Castle Douglas German Tutors and Castle Douglas German Tuition

Personal Description:
Experienced language tutor with excellent proficiency (oral/ written) in 3 languages.

I am an experienced tutor in teaching French (up to GCSE and IGCSE, A'Level and International Baccalaureate and beyond). I also teach German and Italian up to GCSE/IGCSE level.

I also teach conversation and practical French for adults looking to use the language for holidays/buying/maintaining properties in France as well as business French or just for general use

Have valid CRB disclosure

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching for the last 10 years at all levels and have consistantly produced good results in my students at A' Level/IB as well as GCSE/IGCSE.

I am fully conversant with all Exam Boards and GCSE/IGCSE/A'LEVEL/IB etc. syllabuses

I have also taught French to adults at all levels for example who have just wanted to be able to converse comfortably while on holiday, use French to purchase a house in France. I have taught those who want to learn from scratch as well as those who are already at a reasonable level and want to improve their oral and writing skills for business or pleasure

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is firstly to assess closely where the gaps in my pupil's knowledge are and then build on closing them through grammar and vocabulary. I therefore give my students the building blocks to construct their own sentences in writing and speech.

I will work with them sometimes using their own text books but also I provide my own material to make the lessons more interesting. I will use games/quizzes as well as focussing on past papers and oral exams to help them gain confidence in the language.

I engage well with all my pupils and they always enjoy their lessons with me so that their time with me does not feel like just another extension of school

My conversation lessons with adults are always fast-paced and fun and my pupils widen their vocabulary and gain confidence in the new language very quickly

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Personal Description:
I have been teaching languages for over 20 years in a variety of settings: comprehensive, state grammar, independent senior and Prep. My exam students at GCSE and A Level always perform extremely well and exceed their target grades. I am passionate about languages and thoroughly enjoy teaching. Working on a one to one basis is particularly rewarding, as so much can be achieved in a relatively short period of time.

Teaching Experience:
I studied French with German at Exeter University, spending my year abroad living and working in Paris, teaching English in French schools. I have a PGCE in Modern Languages from Cambridge University. I have been a secondary school teacher for 25 years - teaching French from Year 1 to A Level and German from Year 7 to 9. I have also worked as an examiner for AQA, moderating GCSE French orals and marking GCSE writing papers for Edexcel. I have experience preparing students for common entrance and have given conversation lessons for adults hoping to move to France.

Tutoring Approach:
I have always had an excellent working relationship with my students - they feel able to ask for help whenever they need it and I adapt my teaching style and resources according to their needs. For students requiring examination training, I have considerable experience teaching at GCSE and A Level so am familiar with the examination requirements.

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Personal Description:
I am a flexible and gentle teacher who is willing to go miles (literally) to ensure the success of my students.
Patience is needed to provide a long-term improvement of the student. I am an outgoing person with a sense of humour.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience stretches over nine years at different schools in Germany and England. I taught English, Biology, German to various levels. I have a deep insight into the ability of students and can easily identify the weaknesses and strengths of a pupil.

Tutoring Approach:
I don't like to overstretch a student at the beginning. It might cause frustration. Gradually increasing the quality of work is better.
I take care that a student says on task, because sometimes it's just lack of concentration. Music,television or even playing computer games while doing work is a hindrance to success. It is important that a student finds his way to the right result, so that his or her confidence increases.

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Personal Description:
I am 54 years old, I am married with four children. I have a degree ( Joint Honours, 2.1 in Agriculture with Agricultural Economics) and a Cert Ed. I am a member of the Institute for Learning. I have taught a wide range of subjects over 28 years and am able to coach you to success whether you are looking for science, geography, Excel spreadsheets, English as a Foreign Language or even French and German ( I worked in both countries when I was younger)

Teaching Experience:
I can help you prepare for exams in Geography, Biology, Ecology, French and German. I have taught English as a Foreign Language over many years. I can also help you with Microsoft Excel spreadsheets, particularly for Business. I am a patient, enthusiastic and committed teacher with 28 years experience particularly with post 16 and adult education. I have taught agriculture and related topics over that time, and very much enjoyed diversifying my teaching portfolio as new courses arose at the college. I have taught a range of biology and geography related topics, including plant and soil science, crop science, crop production, livestock production, environmental issues, ecology, woodland management. In business I have helped many people develop diverse enterprises, preparing carefully costed cash flow projections. I very much enjoy seeing people develop confidence with Microsoft Excel spreadsheets, which are an invaluable tool.

