Chulmleigh History Tutors and Chulmleigh History Tuition

Personal Description:
I am an experienced tutor and have been tutoring for the past 20 years. I am friendly and supportive and tailor learning according to the pupil's individual needs. My specialism is 19th & 20th century history and I am especially knowledgeable about British and American history. I teach pupils essential research and study skills including effective exam techniques. I have also tutored English language at secondary and GCSE level with good results. I aim to inspire confidence in my pupils and promote enthusiasm for learning in a supportive environment.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a tutor for over 20 years. I have also helped out in primary schools on a voluntary basis and I have part completed a PGCE in Upper Primary (1999). I am have completed a PGDE at Bury College so I am qualified to teach in further and higher education.

Tutoring Approach:
I am supportive and caring and I encourage pupils to take responsibility for their own learning. I aim to inspire confidence by teaching them essential study skills and exam techniques. I teach pupils to break down learning into manageable chunks and teach them to analyse and revise their work. I make my lessons interesting and I am warm and friendly which puts pupils at ease. I also have a good sense of humour and aim to build up a strong rapport with pupils. I ask pupils to contact me between sessions if there are any concerns and I fully update parents on their child's progress.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am currently experienced in Science, English and History predominantly, and am fluent in 3 languages, with a basic knowledge of some European languages.

I have also been involved in setting up a Limited Company which aims to provide academic resources to students in Higher Education (at University level).

My work experience in the healthcare, higher education and training business sectors over the last 13 years has also given me the opportunity to develop a range of teaching / training styles that will suit most learners very well.

Teaching Experience:
Over 9 years experience, delivering 1-2-1 tuition to students aged predominantly 6-18.

Most common subjects taught - English / Maths / Science (up to GCSE). Also worked extensively with adults in the local community, training people in basic computing skills relevant to their specific needs.

For those interested in Business Studies, or how to set up your own business, I can offer lessons on these topics as well, including topics on where to go to get your funding, and how to market yourself effectively (including networking) etc.

Below is a more complete and comprehensive list of subjects which I am able to teach. All subjects can be taught from primary level, up to the level specified, and can also be taught as Adult Learning classes - unless otherwise stated.

Biology - GCSE
Business Related - All
Chemistry - GCSE
Citizenship - All
Combined Science - GCSE
Computer Studies/ICT - A Level
Craft and Design - 11-14
Drama - GCSE
Earth Science - GCSE
English - A Level
English (Foreign Language) - All
Entrance Exams - KS3
Film Studies - KS3
French - 11-14
Geography - GCSE
German - 11-14
History - A Level
Life Science - All
Maths - 11-14
Physics - GCSE
Politics - All
Psychology - GCSE
Reading and Writing Skills - All
Religious Studies - A Level
Sociology - GCSE
Urdu - 11-14

Tutoring Approach:
I follow the National Curriculum, with set lesson plans for each tutor session.

We will follow a learning plan that will run alongside school teaching. I do not help with school homework on a regular basis. Instead, I use the time I spend with each student, to improve their areas of weakness, so that they can do their homework and coursework / assignments with confidence themselves.

Lesson 1 is always a discussion of what the student / parents wish to achieve, along with an assessment of the students current capabilities. If you would like the first lesson to be more productive, I can send the assessment to be completed before the first class. The assessment will need to be returned at least 24hrs before the first planned lesson so I can look it over and plan my teaching approach for the student.

Teaching styles / tools:
- Each lesson will have a starter discussion about any areas of concern in school - I will make notes and plan to work on those areas in the next lesson.

- We will then work on a mini-project together, which will help the student to learn and develop a range of skills that he/she can then use in their own coursework / homework assignments.

- For subjects which involve reading, the student will be given homework to read a chapter / section for discussion at the next class.

- For Maths / Science, there will be worksheets which the student will need to complete on his/her own after lesson.

- If at any time there are any questions / concerns from the students or parents, I am more than happy to spend part of the lesson in discussion about these with you.

- All lessons are taught in an informal and positive / open-discussion style. But in order to make lessons successful and get the most out of your learning plan, please ensure that there is somewhere quiet to work, and that you have all of the required equipment / stationery beforehand (i.e. pens / pencils / eraser / ruler / calculator / notebook or note paper etc).

- It would also be useful to have internet / wifi set up, to use either with your own computer, or with mine to access online resources.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
All student details are kept confidential and you can be assured that no personal information will be shared with anybody else. However, I may ask permission to use student's work as an example of how to achieve highly in assignments / homework, with other students. Again, all personal details would be removed.

