West Norwood French Tutors and West Norwood 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 native Spanish speaker with teaching experience in Italy, Spain and the UK.
I have worked as a translator and now hold the position of Lead Teacher of Spanish with French at a secondary School. I also hold a qualification in Italian which together with my teaching experience in the country provide me with a deep Knowledge of the language.

I have always been passionate about languages and I strongly believe I can transmit this to my pupils.

Teaching Experience:
-April 2009 to present: Secondary school teacher of French and teacher in charge of Spanish. During this time I have given extra tuition for French and Spanish to three school pupils and all of them achieved A*. Home tution for Italian, Spanish and French.

-January 2008 to April 2009: I worked in various schools around the county as a MFL and music teacher. Two of this positions were for several months.

-2006: Teacher of English as a Second Language in Spain.

-2004-2005: Teacher of Spanish for the Politecnico university of Turin. I also worked as a translator during my time in Italy. This employment proved very rewarding from the intellectual point of view as made strive to get translations as close to the original language as possible.

2003: Volunteer teacher of Spanish and English as a Second Language at a charity organisation in Spain.

Tutoring Approach:
Besides the traditional tutoring method I also offer ONLINE LANGUAGES TEACHING. For this, internet connection is required.The first ONLINE LESSON is FREE and a 15% discount apply to the all rest of the online lessons.

Standard fees apply to the first TRADITIONAL AT HOME LESSON.

-- My Philosophy--
My vision of languages is quite broad and embraces the cultural and psychological side that comes with them. I believe that learning a new language is learning to see the world through another nations eyes.

I teach skills that will enable you to be creative and produce language, I do not believe in parroting therefore I encourage the understanding of grammar mechanisms .

I have dynamic approach to teaching which is specific for every pupil's needs.


Please feel free to contact me if you have any doubt.

Subjects

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:
I have over 13 years of experience teaching languages, and hold a PGCE & Master's degree in teaching from the University of Oxford. I have taught French and Spanish to GCSE and A-level, always securing excellent results for my students. Outside of lessons, I keep fully up-to-date with the cultures of the languages I teach through my love of travelling, reading and the cinema. I am also a keen student of Japanese.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught for over 13 years in Good and Outstanding London secondary schools, and also work as an exam board marker, ensuring I am fully up-to-date with all exam specifications at GCSE and A level. I also have experience training teachers at one of the UK's leading universities. I have extensive experience as a tutor delivering online lessons. I am able to offer lessons that cover the following:

- Key Stage 3 French, German & Spanish - to boost progress and lay excellent foundations ahead of a potential GCSE course
- GCSE French, German & Spanish - grammar, vocabulary, translation, speaking and writing strategies, examination skills
- A level French & Spanish - grammar, vocabulary, translation, summary writing, speaking exam preparation, cultural components (i.e. the book and/or the film)
- Adult learners who wish to pick up the language for fun or for specific purposes

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching approach is flexible and always adapted to suit the needs and objectives of my students. Motivation is key, and for this reason I prepare bespoke lessons to engage and interest my students, making use of authentic resources wherever possible. My approach caters for the balanced development of all four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.

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Personal Description:
I am a teacher of French, Italian and Spanish in St Ninian's High School, within East Renfrewshire. I graduated from the University of Strathclyde with a joint Honours degree in French and Italian (language and studies). I also have a Masters in Marketing which I also obtained from the University of Strathclyde. I spent a year abroad in Lyon, France, during my fourth year of university, where I worked as an English Language Assistant in two high schools. I am extremely patient and understanding and have extensive experience tutoring both young children and teenagers, in all three languages, as well as helping with reading and literacy skills. I am passionate about working with and helping others and find it to be a most rewarding experience and I would love to pass on my knowledge and skills, in my specialist subjects, in order to help develop the skills of the tutees I will be working with. I am a very driven, confident and enthusiastic individual and I give 100% to everything I am involved with, and I am passionate about achieving results and helping others to do so also.

