Potters Bar Philosophy / Critical Thinking Tutors and Potters Bar Philosophy / Critical Thinking Tuition

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.

Subjects

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 have completed a Masters degree in Creative Writing. I completed my undergraduate studying BA Creative Writing and English Literature with 2:1. I'm aware that English and History are complex and intriguing subjects but I firmly believe that a thorough understanding and practise of techniques will enable to provide you with a firm base for any student to succeed. I am keen, conscientious, hardworking and reliable person.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring privately for 14 years. I have worked with a wide range of ages and academic abilities from different schools such as private, public, grammar, boarding, faith schools and academies.
I worked as an Literacy Assessment Assistant where i taught Year 8, Year 10, Year 11, Year 12 and Year 13.
I worked as an Exams Officer Assistant for 6 months. I was a English Graduate Assistant in a high school where I had exposure to lesson and administration relating to the curriculum.
I have completed a Literacy Leadership Award and I was assessed on my ability to plan and prepare a literacy activity. I had to show communication and motivational skills through delivering literacy across the curriculum. Having observed teachers, I was able to learn interesting techniques that are used to teach Key stage 3 and 4 students. From this experience, I was taught how to plan and structure a lesson i.e. the starter, an introduction, an interactive main activity and the plenary; how to use verbal and non-verbal communication successfully.
I have also worked closely with my peers on A Level courses such as English and History by delivering revision sessions and presenting my ideas on literary texts, articles and academic research.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tuition includes a variety of techniques and strategies in order to guide and motivate the learner. I will set personalised targets with my students and their parents in order to achieve the desired results. I also intend to provide you with a personalized programme that is best suited to your individual needs. I'm very enthusiastic and try to make learning a fun experience, using different ways of learning. Prices of lessons can be negotiated.
"She's a good listener. She tries to make people understand something in a way that makes you feel comfortable. She involved everyone in the discussion even the quiet ones and always tries to find new ways of explaining things. Revision sessions were really useful and I think the main reason was because she just loves helping other people whether it is people younger or the same age. Everyone went home feeling slightly more confident about the exam including me. She makes sure that everybody understands even if it has to be explained more than once." (Aarti, 18, student)
"Charnjit has a way of making the impossible- possible. She is patient with her students and will try her hardest to make people understand. She has a way of teaching which involves a lot of group work and a one-one session where she will answer any questions from the stupidest to the smartest. After having few sessions with her I went into my exam confidently. Most importantly, she never gives up on anyone." (Rahwa, student)
"Charnjit's teaching style is unique and possesses many qualities. She is patient and constantly checks for understanding in order to go over things if the topic is not understood straight away. She uses a variety of techniques such as group brain storming in order to get the class involved which is very effective. During our group revision sessions she used this technique which worked well as it got everybody thinking, talking and interacting which was useful when remembering theorists and certain dates. She also categorised the theorists into groups based on their research which was also helpful for revision as it broke down the amount of theorists into smaller groups which were easier to remember. In addition, Charnjit is very good at keeping the class' attention which is very important as a teacher." (Stefanie, student)

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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 am a successful elite tutor and lecturer, and have taught a variety of school, undergraduate, postgraduate and CPD students. I have worked with pupils in both private and state education, many of my A-level students have gone on to university including: UCL, St Andrews, Cambridge (Christ, Clare, Selwyn, Trinity College), Oxford (Balliol, Merton, Hertford), Princeton and L'Ecole normale supérieure, Paris.

I have studied a broad range of subjects during my Bachelor's degree (English and Classics, RHUL) and Master's (Comparative Art and Archaeology with Law, UCL) have captained sports (lacrosse, rugby, hockey) at national and regional level.

Please note the history tuition I offer is Ancient History, Classics, Archaeology and Classical Civilizations.

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced tutor who can help students meet elite standards for university grades or entry, but am also enthutiastic and supportive; able to work with students seeking to consoldate on their current grade standards.