The minimum time per lesson is 1 hour per week for regular bookings.

Semi-Intensive courses can be booked at 2+ hours per week with prior agreement.

Intensive 2-4 week courses can be booked with daily lessons close to exam times. These have very limited spaces available and would include longer classes if need be, depending on how the student performs during our initial assessment.

Intensive courses are also very useful for students wanting to pass grammar school entrance examinations or prepare for other specific exams and assessments.

Lessons can also be taught online, via Skype or Google Hangouts. All prices are reduced for online tutoring - please contact me for further information.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I live and work in Northumberland and in the Fife area.

I am employed by both the Open and St Andrews universities as an Associate Lecturer tutoring modules in history and the humanities. I have also worked at other universities teaching history and politics, including Newcastle University.

I am used to working with people outside the formal university environment too as I give talks and presentations to the Joseph Cowen Lifelong Learning Community Interest Company in Newcastle.

I have research interests in history at post-doctoral level, specialising in late nineteenth and early twentieth century British electoral politics.

I am looking to teach students at a higher education level or those aspiring to it. I can work with students at levels including at foundation degree level, at undergraduate and post-graduate levels.

I am looking to work with students studying history, politics or those looking to build study and learning skills for higher education, especially those interested in studying the arts and humanities.

Teaching Experience:
I have over twenty years experience of working at higher education institutions at foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

My main teaching has been in the field of British and European history, other humanities subjects at foundation level (including literature, history of art, music, religious studies, history of science and medicine and philosophy) and contemporary politics. I have also specialised in study skills teaching to aid access to further courses, working with students from a broad range of educational experiences.

I regularly provide teaching in the form of lecturers and tutorials, supervision of dissertations and marking of assignments.

Tutoring Approach:
I am familiar with a range of teaching methods and would tailor the support to students on the basis of their requirements.

Much of my work is distance and online learning-related which involves correspondence, online and telephone communication so I am happy to provide this sort of support to students across the country.

I can also meet up with students for face-to-face contact even some distance away if that is suitable.

I am happy to mark work and offer feedback to students, including essay and dissertation work.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a History and French undergraduate at the University of Oxford, and have just finished my first year. I am a enthusiastic person with a variety of interests, including piano and football. I am also a trained Peer Supporter (30 hours of training) so am easy-going and warm, and particularly good at working through any concerns that tutees may have.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored in piano, and have also worked at a holiday camp with children, and at an after-school club.

Tutoring Approach:
First of all, I would want the tutees to prepare a few grammar exercises for languages, which we could go through in the tutorial. Then, I prefer to make up flash cards with either facts (for essay based subjects) or vocabulary for languages. I also find past papers very useful for those with exams, and would like to encourage further reading, watching foreign television, and playing word games, which would improve their overall proficiency in the subject.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Very personable and hardworking.My teaching style can be the catered to the needs of each specific individual learner.
I also try to use humour to balance out the serious side of teaching, in order to develop a strong working relationship with the person(s) I am helping.
Teaching styles can and will include a variety of techniques, depending on the topic area at that time. I am comfortable working wth learners of all ages, and have worked with those from primary through to Adult learners.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught film and media at Knowsley community college for 13 years, and also taught communication studies in my final year at the colllege. Though it was mainly A level, I have also taught Btec units, and can teach gcse film and media studies, too. I have written one film book, and been published extensively with other journal articles for film and media topics - e.g. "Media Magazine" (English and Media centre) and "Splice" (Auteur publishing) film journal.

I have also more recently taught media at two pupIL referral units on merseyside, working with learners who are no longer suitable for mainstream education. Since 2015, I have been an examiner for A.S. film studies since 2015.
Since 2016, I have been a tutor in English, including working on on one with primary pupils (e.g. SATS exam prep, literacy and numeracy work) and also pupils studying foundation English/GCSE/igcse courses etc.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is to fulfill the potential academic ability of each student I work with, regardless of their starting point.
Though my approach is obviously a serious one, I can also ensure a light hearted tone when the time is right during any lesson, also. My significant teaching experience means I have applied a range of techniques, and methods of differentiation to get the best out of the learner.Clearly one to one teaching requires a different approach to that of one used when teaching over 20 plus learners.
My aim is to link the teaching the learning to the work the student is currently doing on their academic course, to ensure the the best outcomes for the learner, and build on the progress already being made. I always start by making contact with the teacher/tutor where relevant, and use this as a starting point before beginning my own tuition.

