West Wickham German Tutors and West Wickham German Tuition

Personal Description:
Over the past 12 years, I have enabled hundreds of students to maximise their potential in GCSE, AS/A-Level and IB examinations.

I completed my PhD in 2015 (University of London), which was about the philosophy of folly in Shakespeare's plays. Having worked as a school teacher, university lecturer and held fellowships at Kingston University and the University of Athens, I currently teach Shakespeare at the CEU and run my education company. I have published two books, one based on my PhD and one on social psychology, as well as numerous articles on literature and philosophy.

Whereas English Literature, Language and Philosophy are my primary disciplines, I have also taught German and History up to A-Level standard in schools in Britain. I believe education is not simply a means to an end; rather, it offers exciting and new ways of thinking about ourselves and the world around us. In my spare time, I enjoy writing and skiing.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience is fairly extensive and I have taught both in the UK and abroad. I have taught at schools (GCSE, IB and A-Levels) and universities in the UK, as well as leading Shakespeare workshops across Europe, when I worked for the British Council.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe the key to successful tuition is communication. I set clear goals for my students and ensure that they are always prepared and confident in their exams.

Depending on the students needs, I assist with academic writing and how best to fulfil the exam boards' specific Coursework Assessment Objectives or we focus on exam techniques to ensure the best possible outcome. Alongside my personal tuition, I provide my students with extensive digital resources, developed by my company, for free. I encourage discussion and debate and enjoy learning from my students. Over the past 12 years, I've found them to be consistently engaging and inspiring.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Born in London, I was educated in the UK and Hong Kong. I currently reside in Oxfordshire with my husband, where we both enjoy the outdoors in the Cotswolds.

Teaching Experience:
I have many years' experience in primary and secondary schools and home education in the UK, Hong Kong and Germany.

I teach in a school in Burford, Oxfordshire, and also provide home tuition to primary and secondary pupils.

Tutoring Approach:
To encourage your child to gain confidence and enjoy learning, I draw on my personal warmth and humour in lessons. I aim to help your child gain good exam results through:

lively engagement with your child's creative intelligence
continuous assessment and feedback of your child's progress
learning using a wide variety of resources

I believe learning comes alive through building on the child's immediate experiences and their curiosity for the world around them.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello!
I am a 60-year-old woman, native speaker, from Germany. I love the theatre and worked as an actress, author, and director. Furthermore, I also worked as a secretary and was responsible for the complete correspondence. The work with and via the German language is so exciting and leads you to an entirely new world that I would love to share this experience with people who are keen to learn German.
Lessons are available online only.

Teaching Experience:
I am not a teacher in the classic sense but as a native speaker with a lot of experiences in teaching theater items. I am able to help you practicing your new language - no matter if you need it for school, your job or just for fun!

Tutoring Approach:
It is my firm conviction you never learn better, quicker and more sustainable than in simply practicing a language.
Of course, it might be necessary to build a base first - that depends on your individual knowledge.
But no matter if you are a beginner or if you do already speak German - soon we will reach a level where we will talk only in German.
We won't learn vocabularies and grammar stubbornly by the book but we will practice the new language right from the beginning on everyday items.

I am no teacher in the classic sense - but I am a native speaker and I can help you with learning and practicing the German language.

So do not hesitate - just do it!

Subjects

Personal Description:
My mum was from Germany, and my frequent childhood trips to Germany fuelled my love of languages, leading me to study French and German at university. I have a wide range of interests, including sport, music, current affairs, reading and travel, which enables me to find areas of common interest with my tutees - this is particularly helpful at a more advanced linguistic level, when discussion and conversation play a greater role. I am friendly and sociable and love helping students achieve their language goals by finding ways of learning that work well for them.

Teaching Experience:
I achieved a First Class Joint Honours degree in French and German from Nottingham University, where I spent the third year of my degree as an 'Assistante' in a school in St-Lô in northern France. I then completed a PGCE in Secondary German and French at Manchester Polytechnic. Since qualifying I have worked in secondary, primary and adult education, teaching all ages and levels, including GCSE and A-level. I have also tutored privately, again with a variety of age groups and levels.