-English and Drama Tutor - Study Zone 2008
-English/Maths Teacher and Head of Year 11 Corona Theatre School 2011-2012 [Reference Available]
-Conference Speaker: Ethics of Archaeology (IOA, 2011) , Employment in the Arts (UCL, 2012), Monstrous Antiquities (2013), Iris Project (2014), MTS (2014)
-Seminar speaker: Ancient Worlds (UCL), Bloomsbury Summer School
-Private Tuition [References Available]:

A level English, Original Grade C, Final Grade A
A level English, Original Grade C, Final Grade A
A level Philosophy, Original Grade B, Final Grade A
A level English, Original Grade C, Final Grade A
A level English, Original Grade B, Final Grade: B
A level Classical Studies, Original Grade B, Final Grade: A


Film Studies BA, Original Grade C, Final Grade A
Classics BA, Original Grade 2:1, Final Grade 1

GCSE level English, Original Grade D, Final Grade A
GCSE level English, Original Grade B, Final Grade: A* / A*

Tutoring Approach:
Academic experience: I have worked in private tutoring, state and private schools, university departments and know how examiners mark and what they expect. I have worked for 2 prestigious Universities and am adept at entrance documents and applications. In addition, one needs to be constantly aware of the changing curricula, mark schemes, and student specifications, knowledge and understanding of which can guarantee a 95%+ grade.

Encouragement: As a sports captain and Global Citizenship Mentor (UCL) I realise the need for a pupil's confidence to be built up before they can achieve better. In my opinion a pupil is never failing, they can just achieve more.

Planning: It is essential for us to have an organised lesson plan, and plan for our future sessions so we can map where we should be heading and what we have achieved. Many students suffer from poor organisation which, if remedied, would immediately proffer far better results.

Education: During my past 10 years of college, undergraduate and graduate university I have been educated in a host of valuable disciplines that help interest and inspire any student.

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Personal Description:
Professionally qualified (DfES number RP 04/31188).

I am a musician, qualified primary teacher (QTS) with a Master's degree in Education, Pets As Therapy volunteer, founder and facilitator at Meta for learning CIC.

My interests in education are in Open Learning, Outdoor Learning, Animal Assisted interventions, Blended learning and helping learners build international links.


As part of a distance-learning Masters degree in association with FUNIBER and the Universidad de León, I carried out an ethnographic action research project using a democratic approach called Community Language Learning. In this approach there is no syllabus or textbook to follow. It is the learners themselves who determine the content by means of meaningful conversations.
It incorporates translation, transcription and recording techniques.

When I am not working I love volunteering, practising ice skating or track cycling with my daughter and also growing an edible garden !

Teaching Experience:
I was born in Madrid where I trained as a primary teacher and classical musician (cello and chamber music).

I worked in Escuelas de Musica in the outskirts of Madrid which are inclusive socially-minded music schools where I taught cello lessons and support the development of the String Department by assisting during orchestra rehearsals. Both adults and children of all ages are welcome to take lessons.

Shortly after moving to the UK I started a part time job teaching Music to 5-7 yo children at the Rowans Prep school in Wimbledon alongside studying a Mater's and working in Adult education- I carried out a 2-year ethnographic action research project at St Luke's centre in Islinghton.

I then applied to a position in Esadst London and started working for Children's language services teaching at several primary schools in Tower Hamlets. My roles were to deliver the MFL primary curriculum; coordinate the implementation of new initiatives in schools ie use of the European Portfolio for language Learning which was being developed between the Council and universities, provide class teachers with CPD training; undertake tasks such as EAL First Language assessments.

After taking maternative leave I trained to become an online tutor and worked part- time for Own Tutors, Clapham.

In 2019 I founded a learning community Metaforlearning Cic where I run Self-Manage Learning programmes for young people.

In my tutoring work I am reliable, flexible and experienced. I have been working in the UK, Ireland and Spain and have experience in exam preparation for the Spanish internationally recognised DELE junior and DELE for adults; Spanish GCSE, IGCSE, Spanish A-LEVELS with AQA, OCR and EDEXCEL exam boards; and IB ab initio and Language B international qualifications. In the past I have prepared young cellists for 1-8 ABRSM performance grades.

Tutoring Approach:
Students set their own learning goals and I assist them in order to map the neccesary learning to achieve them and also by working at the level that they feel comfortable with at each stage of the process.

With young learners I make use of VR, AR and gamification for enhancing engagement in language learning.