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Personal Description:
I have 35 years teaching experience both in the UK and overseas. I feel it's important to understand a students learning style and adjust lesson materials to suit that style whilst setting purposeful, realistic and attainable goals.

I enjoy teaching and deem it a privilege to have a share in helping others reach their aspirations.

I have a Trinity CERTTesol and an MA in English Language Teaching.

Teaching Experience:
Between 1992 & 2010 I lived and taught in Hong Kong to a variety of students from Chinese medium of instruction (CMI), English medium of instruction (EMI) and International schools. Assistance was given to help students progress towards their HKCEE (GCSE equivalent) and `A` levels, and in recent years the IB diploma, IGCSE's, and HKDSE. I continue to teach students in Hong Kong via Zoom (2026)

Topics used in the lessons cover many of disciplines in the school curriculum, including, History, Geography, Economics, Biology, English Literature. Further guidance was given to help students prepare for exams, such as: SAT; and IELTS exams and common apps for HE.

For the past 16 years, I have been tutoring students in the UK to prepare them for the 11+ entrance exams; teaching students at KS3, GCSE, A levels & IB. Additionally, I am currently guiding students with their dissertations for their chosen degrees, and proofreading BA, MA, papers prior to submission.

For the past 9 years, I have been involved in intervention teaching, which involves identifying learning styles and other factors that inhibit a student`s progress, and then devise strategies to engage the student in learning, to identify and then support their current learning needs.

Tutoring Approach:
I am committed to providing students with assistance to achieve the grades they need by patiently tutoring each student according to their learning style. I trust that my student-centred approach is effective in this area. My one-to-one tuition produces noticeable improvements in student confidence, attainment and ambition.

Exam Boards I cover:
- AQA
- Edexcel
- Cambridge/ Edexcel IGCSE
- OCR

GCSE English Literature texts
GCSE English Language Paper 1
GCSE English language Paper 2
- Writing to persuade
- Writing to inform
- Imaginative/ Creative writing
- Essay writing / structuring

GCSE Poetry
Love & Relationships
Power & Conflict

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a helpful and caring individual with experience working with students between the ages of 11 - 18, including students with special educational needs. I have taught History, Religious Studies and Sociology at GCSE level. Additionally I have also tutored for English and Maths GCSE.

Teaching Experience:
Completed 2 placements during my university degree,
Worked for 1 year in a Special Educational Needs department, as a TA, and teaching Literacy.
I have worked in Secondary Education for three years, teaching Humanities.

Tutoring Approach:
Structured learning, encompassing important skills, including essay writing and analytical thinking.
Learning should be enjoyable and motivating and therefore work will be both fun and academically challenging - meeting the needs of the individual being taught.

Subjects

Personal Description:
🌟 SPACES NOW AVAILABLE FOR SUMMER/SEPTEMBER 2024 🌟 ONLINE SESSIONS ONLY

Hi there! 😄 My name is Shel and I'm a passionate English Tutor (UCL Graduate) with over 10 years of experience teaching English Language & Literature to a wide range of ages (GCSE, A-Level, University and Adult Learners) 🚀 I also teach English as a Foreign Language (TEFL / TESOL) and have taught abroad in Thailand.

I have in-depth knowledge of the UK National Curriculum and specialise in English Literature/Language (Additional subjects Media/Film Studies, History, Theatre). I also offer services in essay writing/proofreading, functional skills, 11+ exam practice, TEFL, and university applications.

🤔 Why Work With Me? 🤔

With me, you're not just getting a tutor, you're getting a mentor and a coach who will be dedicated to supporting you with your learning and helping you improve your confidence for success. I also make sure to tailor my lessons to your individual learning needs (SEN and Neurodiverse-friendly lessons).

I would love to be part of your academic journey and help you reach your goals as your English Tutor and Mentor! Don't hesitate to message me and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

I have a high pass-rate, and countless testimonials praising my engaging and tailored teaching style! I can offer a complimentary 30-min lesson so you can even see for yourself that you won't be disappointed! 🌟

Teaching Experience:
With over 10 years experience as a professional tutor, I am confident that I can help you or your child go from under-confident to thriving! Over the years, I have guided a number of struggling students to exceed their predicted grades; many of which went on to study at top universities.

