South Ockendon German Tutors and South Ockendon German Tuition

Personal Description:
I am an extremely well qualified and experienced teacher of modern languages. I worked in many schools in the UK and for the most part as head of MFL. I also worked in China and Germany teaching English. Since retiring from full time teaching I have been teaching private lessons. I have extensive knowledge of the GCSE and A level courses and I have been very successful with my students. On average their grades have improved by at least two from their mock exams.

Teaching Experience:
I started teaching after leaving university when I went to China and worked for a United Nations Development Project. I then worked for a private language school in Germany. I became a qualified teacher and worked in several schools in Essex. I quickly worked my way up the ranks and became Head of Modern Languages. My last full time position was as Head of MFL at Medina College on the Isle of Wight. Since then I have been successfully teaching private lessons to students aged 5 to adults.

Tutoring Approach:
I use a variety of techniques adapted to my student's needs. I like to make my lessons fun and interactive. I follow the syllabus closely in the case of exam students and make sure that students are confident in all four skills. I elicit information from the students rather than just teach them how something works. By using this method students are more likely to retain the knowledge. I am happy to teach students individually or in pairs or groups.

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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:
I am a native speaker of Italian with a degree in European Languages and extensive teaching experience. I have been based in Oxford for almost 20 years, after having lived in different European countries. I am an enthusiast linguist and my multilingual family is testimonial to that (a French husband, and trilingual children).

Teaching Experience:
I have gained experience in teaching to both adults and younger students (secondary school and degree level), both in formal context (university degree courses and schools) and less formal (evening and leisure courses) as well as Italian for business (directly to companies for their employees).

Tutoring Approach:
I privilege the communicative approach as after all languages are made to communicate! This allows all lessons to be more relaxed and rewarding as small results can be achieved - and seen - every time. I have run absolute beginners intensive courses and my aim is to allow the student(s) to go home speaking from the first time, however little it might be. At the same time, I also tend not to forget about grammar as it is the structure of the language and gives a better insight and understanding, but even grammar doesn't necessarily need to be taught in a very conservative manner.

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Personal Description:
My background is in languages and performing arts. I began studying
English at age 8, French at 13, German at 15, and have been
self-taught in Spanish since age 10. I come from a family with a
long tradition in teaching and have always been encouraged to study
and learn, while at the same time inheriting and developing a strong
capacity to explain, train, and encourage.

Teaching Experience:
Since graduating from my Master's course in 2011 I have been working
as a self-employed language tutor in and around London and have
always received more than positive feedback from my clients. My
tutees' ages range from four to seventy-four and I constantly
endeavour to improve myself and adapt my teaching method to my
clients' needs.

Some client reviews:

David
21/03/2020
5/5 Rating

"I`ve been doing Romanian with Maria for a few months now,
initially face to face and now via Skype. I enjoy my lessons
a great. Maria has excellent teaching skills, prepares well for
the class, and provides me with good feedback. Aside from that,
the lessons are fun and I look forward to them. Would definitely
recommend."

Toni
20/09/2018
5/5 Rating

"Only had 3 lessons but I`m loving the way Maria breaks everything
down and explains it. She fills me with confidence by focusing on
the positive from the lessons. Thank you for everything so far :)"

John
14/05/2018
5/5 Rating

"Maria is an excellent tutor, already 2 lessons in and I am picking
up the basics quickly!"

Rebecca
01/04/2018
5/5 Rating

"Prompt, organised, professional and a great teacher!"

Arshad
22/02/2018
5/5 Rating

"Very professional tutor
Highly recommended"

Otis
26/12/2017
5/5 Rating

"Maria is an excellent tutor. She is very knowledgeable and her
lessons are always well structured and enjoyable. She has a genuine
passion for languages which is evident in her thorough preparation
for each lesson. I would recommend Maria."

Polly
24/10/2017
5/5 Rating

"Maria has been great so far!!!"

Tracey
22/05/2017
5/5 Rating

"Maria is an excellent tutor. She is very punctual and happy to be
flexible with the times we can meet. She is very patience and her
explanations are concise and clear. I would have no hesitation in
reommending her."

Mihaela
14/11/2016
5/5 Rating

"Maria is a very punctual and organised tutor and my daughter is
making good progress. She is friendly and supportive and I would
definitely recommend her."

Phillip
31/03/2016
5/5 Rating

"Absolute great tutor, who was professional, personable and patient!
Highly recommended."