If your enquiry is regarding learning for either improving wellbeing, traveling or living in a Spanish speaking country then we will be looking at different learning objetives and skills than for example an enquiry regarding accessing an university of your choice.

I have wide experience supporting international students in understanding and preparing to access Universities in the UK.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a full-time specialist tutor and experienced teacher with a PhD in English Literature and philosophy. Informed by over a decade's experience in the secondary and undergraduate classroom, my tutoring practice stimulates student independence and confidence when encountering challenging texts. I work with students studying KS3 Literacy, GCSE English Language and Literature, A Level English Literature, and undergraduate English, Literary Theory and Philosophy. I also work with students confronting the challenges of 11+ and 13+ examinations and GCSE and ALevel students engaged in homeschooling.

A recent client review (with many more available on request):

'It has been a revelation for my 12 year old to be tutored by Tom in English Literature. He is an exceptionally gifted teacher. He is qualified to teach at a much higher level than key stage 3 and the depth of his own relationship with the subject matter really shows. It is matched by his talent for allowing the student the time and space to arrive at their own understanding of the texts he teaches. His patience and understanding have been a tremendous benefit to my child and it has been wonderful for me to watch her confidence and her sense of herself grow as Tom has listened to her. I should mention that Tom knows his way around the exam system very well, and can teach tools for exam performance. However my opinion is that his true value is in his willingness also to set those types of goal aside, and model a true love of literature to his pupil.'

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored and homeschooled online and in person since 2012 in KS2 Literacy and Literature, 11+ & 13+ examinations, KS3 literacy, and GCSE/A Level examinations in English Language and English Literature across the full range of exam boards. From September 2017 to June 2024 I worked in London as a secondary teacher of English Literature and Language, RSE and Citizenship from KS3 to GCSE, with an 100% pass-rate at 7 (A) and above.

Between 2011 and 2016 I worked as a teacher of undergraduate English Literature and Literary Theory at the University of Glasgow (2012-2016), teaching over 300 students overall across a wide range of undergraduate modules. This work included course design and delivery, marking, feedback and administration, and the development of bespoke lectures and workshops in poetry. More recently, I worked as an associate lecturer in Creative Writing and Literary Theory at the University of Essex (2017-18). In 2015 I was nominated for a University of Glasgow Student Representative Council Student Teaching Award in the category 'Best Postgraduate who Tutors'.

I'm also a specialist in editing, proof-reading and academic writing more broadly. I was a regional editor of The International Journal of Badiou Studies for a number of years and I recently co-edited a special issue of the Journal of British and Irish Innovative Poetry. My book of philosophy, 'Badiou, Poem and Subject', is published by Bloomsbury (January, 2020). I continue to review prospective philosophy manuscripts for Bloomsbury. I am also a published poet with five published collections and numerous publications across a range of independent journals and magazines including Granta.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring practise is about building relationships: it's hugely important to me that I offer a non-institutional, supportive and lively space in which I can respond not only to a student's individual challenges and ambitions but also to what they find most stimulating and pleasurable in their work. I deliver bespoke tutorials designed to foster enthusiasm, confidence and pleasure-seeking in reading and writing; but I also prepare those of my students sitting exams to be canny, to 'play the game' with expertise.
In person, I work with a wide range of resources tailored to the needs of individual students, whether they're preparing for their GCSE or A Level English exams, struggling to read poetry for the first time or experiencing problems in their undergraduate coursework. But I'm also a strong advocate for online learning: my online tutorials are lively and collaborative, using Google docs to create vibrant shared documents full of live feedback.

I have a huge amount of experience in exam preparation across the full range of exam boards. I also offer structured tutorial series to help students become acquainted with the nuances of 11+ and 13+ examinations, including elite comprehension and creative writing coaching.

My KS3, GCSE and A-level students benefit from approaches and methodologies used in the study of philosophy, literature and creative writing at undergraduate level.

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Personal Description:
My biggest passion is making people believe in themselves. I strongly believe that most people can do most things - all they need is someone to provide the knowledge, encouragement and support. And I pride myself in providing exactly this to all my tutees and students.

I've been privately tutoring for 21 years in a variety of subjects and countries; teaching and tutoring in Kenya, Canada, Australia, Hungary, Japan, France and England. Mostly this has been in English and Maths, but especially any subjects where comprehension and writing skills are at the fore.