I also have experience working with young people as a film & theatre workshop facilitator - creating engaging lesson plans is something I do best!

I Can Help You:

✅ Improve your Reading Comprehension Skills
✅ Master your Essay-Writing Fluency (incl. Dissertation Support and Proofreading Services)
✅ Strengthen your Creative Writing Skills
✅ Improve your Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar
✅ SMASH those exams! (School/University Entrance Exams, GCSE, A-Level, University)

🤔 Why Learn with Me? 🤔

✅ Tailored to YOUR Individual Learning Style
️✅ Primary, Secondary, GCSE/IGCSE, A-Level, University
✅ AQA, Edexcel, OCR, Cambridge IGCSE, WJEC
✅ Flexible & Affordable Sessions
✅ SEN & Neurodiverse Friendly
✅ Very High Success/Pass rate - students have really gone from D grades to A* (see testimonials in my photos)
✅ An engaging and interactive teaching style

Tutoring Approach:
If you decide to work with me, you'll be getting more than just a tutor! I'm also a passionate Mindset Coach who loves to teach my students about the power of the brain and HOW to learn better. I believe that learning is a highly individual experience, and ensure to cater to my student's learning style. love to use visual stimuli and technology to aid learning but also value the more traditional tutoring approaches such as regular tests, setting homework tasks and detailed note-taking (I always tell my students that you are 40% more likely to achieve something if you write it down!)

🧠 About Your Lessons 🧠

🎓 Taught by a UCL Graduate with OVER 10 years of Experience
🖥️ 1 Hour Online Sessions via Google Meet
🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Individual or Group Sessions Available
🖼️ Interactive Lessons with Visual Learning Materials
🧠 Confidence & Mindset Coaching
📈 Progress Tracking


SET TEXTS:

POETRY ANTHOLOGY & UNSEEN POETRY (AQA, Edexcel, OCR Poetry, Cambridge Poetry Anthology)

SHAKESPEARE

Romeo & Juliet, Macbeth, Othello, A Midsummer Night's Dream, King Lear, Hamlet, As You Like It, The Tempest, The Winter's Tale, Twelfth Night, Much Ado About Nothing, Julius Caesar, The Merchant of Venice, Troilus and Cressida

LITERATURE

Of Mice and Men, Jekyll & Hyde, Great Expectations, Jane Eyre, Pride & Prejudice, A Christmas Carol, Frankenstein, Lord of the Flies, Animal Farm, An Inspector Calls, A View from the Bridge, Things Fall Apart, To Kill a Mockingbird, Blood Brothers, Silas Marner, Woman in Black, I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings, The Empress, Whale Rider,

AND MANY MORE!

______________________________________________________

Only Online Sessions are Available.

Flexible Monday to Sunday Availability.

Don't hesitate to contact me for more information!

Subjects

Personal Description:
33 year old, Ipswich-based qualified school teacher for 12 years in both primary and secondary education. Experience in Year 1 - Year 13! Specialising in Maths, English, Biology, History, Geography and Psychology!

Free face to face or phone call initial consultation.

Teaching Experience:
Teaching for 8 years in mainstream primary and SEN provisions. Have extensive knowledge of the SATs process and raising pass rates for my school. I have experience of supporting progress with children who are EAL and children who have ASD and ADHD as well as working memory difficulties, dyslexia and dyspraxia etc.
Taught KS3, 4 and 5 in the humanities and ks3 amd 4 maths for 4 years.

Tutoring Approach:
Adaptable, relaxed and curriculum focused with achievable goals and a positive attitude to learning. I can provide resources myself but if there is specific work you would like me to follow then that is fine too!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an enthusiastic tutor who has a degree and NVQ level 5 in Youth and Community Worker with 11 years post qualifying experience educating hundreds young people informally and outside of the classroom in groups and 1-2-1 in all sorts of different locations. I have a Level 3 teaching and assessment qualification. I have very good Maths and English having used them to study to degree level and in Youth Work Management. I have an active interest and knowledge in History, Geography and Religious Education having studied them to A-Level meaning that I am very knowledgeable in each of those subjects. I am a highly competent musician and sports person with Grade 5 in piano and music theory and having coached Football, Badminton, Tennis, Chess, Table Tennis.

