Dumbarton Italian Tutors and Dumbarton Italian Tuition

Personal Description:
I have a Doctorate in Languages and Literatures from La Sapienza University of Rome, Italy and an MSc in Corporate Communications and Public Affairs from RGU.

I love teaching and using my communication and interpersonal skills with people of any age, nationality and background.
I enjoy helping students achieve proficiency in the languages I teach, help them become confident communicators in writing, listening and speaking whether is for work, study or leisure.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching to people of various ages and backgrounds since 2009 at Aberdeen College, language schools (Aberdeen Courses) and as a freelancer.
I have experience in teaching students from schools, professionals from oil and gas organisations, and other sectors.
I have helped school pupils of various ages and levels in achieving high marks in exams such as National 5, GCSE and Highers.

I also have experience in preparing for language exams and University essay writing on various authors.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to teaching is based on the student's requirements and needs whether is for business, leisure or study.
Grammar, reading, writing exercises and developing listening and expressive skills are all at the core of my approach.
These skills are taught depending on the level and nature of the classes (business, academic or casual learning).
I am aware of all the difficulties of learning a foreign language, therefore I make sure that the students not only have an effective class but also an enjoyable time.
I make use of grammar books, exercises, audios, conversational topics, newspapers, magazines, games and more!

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Personal Description:
I am 35 years old and I have most recently completed the LPC at the University of Law. I have already completed a GDL (Graduate Diploma in Law) at the same university. I also have an undergraduate 2.1 with Honors degree in French and Italian at The University of Manchester. I have spent 6 months in Bologna in Italy, working in a private language school for those wished to learn either Italian or English. I worked as a copywriter for the school website, working in French, Italian and English. I also worked as a conversation tutor to those who wanted to learn English. I lived in Paris for 7 years where I worked at ELLE, the well known women's fashion magazine, where I used solely French as well as a stint at Kantar Health and the majority of my time at the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris. I am very down to earth and my biggest passion is football, I enjoy a good movie and love a good comedy. If you feel more comfortable meeting in a neutral place, a coffee place or in the town centre that is fine by me, I can be flexible. I have a clean criminal record and can boast a detention-less education!

Teaching Experience:
I now have teaching experience and I have shadowed those who have done this for a job. I have worked voluntarily in a school teaching beginner's Italian. Having already worked as a conversation tutor in a private school, I feel I would excel in giving private lessons, given the chance.

Tutoring Approach:
I feel every student works at their own pace, however it would not take me long to work out an approach which would realise the full potential of the tutee. I am patient and I can sympathise that learning a new language or topic can be frustrating. I've often found practicing certain exercises to be the most effective way to get over any tricky topic.

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Personal Description:
I have a degree in Modern Languages from Oxford University and have also trained to teach English as a Foreign Language. Having done a variety of jobs over the years I currently work part-time as a private tutor of Italian, French and English as a Foreign Language. I also offer entrance exam preparation in literacy, verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning for children seeking entrance to selective secondary schools.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught English as a Foreign Language abroad and, more recently, at Keele University for 2 years.
I have taught Italian both at FE college and privately. I now focus on private lessons, offering Italian, French and EFL. I have supported a large number of students through a range of exams including GCSEs and IELTS.
I am also an experienced 11+ tutor, tailoring tuition both to the individual needs of students and the requirements of a range of local selective schools, including St Joseph's, Newcastle High, Newport Grammar, Adams Grammar and Denstone.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a friendly and enthusiastic tutor who aims to create a warm and supportive environment for students.
I usually begin with a discussion about the student's needs and aims, and then, if appropriate, carry out a diagnostic test. Tuition is then tailored to each student's requirements.
I usually ask students to buy at least one coursebook (for the 11+ there may be several), and I also provide homework between sessions.

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Personal Description:
I strongly believe that studying a foreign language is an incredibly enriching experience that can really widen and improve your world, at any age! I started learning languages when I was six and I will probably never stop.