Teaching Experience:
I am a qualified French & Italian teacher in secondary education with 13 years experience delivering BGE, National and Higher courses. During my fourth year of University, I worked in two high schools in Lyon, France as an English language assistant, teaching children, teenagers and young adults, from the age of nine to twenty three. I was responsible for helping them with all aspects of the language, and developing their reading, writing, listening and verbal skills by preparing and working on a number of different activities. I also taught them about British culture, history and lifestyles so as to help develop their knowledge of Britain, particularly Scotland, in general. I ensured that I worked differently with different individuals, depending on their style of learning and I took a different approach accordingly. I aimed to make my style of teaching both informative and fun so that they enjoyed learning and I believe this is something I am always successful in as many tutees I have worked with have commented on my positive and helpful way of teaching.

I have tutored many pupils, both in French and Italian, with a great focus on exam preparation and the skills that they needed to do well on class tests, with a great success rate.

Tutoring Approach:
I take a different approach to my tutoring depending on the individual I am working with. On my first session with my tutee I will find out the areas that they are experiencing the most difficulty in, and what their strengths and weaknesses are, as this will help me to develop an effective and helpful way of teaching. I prepare various worksheets, practice tests and activities which are interactive and will allow for valuable learning. I will ask the tutee what their preferred way of learning is and look at ways in which they successfully learn in other subjects and try to incorporate this in to my way of teaching. I encourage tutees to ask questions wherever necessary and to state if they wish me to try a different approach. I believe communication is the key to successful learning and I pride myself on my friendly and approachable nature and my ability to achieve results in my tuition. On the whole, I am aware that my way of teaching has to be of benefit to the tutee so I will tailor my approach to suit their wants and needs.

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Personal Description:
Qualified, successful & enthusiastic Secondary French & German Teacher and English Tutor with 10+ years teaching experience.

Teaching Experience:
I am a native English speaker with the Cert.TESOL qualification and have had 10 years part time teaching experience with Boston College, secondary schools, private teaching and various prestigious online languages schools. I have taught students from the age of 10 - 70 years in age.

I have worked and qualified at secondary school level to help students to successfully prepare for their French and German GCSEs and their A Level exams, as well as with adults who have learnt the language from scratch and wish to use the language for business purposes or for pleasure.

Key achievements:
a) helping a GCSE student go from D to B within 3 months
b) helping students achieve the highest grade at German A Level (A*)
c) aiding a private student to achieve a grade 9 in German (with a starting grade of 6)

Tutoring Approach:
If your French or German knowledge is at a beginner, intermediate or advanced level and you want to learn or develop any aspect of the language including speaking, writing, reading or listening skills, as well as grammar or vocabulary to improve job prospects, for school (Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 or Key Stage 5) or just to understand and communicate better, then let me help you!

I am enthusiastic and want to aid you to achieve whatever you want to accomplish in a fun and interactive learning environment. I use a variety of innovative and traditional teaching methods to keep you motivated and I can offer homework if required to help you improve even quicker.

I AM HAPPY TO TEACH ADULT LEARNERS AND CHILDREN ONLINE AND AT MY PREMISES IN LINCOLNSHIRE.

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Personal Description:
I am an experienced teacher of both classics and modern languages, and have taught in a variety of secondary schools. I have stopped classroom teaching now because of the demands of a young family but I am keen to carry on teaching in a different capacity. I am passionate about languages, words and communication and love to share this with others. I have lived abroad for prolonged periods in France and Italy, and travel to see friends there whenever possible.

Teaching Experience:
Since completing my PGCE in 1992 I have taught Latin, Greek, French and Italian, from beginners to A level and Oxbridge, in secondary schools, both private and state. More recently I have been giving private lessons to both adults and teenagers.
***PLEASE NOTE THAT I TEACH ANCIENT GREEK, NOT MODERN! The UK tutors website does not give Ancient Greek as an option in the drop down list. I am not able to teach modern Greek.