My greatest skills are in building professional relationships, communication, building self-confidence and social skills, developing motivation and this is what I have been doing for over 15 years for hundreds of young people that I have met as a Youth Worker.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 15 years informally educating young people through qualifications and certifications.
I have over 9 years experience of teaching youth work and assessing it.
I am a Functional Skills tutor at Level 1 and 2 in English and Maths.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is student centred - focused on the students strengths and development points and work alongside the student to build confidence and trust so that the student can excel. My style is quite relaxed yet challenging for the student so that the student engages and to increase the students enjoyment and understanding of the material and why they are learning it. My approach is very thought through and meticulous, carefully considering: personality and learning styles as well as the preferences of the student. I provide a lot of explanation and am able to explain things in many different ways.

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Personal Description:
Recently relocated to Chippenham after 27 very happy years teaching at the Maynard School Exeter. Passionate about History and education

Teaching Experience:
History at all secondary levels, mainly A Level. Head of History, deputy Head designated safeguarding lead.
Team leader A level history for Edexcel exam board

Tutoring Approach:
Enthusiastic, encouraging. Have tutored boys and girls mainly in A Level History with excellent results. Aim to enable each student reach their full potential through enjoyment and consistent hard work.

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Personal Description:
I am as second year primary education student at Liverpool Hope university with a specialism in special educational needs and disabilities with a passion for helping everyone find their place. Having spent much of my training during the COVID pandemic, I am well versed with teaching online as well as face to face, and I am willing to adapt to suit the needs of individual learners.

Teaching Experience:
Prior to attending university, I lived in Australia for five months, volunteering in a school as a sports assistant, where my role was to assist the full time teachers and cover the primary PE classes when the teacher was not available. Further teaching has included block placements in both the early years foundation stage and lower key stage two, teaching a range of subjects that are not limited to maths and English, providing me with a range of experience across the primary school years.

Tutoring Approach:
As a tutor, I will help identify each individual's needs and work with them to find the best solution to support them and help them achieve what they need through a variety of engaging activities. I will always attempt to provide a fun approach to learning whilst remaining approachable and professional.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Billy!

I've recently graduated from studying English at Exeter College, Oxford and have began teaching full time. I love reading, music, dancing and travel - mainly things that bring me closer to understanding and connecting with people. As a tutor I am firm and supportive, but can tailor my approach depending on the goals of the student.

Teaching Experience:
I've consistently been working as a tutor for over 3 years.

I've worked as a full-time teacher and activity leader for Bayswater College and LSI Cambridge.

I obtained a CELTA qualification from IH London.

Tutoring Approach:
My main aim as a tutor is to ensure students leave my lessons with greater knowledge and understanding of the subject. I believe this is best achieved through enquiry-based learning: I always encourage students to ask questions, because doing so helps stimulate critical thinking and allows them to take an active role in their learning. We can start from the basics and gradually work our way through the subject using a series of custom-made study notes, intensive revision sessions and back-and-forth conversations!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a passionate and dedicated professional. I have taught in Secondary and A Level teaching for over 10 years. I am based in Worthing, West Sussex, and happy to come to you if within a close distance. However, I am eager to support engaged and aspiring students from anywhere thanks to online tutoring. I have a young family just starting their educational journey, whilst I support the oldest ones edging towards the end of theirs!
I love walking, water sports, reading and politics. I am a big fan of educational science and research!

I AM AVAILABLE TO BEGIN TUTORING FROM JANUARY 2023, AND CAN CONTINUE THROUGH HOLIDAYS AS YOU NEED. I HAVE LIMITED SPACES, SO PLEASE BOOK UP QUICK! SMALL GROUP/SIBLING SESSIONS CAN BE DISCUSSED.

Teaching Experience:
I am a highly successful GCSE and A Level teacher of over 10 years. As well as QTS status, I am a T&L specialist with additional qualifications of Cteach and Advanced Teacher Status, as well as qualified and highly successful SENDCo. I am a fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching. I lead in inclusion and diversity - supporting schools to break the barriers of inequality. Previously I have been Head of Departments for History and Social Sciences before moving further in my career. I have a passion for engaging and challenging T&L, and focus on nurturing skills as well as context and narrative. I can adapt my teaching to suit any age range or ability and have great success in top grade outcomes (A Level A/A*, and GCSE 7+) as well as supporting children achieve their aspirations.

