Harpenden German Tutors and Harpenden German Tuition

Personal Description:
I am an experienced and successful assistant examiner for a major exam board for A Level French and have marked German and French GCSE in the past. I am an experienced, enthusiastic and friendly tutor, with a high success rate with GCSE and A level students of French and German. I love what I do, particularly helping to build student confidence and helping them achieve their best, in a fun and supportive way.

More recently I have been teaching English as a Foreign Language to Russian, German and French students. I love teaching my native language and helping students to gain confidence in it.

PGCE - University of Newcastle Upon Tyne 1998 (Secondary Teaching Qualification)
I am a fully qualified teacher of Languages and English as a foreign language, with 18 years' experience of teaching all levels.

My work as an assistant examiner for a major exam board, has given me an excellent insight into what is required by the exam in order to gain a good pass.
I love languages, teaching, music and travel.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught and supported students at all levels and for different purpose: GCSE, A Level, Holiday French and German, Primary French and German.

I have been an assistant examiner for a major exam board for A level French speaking, listening, reading and writing for the past 8 years, so can help to support students for exams and help them to become very familiar with the techniques and knowledge required to gain a good pass.

I have a 100% success rate with students. Last year, all 3 GCSE students gained A* and A (French and German) and my 3 A Level students gained A (French), and 2 C's (from a grade E/U in German).

I have taught online for Learndirect/myself, am computer literate, and have had success with students learning long distance via Skype.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a fun and enthusiastic approach to teaching and I am able to guarantee success at all levels. I have lots of success with all levels, and have been successful due to a variety of techniques, knowledge of exam papers/common difficulties when learning a language and teaching experience.
I am able to get the best out of students, by identifying their learning needs and styles.

Adult learners: I have a very successful and unique approach, which allows adults to understand how a language is constructed and which allows them to grasp the basics of a language and then 'play' with the language by adding new vocabulary and phrases. You will feel confident wiih the pronunciation of the language from the beginning, which is essential to make progress quickly and effectively.

What my previous students have said:

E - July 2012 - Intermediate Adult: I needed a quick few lessons to help me pass a resit at University, I realised this was a pressure on Sarah to help me pass but I had learnt more with Sarah in a total of 6 hours than I had in a whole year. I would highly recommend Sarah to anybody, Thank you Sarah for your help, you helped me pass with flying colours! E.

R - May 2012 - GCSE last minute help online - My daughter says " Sarah is really friendly and helpful and she gave me lots of techniques I can use to revise". Sarah has been brilliant at giving a late boost just before the exams, which was exactly what we wanted. We found her incredibly helpful and responsive and are sure she has been a major part of boosting my daughter's confidence - her grades as reported by school have gone up two levels in the last two months and Sarah has been a definite part of this

S - July 2011-May 2012 - Adult Casual - After having lessons for a few months now I can say that Sarah is a very effective teacher and has the ability to explain things in a simple and easy to understand way. I feel I have made significant progress in my learning and would not hesitate to recommend Sarah to anybody wishing to learn french.

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Personal Description:
I am an experienced, professional, private tutor, offering tuition in French, German and English (EFL/ESOL). I am experienced at teaching both adults and children online, using Zoom, Skype or other software and use a variety of materials and resources to keep lessons interesting. Classes are available during both daytime and evening during the week, and also on Saturday mornings.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring privately for 20 years and have references available from former students as well as an enhanced DBS disclosure. My clients range in age from 8 years to retirement and beyond. I cater for all standards from Beginners to Advanced (A1 to C1 on the Common European Framework).

I have extensive experience of tutoring for GCSE, IGCSE and A Level examinations for several different exam boards. In addition, several of my adult students have taken German exams with the Goethe Institut.

As a former volunteer leader within the Guide Association (now GirlGuiding UK) and now as a volunteer with the Scout Association, I
have considerable experience of teaching a variety of skills to young people aged 10-25. I have led a considerable amount of adult training, both as a language tutor and in my previous roles in the IT industry.

Tutoring Approach:
After initial assessments to see what support is needed, classes are tailored to a student's particular needs and interests. There is, of course, a vast difference between a school student who requires additional support in preparation for an exam and an adult student who is pursuing a modern foreign language out of personal interest or for business reasons. We would look at verbal and listening practice as well as written exercises.

I have a particular interest in grammar and feel that it is very difficult to have a good grasp of a language without some grammar competency. This is especially important for A Level examinations. However, grammar does not have to be taught in a boring way and I often use games and fun exercises as well as more formal methods. Primary pupils learn mostly through games, puzzles and songs.

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Personal Description:
28 years of living and working in Germany now resident in Dalton in Furness.