I enjoy helping students of all ages and I've taught all the way from 4 years old to adults. I work hard to build a good rapport with all my students as this is vital for maximising their learning. Furthermore, before I begin, I make sure both parties are clear on what the goals are from my tutoring and that both are happy with how we will proceed. I also ensure I work hard to understand the learning styles and unique personalities of each of my students, so that I can tailor my teaching to suit their precise individual needs.

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced tutor who has been doing it for more than ten years now in a variety of subjects and countries. I have taught and tutored in Kenya, Australia, Hungary, Canada, Japan, France and England now in mostly English and any subjects where comprehension and writing skills are at the fore.

I've taught many students with learning and behavioural difficulties too - so I'm comfortable dealing with this type of tutoring as well.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is to really get to know the tutee's needs and talk extensively to them as well as his/her parents to make sure we all know what the goal/s are for my tutoring lessons.

A down to earth, relaxed approach I believe is key to tutoring being successful.

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Personal Description:
A mature, professional teacher of English who would be delighted to meet anyone who wants to improve their level in the language. Recent experience with Chinese and Japanese university students, and with young and mid-career professionals in France.

Teaching Experience:
July/Aug/Sept 2017 - 2026 : Hertford College, Oxford University
Teaching Chinese and Japanese university students at an Oxford Uni summer school

Sept 2019 - June 2026
Language trainer in Paris specialising in business English

March 2016 - July 2019
Language trainer specialising in business English

March 2015 - October 2015
Teaching a large group of Omani policemen in Oman

October 2007 - May 2014
Nearly seven years teaching in Spain. Mainly young and older adults at their workplaces, but also some youngsters attending bilingual schools

Tutoring Approach:
EFL
I am a follower of the "communicative method" in English teaching. The method integrates the teaching of grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation, and the four core skills. The style is dynamic, with constant interaction and non-judgmental feedback.

My methods put the needs and interests of students first because it helps students to take charge of their own learning.
I am serious about making progress with students, so I want sessions to be focussed, but also relaxed and enjoyable.

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Personal Description:
A resident of Edinburgh for the past twenty years I enjoy meeting new people and learning new things myself. I am fairly well travelled, enjoy the arts and have a passion for working alongside others to help them achieve their goals.

I worked for 10 years as a professional actor with degree level qualifications in both Philosophy (Dundee University) and Acting (Queen Margaret University College).

Teaching Experience:
Exam season is always a great time for a little confidence boost and skills brush-up. I have worked with adults in improving spoken and written English for UK degree entry level. I have also worked with college and university students in the Middle East (UAE) to train science and drama education in both Arabic and English.

For several years I have visited schools in both the public and private sectors delivering reading, drama and science communication classes.

I have regularly taught 5-15 years drama in private classes and enjoy working with pre-drama school entrants of all ages in working on giving the best entrance audition possible.

Tutoring Approach:
I am confident at creating a structured approach that works with a pupil's own strengths and needs to provide a tailor-made package for learning.

Ideally I meet with each student to discuss their learning needs, current level and expected outcomes.

Although it is important to push the boundaries of learning, it should always be a workload that is both manageable and individually tailored.

People learn best when they are enjoying themselves, so I try my best to make learning fun and interactive.

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Personal Description:
I am a French philosopher based in Paris and London. I have graduated from Sorbonne University in 2006. My approach to philosophy tries to blend the Continental and the Analytic Anglo-Saxon tradition. I have been teaching classes in General Philosophy, Metaphysics and Logic.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching in various contexts: in high school (A-Level) as a Teaching Assistant at Sorbonne University, on the Paris campus of Saint John`s University in New York. I have also been occasionally tutoring some students. I have also written many popularization articles.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is based on an understanding of the needs of the tutored person with regards to the academic requirements in vigour and his own interest in the discipline. Depending on the context, I offer a approach based on the history of philosophy or on given philosophical problems, putting the emphasis either on culture or on the acquisition of an aptitude to sound reasoning or critical thinking.