Evita
05/11/2015
5/5 Rating

"Maria is teaching German to me and my 7-year old daughter both had
no previous knowledge and I can suggest her as fast progressing
learning teacher. She is strict and well prepared. It`s been a
pleasure working with her."

Luke
23/08/2015
5/5 Rating

"Amazing tutor, highly professional and well qualified! worth her
weight in gold!"

Spiros
07/08/2015
5/5 Rating

"I THE LIKE THE WAY MARIA GOES THROUGH THE LESSON, AND SHE EXPLAINS
EVERYTHING, ALSO SHE IS ALWAYS ON TIME AND FLEXIBLE WITH THE HOURS
SHE DOES.
VERY PLEASED, THANK YOU."

James
20/07/2015
5/5 Rating

"Maria is efficient, focused and hardworking. My 14 year old
daughter enjoys her lessons with Maria."

Teresa
10/02/2017
5/5 Rating

"Maria tutors my daughter and me together in French. Maria is
extremely patient and we are enjoying her lessons. She is really
helping us."

Deborah
12/09/2016
5/5 Rating

"Very patient with lots of energy! Really good with my 6 and 7 year
old girls learning German."

Tutoring Approach:
Although I learned all my foreign languages through a rigorous method very much based on writing and grammar, I am happy to adapt my method to my pupil's needs. Personally, I believe that conversation is the key to becoming fluent in a language, but at the same time I do not neglect the importance of writing and reading comprehension. I therefore aim to split my lessons as evenly as possible between speaking, reading, listening comprehension, and writing assignments.

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Personal Description:
I am a professional in my 30s with degrees in English & Italian Literature (BA 2:1, Warwick 2000) and the History of Medicine & Science (MA Merit, Birkbeck College, University of London). I also hold a CELTA qualification in teaching English Language to adults.

I am a friendly and open teacher and get on very well with my students. I have a car and will travel.

Proof-editing: contact for rates.

In addition to teaching I also offer a proof-reading service so for university essays / research proposals / writing projects, please do contact me for rates.

Teaching Experience:
I have spent the past three years in Germany teaching English as a foreign language to university students and business professionals. I am CELTA qualified and have a flexible approach, adapting my style to suit my students' needs. One to one teaching was my preferred method. l

Before I went to Germany in 2014, I had been a English and History tutor for ten years.

Please note that I am not a PGCE-qualified teacher. My focus is on the required skills rather than the syllabus as set by the school. This method has proved very effective time and time again.

I hold a German CRB, in due time I will replace this with a UK one.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to proof-editing / English checking is to look primarily at the language. For some clients - university students in particular - it is not appropriate to offer an editorial service as this goes against the rules of university submissions. However, where I think a mistake has been made or something is not clearly expressed - and it is not a simple matter of correcting the language - then I will flag it up to the student so they can look at it again.

My main aim with my tutees is to build their confidence and enthusiasm for the subject. To this end I concentrate on teaching the skills they require to achieve the grades they want. My role is not to replace the teaching they get at school but to compliment it so a tutoring session could concentrate on planning an essay the student has been asked to write or going through specific areas the student needs help with. I won't necessarily give homework - unless required - as I feel students have enough to do without me adding to their workload.

In return I expect my students to engage with the sessions. They don't have to like the subject and of course I'm there to help those who don't understand some things or just need a little help or encouragement, but the student must be prepared to be tutored.

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Personal Description:
Highly experienced working teacher/examiner ,100% grades A*-C for GCE and grades 4-9 for GCSE, with 80% of tutees consistently reaching the upper bands. All levels catered for. DBS checked.

As I am qualified and experienced to teach four subjects: English literature and language, Drama/Theatre Studies, French and German, up to and including A level, I am in a position to offer students on alternate weeks tutoring in two or three subjects if required.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching at secondary and university level for over 25 years, my secondary school experience ranges from state schools to prestigious independent. I am an Edexcel GCE examiner and hold upper threshold status. Despite being a trained secondary teacher, I have in recent years had great success preparing students for 11 and 13 plus English exams, one such student won the English scholarship to attend Harrow public school.

Tutoring Approach:
Lessons are created to meet the exact requirements of the examining board the student is following and or their precise learning needs. Students with special needs and or English not as a first language, can also be catered for. Homework is given and is expected to be completed. I teach week day evenings and Saturday mornings via Zoom or in person.