Teaching Experience:
City & Guilds PTLLS qualified , fully CRB checked, have taught evening courses for Adult Education and private students.

Tutoring Approach:
We are all individuals and teaching should be adapted to each individual. Relax and enjoy!

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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 an experienced language teacher and native speaker of Arabic and German and teach at school as well as giving private lessons. Teaching at all levels and using a large variety of materials, tailored to students' ages and needs, the emphasis is on enjoying the process of learning the language at the students own pace as well as working towards specific goals where appropriate.

Teaching Experience:
I teach German in school to children aged 6-10 and have given private lessons at all levels and to all ages, children, adolescents and adults, in both German and Arabic, for many years. My background is in interpreting and translation and I moved on to teaching from there. One of my long term Arabic students is now studying Arabic at university level, many of my other students have successfully completed GCSEs and A levels in both languages and/or gone on to use both languages for work or leisure purposes.

Tutoring Approach:
The emphasis is on the enjoyment of the learning process, I adapt the materials used to the individual needs of my students and everything is tailored to those needs. For children the emphasis is on learning through games, play and song, for adolescents and adults games and play may still form a part of the process. Cultural instruction and understanding goes hand in hand with the learning of the language, especially with Arabic as the culture and script are so different and present special challenges. I love my work and I try to convey a love of language to my students too.

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Personal Description:
Hi there,
My name is Vera. I am a native speaker of German, a fully qualified teacher and 38 years old. I have a B.A. in German and English and an A-level in French. My exam results are 100% pass rate at A-level for the past nine years and 100% pass rate with students achieving 9 - 7 (A* - A) grades at GSCE level.
I have been living in England for 15 years now, I think I am a good humoured and honest person and I love teaching people languages.

Teaching Experience:
I qualified as a teacher with a starred first at Southampton University and worked in a secondary school until deciding to work as a private tutor only.
For more than 10 years now I have been teaching in schools or privately as well as working in translations, it is huge fun and I enjoy working with different people.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is to assess the needs of the tutee and plan lessons accordingly. I think it is very important to know the grammar and vocabulary of a language in order to speak it fluently.
Please note, prices are correct for when you come to my house/online tuition. If you would like to meet somewhere or at your house, I charge £5 extra for petrol money and driving time within reasonable driving distance.

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Personal Description:
I am a 25 year old PhD student in Spanish Literature at the University of Cambridge. I have a first class-degree in Spanish and German language and literature as well as an MPhil in Spanish literature which I completed in 2014. I have a range of experience that would make me ideal for teaching young people and adults from beginner up to A-Level standard.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored Spanish to school pupils with learning difficulties at both beginner and GCSE level and helped them to significantly improve their performances.

I was also a group leader at the Villiers Park Educational Trust in Cambridgeshire, aimed at language applicants from less advantaged backgrounds. Throughout the week-long programme I was responsible for delivering a series of seminars as well as one-to-one tuition on subjects as varied as Spanish vocabulary and grammar, to cinema, literature and history. The programme was such a success that I have been invited back as a tutor this year.

Tutoring Approach:
I am available to give online tutoring to young people and adults in Spanish and German from beginner to A-Level standard. I can work you through the basics of the language or the more complex material for advanced students. I'm happy to teach any aspect of the language or culture you need. I am also available to teach in Cambridge city centre, where possible.

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Personal Description:
Hi, my name is Christiane and I am German. I have been living in the UK for many years. I am a very reliable and approachable, but professional and trustworthy at the same time. I am always honest and work very hard to achieve my targets. I am sure I can help you to achieve the results that you were looking for and with my support, learning German or English will be just a positive and enjoyable experience.
I am looking forward to hearing from you.

Teaching Experience:
I have been giving German lessons to students of any age for 7 years. My students are normally preparing university exams, GSCE, business people or simply people who enjoy to learn the language in order to be independent and confident when traveling to Germany.

Teaching English is something I also very enjoy. My students are normally people who want to live here for a few years or even for the rest of their life.

Tutoring Approach:
After initial assessment we will decide together how and how often I will teach you or your children. I make learning fun with games etc.
Motivation is probably the most important factor that educators can target in order to
improve learning. Student motivation is an essential element that is necessary for quality education and as far as I can, I try to adapt the lessons approach according students needs and target to be reached.

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Personal Description:
My name is Ed and I am the Director of a private tuition company that has supported students in the UK and internationally since 2010.

I have extensive experience supporting students across Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics and English, from Primary and Common Entrance through GCSE, A-Level, IB and university level.