Tutoring Approach:
I am enthusiastic, friendly and conscientious and believe that good relationships are at the heart of effective teaching and learning. My experience in different sectors of education means I have developed a wide range of teaching styles which can be adapted to the needs of each individual learner. Whilst every student is different and requires a tailored approach, I aim to create a relaxed and open atmosphere in which students are given encouragement at every stage and feel able to ask about anything they do not understand. I review with the tutee on an ongoing basis how they feel things are going and whether their needs are being met.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi! I'm Nick, a 46 yr old graduate of Oxford University, where I studied French and German, and a postgraduate of the University of Manchester, where I obtained a Masters and Doctorate in English. I currently teach GCSE English in my institution, and also work in a university part-time.

At the moment I prefer online teaching, which I can do via Zoom, Skype or maybe other platforms.

Teaching Experience:
I always really enjoy teaching individual pupils at GCSE and A-level. I've had some great results in the recent exams - very proud of my pupils doing well, privately and at my school, and feel that I helped them achieve their best. I'm now looking to take on some more.

I have been teaching English in Higher Education since 2004. During this time I also taught an A-level student English on an individual basis, as extra preparation for Oxbridge entry - the student gained a place at Oxford. I've also taught two summer schools for visiting American students at the University of Manchester, and a first year university student privately last year.

I've been doing online teaching also over the last six months - there are real benefits!

I have experience with AQA syllabuses in French GCSE and English (Literature) GCSE and A-level (Gothic and Pastoral), and also OCR French.

I also worked for some years in the retail/hospitality sector, where I was an induction trainer, and had some involvement with NVQ assessment.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe the most important thing in teaching is to create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, where students are not afraid to ask any questions. I like to avoid overt formality, and make the teaching as enjoyable as possible. I'm very encouraging and positive, but within this will always offer constructive criticism when it's needed. I make sure sessions end with clear goals about what students need to do to improve - clear and achieveable goals, that I will check your progress with. I enjoy teaching a great deal, and will push you to achieve your very best.

For under 16s, I have a programme for teaching English, French, and German. This includes conversation, grammar, composition, and working with literature suited to the pupil's age range. It's flexible and pitched to any age and ability between 11 and 16.

I can offer teaching remotely - which I prefer at the moment.

Subjects

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.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a native German speaker offering one to one tuition or tuition to small groups for German and English language. I have been living in UK for the past 25 years specialising in communication, event management, marketing and tourism. For the past 11 years I have been delivering tailored one to one lessons for MFL German.

I hold the 'Safeguarding in Education' certificate and have an enhanced DBS check.

Teaching Experience:
Experience of one to one adult tuition online and face to face, experience of tuition to children (single and in groups of up to 10)

I have worked with Bristol University and Bath Academy, an independent college and language school.

Rosie (A-level student): "I'm thrilled with the grade and just wanted to say thank you for all the help you gave me in order for me to get this. I really couldn't have done it without you."

Juliette (first year at university): "It's good news! I passed! I'm very happy to know I've passed and can continue into second year. Thanks very much for all your help."

Rachael (adult/ casual learner): "Thank you for my lesson today. I always feel very enthusiastic after I have seen you."

Rachael (adult learner): "A very big thank you from me for all your excellent lessons. Your relaxed teaching methods have suited me perfectly and I have really enjoyed my lessons. "

Lauren (Gcse student): " I was very happy with my German grade. Thank you very much again, as I would not have passed without your help."

Amanda (adult/ casual learner): " Simply thanks. I can no other answer make, but, thanks, and thanks."

Marzena: "As parents we are really glad that you are Kajetan's teacher. Thank you sooo much."

Laura (adult/ casual learner): "Thank you so much for being so wonderful to us and for your excellent German tuition. We have both really enjoyed it."

Working as interpreter in an Englisch- German business meeting: "We were very satisfied with your services."