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Personal Description:
I am a postgraduate researcher in the Department of Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology at the University of Exeter, where I am funded by a HASS grant to research the effects of AI technologies on the structure of subjectivity. Previously, I was an associate tutor and postgraduate researcher in the Department of Philosophy at the University of Warwick. I am an examiner for AQA and have been teaching AQA A-Level philosophy since 2014. I also provide tuition for OCR and Eduqas courses.

I have a first-class honours degree from the University of York in philosophy, a masters with distinction in social and political theory for the University of Birmingham and I passed my MPhil viva in philosophy at the University of Warwick without corrections.

Teaching Experience:
In my work teaching A-Level philosophy and religious studies I've seen that most students drop marks for AO2, which covers analysis, evaluation and critique. I've developed innovative strategies and techniques for correcting this. I can help you feel confident before your exams and give you exactly the tools you need to reach your full potential.

For university students, I can provide you with the support and feedback you need to significantly improve your grades.

Please feel free to get in touch for a free trial lesson.

Tutoring Approach:
I have excellent communicative and interpersonal skills. Philosophy is hard, we will look at things together that some of the greatest minds of the last two and a half thousand years have struggled to grapple with, so although I can never make it easy, I can certainly make it *easier*. I want to help you appreciate the satisfaction of understanding and working with something that was originally very challenging.

In short, work with me if you want someone:

- Professional
- Reliable
- Experienced
- Results driven
- Passionate
- Knowledgeable

We will work on understanding, essay writing, and exam technique. I will also help you to think in a more critical, rigorous manner. I offer a high-quality service that will maximise your chances of success and bring you the highest intellectual return. My excellent reviews attest to this.

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Personal Description:
Dr Fouzia has been supporting students studying Bachelor's, Master's and PhD for over 14 years, across a range of UK universities (for example, Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, Imperial, Warwick) and international universities (for example, Harvard, MIT). Thus, she has extensive experience in working with UK and overseas students, including students from China, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and America. Her work covers the following areas: university pre-sessional courses, sociology, psychology, business, criminology, nursing, health and social care (both at college and university level), childcare, teaching, paramedical science, and beyond.

As an Examination Board Assessor, Fouzia has experience working with a myriad of examination boards, such as C&G, EDEXCEL, AQA, OCR, WJEC, NCC, CIE, ICAAE.

Moreover, her deep understanding of pedagogical principles helps guide her tutorship. Students can reach out to Fouzia out of lesson times via telephone, WhatsApp or email for any queries, progress conversations, target setting and more.

Teaching Experience:
Dr Fouzia offers face-to-face and online guidance for university students at all levels. Her work includes:

Professional editing and proofreading academic assessments for structure, style, logical coherence, clarity, and critical analysis
Proofreading of manuscripts for publication in high-impact journals.
Paraphrasing
Formatting
Reference management
Critical thinking
Critical appraisal of evidence and evidence-based practice
Research topic selection and identifying research gaps
Planning and structuring essays and dissertations
Shaping writing to make it crisp and concise, and reducing wording to reach desired word count
Guidance on report writing and creating PowerPoints for course work
Interpret and perform literature, systematic reviews
Research proposals across all subject
Data collection and analysis for both qualitative and quantitative methodology (manual and electronic analysis ie SPSS/ NVIVO).
Dissertation/ thesis design and methodology
Academic poster presentations
PhD Viva preparation
Time and stress management
UCAS applications
UCAS personal statements
Interview techniques and mock interviews for university/ employment applications

Tutoring Approach:
Dr Fouzia provides a personalised one-to-one service, meeting individual needs of students (incl. ASD, dyslexia, etc) which enables them to actively engage in their lesson, and boost confidence. She is punctual and offers a high standard service, and this is evident in the reviews received from previous students. Her holistic approach has resulted in excellent pass rates (Merits & Distinctions). In addition, being a lecturer, research supervisor, examiner, and interviewer, places her in an ideal position to support you or your child with medical school applications.

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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:
I have over thirty years experience of teaching Latin, English, French and essay-writing skills, both in schools and as a private tutor. I specialise in helping students write their Personal Statements when applying to university or to postgraduate courses.

I am the mother of five grown up children, three of whom went to Cambridge, one to KCL and one to Oxford, and I have also guided many other students into achieving offers from top universities, including many to Oxbridge.