Teaching Experience:
I started teaching Italian as a foreign language while studying languages and literatures at university. I kept teaching part-time for 3 years to students of various ages and levels until I graduated.
I then pursued a career in advertising: I worked as copywriter and trainer of new employees for 6 years. I had the opportunity to train new colleagues from all over Europe. I loved training so much that I decided to go back to language teaching, but full-time. I completed my teacher training at the London Italian Cultural Institute, where I achieved my TIAFL Certificate (Teacher of Italian as a Foreign Language).
I am currently working as part-time private Italian tutor in North London.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching is student-centred: this means that I plan lessons according to my learners' level, needs and interests.
Lessons are completely in Italian and are designed according to the principles of the communicative method, which makes authentic Italian material the starting point that will lead students to explore and discover the language in a spontaneous way.
You will be learning Italian and Italian culture through different texts and activities. My resources are the latest Italian learning text books, but also literature, songs, videos, articles and games.
Guided by the student's objectives, we will be working on all language abilities: speaking, writing, listening and reading, in order to promote a full and enjoyable learning process.

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Personal Description:
I am a Chemistry Teacher in a Secondary School where I teach Chemistry and Physics from year 7 to year 11. I also teach A-level Chemistry (AQA Exam Board).

I can help students to practice exam skills and revision techniques.

I am also an Italian native speaker, so I can teach Italian at any level. I am also able to help with French from Primary to KS4.

I like helping others, so I enjoy helping students to achieve good grades.

Teaching Experience:
I am a Science Teacher in a Secondary School.

I have a PGCE in Secondary Science - Chemistry, and a PhD in Chemical Engineering.

Regarding teaching languages, I am an Italian native speaker and I am also fluent in French.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to be systematic without being too severe. I like to establish a good relationship with the students, based on a reciprocal respect.

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Personal Description:
I am an Italian national, living in the UK since the beginning of 2010.

I hold a BA (Hons) in Language Studies (Open University), with English and French (and a module of Spanish).

Apart from a brief teaching experience in the 90s, I have mostly worked in marketing.

Oh, yes, I also ran a restaurant for a few years (beginning of the 2000s), so I am quite knowledgeable about food, wines and stuff.

Currently, I am teaching English and Italian online, I have students from Russia, the UK, Portugal, Poland and Hungary.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught Italian in the past, at a language school in Budapest.

I also have attended to a 120 hour Advanced Online Course TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language), back in 2013.

In 2016, I have obtained a CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) from Cambridge Assessment English (University of Cambridge) after a course at International House Budapest.

Since then, I have taught English at the International House in Moscow, at Language Study Centres and Education First (EF) in Brighton.

I am currently teaching English and Italian online, working with International House Moscow (Russia), International House Torres Vedras (Portugal), Angol Intézet (Budapest, Hungary), as well as private students.

I have been doing since 2019, when I came back from Moscow where I have had been working as a teacher from 2016.

Tutoring Approach:
Communicative approach.

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Personal Description:
Hello! My name is Giacomo, I come from Italy and I am a third year PhD student in Roman Archaeology at the University of Leicester.I have a strong experience in tutoring and teaching at high school and university level and I'm happy to help with Latin, Ancient Greek and Italian.

Teaching Experience:
During the last two years I have been teaching different courses at the University of Leicester, acquiring a strong experience in dealing with students. In particular during this and last year I have been teaching Latin and Ancient Greek to first year students. In the last two months I also have been teaching Latin to the children of the Overdale Infant and Jr. School, as part of the Outreach Program of the School of Archaeology and Ancient History. Furthermore, since last year I have been working as one to one study mentor in The AccessAbility Centre of the University where I support students with learning disabilities. Finally, when I was still in Italy I have been giving private lessons of Latin, Ancient Greek and Italian literature to high school and university students for three years.

Tutoring Approach:
I will have a different approach according to the language I will be teaching. For Italian, I will use a communicative approach. This means that I will deliver just a minimum of grammar and I will use the target language as much as possible so that the student will learn the grammar implicitly. On the other side, since Latin and Ancient Greek are extinct languages I will use a more traditional approach. Nevertheless, also in this case I will try to alternate grammar with literature in order to help the student to get a broader perception of the ancient world.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Penny and I'm glad you've stopped by!

