Ledbury Philosophy / Critical Thinking Tutors and Ledbury Philosophy / Critical Thinking Tuition

Personal Description:
For over a decade now I have worked with a diverse range of students, engendering a passion for learning as well as producing tangible results. I prefer a flexible and dynamic approach crafted from an understanding that we are each upon a unique learning pathway according to our particular styles, aspirations, aptitudes and needs.

"Thank you very much for the great work you did with my daughter Sophie. She progressed from a 'C' grade to an 'A' grade in the space of 6 months and I would have no hesitation in recommending you to friends." - Billy, Bangor

Teaching Experience:
"The learning exercises were always set around my interest areas, making tuition both fun and effective. Following my sessions with Andrew, I have developed a more concise way of communicating. My writing now has more flow, which helps me say what I need to say." - Neil , Newtownabbey

I'm passionate about nurturing the potential of each student with whom I have the privilege to work. With over 8 years experience as a Learning Coach with countless individuals and groups, Diploma in Life Coaching as well as a successful university graduate (1st class hons in Philosophy) and additional Masters research degree in Developmental Psychology, I previously taught at Secondary school and most recently trained nursing professionals to pass their IELTS exams.

I am also a regular public speaker and workshop leader in the private health sector, delivering courses in areas from stress-management and communication skills, to self-care and personal development.

Tutoring Approach:
"Andrew was very professional in his approach to tutoring. My daughter gained confidence in her ability to understand her subject and to recall information using association techniques which proved very useful in her examinations."
Grainne, Randalstown

This coaching-based approach I take has proven highly successful. I approach each student and the sessions with an open mind to learn what I need to be of support.

Combining motivational coaching techniques, I offer a uniquely engaging, personally attuned service. The first lesson typically consists of a complimentary educational assessment (usually 30 minutes) to help identify key areas for improvement . All results can be shared with the parent/guardian. Based on this initial assessment, a 100% individual and tailored programme of learning is created. While encouraging the student to adopt high yet realistically achievable targets for their own education, I am also sensitive to the level of each student and what he or she is ready to adopt.

3 EXAMPLES OF HOW I HELP FOR LITERATURE-BASED TASKS:

1. Working from the question to the answer: appreciating and understanding key requirements of a question, and any relevant marking criteria.

2. How best to structure and qualify sentences so that the answer is complete and accurate.

3. Most effective study / revision / exam techniques such as mind-mapping, worked answers, memorising.


AREAS COVERED / WHAT TO EXPECT

My specialist subjects at all most levels are literature-based and the human sciences particularly philosophy, religion and ethics. Alongside these, I also specialise in 'study skills', offering a very personalised, tailored approach that incorporates motivational coaching on exam and essay skills, ensuring maximum value for investment of your time, money and effort.

**Upon request I am also able to provide emotional literacy around life skills such as: motivation, communication, self belief and concentration.

"I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for tutoring Philip this year; he adapted well with you as his new tutor and enjoyed your approach to teaching.
"I would have no hesitation in recommending Andrew as a tutor. I found him to be polite, courteous, reliable, and accommodating."
- Doreen, Ballyclare

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Personal Description:
I am a qualified secondary science teacher, and I have also tutored a wide range of subjects privately over the past 15 years (mainly sciences, maths and English).

I specialise in online teaching methods, including training other teachers internationally. I have degrees in science, education, creative writing, and linguistics.

Teaching Experience:
- Former Head of Physics
- Examiner for Edexcel, IB and Cambridge boards
- 20 years of private tutoring experience (all three sciences, maths and English Language and Literature to A Level)
- 10 years as a university lecturer in linguistics and academic English

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is supportive and low-key. I think that students have to have time to explore their interests in the subject by asking their own questions. This is an important part of reflective learning and will help build and maintain enthusiasm, and a calm and supportive atmosphere is essential for this.

I make extensive use of past exam questions; the best way to do well in exams is to practise doing exams! This also allows realistic monitoring of performance as tutoring continues. I normally email exam questions for students to attempt before the tutoring session.