Tutoring Approach:
Successful language teaching should combine a fun approach using oral practice including song lyrics and games with a more structured approach to grammar; this gives the student confidence that they really understand the language used. The advantage of private lessons is that I can focus on what the individual learner wants, which might be lots of oral practice to become more proficient at speaking, or to pass a specific exam. I do like to set homework from week to week as this is an important part of progress; but it is not compulsory!

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Personal Description:
I am a higher level TA with ten years of teaching experience. I am 98 years old and I am currently working with young people up to the age of 18 with RMBC and I also work with young people with disabilities.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked in primary education for ten years. I have worked as a one to one with children with Special Educational Needs and developed my skills training to be a Higher level Teaching Assistant.
Throughout my time in Primary education, I have worked effectively with teams in Key Stage one and two. Due to my extensive experience and educational background I often cover for teachers. I am able to confidently teach from a given plan, adapting the teaching where required and utilising support staff effectively. I have a solid understanding of the essential skills and learning outcomes and have used this knowledge to support children where necessary.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe in a personalised learning approach. The activities I use are dependent on the child and the way they learn. I understand that children can learn visually, kineasthetically or can be auditory learners. Therefore I adapt my teaching and my activities to suit the learner.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My passion for teaching started in 2008, having qualified as a teacher at University in Madrid. After a pedagogic practice in an Secondary Bilingual School I moved to France, where I have recently graduated in French and Spanish Linguistics.

Last year I finished a master's degree in French Applied Language in the Sorbonne University and the Paris Trade Chamber, where I trained in didactics of Specific French (business, scientific, hotel trade, etc).

I'm a very enthusiastic teacher, able to find the talent hidden in every student.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience includes two years as a Modern Foreign Language teacher with Learnissimo, training individual from different sectors (enterprises as Danone, Tompress), three years in Primary and Secondary schools and a six months internship in the French Institute in Madrid.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching method for is based on tasks and the PPP paradigm (presenting a subject, practicing by repetition, matching or filling and producing in the context of a particular task). This approach allows the students to learn by practicing in their real communication situations and to progress in a very short time!

The type of materials I use are generally design by myself, using authentic documents as reports, conversation recordings, emails, hand outs and I also use general linguistics and grammar manuals and essays to support my research

Using a task-based approach, you will be focusing in particular missions and I will give you the tools to accomplish them and I will be designing a individualized programme from your personal or professional targets.

Basically, this is a very practical methodology based on learning by doing.

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Personal Description:
I am a French national who has lived in England for more than30 years. I am passionate about languages, how we learn them and the impact this learning has on our ability to study/think better. So many transferable skills!

My other interests are unsurprisingly travelling and reading. My second love is teaching Yoga, relaxation and meditation.

Learning is definitely a life long experience.

Teaching Experience:
PGCE qualified to teach French/TEFL-TESL with 25 years teaching experience mainly in Secondary Schools: KS3, KS4 and KS5 and one-to-one tutoring in French and Spanish.

Experienced in Adult Education tutoring both in Spanish and French and I have mentored new tutors for the Adult Education system.I have taught all ages from primary school children to older adults. It is never too late to enjoy practicing a foreign languange.!
I have also run my own primary school groups teaching French and worked as primary school liaison for teaching languages in primary schools.

Finally, I am an experienced EFL/ESL teacher, having taught "presessional" at the University of Chichester (Summer 2017) - Fully qualified.

Tutoring Approach:
Relaxed but organized and effective. Learning is fun especially when successful. Progress brings success. We all have different ways of learning, different "intelligence" once met there is no real limit to what we can achieve.

As a tutor, I will create and teach a program that is effective for you and your preferred learning style(s) and your requirement(s) whether learning for pleasure, business, exams etc or a mixture of all of these and more.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hemananda (Ravi)
Motivational and patient tutor with 25+ years' experience in IT and education. I simplify complex topics using real-world examples, interactive Q&A, and tailored practice. My lessons build confidence, clarity, and lasting understanding. With international exposure and deep technical expertise, I guide students through software engineering, programming, databases, and business concepts with precision and empathy. I'm currently writing a book to make Software Engineering more practical and accessible for learners and professionals alike.