I'm an encouraging, patient tutor helping unsure or low-confidence learners build skills at a steady pace. My lessons are collaborative, warm, supportive, and low-pressure - ideal if you want reassurance and extra encouragement to cheer you on, and if you value human rapport over fast-paced drills and strict targets.

GCSE:

With my experience as Head of Languages at a secondary school, I'm well-placed to help students with French and German GCSEs, focusing on the essential skills and success criteria - whether you want to grow in confidence or receive clear guidance on working towards higher grades, all without the pressure.

PRIMARY:

I bring learning to life with interactive, hands-on activities, using a fun and dynamic online platform that goes beyond the typical learning tools. With digital infographics, quizzes, games, puzzles, videos, storybooks, and role-play, students have an engaging and immersive learning experience.

ADULTS:

I help learners progress from absolute beginner to intermediate level (CEFR A1-B1). I focus on learners **up to B1**, to gently build confidence with the foundational essentials - whether handling chats in shops, restaurants or at work. B1 is a great milestone and you'll be able to handle most everyday interactions with ease.

I'm best suited to learners who are open to practical, thoughtful ways of learning, using simple strategies and small daily habits to build confidence and overcome anxiety - making language learning efficient and enjoyable for those who appreciate guidance and insight.

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I offer French, German and Italian lessons, with flexible pricing from £36 to £60 per hour, tailored to suit your needs. 30 and 45-minute lessons also available.

Having also lived in France, Germany and Italy, I bring a global perspective to tailor lessons to different learning styles and cultural contexts. Speaking four languages (French, German, Italian and English) while learning three more (Swedish, Polish and Arabic), I know how rewarding, but scary, language learning can feel. I therefore focus on helping learners feel comfortable and encouraged every step of the way, without the pressure.

With the right support and steady practice, you'll be surprised how quickly you can reach your goals.

Teaching Experience:
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

- Qualified Modern Languages Teacher & Head of Modern Languages (PGCE secondary French & German)
- 12 years' languages teacher and tutor experience
- GCSE exam preparation for AQA & Edexcel
- BA in European Languages (French, German & Italian)
- TEFL with Distinction
- Fully DBS checked
- Excellent track record - More information can be found on my website

Tutoring Approach:
OUR NEXT STEPS:

Recognising that each learner is unique, we begin with a setup session (20-60 minutes, £20) to discuss your needs. This is an opportunity to see if we're a good fit before moving forward with lessons.


Step 1 - Your Goal Setup Session (20-60 minutes, £20) - Required.


Step 2 - Lessons.

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For companies seeking staff language training, progress reports are available upon request.

Take the first step and get in touch. I'm excited to help you achieve your language goals :)

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Some wonderful words from my students and their parents:

"I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone thinking of booking sessions with Penny to do it and do it now! As a trained actor, I came to Penny with a very unique request. Having very little knowledge of speaking German…. within a week we had a monologue translated, memorised and ready to present to an audition panel. Not only did Penny help me reach my goals but she gave me the upmost confidence to get there. I'm certain I would not have got there if it was not for Penny's support and extra efforts to help me achieve them. Not only that, but her teaching has most definitely inspired me to continue with my language learning. I would 100% recommend working with Penny. Don't hesitate - she is one of the best!!" Adult learner.

"Penelope has been very professional, organised and engaging . My son enjoys his lessons and has started to develop interest in German within first few lessons". - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Miss Penelope is a wonderful teacher. From the very first day she motivated my son to study French more. She is very punctual and professional. Just after one month my son's French has improved significantly. Exactly what I wanted." - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Penny is an excellent communicator and teacher. She is very supportive and is always enthusiastic. We are very pleased how well she is able to explain aspects of the German language and is always engaging. We are very happy to recommend her." - Parent of a Year 11 student.

"Penelope is a professional German tutor; she tailors the teaching material so that it fits the student's needs. I had German lessons with her for over three months now and I feel my language skills have improved significantly. I also add that She has a nice personality and her classes are really enjoyable. I definitely recommend Penelope to people seeking to improve their language skills in a structured manner!" - Adult learner.