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Personal Description:
After leaving school, I studied at Nottingham University for a BA in Music, then for a MA in Theology from the London School of Theology. Having worked for a while at an inner-city secondary school, I went on to complete a research masters and a PhD in Biblical Studies, whilst working as a teaching affiliate at Nottingham University. I have since moved to Stourbridge to work in a local church whilst continuing academic research and writing. My own interests are principally in theology, philosophy and politics, but also the arts and culture. I am married, have five children, and am a keen football fan (Manchester United).

Teaching Experience:
I have taught at secondary school (Religious Studies) and at several Universities; I have also worked as a private tutor for over a decade with students of all abilities.

Tutoring Approach:
I'm happy to be flexible in my approach depending on the particular needs of each student. I'm happy to concentrate on what is needed to get good grades, but alse believe that education is about more than being able to pass exams! I have worked hard for my qualifications and belive in disciplined, productive study; however for some students getting the highest possible grade is not necessarily the most important thing. Each person is an individual with different strengths, weaknesses and aims, so I try to structure how I teach around individual needs and goals. When teaching I also believe that giving people self confidence, an ability to think critically and an enjoyment of the subject is an important part of helping them to improve.

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Personal Description:
I provide face to face and online tuition via Skype or Zoom. Most students are very comfortable with this method of learning., I also travel to student's home's within a reasonable distance.

I am a very experienced teacher, head of faculty, head of sixth form, examiner and writer. I have recently worked for one of the major examination boards on the new specifications for both G.C.S. E. and A-Level.

During my career as a teacher I have taught English, philosophy and religious studies to Advanced level and English, history, religious studies, geography, and citizenship to G.C.S.E. I also specialise in developing study skills and examination techniques in a range of subjects. I have prepared VI form students for university and UCAS application, including Oxbridge, and acted as a mentor to new entrants to the teaching profession.

I am also a freelance writer specialising in education, social, religious and moral issues. I have written and designed e-learning resources for two international educational e-learning-platform providers.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience at Key Stage 3 & 4, G.C.S.E. and Advanced level has been extensive. I am an examiner for two major exam boards and have diverse experience of creating original teaching resources tailored to the needs of pupils both individuals and classes.

I have spent most of my career teaching across the ability and age range in 11-18 comprehensive schools although I have also taught in a Sixth Form College and the independent sector.

I have also been a part-time on-line tutor for one of the Oxford colleges and also tutor on-line. This has included online tuition for a premiership football academy!

I have served on several school boards of governors as a foundation, teacher and parent governor. I am currently Chair of Governors at a local primary school.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that the key to success for most pupils is to develop their skills and self-confidence to enhance their ability to successfully complete their examination by developing study skills and examination techniques.

My first session with a tutee and their parents is to establish their needs and goals. Together we draw up a plan of the work which we will pursue. This plan will be reviewed regularly and a progress report compiled.

Each of the subsequent sessions comprises of:
review of any homework set
review of any problems which have occurred that week
lesson on a topic previously decided upon

My primary aim is to help my tutees overcome any difficulties which they are having with their work and to help them to achieve their goals both in the short-term and the long term. Secondly, I aim to give my tutees confidence in their own abilities and to help them develop their skills necessary to succeed in their examinations.
Relevant homework is set as a means of reinforcing the development of skills since assessment and feedback procedures largely rely on this.

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Personal Description:
I am an Oxford Classics graduate with experience of teaching children and adults.

Teaching Experience:
I have seven years experience of teaching a range of ages up to 18, both private tutoring and school teaching.

Tutoring Approach:
Tutoring programme designed according to the student's needs and aims,

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Personal Description:
I'm a Cambridge graduate and Fellow of the University of London, with fifteen years of experience tutoring Religious Studies and Philosophy. My students have a strong track record of A/A* grades. I tutor it full-time across OCR, AQA, Edexcel and other exam boards. I can offer hundreds of exemplar essays and resources.

Get in touch for a free 1-hour trial session!