Tutoring Approach:
I am convinced that one-to-one tuition is by far the most efficient way in which a person can progress and gain confidence. Often someone can grasp a topic in 5 minutes of one-to-one that would have taken 2 hours to cover with a larger group. Once you are confident with a topic, we move on rapidly to the next one. A current A level tutee of mine told his father "I learnt more in that 2 hour session than I have all term at school" and his headteacher wrote to congratulate him on his improved grades. (The reason for this is not that his teacher is bad, far from it, but a tutor can give you personal one-to-one attention, concentrating on the bits you need) I always ensure that the learners are confident with each step before progressing further.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I have always had a love for languages and would love to instil you with the same enthusiasm. After having lived abroad as part of my degree, I then graduated with a BA Hons Degree Class 2.1 in Modern Languages (German, French and Italian), after which I obtained my Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). After teaching, I also worked for International companies, using my languages extensively by liaising with customers and colleagues overseas and also translating and interpreting. I have always kept my languages fresh by reading foreign literature and keeping in touch with German / French friends. I am mother to 4 children, but even after my children were born, I continued to do some freelance translation. As a mother and as a teacher, I know the importance of patience and how important it is to make learning worthwhile, enjoyable and fun!

Teaching Experience:
After qualifying as a Languages teacher, I have taught German and French in a Comprehensive School to the 11-18 age group. I have tutored teenagers and adults privately in both German and French. I have also provided French classes in one of the International companies I worked for.

Tutoring Approach:
I can offer a learning program which is specifically tailored to suit the individuals needs, whatever the level of knowledge or ability. If required, lessons can be adapted to focus on specific areas such as grammar or conversation practice. My experience in using languages in a business setting also means that I am also well placed to teach lanuages to adults for business purposes. I am a perfectionist and will strive to offer the best tuition possible, by thorough preparation and the use of a variety of learning materials and approaches. If required homework can be set to consolidate knowledge learnt. I want your learning to be productive and engaging. It can open a window into foreign culture and soon you will realise how much fun it is to be able to communicate in another language.

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Personal Description:
I am passionate about language learning and believe that languages contribute to intercultural understanding.

​"A different language is a different vision of life." - Federico Fellini, Italian film director​​

I am a qualified teacher and native German speaker from North Rhine-Westphalia, the central western part of Germany, and I relocated to England in 1991. I have been teaching German and English as a Foreign Language (IELTS) for the past 17 years in a range of educational settings (Primary, Secondary, Further and Higher Education) and online. Therefore I have been teaching students from a wide variety of backgrounds either for exam preparation, leisure or business.

I am a member of the Tutor's Association (MTA), Society for Education and Training (SET) and have Enhanced DBS Clearance (2021).

Because I am passionate about language learning I am currently studying Italian and can relate to the challenges of language learning!

Teaching Experience:
I have extensive experience in teaching German and English as a Foreign Language (IELTS) with all my students achieving their set targets and 100% satisfaction. I cover all exam boards and levels. All sessions are tailor made to match the individual or group level. I cover the following exam strategies:

GCSE German:
• to revise key topics
• to extend your range of vocabulary
• to improve accuracy through grammar
• to develop confidence in speaking
• to create an idea bank for speaking and writing topics
• to tackle translations
• to practise mock exams in real time

A-level German:
• to acquire a diverse vocabulary and culturally appropriate idiomatic expressions
• to create language use (as opposed to memorised expressions)
• to improve translations through language concepts
• to gain a better understanding of essay writing
• to increase language fluency
• to practise mock exams in real time

IELTS test taking:
• to develop a broad vocabulary
• to obtain a good understanding of the English grammar
• to gain confidence in speaking
• to discover your unique approach to the Reading section
• to create an idea bank for Writing section 2
• to acquire language accuracy
• to increase speed in answering questions

Home education: German
Enriched learning: meaningful - personalised - flexible
Over the past years I have taken on more home educated students from around the world providing either exam support, a full curriculum or just short language experience courses. Working with my students has been very rewarding and enjoyable. I tailor my sessions to my students' interests and needs to promote confidence and uniqueness.

Tutoring Approach:
Your level - my approach - your success!

Effective planning on my part will determine your success in German or English as a Foreign Language at your pace. I pride myself in being patient, committed and enthusiastic enabling you to develop confidence in all four language skills (reading, writing listening and speaking) based on individual needs, learning styles and continuous progress.

Passing any exam can be stressful but you will be well prepared! We will focus on exam-style or past paper questions in order to check, practise and perfect your understanding and techniques. We will focus on relevant study skills necessary to pass the exam. Where appropriate I set and mark work, provide detailed feedback so that you can improve quickly!