Tutoring Approach:
One to one tuition or group tuition for primary school aged children, one to one tuition for G.C.S.E., one to one tuition for A-level and university level. I also offer tuition for adult learners covering a wide range of subjects from business German to casual traveler , from first basics of German language to supporting more advanced learners achieving their accreditation. Lessons are tailored to individual needs after a first meeting and adjusted continuously to the process of the learner. Depending on individual needs lessons consist of German grammar, spelling, vocabulary, conversation, listening and translation. As a native German I am able to offer a very broad range of subjects.
In primary group tuition I work with visuals and spoken word, listening, singing, reading, play and role play. According to the children's age it is based on learning through play unless otherwise requested. Please inquire for group rates.

I also have experience in homeschooling environments.

If more than 1 lesson per week is booked I offer discounts.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a passionate linguist and teacher of Modern Languages.

Teaching Experience:
I am a highly qualified and experienced teacher of Modern Languages, able to teach Spanish, German and French. I have vast experience of teaching all three languages (Spanish, German and French) from Primary through to GCSE, and German through to A level and beyond. I am confident in teaching students of all abilities and in recent years have taught students who have progressed to study languages at Oxford and Cambridge. I am an experienced examiner for AQA and I have examined the GCSE German writing component for the last 6 years. I am also able to offer language tuition for adults and businesses.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a strong understanding of the GCSE and A-level courses which enables me to coach the students in a way for them to achieve their full potential at all levels.

Subjects

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.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Andy. I finished my A-Levels in 2011 and am preparing to study German and Russian at The University of Cambridge starting in October. I excelled at languages in school, receiving an A* in German A2 and an A in French AS. Between school and university I studied at the Goethe Institute in Berlin, lived and worked in Germany for over half a year, and am now starting to learn Russian and pusuing my other interests such as computer programming. I have also travelled extensively in France and Germany.

Teaching Experience:
I have no formal teaching experience (yet!) but learning three foreign languages myself and having studied German in a class actually taught in German, I am very familiar with the aspects of language that students have difficulty with. I am always thinking of better ways to explain things than the way they were explained to me, because every student learns in their own way; this makes me well placed to teach languages, German in particular due to my recent experiences in my gap year.

Tutoring Approach:
Having only recently completed my German GCSE myself (in 2009), I am familiar with the way it is taught in school. I also had lessons from a private tutor myself in German for a year or so during secondary school, so I know the sorts of things that will complement and expand on the material taught in class.

Subjects

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.

Subjects

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.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Ed. I am the Director of a private tuition company which has been providing impactful private teaching and tutoring services in a multitude of subjects across Common Entrance, GCSE, A-Level, IB and University.

We take pride in helping students to expand their minds, talents and skills, allowing them to reach their full potential. Our one-on-one tutoring brings a wealth of professional experience and expertise to those who strive to excel.

We offer personalised academic support, available in-person and online, to help students improve areas of difficulty and focus on exam techniques and preparation, helping them to succeed in attaining qualifications to their highest ability.

Please reach out and contact for further enquiries, look forward to hearing from you.

Teaching Experience:
Director, leading a team of tutors to support across a wide range of students including Common Entrance, GCSE, A-level, IB and University level - Present

Tutored a variety of subjects at different levels from primary schools, Common Entrance, GCSE, A-level, IB and University.

Offered service on giving academic advice as well as interview techniques for Oxford, Cambridge and other top schools and universities in the UK, US, Europe and Asia.

Tutoring Approach:
The approach is simple and effective. The general framework is to go through general concepts that are fundamental to student's understanding on the subject through the use of simple examples. I will then reinforce the message and encourage students to work on more specific and challenging problems.

Confidence is key and it is vital that my tutees are constantly motivated and encouraged in order to self-develop both at an academic and personal level.

We strive to make lessons as interactive as possible. We understand the different learning needs of different students. We will always be flexible with our teaching style and method and we are here to help you succeed.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello, I'm Sammy.