"Lovely tutor. She makes my daughter relax and actually enjoy learning German / French. I highly recommend her." - Parent of a Year 9 student.

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Personal Description:
CIAO A TUTTI!

My name is Stefano, I have been a lecturer in Italian at the University of Reading since 2014. I currently teach Italian Language for Management and Business, Italian Language for students at an advanced level, and I am the module convenor of a literature module covering a period from Middle Ages to Renaissance.

I am the founder of a company, which provides language tutoring (individual and groups, private and companies, online and face-to-face). My students call me "Il Maestro": I am sure they don't mean that! :D

There is no age limit for learning ITALIAN. Contact me!

Teaching Experience:
2013-to date, Lecturer in Italian, University of Reading
2013-2014, Study Skills Adviser, University of Reading
2017 - PhD in Italian, University of Reading
2010 - MA in Italian Philology, University of Salerno, Italy
2008 - BA in Italian, University of Salerno, Italy

Tutoring Approach:
A one-size-fits-all approach is NOT my thing. Every student has different needs and lessons need to be tailored accordingly.

I also run online and face-to-face Italian language courses for small groups (max 8 students). It's cheaper and my students enjoy it a lot:

BEGINNERS, Thursdays 5-6:30 pm
POST-BEGINNERS, Mondays 5:30-7 pm
PRE-INTERMEDIATE, Mondays, 9-10:30 am OR 5:30-7 pm; Wednesdays, 6:30-8 pm;
INTERMEDIATE, Saturdays 9:15-10:45

We also have some fun with workshops about Italian & Cooking, Italian & Cinema, Italian & Music, Italian Grammar, & Italian Slang: days and time vary to suit participants' needs.

Thanks to my theatrical experience, my lessons for CHILDREN will include the use of 'puppets' and other activities to be decided time by time, according to the topic and tutees' needs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT PRICE AND OFFERS, please do not hesitate to contact me.

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Personal Description:
ESL teacher with over 8 years experience in both classroom and private settings to a range of ages and backgrounds specialising in bringing creativity skills, social media expertise and innovation to the classroom. Professional, creative with proven analytical skills, crafting well thought out plans which, sometimes can be considered as daring, to exceed expectations.

Teaching Experience:
8+ years in UK, Italy, Morocco, Canada & Nigeria

Tutoring Approach:
Creative and relaxing. Always trying to make the subject as easy as possible to make comprehension possible. I am passionate about teaching so I use many types of approaches and materials to create a unique experience. Whatever you want out of language learning you will get...just ask!

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Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified Modern Foreign Languages teacher and have been working as a secondary school teacher since September 2016.

I am passionate about languages and language teaching in particular and am a fully qualified secondary school teacher with vast experience in the education system and in the teaching of modern foreign languages. I have also had significant tutoring experience with GCSE and A-Level pupils as well as teaching English to younger pupils in both France and Italy.

Teaching Experience:
I have had experience of language teaching at a secondary school as a fully qualified teacher for the past seven academic years as well as having previous experience teaching English abroad in both France and Italy. I have vast experience teaching KS3, KS4 and KS5 students.

Tutoring Approach:
I am enthusiastic and have a wealth of experience in languages teaching as well as excellent knowledge of the current GCSE and A-level courses. Furthermore, I have strong links with the University of Hull, having worked as a languages ambassador and thus retain my strong links with the university and its languages students and staff in particular.

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Personal Description:
I am an energetic and ambitious final year university student with five years of experience in tutoring. Italian is my first language but I am also fluent in English (IELTS level C1).
I have been an exchange student in 2016/17 in England and I obtained my AS levels. The year after I went back to Italy to complete my studies and gain the Italian Diploma di Stato, in which I scored 82/100. I was then back in England to obtain the A-level qualifications and I am now studying at University.

Teaching Experience:
I have 5 years of experience with both children and adults, both face to face and online.
My lessons are very interactive and engaging, and they are all customized based on students' needs. Tutoring is a real passion for me, so I do my very best for each student to reach his or her full potential.