In the first instance parents should email me to arrange a time to discuss how I can help their child. Testimonials, qualifications, DBS and proof of upper threshold status are available on request.

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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:
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:
I am a friendly, qualified and experienced teacher. I am a native German. I moved to the UK in 1991 just after meeting my future husband. We have three grown-up sons. My hobbies are walking, gardening, piano and music, cooking and I am a member of the WI. I hold a current DBS certificate and I am also registered with the Education Workforce Council.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked in Grammar schools and colleges in the UK for over 15 years, as a German teacher and Head of German. I have conducted GCSE and A-level oral exams for the WJEC examination board and written syllabuses for German GCSE and A-level groups. The school where I worked, received an "Outstanding" by Ofsted. At present, I am working online and in-person with students who are eager to improve their confidence and skills at Key stage 3, GCSE, A-level or Degree level, and also with adults who want to learn German to converse with family and friends or are taking up professional positions in Germany and Switzerland.

The feedback I have received from students has been consistently positive. All students have improved their skills and confidence and many have been able to get top marks in their exams and have been able to secure places at Cambridge, Imperial College, York, Nottingham, Cardiff and Kings College London.

Tutoring Approach:
I currently teach all lessons in person or online on Zoom or Skype. Online tutoring is very effective, as students can choose the best tutor regardless of where they live and save on travelling time. As with in person lessons, I prepare lesson plans and materials and send them to the student before the lesson. I also set homework assignments, mark the work and give constructive feedback.

Language tuition has been my passion for a long time and allows me to be supportive and creative, motivating pupils and believing in their abilities. One-to-one tuition is very productive, because it adapts to the individual learner's needs easily. My experience in schools and with exams has given me the knowledge of standards required for GCSE and A-level exams, and many pupils have commented on how much improvement they have seen in their school work, and in their confidence, as a result of our lessons. My aim is to make language learning enjoyable, and therefore I always encourage a warm and relaxed atmosphere for lessons. My lessons are structured, integrating all four language skills speaking, listening, reading and writing, and also include grammar, pronunciation, games, video clips, and lots of authentic material and cultural knowledge.

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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:
An advanced skills teacher in French, Spanish and German and a French native speaker, I also speak fluently 5 languages. I have been teaching in London secondary schools since 2010. In previous years I have also worked as second in charge and Head of French in an MFL department. However, I chose never to become head of department as this would have distracted me from perfecting my role as a teacher.

I pride myself on excellent exam results and students WILL CONSISTENTLY progress from the very first lesson. If students are not satisfied with the progress they have made in their first lesson, I am happy to refund the cost of that lesson.

I follow a new revolutionary teaching method which demistifies languages and make them so much simpler. Generally after one year my GCSE students can write independantly a level 9 piece of writing - if they are not on track to achieve this, parents will be warned as soon as this becomes apparent.

In our school we used to have 3 or 4 students taking languages at Alevel, this has now reached 20!

To primary school students, I teach a language in the same way a toddler learns their mother tongue and generally, by the time they reach year 7, we can work on GCSE materials and look at taking a GCSE a the end of year 8, worst case scenario at the end of year 9.

Amongst my greatest success are helping a student increase her grade from a 3 to a 7, this same student is now taking French at Alevel and intends to pursue its study at University.
I have also helped a number of students pass the MLAT exam for Oxford. I have also helped young people increase by to 2 and sometimes 3 grades at Alevel and reach countless 9s at GCSE.

As a practising teacher, I have prepared hundreds of students for their exams and have therefore a good understanding of not only the different exam requirements for all skills, but also a good knowledge of the wide array of exam revision techniques and exercises available. I use a wealth of resources which I have collected and developed over the years and I also call on, if necessary, the help of native French students to help break speaking barriers. I closely monitor progress and keep parents/guardians informed every step of the way.

If you would like to know how I would approach your particular needs, please do not hesitate to contact me, I look forward to hearing from you.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching since 2010 in various London secondary schools.

As a proven linguist, I have taught French, German and Spanish to GCSE and A level.

Over the years I have prepared hundreds of students for gcse, Alevels, IGCSEs And IB

Tutoring Approach:
I can summarise my approach by saying that I make languages seem easy to learn! Which they are, given the right approach.

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Personal Description:
I am a highly experienced educationalist with a wholistic approach and a wide range of work experience before training as a teacher.