I offer private tutoring in German and Italian in friendly, focused and supportive lessons. Whether you are learning a language as an adult, need help with exams, or would just like some conversation practice to boost your confidence, I will tailor our sessions to suit your needs. Of course, if you just want to brush up on your language skills before a holiday or business trip, I can help with this, too!

I offer lessons for groups at a discounted rate - ideal for couples and friends.

I also have extensive experience in teaching English as a foreign language and I welcome international students to get in touch.

I am based in Liverpool and offer online tuition.

Teaching Experience:
* Former Head of Languages in a secondary school
* Fully qualified teacher with over ten years' experience teaching GCSE and A level
* Masters in Education and 1st class BA (hons) in German and Italian with a distinction in spoken language
* Experience teaching language for business
* Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certified

Tutoring Approach:
My first aim is to put you at ease and boost your confidence. Lesson content is completely flexible to fit with what you need and we will always work at a pace you are comfortable with.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Edouard was born and educated in England. He has resided in Canterbury, Leeds, Oxford, London, Shrewsbury, Ludlow and Oswestry. He gained five 'A Levels' (AAABC) at Notre Dame 6th Form College (Leeds) before attending Oxford University where he obtained Degrees in Philosophy and French. He proceeded to do Postgraduate studies in London where he was semi-resident at the British Library (1993-1998).

He has been a widely published author since 1999, being the author of dozens of essays and monographs in Philosophy, Comparative Literature, Poetry and Psychology. He is co-author of the self-help book 'Reading in No Time' and author of the forthcoming publication 'French in No Time' (2020). He is a member of MENSA, the BAJ (British Assoc. of Journalists) and A3M (Academy of the 3rd Millennium). He is currently editor of the 'Nobel Prize Collection' for Living Time Books.

Teaching Experience:
Edouard has taught pupils from KS1 to Postgraduate Level in the UK and abroad. He undertakes an equal amount of group-teaching (lecturing/seminars/classroom) and individual tutoring (mentoring/coaching/private tutorials).

He has taught in Switzerland (Geneva, Basel), France (Paris), Germany (Berlin, Munich), Italy (Milan) Poland (Krakow, Warsaw) and Slovakia (Bratislava). He is a native English speaker and also a fluent speaker of French and German.

Edouard is highly experienced in teaching children and adults with special educational needs - including Autistic Spectrum Disorders (Autism, Aspergers, Pathological Demand Avoidance), ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and other developmental conditions. He is quoted as saying: "Everyone can learn - it doesn't matter how differently we do so!"

He specializes in tutoring for GCSEs, A Levels, Entrance Exams and assistance with Dissertations, Essays, Theses & Coursework.

Tutoring Approach:
Edouard has explained his approach to teaching in the following way: "With every person that I teach, whether they are before me as an individual or as part of a group, first of all I take time to observe the way in which they learn - their own particular mode of processing information. Then, once I have understood their learning processes - be they visual, verbal, concrete, mathematical, or a combination of these - I customize my own teaching approach to that student's optimum mode of intake. This usually goes a large way toward maximizing their learning experience. What I find is of vital importance in the learning journey - and which is largely responsible for making it successful - is identifying with crystal clarity the exact goals which are to be attained. I make sure that my students do not lose sight of their goal and I make sure that their 'will-to-achieve' stays at a top level throughout the educational process. Without a goal, motivation falters".

Edouard specializes in enabling his students to apply 'Advanced Learning Techniques' in the mastery of their learning goals. These include: visual reading skills, memory techniques, thought-mapping, accelerated learning and the use of 'progress planners'. Through his publications and courses he has enabled thousands of students to achieve their dreams already. - Could you be next?

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Kate, a full-time, professional tutor based in Petersfield (MA in Medieval and Modern Languages from St John`s College, Oxford). I design tailored learning plans to help students achieve their potential.

In 2021 100% of my A-Level students achieved grade A*.

You can enter for a GCSE or A-Level with me directly, or have extra tuition to support your studies at school, college or university.

I offer private tuition and intensive course programmes to build fluency in Spanish, German, English, Portuguese, Italian, French, Catalan and Dutch.

