and can give feedback on line between lessons to maximise efficiency of personal contact time. Basically it all depends on what the student wishes to achieve.Because I know the subject so well I can be extremely flexible and can instantly fine tune my approach according to the need of my student at any given moment. Thanks to my long experience I have become extremely responsive to the all-important feedback

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Personal Description:
I have an LLB in English and a diplome in French law. I have worked in 2 different Swiss banks as a lawyer, in Geneva and in London before starting a family. I currently work as a French and Spanish teacher at a local private school in Esher and I also teach French, Italian and Portuguese to adults and children in their homes. For the last 8 years I have helped children of all ages improve their maths and english work.
I speak 5 languages; English, French, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese.

I have an Italian father and a Brasilian mother who has lived in France for more then 20 years.

Seeing my nephews and own kids grow up with 2 different languages has given me the opportunity to help them with their english and with any other subject they have fallen behind in due to the language barrier.

Teaching Experience:
I have key stages 1,2 and 3 teaching experience in all subjects.

I currently teach French and Spanish at a local private school in Esher and I also tutor English, maths, French and Portuguese to adults and children in their homes. I have been tutoring for 10 years now.

Being multilingual and raising bilingual kids, I feel it is important to teach children from an early age the basics in maths and english in a fun and structured way either in their mother tongue language or in english, depending on the preference of the parents.

Tutoring Approach:
I like teaching younger children in a fun and structured way, so I use a variety of props, music, colourful stories and scenarios, all this to keep them interested and entertained.

Older children and adults I teach in a structured and varied way where my aim is for them to learn and absorb the passion I have for the subject. Each have their own lesson plan and I check their development through quizzes and tests.

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Personal Description:
I am a french native speaker, teaching french. I am a very enthusiastic person who love contact with people and I enjoy teaching my language to others. I also speak Spanish.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching for 21 years in an independent school and I am also a Team Leader and examiner for Edexcel Pearson and AQA exam boards. I am checking , marking and assessing exams at GCSE level and I teach at all levels. As well as teaching my classes on site, I do teach my lessons via video conferencing using zoom, Skype or Teams, the delivery of the lessons online are as good as being in a classroom. Virtual classes are fun and are an easy way to learn from home.

Tutoring Approach:
Very calm and smooth approach with lots of speaking, listening, writing and reading activities to enable students to develop their skills. I also work on the grammar and the verbs which are a huge part of the learning, all students can learn according to their own abilities and develop at their own pace. Grade guaranty.

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Personal Description:
I am a female primary school teacher in the Doncaster/Wakefield area. Aside from my enthusiasm for teaching and helping children to achieve, I am interested in academic areas including sociology and languages. I enjoy travel and reading. I have worked voluntarily as a teaching assistant and completed a degree in Sociology before training to be a teacher. I have also recently (September 2019) completed a Master's in Social History. I now work as a supply teacher in primary and SEN schools and as a personal tutor to primary and secondary level children up to year 9. I hold an enhanced DBS check dated September 2015.

Teaching Experience:
I am a qualified primary school teacher who has taught classes of all ages at primary level. I also regularly work with secondary SEN students who are not in mainstream education. As a supply teacher, I have worked in many different schools and, as such, I develop positive relationships very quickly with both children and adults. I enjoy working with individuals and small groups in academic tasks and find that children are very responsive to this lower teacher-pupil ratio. I have found that working in these situations really helps to boost children's concentration and confidence in their work. They also feel more comfortable to ask questions in areas they find difficult. When tutoring, I am to create a positive, friendly and professional relationship where children feel comfortable with what they are learning, but also feel they can ask for help when required.

Tutoring Approach:
I recognise that children learn in many different ways - some by seeing and visualising, some by talking and discussing, and some by doing a physical or mental activity. I aim to tutor children using the learning style that best suits them. In a classroom, it is often difficult to meet the needs of every child. Personal tuition provides children with valuable one-to-one time, where the focus is on them and them alone. I believe that personal tuition does much to increase achievement in those weaker areas, but also serves to challenge and develop knowledge in stronger areas. Following an initial consultation, I provide personalised programmes of study tailored exactly to meet the needs of the child involved. I am passionate about helping children to reach their full potential and will do all I can to make this happen. Sessions take place in the child's own home and are arranged on a flexible basis with parent or guardian. I am able to provide tuition from 1 hour per week to more intensive programmes consisting of several hours per week in the school holidays.

I currently have slots available on weekday evenings. Please note, I do not usually tutor on Saturdays or Sundays.