Extracts from letters of recommendation (available in full on request):

"James is an extremely capable and sensitive tutor."
Mother of RS (OCR) A-Level student
Grade received: A

"My daughter got a D in her mock earlier this year ... for her to get an A really was at the top end of our expectations."
Father of A-Level RS (Edexcel) student
Grade received: A

"I cannot recommend James highly enough. He is punctual and thoughtful and I would not hesitate to hire him again in the future."
Mother of Religious Studies (Edexcel) student
Grade received: A

"James immediately established a very good working relationship with my daughter which encouraged her to really engage with the subject…I would highly recommend James as a tutor."
Mother of Religious Studies (OCR) student.
Grade received: A

"James was brilliant."
Mother of twin daughters taught in Religious Studies (OCR) and Philosophy (AQA).
Grades received: A

RATES
Free 1 hour initial lesson. If there is a results-based bonus I am happy to negotiate the hourly fee.

Teaching Experience:
I have thousands of hours of tuition experience built up over ten years of full-time tutoring. Some of the specific subjects I have taught include:

Cambridge Pre-U Theology & Philosophy
Philosophy A Level (AQA, OCR and Edexcel)
Religious Studies (OCR, AQA and Edexcel) GCSE, A Level
Government & Politics (Edexcel and OCR)
Theology and Religious Studies at degree level (I have helped six different students receive good grades for third year RS dissertations)
Oxbridge applications and interview practice

Tutoring Approach:
Receiving tuition can be a bit daunting at first, so I try to make sure my students feel I`m on their side and there to help them with anything they might not feel able to figure out at school.

My approach to tuition is to assess what specific needs a student has and then to organise the sessions around those needs. Some students need essay technique help and some have a specific set of topics they want to go over. Others might need an entire course taught to them as they have left school or are being home educated.

In my years of tuition, I have built up a cloud-based digital archive of hundreds of handouts which can help a student get back on track and achieve the highest possible grade.

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Personal Description:
I am an active independent-scholar and writer, living near St Andrews University. I have written numerous books and articles and am currently working on a new book as well as tutoring a handful of students. I am also a former Academic Advisor to students in the United States of America, and I have worked for two tutoring companies in Oxford since returning to the UK. I am therefore familiar with the needs of international students when it comes to navigating the English and Scottish University systems. I focus on technique over content with a particular emphasis on writing skills, though I also read all the books and articles my students are required to read, so that I can help them with content when required.

Teaching Experience:
Award winning teacher at the University of Georgia, 1999-2000
Academic Adviser to University Students from 2003-2007
Tutor Oxford International Study Centre, April 2013 - May 2014
Carfax Tutorial Establishment, November 2013 - May 2014
Freelance Tutor ongoing.

Tutoring Approach:
I adopt a holistic approach to tutoring, working with a student to address her or his individual academic needs. I am process-orientated, building on a student's strengths and eliminating weaknesses. I am also practical, constantly working towards the student's objectives. As a result, I focus very much on academic skills and developing the student's academic toolbox, so that they can gain confidence and become independent learners.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Ash! I am an experienced and approachable tutor, a husband and father, CRB and DBS checked, specialising in English, History, Theology, Philosophy, and Politics.

I hope I can help you out!

Ash
MA BA (1st Class Hons)

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring since 2008, supporting students up to PhD level, and have taught courses for regional leaders in learning and skills development for young people and adults.

Tutoring Approach:
I tutor A Level and university students, supporting learning and achievement with a thorough, helpful, client-centred approach, at home or in other learning environments.

Please contact me to talk about your learning needs.

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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.

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Personal Description:
Are you looking for some extra help with your projects? If so, you don't need to search any further.

I currently work at a prestigious international law firm. I have an LLM in International Tax Law with a High Merit, an LLB Bachelor's in Law with a 2:1, and an LLM in International Maritime Law with a High Merit. I'm good at staying organized, always show up on time, and make sure to meet deadlines. I have a lot of experience in helping with all sorts of projects and tasks, like drafting essays, providing guidance, structuring coursework, and offering tutoring.