I believe effective tuition should be tailored to the individual student. My focus is on developing strong subject understanding, confidence, independent thinking and exam technique, while identifying and addressing gaps in knowledge.

Tuition is available both in person and online, ranging from ongoing academic support to targeted preparation for examinations and admissions.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught and supported students across Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics and English at a wide range of academic levels, including Primary, Common Entrance, GCSE, IGCSE, A-Level, IB and university.

As Director of a private tuition company, I also lead and coordinate a team of tutors, matching students with suitable academic support and overseeing their progress.

My experience includes long-term academic tuition, examination preparation, admissions tests and interview preparation, as well as helping students address specific areas of difficulty.

I have worked with students from schools and universities across the UK and internationally, including students preparing for competitive school and university admissions.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is structured, supportive and adapted to the individual student.

I begin by establishing a strong understanding of the underlying concepts before progressing to more challenging questions and exam-style problems. Students are encouraged to explain their reasoning, learn from mistakes and develop methods they can apply independently.

I also look beyond the immediate lesson by identifying gaps in knowledge, areas requiring consolidation, upcoming assessments and the most appropriate next steps.

Confidence is an important part of learning. I aim to create an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions while still being challenged to make meaningful academic progress.

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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:
My name is David and I am 40 years old. I live in a small village called Slinfold, which is just outside of Horsham. I am a upbeat, positive person, who loves helping people in all aspects of life. My interests outside of languages and teaching include golf, cricket, and snooker. I am a keen baker, but not quite Bake Off standard. I have a little dog called Molly.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught English as a foreign Language in both France and Germany in primary and secondary schools. I have also taught foreign students at English Summer Schools as well. Recently I have started up my own French and German private tuition company and teach students between the ages of 15-70. I have a Degree in French and German from the University of Oxford.

Tutoring Approach:
I am very flexible in my approach tp language learning, offering a bespoke service for the specific needs of each individual student. This includes emphasis on conversational skills, grammar, preparation for exams, or a more general approach for a hobby. I like to make my lessons fun and motivating, and will provide ongoing homework and testing if the student would like to be stretched. Ideally, I like working with students who are equally focused and motivated, as this will ensure the best results.

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Personal Description:
I am a native German speaker. I have a BA (Honours) degree in French, German and English Linguistics and a Cert HE in Teaching and Learning Support. I can teach French up to KS3 and German up to A Level/Adult. I also offer English language lessons for speakers of other languages. I enjoy Yoga, being creative, listening to live music and travelling.

Teaching Experience:
I worked as a German language assistant for 8 years, preparing pupils for their GCSE and A Level exams. I ran speaking practice sessions, grammar workshops and supported learning in class. I have extensive experience working in Education, including SEN.
I have been a freelance private tutor since 2013

Tutoring Approach:
ONLINE & F2F lessons available!

My approach to tutoring is student-centred.

Depending on the age and requirements of the student, I can adapt my teaching approach to the individual's needs. I am happy to teach groups of up to 5 students. It would work out less expensive!

Primary level would be teaching through songs and games in a fun way. Lessons usually last 30 mins, which will cost £20 per pupil for a one-to-one session. I am happy to teach a small group of pupils and the cost can be shared between them to make the lessons less expensive (£10 per pupil for 4 pupils in one session).

GCSE and A Level would be focusing on exam preparation and speaking practice, supporting the student to become more confident. I would base my teaching on supporting the subject teacher.

Adult teaching would be tailored to the individual's needs. Some students just want to improve their speaking, therefore I would tailor the lessons to accommodate their need. Some may just want to learn some basic phrases for a holiday in Germany, I would plan lessons based on that need.

I can also run grammar, conversation and writing workshops in German.

I now offer English (as a foreign language).

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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 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:
A highly enthusiastic, dedicated, and accomplished teacher with 22 years of experience in secondary education, specialising in Modern Foreign Languages, including German, French, and Spanish. Having a Master's degree and already holding a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, I combine strong academic credentials with extensive classroom expertise.

Throughout my career, I have consistently secured positive outcomes for students by building strong relationships, fostering mutual respect, and creating engaging learning environments that inspire confidence and achievement. Passionate about language learning and committed to delivering outstanding German teaching, I strive to ensure that every student reaches their full potential.

With a proven track record of collaboration, professionalism, and high expectations, I am now seeking a new opportunity where I can contribute my skills, experience, and enthusiasm, and quickly become a valued member of a successful teaching team.

Teaching Experience:
With 22 years of teaching experience, I have developed a highly adaptable and student-centred approach that recognises and responds to the unique needs, strengths, and learning styles of each individual. I am committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where all students feel valued, challenged, and empowered to achieve their full potential. By tailoring teaching strategies and providing personalised support, I consistently promote engagement, confidence, and academic success.