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Personal Description:
My journey to teaching was a natural progression from my passion for languages. For me, language teaching is synonymous with cultural exchange: by fostering an interest in language, I stimulate inter cultural awareness and empathy for others.
I am fascinated by the way in which children develop, as well as the challenges that arise when working alongside children and families. I am a qualified teacher. The PGCE Post-Compulsory Education and Training course I studied allowed me to gain work experience in secondary school and college. I have gained an understanding of the variety of ways in which adults work with children, such as placing more emphasis innovative curricular and raising achievement. In addition, I have an excellent understanding of the range of teaching and learning strategies.
The course also helped me to improve schemes of work, lesson plans and related resources. I have a good understanding of English and Mathematics. I have completed G.C.S.E.'s and "A" levels in Maths and English in Spain.
I believe that I have an open personality with other people. Moreover, I am easy to get along with. This helps me as a teacher to quickly develop a trusting relationship with people.
I am a gentle, loving and caring person and this helps me to be aware of children's and families' needs and be more responsive and empathetic towards them of faith and faith based in education. I am also multi-lingual. Spanish is my first language; I am fluent in English and I speak French.

Teaching Experience:
Spanish Teacher

In my role I had to make sure that I delivered my teaching to specific objectives, to deliver the best learning to the pupils. I identified clear teaching objectives and then set challenging, diverse expectations delivering individual teaching to the different levels of ability in the class, whether this being SEN pupils or very able pupils.
I used a variety of teaching methods to match appropriate content and information, using a different strategies and planned interventions, as well as first hand experience. At the end of each class I reviewed the content with the class to make sure that they had full understanding and the objectives of the lessons were met. This gives me the ability to monitor the strengths and weaknesses of each pupil so I can plan future lessons.

Spanish teacher

My role was involved in planning and delivering schemes of work and lessons that meet the requirements of the KS3, 4 and 5 in addition I was a sixth form tutor and I helped the students who want to apply to university or find an apprenticeship . At the same time, I showed care and concern for students by talking to one to one every week with tutor group.
I also set homework of a meaningful and appropriate nature, having regard to students' abilities. I assessed and monitored students' progress, maintained records and reported on the development, progress and attainment of students in accordance with school and curriculum area policy. While I took reasonable steps to maintain good order and discipline among students monitor their attendance and safeguard their health and safety, both when they are authorised to be on school premises and when they are engaged in authorised school activities elsewhere.

Tutoring Approach:
Approaches for early years and primary

Initiative: Children demonstrate initiative as they explore their world.
Planning: Children make plans and follow through on their intentions.
Engagement: Children focus on activities that interest them.
Problem solving: Children solve problems encountered in play.
Use of resources: Children gather information and formulate ideas about their world.
Reflection: Children reflect on their experiences.

Learning a foreign language is a process that implies some mimicking, language awareness, practice on comprehension, expression and also creativity. Some studies claim that the way we store languages in our brains is similar to that of data storing in a computer, but, of course, much more human, organic and alive. Languages have different components that need to be acquired and "stored" so that we can start feeling confident and creative in using them.

On the other hand, languages are a set of sounds, words (vocabulary), rules (grammar), expressions and even non-verbal language that are acquired both consciously and unconsciously. Conscious learning is a process in which I am extremely interested because it feels as if we are actually helping our minds to store the data so they can be available for us to use. This can be called monitored learning or instruction and it is an important part of the teaching activity: basically providing the tools for the learner to feel comfortable, confident and free using them.

I love grammar and language diversity and I always try to convey that passion to my students, since all sounds, words and structures have an origin and a history, they are also alive and that is what makes languages such wonderful tools for communication among very different people.

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Personal Description:
I was born in the Dominican Republic and my family moved to the USA as a young teen where I finished my High School and university education.
I have lived in many different places like Florida, Jamaica, Curacao, Suriname and now London.
I absolutely love to teach languages. It brings me great satisfaction to help my students learn to communicate in the language of their choice.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught EFL and Spanish for 12 years 1:1 and in groups at a corporate level. I have also taught High School Spanish and French in USA. I have tutored students in Spanish, English and French at all levels, for A levels, GCSE, business or pleasure with great success.

Tutoring Approach:
A teacher should be able to make his lessons dynamic and interactive, always engaging the student and learning about their learning style. In a group setting it is important to differentiate and in 1:1 lessons it is vital to tailor the lessons according to the needs of the student.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Penny and I'm glad you've stopped by!