In short, as a tutor I offer you:

- EXPERIENCED teacher of over 12 years
- EXPERIENCED HoD: Psychology and Sociology for 7 years - ALPS 1/2 outcome
- EXPERIENCED History A Level teacher contributing toward History Alps 2
- excellent GCSE outcomes consistently
- essay writing specialist - can offer live marking, feedback, support and extended writing
- experienced EPQ mentor and marker
- University referee
- FULL enhanced DBS (dated Oct 2022) available on request

WHAT I OFFER AS A TUTOR:
- AQA PSYCHOLOGY AS/A LEVEL: specialist tutoring for Paper 1 and 3 AQA board

- AQA SOCIOLOGY AS/A LEVEL: specialist tutoring for paper 1 and 3, able to support paper 2 Family, Media AQA board

- EDEXCEL HISTORY AS/A LEVEL: specialist tutoring for: Italian Fascism, 20th Century America, able to support South Africa, Weimar/Nazi Germany, Suffragettes - Edexcel/Pearson exam board

- EDEXCEL HISTORY GCSE: specialist tutoring for Weimar and Nazi Germany, Crime and Punishment (inc. Whitechapel environment), Cold War, Elizabeth 1558-1588. Abilty to support countless other courses inc. American Civil Rights, American West. Edexcel/Pearson exam board

ONLINE LESSONS MAINLY, HOWEVER WITHIN THE WORTHING AREA I CAN COME TO YOU.
INTERACTIVE, BESPOKE LESSONS TO CHALLENGE AND SUPPORT PROGRESS REGARDLESS OF THE MODE OF DELIVERY!

Tutoring Approach:
I am an inclusive practitioner who prioritises T&L innovation, inclusion and engagement in the classroom. All my lessons are bespoke; created and resourced to the highest level.

I offer live feedback, feeding forward to ensure students can apply the feedback to future tasks, as well as imroving upon work done.

I use a wide range of resources and approaches to build up a trusted and effective student/teacher relationship.

I will ensure my guidance supports existing learning, as well as nurturing student confidence and resilience. I am able to deliver set lessons or schemes, as well as support in a more ad hoc way as the student needs change over time ie revsion for exams, hwk support etc.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an enthusiastic and supportive tutor who is passionate about helping students reach their full potential. I strive to create a positive and relaxed learning environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and asking questions. I am patient, understanding, and committed to making lessons engaging and accessible, regardless of a student's starting point. Seeing students gain confidence and achieve their goals is what motivates me the most. As a young tutor with 2 years tutoring experience, I aim to build strong relationships with my tutees and provide the encouragement and guidance they need to succeed. As someone who sat their GCSE exams over 3 years ago, and A-Level exams over a year ago, I have a good understanding of the exam boards and the techniques students need to demonstrate in the exam to get the top grades. Having been through the process myself recently, I know how crucial it is to not only understand the content, but to apply this content to exam questions. Through targeted practice and frequent feedback, I can help students avoid common mistakes and develop effective exam techniques to achieve their desired grade.

Teaching Experience:
I have experience tutoring A-Level students in History, Sociology, and Philosophy & Ethics in both one-to-one and small-group sessions. The same goes for GCSE students studying History and Sociology. My role involved planning lessons tailored to individual learning needs, developing students' subject knowledge, and teaching effective exam techniques across Edexcel, AQA, and OCR exam boards. If the subject you are studying is not assessed by these exam boards, do not worry! I am a fast learner and can quickly study what examiners are looking for in exams. I regularly monitored progress, set achievable targets, and used active recall and exam-question practice to address gaps in understanding. My support has helped several students improve by two to three grades, including students progressing from C to A and B to A*. In addition, I have worked closely with teachers to develop learning resources, mark and moderate A-Level and GCSE assessments.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring sessions follow a clear structure to meet students' individual needs. Before we begin, I like to have a conversation with the student, either over messages or on a video call, to get to know them better and understand what they would like to achieve. This gives me the opportunity to identify areas where they may be falling behind, topics they find challenging, and the type of support that would benefit them most. From there, I can create lessons that are tailored to their needs and help them build their confidence in subject knowledge and exam practice.

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Personal Description:
I am a graduate of Cambridge, Leiden, and York universities. I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching and the opportunity to spread my love of learning.

Teaching Experience:
I have a PGCE and QTS status.
I taught at a prestigious boarding school in the London area, before moving back to Scotland.

Tutoring Approach:
When teaching in a classroom, one is aware of each individual learner but cannot effectively accommodate. I use tutoring to show pupils that they are capable and to inspire, from that knowledge of ability, a love for learning that can be brought back to the classroom.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced English and History tutor specialising in 11+ and 13+ entrance preparation, GCSE and A-level tuition, and independent-school admissions.