I've been a part of the European and Hellenic Youth Parliament, which has improved my communication skills in a professional setting. I've also represented Swansea University in various national law-related competitions, which has boosted my confidence and decision-making abilities. I'm resourceful and believe there's a solution to every problem.

Lastly, I've volunteered with UNICEF, which made me realize the importance of helping others in meaningful ways.

I'm flexible when it comes to working hours and would be happy to assist potential students. If you have any questions or need more information, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Teaching Experience:
-Teaching Assistant/Support Worker at Swansea University: Assisting students with learning difficulties to understand their subjects.
-Private tutor for more than 3 years.

Tutoring Approach:
-Resourceful
-Always willing to assist and explain things twice/thrice if needed.
-Supportive at all times.
-Straight to the point tutoring.

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Personal Description:
I have over 20 years' teaching experience. I am a retired A Level teacher but continue with private tuition. I teach both the OCR and AQA new specifications at A Level, in Philosophy, Ethics and Christianity, for Year 1 and Year 2. I have testimonials which show that most of my tutees go on to attain A grades. As a mother, I know well the anxieties which accompany these important school years. I aim for academic excellence, bringing out a student's confidence, alongside teaching important critical thinking skills and exam technique. If the student is willing to learn, higher grades are guaranteed.

Teaching Experience:
27 years tutoring privately; 15 years teaching in Further Education; OCR and AQA A Level mostly. I'm very familiar with the specification.
I can supply many testimonials ftom students upon request.
The latest one is from a student who came to me at a low C and attained an A* at OCR A Level 2025 (available on request).

Tutoring Approach:
I tutor by ZOOM mostly these days, as it so successful. Many of my past tutees I have never even met yet they have gone on to achieve As and A*s, last year one going to Oxford, another two to Newcastle... testimonials are available. I work very closely with the specification, using resources for each topic which I attach for the student before the session. I give detailed feedback on essays I set, which most find extremely useful. With other essays asked for, there is a small charge. I keep individual progress records e.g. weak areas etc to build on. I am also only a phone call or email away for students in between tutorials as this is an important element in confidence-building, I feel.

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Personal Description:
I'm a well-qualified teacher with working experience as an Accountant in the private sector. I have completed PhD in Accounting and Finance at the University of Glasgow in 2017. In addition, I have completed BSc in Accounting (Special) Degree from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka and MSc in Accounting & Finance from the University of Dundee (obtained Distinction). I have also completed the Associations of Accounting Technicians, Sri Lanka and the Intermediate Level of Institute of Chartered Accountants (Sri Lanka). I can teach you financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, corporate finance and finance subjects for AAT, ACCA, undergraduate and MSc levels. I am specialising to guide research and research-related subjects. Therefore, I can help you to guide you for PhD, MSc and BSC research proposals and dissertations/ thesis.

Teaching Experience:
A committed Accounting Teacher with over 20 years of experience at leading UK and overseas academic institutions teaching students from various social and cultural backgrounds. I have experience in teaching following subjects;

Financial Accounting
Management Accounting
Auditing
Finance and corporate finance
Research method ( proposal development)
Dissertation supervision
I have also experienced in supervising dissertation supervision for undergraduate and postgraduate level students.

Tutoring Approach:
I used relevant teaching materials such as textbooks, presentations, videos and journal articles to prepare the presentations and conduct the tutorials. I utilise technology in delivering tutorials to the students. In addition, I actively leading class discussions and encouraging debate among the students. I take real-life examples in delivering the lectures to provide an in-depth understanding of the subject related matters. I have focused on conducting innovative research which provides a significant contribution to the field as well as the theory. I utilised videos, case studies, online discussions (through Moodle).