Prior to becoming a qualified teacher my professional experience includes IT, social work, property maintenance, music, photography and education & employment while my studies at undergraduate included nine subjects. I therefore draw upon a wide range of experience, knowledge and practice and believe that personal development is one of the most important and fulfilling things we can engage with in life.

In addition to various qualifications I have gained, I self study and pursue a wide range of activities and interests which gives me an ever increasing palette to draw upon when tutoring / mentoring.

Teaching Experience:
I gained my PGCE in Secondary Education (Maths) and worked in Adult Education and Family Learning for many years whereby I delivered accredited courses in Mathematics (up to GCSE level) and non-accredited courses in English and IT. In utilising my experience of working with mental health I set up and ran the only Maths for Mental Health group in Sussex which, although successful, unfortunately was terminated due to lack of funding along with my Family Learning teaching practice.

I left the Adult Education sector when I was head hunted by a family to deliver a private Home Learning curriculum and now work solely as a private tutor; supporting students in the Maths school curriculum and delivering a range of subjects (Maths, English, German, History, Photography, Chess etc.) to students who are home schooled. I also undertake private adult learning where there is a demand, additionally designing and undertaking bespoke plans for specific skills development such as report writing for business and fundamental Maths & Physics for basic Aircraft Engineering courses.

During the time of working in the Education & Employment sector I was responsible for skills development of various special needs groups so I have a solid understanding of and experience in a wide variety of educational needs. This experience also laid the foundation for a fixed term contract at a college for SEND students where I delivered a Maths curriculum to groups of SEND young adults within the QCF accredited curriculum.

Tutoring Approach:
As a professional educator I am committed to lifelong learning myself and, while I see the benefits and necessity of having learning goals to work towards, I believe that the most important role of a tutor is to develop a healthy and respectful relationship with a student, so that learning and achievement can flow from a sense of natural enquiry into a subject in a way which engages them in life. My experience suggests that, for most students, this approach helps them achieve greater confidence, awareness and motivation to excel in their learning and understanding of the subject.

My overall experience of working with a wide range of people in diverse professional fields and having studied a multi-disciplinary undergraduate degree as well as Maths also allows me to link learning across a range of subjects and life situations. In itself, this gives me a significant platform to develop a learner's ability to grasp a 'bigger picture' and to see self development as intrinsically valuable beyond the subject or topics being worked on.

I believe that we can never truly know our potential and I approach each student with a sense of curiosity and encouragement to explore that potential through appropriate cognitive skills development, so as to build positive channels of learning while identifying and addressing any specific difficulties.

When working with students I usually discuss learning and content with them but, when tutoring young people, I also encourage regular contact with the parent / carer - after all, a parent / carer is the first teacher in a young person's life and very much part of the young person's view of the world and educational growth.

PLEASE NOTE: relevant charges and introductory sessions

(i) sessions based more than 3 miles radius from my location will incur a travel charge based on a reasonable mileage cost if I am required to travel to the tutee.

(ii) on acceptance of each other via this site, there is an immediate introduction fee to be made to the site. This can be accommodated by a single session at my usual rates where you and your son / daughter can meet me and I you.

(iii) I would ask that sessions are subsequently booked in blocks of 6 and paid for in advance. Thank you.

BRAIN TEASER: if you were to spell out the counting numbers from "one" on wards, how far would you have to go until you would find the letter 'A' in the number (this doesn't include the conjunction "and")?

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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:
I am an extremely well qualified and experienced teacher of modern languages. I worked in many schools in the UK and for the most part as head of MFL. I also worked in China and Germany teaching English. Since retiring from full time teaching I have been teaching private lessons. I have extensive knowledge of the GCSE and A level courses and I have been very successful with my students. On average their grades have improved by at least two from their mock exams.

Teaching Experience:
I started teaching after leaving university when I went to China and worked for a United Nations Development Project. I then worked for a private language school in Germany. I became a qualified teacher and worked in several schools in Essex. I quickly worked my way up the ranks and became Head of Modern Languages. My last full time position was as Head of MFL at Medina College on the Isle of Wight. Since then I have been successfully teaching private lessons to students aged 5 to adults.

Tutoring Approach:
I use a variety of techniques adapted to my student's needs. I like to make my lessons fun and interactive. I follow the syllabus closely in the case of exam students and make sure that students are confident in all four skills. I elicit information from the students rather than just teach them how something works. By using this method students are more likely to retain the knowledge. I am happy to teach students individually or in pairs or groups.

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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:
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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