I'm an encouraging, patient tutor helping unsure or low-confidence learners build skills at a steady pace. My lessons are collaborative, warm, supportive, and low-pressure - ideal if you want reassurance and extra encouragement to cheer you on, and if you value human rapport over fast-paced drills and strict targets.

GCSE:

With my experience as Head of Languages at a secondary school, I'm well-placed to help students with French and German GCSEs, focusing on the essential skills and success criteria - whether you want to grow in confidence or receive clear guidance on working towards higher grades, all without the pressure.

PRIMARY:

I bring learning to life with interactive, hands-on activities, using a fun and dynamic online platform that goes beyond the typical learning tools. With digital infographics, quizzes, games, puzzles, videos, storybooks, and role-play, students have an engaging and immersive learning experience.

ADULTS:

I help learners progress from absolute beginner to intermediate level (CEFR A1-B1). I focus on learners **up to B1**, to gently build confidence with the foundational essentials - whether handling chats in shops, restaurants or at work. B1 is a great milestone and you'll be able to handle most everyday interactions with ease.

I'm best suited to learners who are open to practical, thoughtful ways of learning, using simple strategies and small daily habits to build confidence and overcome anxiety - making language learning efficient and enjoyable for those who appreciate guidance and insight.

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I offer French, German and Italian lessons, with flexible pricing from £36 to £60 per hour, tailored to suit your needs. 30 and 45-minute lessons also available.

Having also lived in France, Germany and Italy, I bring a global perspective to tailor lessons to different learning styles and cultural contexts. Speaking four languages (French, German, Italian and English) while learning three more (Swedish, Polish and Arabic), I know how rewarding, but scary, language learning can feel. I therefore focus on helping learners feel comfortable and encouraged every step of the way, without the pressure.

With the right support and steady practice, you'll be surprised how quickly you can reach your goals.

Teaching Experience:
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

- Qualified Modern Languages Teacher & Head of Modern Languages (PGCE secondary French & German)
- 12 years' languages teacher and tutor experience
- GCSE exam preparation for AQA & Edexcel
- BA in European Languages (French, German & Italian)
- TEFL with Distinction
- Fully DBS checked
- Excellent track record - More information can be found on my website

Tutoring Approach:
OUR NEXT STEPS:

Recognising that each learner is unique, we begin with a setup session (20-60 minutes, £20) to discuss your needs. This is an opportunity to see if we're a good fit before moving forward with lessons.


Step 1 - Your Goal Setup Session (20-60 minutes, £20) - Required.


Step 2 - Lessons.

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For companies seeking staff language training, progress reports are available upon request.

Take the first step and get in touch. I'm excited to help you achieve your language goals :)

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Some wonderful words from my students and their parents:

"I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone thinking of booking sessions with Penny to do it and do it now! As a trained actor, I came to Penny with a very unique request. Having very little knowledge of speaking German…. within a week we had a monologue translated, memorised and ready to present to an audition panel. Not only did Penny help me reach my goals but she gave me the upmost confidence to get there. I'm certain I would not have got there if it was not for Penny's support and extra efforts to help me achieve them. Not only that, but her teaching has most definitely inspired me to continue with my language learning. I would 100% recommend working with Penny. Don't hesitate - she is one of the best!!" Adult learner.

"Penelope has been very professional, organised and engaging . My son enjoys his lessons and has started to develop interest in German within first few lessons". - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Miss Penelope is a wonderful teacher. From the very first day she motivated my son to study French more. She is very punctual and professional. Just after one month my son's French has improved significantly. Exactly what I wanted." - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Penny is an excellent communicator and teacher. She is very supportive and is always enthusiastic. We are very pleased how well she is able to explain aspects of the German language and is always engaging. We are very happy to recommend her." - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Penelope is a professional German tutor; she tailors the teaching material so that it fits the student's needs. I had German lessons with her for over three months now and I feel my language skills have improved significantly. I also add that She has a nice personality and her classes are really enjoyable. I definitely recommend Penelope to people seeking to improve their language skills in a structured manner!" - Adult learner.

"Lovely tutor. She makes my daughter relax and actually enjoy learning German / French. I highly recommend her." - Parent of a Year 9 student.

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Personal Description:
My name is Clarissa, i am 24 years old and currently working part time as a French tutor whilst setting up my business with the other half of my time. I am half French, fully bilingual, and have tutored both GCSE and A level students since I graduated to help pass their exams with flying colours! I have studied French to degree level from the University of Sheffield completing the four year course and coming out with a 2.1 honours degree. Having previously completed both A* in GCSE French and an A in A levels, I am now looking to help tutor those struggling with GCSE and A levels around Reigate, Redhill, Merstham, area etc. Please do message me if you are interested.
Price can be negotiated and is dependant on location so just message and let me know.