Tutoring Approach:
As a teacher, I adopt a constructivist approach to learning, designing and adapting lessons to meet the diverse needs, abilities, and interests of my students. I encourage learners to actively engage with new knowledge, think critically, and take ownership of their learning journey. By fostering independence, resilience, and self-reflection, I create an environment in which students develop the confidence and skills required for long-term success. This personalised and student-centred approach has consistently resulted in high levels of engagement, strong academic progress, and excellent examination outcomes.

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Personal Description:
Hello! My name is Anatoli and I'm a language tutor, translator and performing artist. I'm passionate about languages, texts and words and I love teaching!

I was born and raised in Greece and I lived for eight years in Germany before moving to the UK, where I've been based since 2010. I hold a a BA in Greek Philology with specialization in Linguistics (National and Kapodistrian University of Athens), a PhD in Cultural Studies with a thesis discussing the concept of the Total Work of Art ('Gesamtkunstwerk') in the context of cinema (Humboldt University of Berlin), an MA in Acting (15 Acting School, University of Essex) and a PGCert in Physical Theatre (Royal Holloway, University of London). I have also trained in music/singing and dance in various schools in the UK, Germany and Greece.

I have been a translator since 2007 (English/German/French into Greek) and I have translated among others international campaigns for major brands, as well as for audiovisual media (script adaptation, audio supervision). As a performer I have worked as an actor, voice actor and singer in the UK and Germany.

I combine my diverse influences and interests into various forms of expression and creativity, including writing, song-writing, theatre-making and photography. I'm committed to lifelong learning, currently learning Japanese and Russian and regularly attending classes and workshops on acting, dance, directing, drama therapy etc. I believe in the importance of education and culture in making a difference in the world.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching Greek and German since 2012, one-on-one for all levels and ages as well as for businesses. Since 2016 I also teach Piano, Singing and Music Theory in various music schools in London and privately. I have also taught Movement sessions for various levels.

Tutoring Approach:
Drawing from my experience in both academics and the arts, as well as from my own continuous language learning, I bring a creative and dynamic approach to my teaching, customizing my methods and materials to suit each student's personal needs. I do appreciate a textbook and workbook as a main starting point and as a priority I strive to explain clearly any grammatical phenomena, syntax, word meanings etc. until these are well understood and the student can use them independently in written and oral speech. Then, besides grammar and vocabulary drills, and depending on individual learning goals, there are endless possibilities in foreign language immersion and acquisition, which I'm most happy to suggest and incorporate in the lesson!

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Personal Description:
Hello! It's me Jahmai, bilingual native German teacher, I have a degree in English, Psychology and Musicology from the Christian-Albrecht-University in Kiel, Germany. I have over 20 years of experience teaching online classes to students of all age groups. I will tailor my lessons to your needs and create a safe environment in which you can learn German effectively and fast.
I focus on grammar and conversation and my main objective is to get you to speak German fluently in no time. My approach is a mix of traditional teaching combined with modern elements of web based training.

Teaching Experience:
I bring over 20 years of experience teaching German in the United States and in Europe. My clients span from beginners to advanced level, in the private, non-profit and corporate sectors. I have also taught field-specific language, ranging from aviation to zoology.

Tutoring Approach:
Having studied Latin for many years, I have a unique perspective on the shared commonality of all Romance languages as well as their roots. Experience has taught me that learning does not have to be a complicated or a laboursome process. I will be your guide in helping you manoeuvre through the rapids of German and English grammar with joy and tangible results.My approach to teaching languages is anchored in both methodology and in the joy of learning, combining traditional and modern schools of thought. Learning should be based on play where tangible progress is made immediately. I believe in guiding my clients to fully understanding the essence of the language they are studying, its origin and cultural context.

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Personal Description:
I am a highly-experienced French and German teacher with over 15 years in the classroom, teaching both languages to Oxbridge entry level.

I believe in giving pupils the tools to manipulate language for themselves and to feel confident when communicating orally or in writing. My lessons are tailored to the individual and for those taking GCSE or A Level examinations, there is a clear focus on improving exam technique and working on individual skills and exam papers.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught at a wide range of schools, from comprehensive to grammar schools and from this, I have gained a wide level of experience of supporting pupils with different needs. My pupils and those I have tutored have consistently achieved very good outcomes in public examinations.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor my lessons to the needs of the individual pupil and in our initial meeting, I will establish the areas where we want to work on together.

My lessons are interactive and I make use of authentic materials and assessment materials to practise the different language skill areas.

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