Tutoring Approach:
My methodology is quite structured, but I easily adapt to students' styles and preferences.

99% of the students who come to me want to learn how to talk to people, so I am used to this request. I help them achieve this by ensuring that they know their grammar inside and out, and by supporting them with their speaking alongside it. The more we build on the grammar, the more we can build on the speaking, simultaneously. I have personally designed 4 levels of speaking, so the activities vary based on the level the student is in and build up smoothly.
For students who are interested in long-term tutoring, I often recommend a textbook to use along with my slides. I also make use of WhatsApp to send recordings if the student is struggling with pronunciation.

Most people appreciate the importance of knowing some basic grammar before they can practice speaking, and they are open to trusting me to fill in their knowledge gaps first. Once that's done (usually after 5-6 sessions if you start from zero), I introduce them to my "level 1" speaking practice, which is about describing a picture or something that they can visually see, in short, disconnected sentences. "Level 2" would be to try and get that speech to flow a little bit better by using pronouns and particles to avoid repetition. "Level 3" would be to add a bit of made-up background to that picture. For example, if they see that the table is laid but an object is missing, such as cutlery, they can try and think of why that could be (e.g. the man forgot to put the cutlery on the table). "Level 4" will involve describing procedures or things that they can partially visualize, or that are completely abstract, for example, describing every single action taken to make a cake, or talking about a past holiday. Lastly, "level 5" involves debating about current issues or picking a topic, establishing that we have two different opinions, and the student has to try to convince me of theirs.
These "levels" vary from person to person but it provides at least an idea of how the speech develops alongside the grammar, which is present in every session.

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Personal Description:
I am a 21 year-old Italian student of English literature and Sociology in Scotland. I am easy-going and look to create a friendly learning environment. I love languages, both learning and teaching them, as I believe they help us thinking from different points of views.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored children back in Italy, teaching some basic English.
I have spent six months in a international language school in Canada, where I have been in contact with inspiring teachers and modern methods of teaching. I have attended IELTS courses as well, and I'd be willing to help students to prepare for this certificate.
I myself have received a score of 7 when I attended it 2 years ago, before starting college.

Tutoring Approach:
First I will have to assess the student's level, then I can proceed accordingly. Depending on what is being requested from the student, like improving grammar, comprehension or writing, I will provide enjoyable exercises or even games when possible, as there is no fastest, easiest way of learning than having fun.

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Personal Description:
I am a teacher, novelist, and musician from Scotland. I have tutored for many years and taught at preparatory schools. I have also taught English abroad (Italy & Brazil).

I enjoy helping students to overcome their difficulties and find ways to enjoy the language and culture.

Lessons at my house or yours.
Online tutoring is a great way to work on your language (rates negotiable).

Teaching Experience:
12 years with First Tutors, from beginners, through Common Entrance, GCSE and A-level to university.
6 years with Greater London Tutorial Agency/Top Tutors
Latin, Ancient Greek & English:
6 years Classics, Mayville High School, Southsea
12 years Classics, Hall Grove, Bagshot.
1 year at Academy School, Hampstead.

Creative Writing: 7 years University of Portsmouth
2 years Islington Summer University.

English as Foreign Language:
1 year St Giles, Sao Paulo, Brazil;
2 years English Academy, Molfetta, Italy, including PET, CAE, CPE, IELTS, TOEFL.

I also teach guitar, bass, piano and Italian.

Tutoring Approach:
Most pupils who come to me have simply lost track or lost confidence.
With careful guidance, it usually doesn't take long to put them back on the right track.

I can help with the building blocks of grammar, presenting it as a puzzle or a game; I can suggest ways to improve vocabulary; and I can point the way through the complexities of translation and syntax. Even working on exam technique can ease anxiety quickly.

I also enjoy enthusing students about classical mythology and literature.

I am happy to teach online as well as in person: with a committed tutee, this can work as well as tuition in person.

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Personal Description:
The vocation and passion for teaching, which is both selfless and an act of self-care, have always influenced my education and work experience. After completing my university studies in Philosophy, I obtained a Master's Degree in Teaching Italian to Foreigners at the University of Rome Tor Vergata and then I moved to Coventry in order to start a Master by Research on Renaissance Studies at Warwick University. Thanks to my teaching experience, also related to football and yoga, I'll be glad to help you to improve your Italian language skills.