I am hoping for you to actively participate during lessons, ask questions develop your skills and for you to have fun! Being successful in a language demands dedication and perseverance but most importantly the willingness to try out new things.

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Personal Description:
Stafford resident currently working in a Midlands sixth-form college providing language training to 16-19 year-olds. Professional, a good listener and able to get the best out of my students. I have excellent results from my current students and wish to harness my knowledge again into the field of private tuition.

Teaching Experience:
Teacher of Modern Foreign Languages for over twenty years to students of wide ranging levels (Beginners to A2 Level). A lot of my recent work has been with sixth-form students across the region but prior to that I worked with adults at many establishments on a more group basis. Equally, I have vast experience of working within businesses, providing language tuition at all levels. My teaching has been diverse and very interesting and I always relish a new challenge.

Tutoring Approach:
A tutor has to be able to focus on the individual needs of the student and make a learning session both varied and interesting. He or she must keep up-to-date with modern learning methods and changes in the curriculum. I am able to tailor my sessions according to the particular needs of the individual and be flexible at any time.

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Personal Description:
Having completed my first degree in French and German at Oxford University in June 2013, I returned to Belfast to complete first a MA in Medieval History, and then a further MA in Translation Studies.

At the same time, I began building up a portfolio career as a freelance tutor and translator, allowing me to live out my passion for language, literature, and culture (alongside digger manuals, pharmaceutical texts, and other oddities) on a daily basis.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience dates back to my undergraduate years. At Oxford I gained two years' experience with Jacari, a charity that teaches English to local children of a different mother tongue. I also provided tuition to students of GCSE history in local Oxford schools.

I spent my year abroad teaching English to pupils aged 10 to 19 at a German grammar school, and have since instructed a number of tutees of ages 8 to 65+ in English Language, French, German and Italian.

I can also provide help with Oxbridge entrance examination and interview preparations for languages, English, and history, as well as general advice for personal statements.

Tutoring Approach:
This variety of experience has taught me the importance of varying my teaching approach according to the needs and interests of the pupil.

While I keep a keen eye on the intended curriculum or goals at all times, I am used and open to changing from more formal to more informal (i.e. games-based) tutoring methods as appropriate.

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Personal Description:
Hello! I'm Sabine, a native German speaker and former university lecturer. With a Master's Degree in Translation from the University of Heidelberg and numerous teaching qualifications from the Goethe Institute, I'm here to guide you in learning German or Spanish.

Teaching Experience:
I bring over 10 years of teaching experience from the School of Management and Languages at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, the German Saturday School, and through private instruction in small groups and one-on-one settings. Recently, I have embraced online language teaching, completing additional training in online teaching software and collaborative tools and apps through the Goethe Institute, ensuring dynamic and interactive virtual learning experiences.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor each class to the unique needs of my students, adapting content, level, and teaching approach to suit individual learning style or group dynamics. My goal is to make learning enjoyable and enriching, ensuring you gain a deep understanding of the language along with cultural insights and practical skills.

My lessons provide an environment where students feel comfortable to actually speak the language and make mistakes - without pressure or judgement.

£35/hour or £50/1.5 hrs online - discount for 2 or more students of similar level.

(An additional £5 per hour is applicable for in-person lessons)

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Personal Description:
I am a very well qualified and very experienced teacher of both German and English as a Foreign Language. I have a Master's of Education, a BA (Hons) in German, a PGCE and an RSA Diploma in TEFL. Having lived and worked in Germany for over seven years, I also have near-native competence in German.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching German and EFL for more than 30 years from beginners to advanced level. I used to teach German to GCSE and A level at what used to be Plymouth College of Further Education as well as EFL from Cambridge KET to Cambridge Proficiency. In addition to that I have prepared many students for the IELTS exam and I have taught Business English and English for Academic Purposes too. I have worked in the UK, Germany, Spain and the United Arab Republic.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that it is essential to establish the needs of each individual student so that a tailor-made course can be designed for that particular student. That does not mean that my approach is inflexible, however - if one approach to teaching does not suit the individual learning needs of the student, I will endeavour to teach the student in a way that they are happy with and which will lead to the best possible results.
As a teacher of foreign languages I very much favour the communicative approach but I am also more than willing to teach grammar as this also plays an important role in language learning. As languages are meant for speaking I place a great deal of importance on oral work - particularly at GCSE and A level - but once again, the needs of each individual learner are paramount. For oral conversation, I am happy to teach using SKYPE.

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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:
French lessons with French Native speaker.

Learn with a patient and experienced French tutor based in Reading. I am also a professional translator for French and German.

Passionate about teaching French and German, I have extensive experience teaching Foreign Languages.