After graduating from Cambridge with a degree in English and Classics, I taught for 2 years before going to Drama school, then moved to Granada TV as a researcher and presenter. The next 14 years were spent working for various TV companies, while also writing for national newspapers and magazines.

In 1992, I moved with my family to Salisbury and went back to teaching, first in a college of Further Education, then at a prep school, and subsequently in independent schools: nine years at St Mary's Calne from which I retired in 2015. I was then invited to , come out of retirement to teach at St Swithun's in Winchester and The Oratory School Oxford.

I no longer teach in the classroom, but continue to offer tutoring in Latin, English, French and Writing Skills. A particular speciality is Personal Statements - helping students with their applications to university. I have helped very many students (both pre-university and postgraduates) write successful personal statements for their chosen courses.

As well as the academic subjects mentioned above, I help with any writing task from an A level or IB essay (especially Theory of Knowledge) to university theses and dissertations. I specialise in Oxbridge help, including suggestions for reading, preparation for entrance tests and interview practice. So far I have helped over 20 students gain places at Oxbridge.

Teaching Experience:
Personal statements

I have helped very many students write their personal statements for application to university - both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. This does NOT mean writing the statement for the student - I do not have the breadth of knowledge to write about Astrophysics or Zoology, but it does mean helping the student clarify his or her thoughts, explain what has prompted the interest in the subject, how he or she has developed this interest, what extra-curricular choices have been made, and why, and how current A levels (or degree subjects) have prepared the student for this application.
For many students, the Personal Statement is the first time they have have to talk about themselves, and for many, it is bewildering knowing how to approach it and what to include and what to leave out.

I help the student by asking him/her to fill in a preliminary questionnaire, (Why this subject? What sparked the interest? Why it's important for the student and for society etc). Next, I ask for a first draft - it doesn't matter how bad or poorly expressed this is. Then, I work with the student - either at home or by Skype/Zoom, talking through the first draft and suggesting adjustments, improvements etc. Next the student writes a second draft, and the process continues until the students is totally happy that the statement says exactly what was intended, and show the student at his/her best.
I have many testimonials from happy students (including over twenty five to Oxbridge) which I would be happy to share on request.

Latin
I teach Latin at Latin Common Entrance, GCSE, A level, and university level. The great majority of my students achieve 9s at GCSE, and As and A*s at A level. Many have gone on to read Classics at university.

English
I teach English literature and language - both critical analysis of texts and and writing skills - from GCSE to university level and beyond. Many students whom I have helped with A level essays have come back to me for help with their university dissertations, applications for Masters, or covering letters for postgraduate job applications.

Essay writing
As well as helping with A level essays in all the humanities (RS, Philosophy, Psychology, History etc) I am an experienced tutor for IB Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essays. I have also advised and guided many students with their EPQs.

French
I teach French to A level and

I teach Classical Greek to GCSE.

Tutoring Approach:
1. My first priority is to let the student know that they are not alone - I am here to help. Just being told this can be immediately reassuring, especially if the student has been worrying for about a subject or project for a long time.

2. The next step is to establish exactly how much the student already knows. Nothing surprises or shocks me, but I have come across students seeking help who haven't got a copy of the relevant book or haven't read beyond the title page. I understand this - life is busy.So I am never critical or judgmental, I am always on the student's side. If necessary, I will provide a copy (years of teaching and a large family mean I usually have several).

3. The next step is to encourage the student into thinking of the subject as interesting. This may mean overcoming any resistance, by chatting, discovering how much they already know (always more than they think - another source of encouragement) and relating it to other areas of interest. One ideas have started to flow the student will begin to realise that not only might this subject/essay not be as bad as feared, it's possible they might find something enjoyable about it.

4. Now we look at the project and ways of approaching it. The key here is structure. Quite often the student's lack of confidence has led to panic and accompanying lack of organisation. So I help sort out files, help put notes in order, and encourage the student recognise which bits of paper are/aren't relevant to their work. This is mental housekeeping - and once order has been established, the student is in a better frame of mind for doing the work.