I have delivered more than 6,500 hours of one-to-one tuition and have over 16 years' tutoring experience. My academic background includes a BA in History and an MA in Cultural History, and I have also taught undergraduate seminars. I have extensive experience in assessment and examining, including work as a Senior Examiner for the British Council.

I particularly enjoy working with students who need to develop confidence, independence and intellectual curiosity, as well as ambitious students who need to be stretched beyond the standard curriculum. My aim is not simply to improve a student's next grade or entrance-exam result, but to make them a stronger reader, writer and thinker.

Teaching Experience:
I specialise in English and History from upper primary through to A-level, with particular expertise in 11+ and 13+ school admissions, GCSE English Language and Literature, GCSE History, and A-level English Literature and History.

I have prepared students for admission to leading independent schools including Winchester College, Hampton, Abingdon and St Mary's Ascot, as well as a wide range of other selective schools. My admissions teaching includes English entrance examinations, ISEB and other pre-tests, interview preparation and the broader academic skills students need to thrive after gaining a place.

At GCSE and A-level, I combine detailed subject knowledge with extensive assessment experience. I teach students how to analyse texts and sources precisely, construct convincing arguments, plan effectively and write with clarity and sophistication. I am familiar with the requirements of the major examination boards and adapt lessons closely to each student's course and objectives.

I have taught students with a very wide range of abilities and personalities, from those who have lost confidence or developed gaps in their knowledge to highly able students aiming for the highest grades and most competitive schools.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching is highly individualised. I begin by identifying what is actually preventing a student from progressing: this might be a gap in knowledge, weak analytical habits, difficulty organising ideas, lack of confidence, inefficient exam technique or simply not having been sufficiently challenged.

Lessons are active rather than lecture-based. I use questioning, discussion, modelling, targeted practice and immediate feedback to make students think for themselves. Instead of simply supplying an answer, I break difficult skills into manageable stages and gradually remove support as the student becomes more confident and independent.

In English, I place particular emphasis on close reading, vocabulary, analytical thinking and developing a controlled, engaging writing style. In History, I help students move beyond memorising information towards understanding causation, significance, change, interpretation and the construction of evidence-based arguments.

For entrance examinations and interviews, I avoid teaching students to reproduce formulaic responses. I develop the underlying comprehension, reasoning, communication and writing skills that enable them to respond confidently when faced with unfamiliar material.

Above all, I want students to understand why something works. Good tutoring should produce more than a short-term improvement in marks: students should leave with better habits of thought, greater confidence and skills they can transfer to new subjects and challenges.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Former Assoc. Prof. at Durham | Experienced teacher | Published novelist

I'm a full-time, professional tutor with a unique breadth of experience across a two-decade career:

• Associate Professor at Durham University
• Teacher at a top London independent school ("Excellent" rated)
• Published novelist of Roman historical fiction
• Archaeologist and active academic researcher

I love combining the joy of one-on-one tutoring, seeing students grow and learn, with my life-long passions for history, politics and literature.

For me, tutoring does not stop with passing exams, vital as that is. Just as important is learning how to push intellectual boundaries, encourage creative thinking, and expand the imagination. I want my tutees not just to realise their full potential at school, but to be ready for the challenges that await them beyond.

I take on a limited number of tutees so that I can tailor my approach to each tutee's specific needs, with concrete targets and an approach that will engage, challenge and inspire. I prepare bespoke resources carefully prior to lessons as well as detailed feedback on written work (this is all included in my fee - I will never charge for anything outside contact time). Please get in touch to ask me about my availability.

One of the great things about my varied career track has been the chance to live and work in other countries, with all the mind-expanding experiences that brings. Before my doctorate I also worked as a professional archaeologist. Over the years I have pursued historical and archaeological research in the USA, Mexico, Austria, Germany, France, the Netherlands and the Republic of Ireland.