I am easy-going and encouraging, but also believe in challenge according to your own confidence, requirements and ability.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching French and German in the last 10 years to children, teenagers, and mostly professionals and adults.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching approach is first and foremost student-centered. I believe that each student grows at their own pace. Therefore my methodology is based on patience, persistence and set on progress.

The material that we will use has a progressive approach and will focus on your needs and interests. Attention is placed on pronunciation, conversation, grammar as well as writing skills if required.

It is suitable for both everyday life or business.

The learning pace is your pace. Just contact me and let's talk French or German together!

Not fussy about timing. Length of the lesson depends on you. I am available mostly evenings and week-ends.

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Personal Description:
I am a French native speaker with extensive experience as a French tutor. I am currently working as a researcher at the university of York investigating how to improve second language teaching methods. I have always loved helping people learning French as I am myself a passionate language learner. I can also help with German since I have been learning it for more than 10 years.
Given that I love learning languages myself, I am highly aware of the difficulties one can face in this journey. Moreover, I have a strong background in grammatical knowledge because I studied linguistics and literature in the past (and latin!).
Finally, I am a very friendly, enthusiastic and engaged tutor.

Teaching Experience:
I have a long experience in tutoring with students of various ages and various learning goals.
Below is a list of the positions I have had:
-French trainer, Educom GmBH, Vienna, Austria: I prepared and conducted weekly French lessons for a group of adults at beginner level (2 months).
-French tutor, Lernkurve institute, Vienna, Austria: I tutored various pupils in French (aged from 12 to 18-year old).
-private French tutor in Vienna, Austria and in the UK: I helped an 11 year old boy, a 13 year old girl and a 16 year old girl with their French homework once a week and helped them getting ready for exams during two years. I started to teach French from zero to two younger girls (6 and 8 years old). Finally, I designed personalised French lessons during 8 months for an adult student who wanted to start learning French.
-French conversation: I regularly met an adult student (advanced level) to have conversations in French.
-French corrections: I have helped university students of French writing essays in French.

Tutoring Approach:
I like keeping French tutoring sessions as interactive as possible. That is really the only way of learning languages!
Depending on the students' language level and desires, I can teach French from scratch, help with homework, have conversations or prepare intense exam revision sessions if the student tells me in advance what he/she has problems with.

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Personal Description:
I like to be friendly around people who are eager to learn. I'm very patient even if anyone has struggles, I'm confident and I'm willing to put too much effort into the subjects that I'm teaching.

Teaching Experience:
Fellow students achieved grades that are similar to mine, straight A's in their GCSE's

Tutoring Approach:
I'm a student and I need money but by helping people around with what I collected of knowledge.

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Personal Description:
Hey! I am an A-Level student looking to consolidate my knowledge by helping others. I achieved all grade 8s and 9s at GCSE level (this is equivalent to As and A*s). I have a vast skill base. I have been head boy, prefect and a young leader.

Teaching Experience:
Tutoring students in the lower school

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that teaching students on their level and disregarding the formalities like 'sir' or 'miss' builds a stronger bond between tutor and student. I am very patient and I am very capable of changing the wording so you understand. I can also provide you with my own revision notes that got me my awesome grades.

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Personal Description:
I am teaching French and German I will start off using speech methods, so that the student feels relaxed and able to learn. This is very important. Depending on how we go we can then progress to pens and paper. Learning at this level ought to be enjoyable. I also teach adults at this level. I seek to build confidence in students, so that they can encounter native speakers and be able to do simple tasks like ordering meal in a cafe and an item of clothing in a shop. I have GCSE French and A level German.

Teaching Experience:
I have dyslexia, so I am sensitive to those who have this condition. I go at a slow pace to make sure the knowledge is consolidated before we move on. There is no hurry in learning either of these languages. Better to learn solidly and slowly
than poorly and in a rush. I teach in short sessions as these are most beneficial. There is homework if students want it. I am DBS cleared.

Tutoring Approach:
I am patient and empathetic and these are vital qualities in a teacher. I have travelled frequently to France in recent years, chiefly to Burgundy and also to Paris. I have a also been to Germany --I know Konstanz quite well and have been to Berlin.
Part of learning a language is learning more about the culture of these countries. I hope the students will be able to do this.

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Personal Description:
I have lived and studied in Germany for the past 8 years. I can help your child in learning German in all aspects of reading, writing, listening and speaking.

Teaching Experience:
Have taught German to pupils upto 11th grade.

Tutoring Approach:
An easy way to interact with children and helping them to learn German by communicating with them easily and helping them understand the basics of german language

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

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

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

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