5. The next step varies according the to the subject.

LATIN.
I ask the student translate until he meets a problem. I then explain the topic- taking care to base it only on what the student already knows and feels confident about. If there are big gaps in knowledge, I start filling them, teaching vocabulary, grammar and syntax in an orderly way and asking the student to record what we have covered in his own written file.We then continue the translation, making sure the student has understood everything we have covered so far. This process is designed to lift the fog and give the student the tools needed to translate confidently

WRITING.
If it's an essay, I encourage the student to look at the title and think about (a) what is it really asking and (b) what ideas can he or she think of in response? These can be written down in any order - at this stage it's a question of getting the thought processes going.
We then discuss how to organise the student's thoughts into a coherent whole. This can be painstaking process - it involves teaching essay structure, and and sometimes even working backwards - going from conclusion back to introduction - but we always finish by knowing exactly what direction the essay is taking.
The final step is to ask the student to write something for next time. It doesn't matter if it's short or badly-expressed, and I always make it relevant to school work. The reason I ask for a piece of writing is
a) the act of writing enables a student to know what he/she wants to say
(b) seeing a student's writing shows me how to approach the next lesson. I can see what element of the writing need work, and plan my lesson accordingly.

OTHER IDEAS FOR READING ETC
I often recommend extra-curricular ideas to make the subject more engaging - films, YouTube extracts, magazines, even books - the student doesn't have to read a whole book - even dipping in and out is helpful and there is nothing more deadening to the love of books than being told you HAVE to read them.

STUDENTS WHO ARE STRUGGLING.
. I do not only help academic high-flyers. I am also offer warm and sympathetic help to students who - for whatever reason - find academic study challenging. I help develop study skills, suggest organisational strategies (for student and parent) and above all, restore lost confidence by showing the student that he really can tackle - and overcome - any problem - just by taking it slowly and making sure he or she understands each step before going on to the next.

WELCOME TO MY HOUSE.
, I'm a great believer in the comforting powers of a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit, as well as the presence of my 2 cats (who, despite being to every lesson I've given, are still rubbish at Latin). For allergic pupils, however, the cats are banished to the garden.

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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:
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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Personal Description:
Outside of teaching, I have a wide range of interests that reflect my creative and lifelong love of learning. I play several musical instruments and enjoy a variety of creative arts including drawing, painting, crochet, cross-stitch and creative writing. I also find great enjoyment in gardening, which allows me to relax and connect with nature.
I am naturally curious, I enjoy watching documentaries and keeping up to date with current affairs.
Most importantly, I value spending quality time with my family and close friends.
These interests help me bring creativity, enthusiasm and a well-rounded perspective to my teaching, allowing me to build positive relationships with students and make learning both engaging and enjoyable.

Teaching Experience:
I am a qualified teacher with a PGCE and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), specialising in Religious Studies. During my secondary school teaching career, I taught Key Stage 3, GCSE and A Level Religious Studies, English and Politics as well as History and Geography at Key Stage 3. This experience enabled me to develop strong subject knowledge and expertise in preparing students for examinations while fostering critical thinking and confidence in their learning.
For the past 12 months, I have also taught across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, delivering engaging lessons in Mathematics, English, Science and Humanities subjects.
Throughout my career, I have worked with a diverse range of learners and have extensive experience supporting students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), teaching children and young people from the ages of 4 to 19.
As a fully qualified teacher with QTS, I am committed to maintaining the highest standards of student welfare and safety. I hold up to date training and certifications in Safeguarding, Prevent Duty, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Awareness and Allergy Awareness. These qualifications ensure that I am well equipped to create a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. My extensive experience working with children and young people (including those with SEND) enables me to recognise and respond appropriately to individual needs while promoting wellbeing, confidence and academic success.

Tutoring Approach:
I create a positive and supportive learning environment where students feel confident to ask questions and develop their skills.
I tailor my approach to suit each student's individual needs and learning style. I encourage academic growth, by building confidence, and helping students reach their goals through engaging and effective teaching.
I believe that every student learns differently, which is why I personalise each lesson to suit their individual needs, abilities, and learning style. I take the time to identify each student's strengths, areas for improvement and academic goals, then I tailor my teaching approach accordingly.
Whether a student benefits from visual aids, practice questions, step-by-step explanations or interactive discussions, I adapt my lessons to help them learn effectively.

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