I am well versed with the following development tools, databases and software:
- Python, Numpy, Pandas, R
- Machine Learning (KNN algorithm, Naïve Bayes, Neural Network, Decision Tree, etc.)
- PHP
- Visual Basic .Net, ASP .Net
- Oracle Apex
- Oracle Forms 6i, 9i, 10g
- Oracle Reports 6i, 9i, 10g
- Oracle SQL Loader
- Oracle Designer 6i, 9i, 10g
- Oracle Discoverer 10g (Discoverer Plus 10g, Discoverer Viewer 10g)
- Visual Basic 6.0, C, C++, 4D, Windev, Forms Designer, Prescribe, HTML, Java, Javascript,
- Microsoft Front Page, Macromedia Dreamweaver, Flash, Image Composer, XML, Seagate Crystal Reports, Microsoft Project, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Powerpoint
- Microsoft Access, Oracle Database 8, Oracle Database 8i, Oracle Database 9i, Oracle Database 10g, and Ms SQL Server, Oracle Database Express Edition

Teaching Experience:
I have been offering private tuitions since 2001 for a side income as well as for charity purposes. My students were:
1. Primary students (Mathematics, English, French, Computer Studies/IT)
2. Secondary students (Mathematics, Statistics, Accounting, Economics, Computer Studies/IT)
3. Tertiary students (Mathematics, Accounting, Computer Studies/IT), including British Computer Society (BCS) students
Notes:
(a) I am very pleased that one of my BCS students topped the Software Development module including the Database Management Systems module examinations in Mauritius.
(b) I have assisted more than 50 students in their final year IT project (including the analysis/design/development of the system).
(c) I am also proud to say that after more than 3 failed attempts in renowned institutions, I have succeeded in getting 8 BCS students to be through the Software Development module examinations in their first 6 months being tutored by me.

I have equally provided training courses on programming (to name a few: Visual Basic, Oracle SQL and PL/SQL, etc..) for at least 8 years.

Tutoring Approach:
Every new batch of tuition starts with getting to know more about the students. It is at the same time important to give the students enough space to familiarise themselves with me. A discussion will then follow to scope down what will be covered in the syllabus. A work plan is also devised with the aim to complete the syllabus well before the examinations, so as to have adequate time for revision. The following steps outline the process of each tuition session:
1. Initiate the subject or topic based on discussion of a real life example / scenario
2. Introduce the theoretical part of the subject or topic
3. Explain how the theory links to the real life example / scenario
4. Work out and explain some examples
5. Immediate evaluation of student's understanding through questions and answers
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until satisfactory response of the student (steps 1, 2 and 3 may also be repeated if required)
7. Give homework and a brief discussion on what will be covered in the next tuition session

Note: Each tuition session starts with the correction of the previous session's homework and explanation of any problem areas, including a summing up of what was covered in the previous tuition session.

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.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have been teaching French and German for the past 30 years.
I retired from classroom teaching in July 2022, in order to focus on offering private tuition.
The bulk of my private tuition is French and German GCSE. However, I am also delivering German IB (diploma) and A level, as well as English as a second language.
I also have some adult learners as well as children from age 6-10.