TESTIMONIALS

"My child went from a predicted D to achieving an A in one year. John gave her confidence, a much better understanding of core concepts and an enthusiasm for the subject. All delivered in a clearly structured digestible way with kindness and patience. I would highly recommend his tutoring skills." - Parent of A Level Politics student

"John was the perfect tutor, helping my son to reengage with English after he lost some confidence based on feedback from his school teachers. My son managed to improve his GCSE grade from 6s at the begginng of the year to 7s in his mock exams to 9s in the final exam. To say we are over the moon is an understatement." - Parent of IGCSE English student

"Thank you so so much - I'm thrilled that I came so far in history - from a C to an A*!! It's such a relief I'm getting into where I want to go on my own merit and I'm so so grateful to you again." - A Level History student

"John has tutored my daughter during the Sixth Form and helped her success in gaining an offer to study PPE at Oxford University. In Politics, particularly, he has boosted her confidence and provided invaluable coaching on exam technique. Because he was so knowledgeable and great at explaining, he also engaged her in discussions on topics which she had otherwise struggled to embrace and understand. Also his manner and kindness helped her to enjoy and flourish from his teaching. He is an excellent tutor, and we are very grateful for all his teaching and expertise." - Parent of A Level Politics student

"John's enthusiasm for the Ancient World is very clear but his ability to understand the needs of his student is what sets him apart from others. John delivers clear and memorable lessons. He takes the time to engage and check M's understanding of the topic in a way which makes him feel more confident about his own abilities. […] John genuinely wants M to succeed. Towards the end of the summer, they will visit the British Museum together and this is an example of John's commitment to his student." - Parent of GCSE Ancient History and Latin student

"I recently got my GCSE results, and I got a 9 in history. I wanted to thank you as your tutoring helped me so much and there is no way I could have achieved this result without your help." - GCSE History student

Teaching Experience:
PROFESSIONAL FULL-TIME TUTOR, 2022-present

I have successfully tutored students of various abilities at GCSE and A Level across a range of subjects and exam boards:

• Classical Civilisation and Ancient History (OCR)
• Latin (OCR)
• History (OCR/AQA/Edexcel)
• Politics (Edexcel)
• English (AQA/Edexcel)

I have expertise in UCAS applications, Oxford HAT and Cambridge HAA and interview technique; since 2022 six of my students have received Oxbridge offers, with many others going to top Russell Group universities

HISTORY AND POLITICS TEACHER, 2020-2023

• ISI "Excellent"-rated independent school
• Taught History at KS3, GCSE and A Level
• Taught Politics at A Level
• Sixth Form tutor (particular strength in UCAS applications and personal statements)
• Detailed understanding of the specifications and marking criteria for English, History and Politics at GCSE and A Level

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF HISTORY, Durham University, 2010-2020

• Taught History lectures, seminars and supervisions at every level (undergraduate to PhD)
• Taught Creative Writing lectures and tutorials at MA level
• Pastoral officer for 1st year undergraduates
• Departmental admissions officer (responsible for accepting/rejecting UCAS applications)
• Multiple academic publications in peer-reviewed international journals, as well as papers at international conferences
• Visiting fellowships at the Austrian Academy of Sciences in Vienna (2009-2010) and Institute for Research in the Humanities at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2015-2016)
• Interviewed as an expert in my field on several BBC documentaries and podcasts, and as a guest speaker at the BBC Radio 3 Free Thinking Festival
• I remain an Honorary Research Fellow of Durham and an active researcher in my field

Tutoring Approach:
TUTORING

My approach is based on empathy, encouragement, and enthusiasm. Often students have great potential in a subject, but for whatever reason lack the confidence to realise it. Other times a student has the confidence, but haven't quite learned the skills they need to reach that elusive target grade.

Wherever they are coming from, as a tutor my first goal is to understand my students and see things from their perspective. Then I provide the structure and support they need to achieve their goal. This might be through weekly essay writing and feedback, talking through tricky concepts, providing curated resources to help their development - in fact, whatever they need to succeed.

PERSONAL STATEMENT ASSISTANCE

My career path has given me unique experience of teaching before, during, and after A Levels. This means I understand the student experience from all perspectives. I have seen the pressures and demands of GCSE and A Level study, and as Sixth Form tutor have guided dozens of students through the UCAS process, including multiple successful Oxbridge applications.

My experience as a Durham University admissions officer taught me that, when it comes to the most competitive universities, the personal statement is very often the deciding factor. My experience as a published author means that I can help my tutees sculpt their perfect application, one that showcases academic skill while bringing out their uniqueness and passion.

Just as important, I understand the transition from school to university, and all the challenges it brings. During my time at Durham University I also served as pastoral officer to first-year undergraduates, which involved helping students make the (often difficult) jump to a new level of independence and academic demands. For tutees about to take their A Levels, part of my approach is therefore to help them prepare mentally and practically for that transition.

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