Teaching Experience:
Taught multiple students from beginner to GCSE to adult level. Helped achieve all goals set out at the beginning of the first lesson together.

Tutoring Approach:
Friendly but motivated, and hopefully good fun!

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Personal Description:
Bonjour, Hola, Hello,

*** I have a teaching degree from the French Alliance (DAEFLE) **
My name is Amandine and I am an experienced certified French and Spanish Teacher with over 8 years experience teaching privately students from different backgrounds and countries, including the USA, Australia, South America and Ireland.

I have studied French Literature and have completed a Bachelor in Translation at the University of Bordeaux (English/Spanish and French). I have also completed a degree in teaching French as Foreign Language.

I am passionate by my language, country and culture and I love to share it with my students during my classes through grammar, conversation, writing, videos, informal classes at the museum etc. I use different supports (books, videos, plays, writing) to make you learn meanwhile enjoying the process.

I come from the South of France, nearby the border with Spain and have studied Spanish from a very young age, I have also lived in Spain and travelled in South America. Therefore I will be happy to help you with your prononciation, grammar, essays.

I make my classes fun, interactive and well structured to help you reach your learning goals. Together before we start the class we decide whether you want to focus on improving your written skills, want to improve your practice or want to mix both. I always mix in my classes grammar and vocabulary and often have themed-classes that will make you learn faster and enjoy the learning process.

I teach all ages and levels and I can help you with any French exams (DELF, DALF, GCSE, A-level).
Exam preparation for DELF & DALF, GCSE, business French (interviews, presentation skills, negotiations, etc.) as well as general French conversation.

If you need any help with your French or Spanish please let me know and I will be delighted to help you.

A bientot, Amandine

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced French and Spanish Teacher with over 8 years experience teaching privately students from different backgrounds and countries, including the USA, Australia, South America and Ireland.

I have a degree in teaching from the Alliance Francaise.

Tutoring Approach:
I make my classes fun, interactive and well structured to help you reach your learning goals. Together before we start the class we decide whether you want to focus on improving your written skills, want to improve your practice or want to mix both. I always mix in my classes grammar and vocabulary and often have themed-classes that will make you learn faster and enjoy the learning process.

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Personal Description:
A 32-year-old French native from Normandy, I've been living in Manchester for seven years. Prior to that, I worked as a qualified English teacher in France until I decided to move back to Manchester, where I now work as an English-to-French literary and specialised translator.

I've been passionate about languages from a very early age, taking relish in studying and comparing the idiosyncrasies of French and English - from idioms to slang to past participle agreement! Training in translation and working as a translator has made me an expert linguist with a thorough knowledge of the intricacies of the French language and a perfect command of French grammar and spelling.

Teaching Experience:
My language teaching experience includes:
- 2 years working as a qualified English teacher in French secondary schools
- 2 years working as a French Language Assistant near Manchester (including Stockport Grammar School, where I tutored AS- and A-Level students)
- 9 years working as an English teacher (with French students) during two-week language summer courses in England (University of Essex, University of Cambridge, Devon)

I have also taught and run workshops in various other contexts (drama workshops, translation workshops and conferences, reading competitions in primary schools, etc.). My diverse experience not only means I'm comfortable teaching learners of any age but it has also made me an adaptable teacher who's aware that everyone has a different way of learning.

My qualifications:
- Master of Arts in translation (English-to-French/French-to-English), with distinction (University of Salford, 2012)
- CAPES (equivalent to PGCE) in English
- Bachelor of Arts in English (University of Rouen, France)

My translation portfolio includes work for Parisian publishers (novels and essays) as well as for English and French translation agencies alike. Most recently I have translated a number of psychological thrillers such as Michelle Frances' The Girlfriend and The Temp. Recent clients include Air France, Deliveroo, Estée Lauder, Ipsos, Porsche, Kedge Business School, Pernod Ricard, Sony, Swarovski, Uniqlo, Universal, etc.

Tutoring Approach:
I happily offer private or 2-to-1 French conversation sessions to learners with prior knowledge of French (B2/near-B2 level or higher). These can be:
- Casual learners (adults) with a penchant for French and French culture who are willing to broaden their vocabulary range, hone their grammar skills and further improve their fluency
- University students willing to achieve greater fluency, further hone their language skills and/or prepare for their oral exams
- A-Level students willing to prepare for their oral exams (based on a list of themes studied and/or on the topic chosen by the student for his/her individual research project)

Conversation sessions can be mostly informal and primarily aimed at helping you achieve greater fluency. However, should you require it, I'm also happy to tackle grammar points and help you regularly expand your vocabulary range through exercises and systematic revision of the new words/phrases taught.