Teaching Experience:
I have many years of teaching French and German at all levels but mainly secondary school.
I have worked for 27 years in two London comprehensives.
My results have always been excellent.
I have outstanding subject knowledge and am familiar with the main exam boards.
I also have access to all relevant materials.
I am currently working part time in a local secondary school teaching French and German A level.
My current tuition timetable includes:
French GCSE (AQA, Edexcel and Edexcel IGCSE)
German GCSE (AQA, Edexcel and Cambridge IGCSE)
German A level (AQA and Edexcel)
German adult learners - beginners.
English as a second language - IGCSE, IELTS
Beginner's German to adult learners as well as children aged 6-11

I have students attending UK top grammar and independent schools, as well as state comprehensives. I have experience in stretching and challenging the most able as well as helping students gain an acceptable pass in what is sometimes their weakest subject.
In the last two years, those of my tutees taking higher GCSE, have all gained grades 7-9 and those taking foundation, a grade 5.
All of this information can be verified on request.
I also have a number of adult learners for beginner's German. This has been very successful. Current students can provide testimonials if required.

Tutoring Approach:
I have done a lot of private tutoring, mainly GCSE but also some A level and adult learners.
I am a calm and patient teacher and know how to get the best out of my students.
Each lesson is tailor made to suit the needs of the individual.
I pride myself on being flexible and as a parent myself, understand that unforeseen circumstances can crop up. Therefore, I do not charge for late cancellations.

Recent, verifiable testimonials (updated August 2023, following GCSE results)

Alison was a great tutor. She is very easy to understand and made french as a subject a lot more simple for my son to understand. My son was originally getting 3s and 2s in his mocks, but she was able to assist him in getting a good result in the GCSE. I can't thank her enough for the help. She's a great tutor.
I would like to recommend her to everyone.

Allison has tutored my son for the past 2 years and I was delighted that he got a 9 for his GCSE German exam this year. My son took his GCSE exam early at the end of year 9 and his grade is a true reflection of what an exceptional tutor Allison is. Allison has been a truly amazing tutor and my son has thoroughly enjoyed his lessons with her. He will continue his tutoring with Allison as he has now opted to take A/S Level German next year. I highly recommend Allison if your child needs tuition for German.


Allison has been tutoring our daughter in French for the last few weeks, to help her prepare for GCSE's.
I cannot recommend Allison highly enough. She is easy to contact and on time to every lesson. My daughter was initially sceptical about having a tutor, but from the first lesson she soon saw the benefits. Allison is very personable and gave me feedback on what our daughter should be focusing on and how she has improved. Allison has great knowledge of the school syllabus and gave my daughter key areas to focus on outside of the lessons. I would like to thank Allison for giving our daughter more confidence in what used to be one of her weaker subjects

Allison provided tutoring for our daughter ahead of her GCSE in German. She knows the syllabus extremely well and identified the main areas on which to focus. She was very flexible on when she could come to our house and helped our daughter get the most out of each hour of tutoring. The overall impact was very positive with our daughter getting a 9 in her GCSE. I can thoroughly recommend Allison to anyone looking for help in either German or French.

We had Allison for about a year, and my son continues enjoying the lessons. Allison is very reliable, personable and flexible. She understands the help and support that is required for my son and applies her skills and knowledge to help. Her calm manner and being very accommodating are helpful add-ons to the help we get from her.

I was so busy to let you know how impressed my boys are of both of you. Because of you and his German teacher now, D. studies German with pleasure.

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Personal Description:
I moved to the UK in 1989 and have stayed ever since. I spent 2 years as a French Assistant in High Schools in Leeds and Harrogate and then completed a one year HND in International Business at Leeds Metropolitan University.

Following three years as 'Conference Organiser' for businesses in Dewsbury i decided i wanted to teach and returned to Leeds Metropolitan University to complete a degree in Secondary Education.

Since then i have worked as a French Teacher in Secondary and Primary schools in Yorkshire and Merseyside. Whilst bringing up my family i took the opportunity to offer private French Tuition and have been doing so ever since.

Teaching Experience:
I have extensive experience in private French Tuition 'one to one' or in small groups and have tutored students from 5 years of age to 60+ either in French conversation; school support; or preparation for GCSE; A Level and Undergraduate Degrees in French.

I am very proud of my French heritage and culture and I am keen to share my love of the French language and all things French with others.