No matter what your level, your lessons will be full of real-world language and will deliver the content and vocabulary that you need to achieve your goals.

Teaching Experience:
I began my teaching career in 2008 with the Government of Andorra as Lecturer of English.

I have since taught privately and at schools and colleges in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany, Austria and the UK.

During the last 10 years I have mostly been based in Spain, but have also tutored private clients around Europe. In 2019 I opened a dedicated language school in Petersfield, Hampshire and I now offer online tuition too, with students learning for a mix of personal, professional and academic objectives.

Tutoring Approach:
Each course is created according to the student's needs, and is 100% bespoke.

Your course is designed for you, based on an initial consultation and/or questionnaire to help me to understand your learning style and establish clear goals for you.

Lessons often feel relaxed and fairly casual, because in my experience this is the best way to encourage real communication and thought in your target language!

For more advanced learners, there are plenty of academic resources and authentic materials to allow you to engage fully with your language. Courses can include grammar, linguistics, literature and cultural topics.

Subjects

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.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello! ¡Hola! Bonjour ! Hallo!

My name is Rochelle and I am a French, Spanish, German and English language tutor with seven years teaching experience. I have a BA (Hons) French and Spanish (1st) from Queen's University Belfast and a Master of Research degree (Distinction) in Arts and Humanities, focused on Spanish studies.

I teach French and Spanish to primary school, secondary school/GCSE and sixth-form students/A-level students and can provide support to university students on their language work. I offer German classes to primary school and secondary school/GCSE students, in addition to casual Spanish, French, and English (as a foreign language) classes to students of all ages.

Diligent and enthusiastic about my subjects, I was awarded the Queen's Scholarship Foundation for the highest academic achievement in French and Spanish within the year group in 2018. In 2021, I graduated with a distinction in French and Spanish oral and received the Xavier Giralt Prize and the Christopher Shorley Prize for exceptional academic performance in final year Spanish and for the highest mark in the core module of final year French respectively. Moreover, I was awarded the Bulletin of Spanish Studies Postgraduate Bursary as the student with the highest marks at undergraduate level to have been accepted for a master's in Spanish studies at Queen's.

Currently, I'm an ELA in the Universidad Surcolombiana, Neiva, Colombia. From September 2024, I will be taking a PGCE course in Modern Languages at the University of Oxford.

Teaching Experience:
I have a passion for modern languages and foreign cultures and have developed my knowledge of these during my travels. In 2019, I was a summer au-pair for a family in Auvergne. In July 2020, I studied French at the IEF, Montpellier for four weeks and was awarded a C1 certificate in the French language. I also worked as an English Language Assistant with students aged 3-18 in Asturias 2019-2020 and in Galicia 2022-2023.

From 2017-2018, I was a personal tutor at the Homework Clubs organisation which is run by Queen's. I helped young people with their languages homework and prepared them for their GCSEs and A-levels.

I also volunteered at the Barnardo's Saturday Club from 2014-2019 where I worked with young people from the age of 5 - 11 with learning difficulties, including ADHD and Autism.

I have been giving private tuition for seven years to students of all ages and am familiar with a variety of exam boards (Edexcel, AQA, CCEA, Cambridge International).

Tutoring Approach:
Everyone is different and so I make it my aim to get to know each student individually and adapt my teaching methods to their needs. I find out from every student what they need help with and what they want to achieve and then create a structured plan with them. I can assist with vocabulary and grammar, in addition to listening and reading comprehension, and speaking and writing/translation skills. Furthermore, I can help with homework as well as preparation for GCSE and A-level examinations and university language assignments.

I understand that language learning can be difficult and demotivating at times, so I use a variety of interactive methods to engage students, including music, videos and games. I have a laptop, tablet, printer and a wide range of academic resources which allow me to provide my students with all the materials they need to learn efficiently. For online students, I create them a personalised Drive folder online in order to share files.

I am patient, positive and perseverant and love to share my passion for languages with other people.

Subjects