The first session (45 min) is free so that we can make sure we get along and everything runs smoothly. It will also serve to define precisely what your expectations are so as to ensure every session is tailored to your needs.

Depending on your preference, sessions can be:
- run entirely in French: any grammar points/unknown vocabulary will be explained/paraphrased in French
or
- run predominantly in French, with grammar points being explained in English/unknown vocabulary being translated into English when necessary.

Sessions can take place in a cosy café in Manchester city centre, at Manchester Central Library or at your place if you live in Manchester city centre.

I'm available mostly in the evenings and at weekends; however don't hesitate to let me know about your preferred times as I'm pretty flexible.

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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 am married with two sons aged 22 and 21. I completed a Languages in Business Degree in 1991 (German and French). I enjoy travelling, cinema, gym and hiking and spending time with family and friends

Teaching Experience:
I am a professional tutor having been tutoring since 2013. I tutor both children and adults in German and French from beginners, GCSE and A level and beyond. I am also a TEFL qualified ESL teacher willing to teach Young Learners, General English and Business English.

Tutoring Approach:
I work on a 1;1 basis at my home with pupils and believe it essential to have a patient and calm attitude with the pupils. It is essential to make the lessons enjoyable and to engage the pupils fully. We cover grammar and all topics related to the syllabus and also practice listening/reading comprehensions, translations, describing photos and general conversation. However, currently I tutor via the Zoom platform and will be doing so for the foreseeable future until the Covid pandemic is over.

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Personal Description:
I am a friendly, passionate and enthusiastic French Tutor. I like to assess each client's individual needs and then tailor the sessions to achieve them. I like to make the learning interactive and fun and I am a very patient tutor.

Teaching Experience:
I have successfully tutored French for the past 16 years. I have extensive experience with students looking to improve their GCSE and A Level grades, adult learners either seeking to gain conversational French or who require a deeper understanding of the language and primary age children who are learning French for the first time.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to assess each individual client's needs and tailor the learning to achieve their goals. I use a variety of learning material and I like to positively encourage clients in their lesson in order to improve their confidence and understanding. Additionally I always have a calm approach to my lessons, so that clients can maximise their learning, without feeling under pressure. I also like the sessions to be fun.

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Personal Description:
First-class graduate of the University of Cambridge, I have tutored professionally since January 2023 and have worked in secondary schools in the UK between March 2017 and July 2018 full-time, working supply between February 2023 and July 2024.

I have tutored 4 students thus far, from Year 10 or 11 until their GCSE exams. My students have had great successes: my first student climbed 2 and 3 grades in their English GCSEs, passing them and allowing them to move on to sixth form without resits; another student achieved 8s in both English GCSEs, way higher than expected, and climbed grades over time in Maths; whilst another student also passed GCSE English Literature first time, with a Grade 4, well above his initial starting grade when we began tutoring.

My secondary school experience includes time as a full-time Cover Supervisor (March - July 2017), full-time Learning Support Assistant including sole teaching of KS3 SEN Literacy classes (September 2017 to July 2018), as well as supply LSA, Cover Supervisor and Exam Invigilator work.

I work with whoever, whatever your current grade, and I always aim to listen and understand who you are and what works well for you. Perhaps you're creative and into drawing; perhaps you are more analytical; perhaps you want to cover the basics. I always ensure my teaching is bespoke - I pay attention to what works and what does not.

My references attest to my good nature and personable qualities, as well as real results in helping students improve their grades.

At a fundamental level, any student of mine will tell you I am reliable, engaging, caring, fun, honest, and, equally, challenging and encouraging. I also offer a reasonable rate compared to other tutors in the area.

Please get in touch with any queries. I can tutor online, in person, and, within a certain distance, at your home.

Best wishes
Laurence,
Brighton and Hove

Teaching Experience:
- Private Tutor since 2023
- Full-time Cover Supervisor (March - July 2017)
- Full-time Learning Support Assistant including sole teaching of KS3 SEN Literacy classes (September 2017 to July 2018)
- Supply LSA (February 2023 - July 2024)
- Supply Cover Supervisor (September 2023 - July 2024)
- Exam Invigilator work (2023 and 2024 exam seasons)

Tutoring Approach:
- Person-centred
- Engaging and fun
- Reliable and caring

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