Tutoring Approach:
I recognise all students learn in different ways and have different levels of confidence and i make sure that i always personalise the learning to meet the specific needs and ambitions of each and every student. I also want students to enjoy their learning and have some fun with the language and i endeavour to make my lessons a fun and interactive experience.

I am pleased to be able to say that every student who has taken up the opportunity to have private French Tuition with me has made significant progress. I have included a sample of testimonials below ...


Testimonials:

"Sabine was invaluable during my French studies, and I absolutely loved our lessons together. Sabine is a patient teacher who helped me to speak French naturally and fluently and to master difficult grammar structures. With Sabine's help, I was able to achieve an A* at French A Level, with full marks for my final year speaking and writing papers."
Emma

"Sabine has tutored both of my children for GCSE French, and she has been fantastic. Sabine worked wonders with my son and daughter: her support really boosted their confidence and they both made rapid progress. Sabine has an excellent knowledge of the exam requirements and enabled my children to revise in a more effective manner. I would not hesitate to recommend Sabine to anyone looking for a French tutor."
Louise (Parent)

I would definitely recommend Sabine for tutoring, I have had the most wonderful 4 years with her, always making me feel confident with my work and pushing me to achieve my full potential. Thanks to Sabine, I was inspired to do A-Level French which she taught with such enthusiasm and made it a fun yet challenging experience. I am more than grateful to have her, and you can always rely on the fact that she will go through every method until you fully understand, no matter how long it takes!
Maeve

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Personal Description:
Qualified, experienced, patient tutor
An outstanding practitioner, as evidenced in inspections and lesson observations.
I have had extensive training in supporting students with special educational needs. I am able to tailor approaches and resources to suit the individual needs of every pupil.

Teaching Experience:
27 years Headmistress Primary and Secondary School, retired.
15 years private tuition experience.
35 years teaching experience.

Tutoring Approach:
27 years' experience, including as Head Of Department and Headmistress.
Qualified teacher and subject specialist.
I am supportive, warm and encouraging in my approach.

Why choose me?
100% success rate in helping pupils get into their first choice schools, including Cheltenham Ladies' College, Haberdashers', St Paul's and Westminster College.
I provide expert private tuition for 11+, 13+, GCSE, A-level and International Baccalaureate examinations.
I am experienced at teaching pupils of all ages between 7 - 18.

Testimonials

Wendy was recommended to us by a colleague for her excellent quality of tuition. She has an extensive knowledge of the GCSE syllabus for literature and language and has considerable experience in the field. She is reliable and has a great work ethic. She has enabled my son to reach his potential and is able to focus on points of weakness, build confidence and motivate him into writing essays, which he did not enjoy or do prior to Wendy. Wendy has tailored her approach to teaching him in how to answer questions for the best possible outcome. His improvement in English has helped him progress in other subjects and is now looking at higher grades in History and RE due to a more articulate approach to answering questions. Less importantly my son has enjoyed his English lessons and always looked forward to them.

S, Chesham, Bucks

Wendy has been such a blessing for my daughter, completely turning around her expectations with regards to her academic ability and hugely affecting not only her English results but all her other subjects. Now, thanks to Wendy, she has the right tools to construct an essay. Her marks have improved by two grades across the board. Wendy is a wonderful and inspiring teacher and I just cannot recommend her highly enough.

Rachel, Amersham, Bucks

Lovely Wendy is the most amazing and caring tutor I could ever wish for. She deserves a medal for her work and her students are so motivated in these crazy times it is wonderful to know my son is being so looked after. He enjoys every lesson.

Lucy, South Heath, Bucks.

I highly recommend Wendy. Her long experience, personal approach and carefully planned English lessons have been incredible for over two years now. She also provides excellent feedback following each session and takes time to stay close to parents to gauge how and where she can add most value. I am happy to email or speak to other parents about how she has helped us!

Sarah, Great Missenden, Bucks.