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Personal Description:
Hello, my name is George and I am a PhD student settled in Durham during term-time. I am passionate about teaching children and grown-ups of all ages in a manner that is both educational and enjoyable for the students by incorporating their hobbies and interests in their education. I have been a private tutor for a year, but I have always been eager to help people whenever in need. I have been tutoring mainly in English grammar and foreign languages such as German and Russian, but I am also interested in teaching subjects such as history, sociology, critical theory, and humanities in general. I have taken education related modules during my BA, and I also possess a Developing Your Potential certificate for education after completing a series of online courses.
In case you are interested, please do not hesitate to contact me at any time. I am more than happy to teach online, especially in the given circumstances, but if this were not the case, I would be happy to drive up to 30 miles from Durham during term-time. I am available any time of the day, including weekends, unless specified otherwise.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a personal tutor for English grammar, German, and Russian for two years now. I have been teaching my students regularly once a week, and I have received positive feedback for my teaching methods, as well as my approach when helping to improve my students' language levels.
I possess a "Developing Your Potential" certificate, which I acquired after attending online courses that related to teaching. The courses included lessons on the British curriculum, as well as advice and skills on how to approach with children with disabilities such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, and autism. These courses have helped be gain an understanding and insight in the ways I should approach students with special needs, and I see it as a very important skill as a person who supports the right for equal opportunities in education.
I also taught in classroom environments while taking modules in education during my Eramus+ exchange studies in Sweden. This has helped me gain experience working with pupils in primary schools, which also helped me familiarise myself working with more than one student as well.

Tutoring Approach:
I usually teach a student once per week, but if it is necessary, I am willing to top it up by teaching the same student twice a week even. I also offer the first lesson at half price as a an introductory lesson.
My lessons usually last an hour, but I am also happy to top it up to two hours, with a 5-10 minute break, upon request.
Any cancellations or changing of schedules should be noted within 24 hours at least.
I am also more than happy to teach more than one student at the same time within a "classroom style setting" online, given that the students are doing the same subject at a more or less equal level.
I am available every day, including weekends, and I am flexible with time as well.
At the end of every lesson, I will always give homework to students and expect them to do it until our next lesson. I am however tolerant in unforeseen circumstances, or if any other personal issue arises.
At the beginning of every lesson and after checking the homework, I shall ask short questions related to previous lessons. Thus, I expect students to learn and take notes from every I teach on their own initiative, although I will remind this every now and then.
As a tutor, I am also aware that time is very valuable for every lesson. This is why I ensure that no lesson will be wasted by teaching topics already known by the student.
Finally, I also like to make my lessons fun and entertaining, as I have always found this the best way to learn. This is why I will offer the students the freedom to choose which topics to discuss that would fit with their interests or hobbies, as well as offering them tasks that would make learning more entertaining as well as educational.

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Personal Description:
I'm a Music Graduate, and will soon be a Philosophy Graduate [Edinburgh Napier University and University of Wales TSD, respectively]. I work in the third sector covering off humanitarian needs in Africa, Animal welfare in Asia and the care environment/Homelessness in the UK.

At the moment I manage volunteering contracts with Goldman Sachs, National Grid, Moorhouse Consulting, Visa and Prysmian Group.

I'm quite relaxed about most things, I do some consulting with small charities and I play a lot of music!

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching music and English language periodically for around 20 years. I have taught privately, at Music Workshop Bath and Bath City College. I taught English language at a number of summer schools in Edinburgh, Bournemouth and at Cardonald College in Glasgow.

Tutoring Approach:
My style prioritises the needs of the student. Sometimes this is in relation to their immediate curriculum and is supplemented with a view to future study, if there is expectation that future study is probable. Sometimes, if the focus is solely on lifting a grade or working on soft skills around the subject - research/focus etc. then I make that the priority. All in agreement with the student.

In short - student focused.

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Personal Description:
Practising artist and tutor, my work is part of national art and design collections. Founder of an online art gallery. I graduated from the Royal College of Art in London and ENSAD in Paris, I am a guest lecturer at the Royal College of Art and I have over ten years of teaching experience.

Studies:
Royal College of Art, London
ENSAD, Paris
HFG, Karlsruhe, Germany
ENSAN, Nancy, France

Permanent collections :
Neue Sammlung Museum, Munich, Germany
FNAC Fonds National d'Art Contemporain, Paris
IFA Germany, Institute for Foreign Cultural Relations of Germany
Badisches Landesmuseum, Karlsruhe, Germany
Villa Lena Foundation, Palaia, Italy

Teaching Experience:
Portfolio Review
Briefs
Exam entrance
Design
Mixed media art
Painting
My private tutorials are tailored to each students requirements and skill level. I can teach you how to develop your ideas, how to create a unique portfolio, how to build a project to stand out .