Teaching Experience:
Italian Tutor at The Percival Guildhouse (Adult Education School in Rugby).
JANUARY 2020 - PRESENT

Italian Tutor at Leicestershire County Council
DECEMBER 2019 - PRESENT

Italian Language Teacher at CPIA3 Rome (public school for adult education).
DECEMBER 2018 - MAY 2019
Evaluation: "Excellent".

Cultore della materia (Subject Expert, University Teaching Assistant) at the Chair of History of Modern Philosophy, Roma Tre University.
OCTOBER 2018 - SEPTEMBER 2019

Collaboration with the History of Philosophy course held by Professor Mariannina Failla, within the Roma Tre University Bachelor of Science in Philosophy (academic year 2017-2018).
MARCH 2018 - MAY 2018

Tutoring Approach:
My didactic approach mirrors my calm, reflexive and friendly personality. Since emotional is the crucial component in learning a foreign language, I always establish a welcoming and relaxed environment, allowing you to feel free to speak and make the mistakes necessary to improve your Italian language skills.

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Personal Description:
Down to earth person, yet methodical and detail oriented.
I believe education and languages are the bridges that can link people from their current circumstances to better opportunities, leaving no one behind.
I am passionate about grammar and reading, I love taking pictures, travelling, watching independent movies and going for exhibitions.

Teaching Experience:
After my Master's in History of Art and a Bachelor in Culture Heritage, I worked for a multicultural organisation that supports foreign women originally from disadvantaged backgrounds; I taught Italian to the adults and helped the children with their homework for one year.
After moving to the UK, one of my first jobs was teaching art classes to pre-schoolers and giving Italian speaking and reading lessons to two children whose parents are bilingual.
In July 2021 I completed the CELTA qualification to teach English as a foreign language and from August 2021 to March 2023 I taught art classes to disadvantaged children in a local Community Centre in South East London.
I am currently teaching English for Everyday and ESOL in an Adult College.
I am also experienced in teaching elderly people how to use Zoom and applications that are part of the Microsoft Office package.

Tutoring Approach:
Relaxed at the beginning: I need to understand why the person wants to learn that specific subject and what outcome they are determined to achieve.
Once this has been established, I become passionate about results as much as the client: their achievement is mine too.
I take pride in what I do and would be available for extra & flexible support to boost confidence if needed.

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Personal Description:
Hello, I am Valentina! I am a friendly and approachable native Italian speaker.

Teaching Experience:
I currently work as a Project Manager and am used to meeting and connecting with new people daily. I have tutoring experience from when I taught English to my peers when I lived in Italy.
I offer private and tailored tutoring in Italian and would be happy to help with any specific requests you might have.

Tutoring Approach:
I am hard-working and patient and will make myself available off-hours in case of any questions and doubts.
I will tailor the tutoring to your requirements and can focus on the following on request:
- Grammar
- Vocabulary building
- Speaking
- Reading and understanding
- Writing

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Personal Description:
I am a dedicated and reflective education professional with a strong commitment to continuous learning and personal development. An enthusiastic reader who enjoys walking, travelling, and discovering new environments, bringing curiosity, cultural awareness, and adaptability into both professional and personal life. Fluent in French and Italian, with the ability to communicate confidently across cultures and build positive relationships. Approaches work with professionalism, openness, and a genuine interest in people and the world around them

Teaching Experience:
I'm a science teacher and I focus on supporting students' understanding and confidence in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
I am a dedicated professional with over 9 years of experience in education, committed to supporting students academically and personally.

Tutoring Approach:
I am available for One-to-One Tutoring that offers personalised attention, allowing me to tailor lessons to the student's pace and needs. It provides a more focused environment, which can lead to faster progress and better understanding.

I offer also Group Tutoring that Involves a small group of students learning together, which can enhance peer interaction and social learning. It can be beneficial for students who thrive in a collaborative environment and may benefit from peer support.

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