I am so delighted we found Wendy to help with my son's preparation for his GCSE in English Literature and French to A level. I thoroughly recommend her tutoring services. She is consummate and professional and well prepared for each session with a myriad of printed materials to support the lesson. She is knowledgeable about her subject and importantly about what the examiners are looking for in assessing examination answers. She is also friendly, approachable and has a rare gift for imparting her understanding and enthusiasm for literature. My son positively looked forward to both English and French studies with her - something sadly he never felt at school. He now looks forward to University with every confidence

Tokeer, High Wycombe, Bucks.

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Personal Description:
Having tutored for 12 years and been in mainstream education for the past 9, I am more than ready and willing to work with young people who are in need of a variety of different approaches:

- Stretching and challenging the most able
- Going back to basics with exam content
- Handwriting
- Organisation
- Revision skills and independent learning

Teaching Experience:
Qualified teacher (secondary)

Most recent tutee Results
Student 1: GCSE Spanish - Grade 9
Student 2: SATs 101 / 102 / 102
Student 3: GCSE English Language-Grade 8
Student 4: GCSE Spanish - grade 6
Student 5: GCSE French (current)

Tutoring Approach:
There is no right answer to "what is the best approach" - my first session will always be one hour to formulate a plan based on the requirements of the parent(s) or carer(s), to meet the learner in question, and to come up with a plan of action based on a variety of factors. This will incorporate target grades in school, achievements so far, existing attitudes to learning amongst other things.

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Personal Description:
Hello! My name is Josh and I am looking forward to connecting with you. I am a graduate of languages from the University of Leeds (graduated in 2017) and a qualified MFL teacher (graduated in 2021). I speak Spanish, Catalan, French and Italian, and I have a good range of tutoring experience in the past for GCSE, A-Level and adult learners. I have a great interest in grammar, culture, history and politics, and would love to share that even further.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a qualified teacher for over a year, having worked predominantly in the Tameside region of Manchester. I completed my training with a School Direct course led by a school that was last rated OFSTED 'Outstanding', and then continued my teaching career in that same school as maternity cover. I am going to continue my teaching career at another school in Tameside, which is part of an academy trust with a number of OFSTED 'Outstanding' schools, which puts a huge amount of focus on teacher development and training.

Tutoring Approach:
I value the time taken with each of my students, and ensure that their key objectives and desired outcomes are met. I tailer all of my resources based on what the tutee would like to gain from the session(s), and work in accordance with GCSE/A-Level specifications from various exam boards where necessary. I have always worked with a 'stretch and challenge' mentality, and will always aim to get tutees to achieve to their highest potential, but in a calm, nurturing approach.

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Personal Description:
Hola/Bonjour/Hello!

My name is Ella and I am Head of Spanish in a leading Independent School in Cardiff.

I have taught both French and Spanish to A Level for 10 years, and have experience teaching WJEC, AQA and Edexcel specifications. I hold a BA (Hons) in French and Hispanic Studies from King's College London, for which I received a 2:1, an MA in Art History with a particular focus on Spanish Art History and socio-political artistic exchange, for which I received a Distinction, and I completed my NPQML qualification in 2021.

In my spare time, my passions are art, history, European cinema and keeping fit. I have also begun learning Arabic, Catalan and Mandarin myself!

Teaching Experience:
I received my PGCE in Spanish with Subsidiary French from King's College London, and have worked in both the independent and state sector in England and Wales. I assumed the role of Head of Department in my current school in 2024 after being the Spanish Subject Coordinator for 2 years prior, and have been Second in Department and Head of French in previous schools. Recently, I became an examiner for WJEC/Eduqas, and have marked for these exam boards. For the past two examination series, my results at both GCSE and A Level were 100% A-A*, proving my dedication to my pupils and an exceptional track record.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is always student-centred, and I like to establish a rapport with pupils which enables me to help them in a way which best matches their personality and needs. I like to flip the learning, enabling pupils to 'have a go' at particular activities or concepts first, before addressing any difficulties or misconceptions. This ensures that my support is always specifically targeted to the needs of the student.

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