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to teaching is adaptable. I am an experienced and dynamic teacher, I like to work in a relax atmosphere yet efficient. I have taught internationally working with students from culturally diverse backgrounds and different levels of English skills.

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Personal Description:
I am a Philosophy and English language teacher from Southampton, England, currently residing in Stapleton, Bristol.

I hold a First Class Honours degree in Philosophy from Cardiff University (2017-2020) and a Master of Research in International Development from the University of Bath, awarded with Merit (2020-2021). Additionally I have a TEFL diploma.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching journey began in Granada, Spain, where I worked at ITACA Centro de Formación, instructing students across various proficiency levels (A1-C1) and preparing them for IELTS and Cambridge examinations. I developed engaging lesson plans tailored to students' educational needs and provided targeted interventions to enhance learning outcomes. Upon returning to the UK, I began to work as a Philosophy tutor adapting lessons to individual learning styles and supporting students in improving their communication skills. This diverse experience has honed my ability to teach complex subjects effectively to a wide range of learners.

Tutoring Approach:
In my philosophy tutoring, I emphasize a personalized and student-centred approach. I believe in adapting my teaching methods to meet the unique needs and learning styles of each student, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. My focus is on developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for success in philosophy. I am well-versed in the AQA A-level Philosophy specification, which offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop students' interest and knowledge in the subject, as well as their analytical and critical thinking skills. Additionally, I am knowledgeable about the Edexcel Religious Studies A-level.. My goal is to equip students with the skills and confidence needed to excel in their examinations and to cultivate a deep understanding and appreciation of philosophical inquiry.

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Personal Description:
I have experience across several institutions, including the University of Bristol, University of Bath, University of York, Bath Spa University, and Universidad de Manizales in Colombia. I'm genuinely curious about you and your studies, and I see tutoring as a space to explore your ideas together. I enjoy discussing big-picture questions as well as working through the details - but I'll always take your lead and adapt to your needs. I'm based in Bristol and happy to explore in-person sessions after we've had an initial online meeting.

Teaching Experience:
I have experience tutoring learners of all ages and backgrounds, both in the UK and internationally. I particularly enjoy working with university-level students and adult learners, especially in the social sciences and humanities. Alongside tutoring, I currently work in university curriculum and assessment design, which means I'm well placed to support students navigating assignments, academic writing, and feedback. Whether you're building confidence in your studies or working towards a specific goal, I'll aim to meet you where you are.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is collaborative and student-centred. I see myself as a supportive sounding board - someone to think with, reflect with, and help you move forward with confidence. Whether you're clarifying ideas, improving your writing, or navigating academic feedback, we'll find what works best for you. I aim to help you build confidence in your academic voice. I'm also happy to review drafts between sessions when time allows.

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Personal Description:
A mature and serious postgraduate with international experience and vast repertoire of skills to impart to young learners and future academics, I seek to significantly improve confidence, performance and achievement.

In my approach I study the challenges with the client and together set out a plan with a guiding timeline to reach goals and targets.

Having worked in student services, course administration and tutored/mentored at University, I have become well rounded in the field of education.

Coming from an ethnic background I understand cultural sensitivity and tact when dealing with sensitive matters and for most young students I easily build a rapport to gain their trust and respect.

During my work experience I have acquired excellent time management skills, as well as interpersonal, relationship building and communication skills (written and oral), not to mention a keen eye for detail.

The ability to digest complex and technical information was harnessed during my academic career. The ability to focus, work to competing deadlines and prioritize workload were part and parcel of the roles which I have successfully carried out.

Teaching Experience:
8 years teaching undergraduates Academic skills and EFL.
5 years tutoring GCSE and A level students in social sciences and history.
2 years experience teaching online.

Tutoring Approach:
Student centred, thematic and dynamic.

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