Shefford Physics Tutors and Shefford Physics Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a PhD mathematician, with a special interest in applied mathematics and statistics. I worked for some years in University departments as a tutor and then lecturer. More recently I have worked for almost two decades in industry as a mathematician at a prestigious research centre in Cambridge. I am familiar with many aspects of secondary education through my children who both completed their A levels at Hills Road 6th form college. My son has just begun reading Economics at London School of Economics while my daughter obtained a first class honours degree from Oriel College Oxford.
I have succesfully tutored a large number of A level students in both Mathematics and Physics from a wide variety of Sixth form colleges in the Cambridge area. I also teach International studnets who wish to gain entry to the UK University system.
My approach is interactive and encourages the student not to underestiante thier own ability. My experience is that many students are more talenetd in Mathematics than they realise themselves; the key is to gain the confidence to grow and develop to achive your goals.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught Mathematics and Physics, to A level students from a wide variety of Sixth form Colleges in the Cambridge area. I have also taught International students from many different countries but especially China. I also have particular experience of teaching Mathematics to people whose primary interests lie in Business studies and in Engineering. I also gained valuable insight into adult education when I taught adult part-time students.
I have also provided tutorials for students with many different requirements including A level and undergraduate Physics & Mathematics courses and, for example, GMAT Mathematics prep for MBA entrance exams.
I am self-employed as a private tutor and employed as a University Foundation tutor in Mathematics and Statistics at Cambridge Regional College and previously at Bell School Cambridge.

Tutoring Approach:
The details of the correct approach vary from one tutee to another, but the principles remain the same. I seek to establish the student's ability within the context of a given aim and to then set realistic objectives.
I think that most students have more mathematical ability than they themselves believe; this can be brought out in a positive fashion once negative stereotypes are discarded. Also the application of mathematics to the real world can be exciting and profitable.

Parental Comment
Hi Brian,

I hope you're enjoying the Summer break.

I just wanted to let you know that Kalen has a A* for maths and an A for further Maths. He's very pleased with this and on behalf of him I'd like to say thank you so much for all your help.

Overall he got A*A*AAB and is off to Warwick to do a general engineering course.

Thanks again Brian,

Suneela


STUDENT COMMENTS
August 2018

Dear Brian,
I have just received my results and wanted to let you know that I have an A* in A level maths !!!! I am very happy thank you for all your support and help I couldn't have done it without you!

Kind regards,
Alice B :-)
September 2018 (from Durham University student)
Hi Brian,
I just thought I would let you know, that with your help, I went from a 30 to an 85 in my retake. Thank you so much for all your help.
Kind regards,
Jake

Dear Brian. I found our tutorials very helpful and feel much more able to hit the ground running when I return to Oxford. I will be sure to recommend you to anyone else I know in need of tuition.
Peter N, returning undergraduate.

Brian helped me to revise my university maths before starting an MSc course 10 years after completing my undergraduate degree. He was patient, non-judgmental of my rusty abilities, and gave useful examples of mathematical problems to help explain some very difficult concepts. He is very reliable and a pleasure to work with. I would have no problem recommending Brian to others and would certainly see him again for further tuition should the need arise.
David C, returning graduate student

Another parent comment
Brian is helping my daughter who attends Hills Road with both physics and maths and she has just had her fifth session. This is the first time with have engaged with a personal tutor so really wasn't sure what we were doing and started out with some trepidation. We soon were able to ensure that the hour we spent with Brian was really productive and useful. Brian has been really helpful and and this has increased my daughters confidence and knowledge which is exactly what we were hoping for.

New student comments
I'm just emailing to tell you that my physics unit 2 exam went quite well. There were only a few small questions that I couldn't answer. I will tell you my result when I get them on the 14th of August. I must thank you for helping me over the past few months. I really have no clue how badly these exams would have gone if you did not help me. Thank you so much for your help.
Calum M AS Physics student.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi there,
I'm a qualified science teacher and Head of Science based in London, who currently teaches in a secondary school to students aged 11-18. I teach all sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) to KS3 and GCSE (Edexcel and AQA specification), and teach A-Level Biology (OCR specification). I have worked within education for the past 10 years and really love working with young people to inspire them to achieve the best they can. I appreciate that it's not always possible to get the most out of every lesson and so some students may benefit from having a personal tutor to go over areas of difficulty and to fully grasp and understand the concepts to do better in school and in assessments.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked with thousands on children in the past 10 years working within education. I enjoy the process of working with parents and students to evaluate what students' strengths and weaknesses are, and set relevant goals and smart actions to ensure progress is made both short and long-term. My main aim has always been to inspire, motivate and make students feel more confident. I believe everyone has the right to an education and that learning should be fun and for the long-term.
In addition to this, I have experience teaching students with special educational needs (SEN) or a learning difficulty, such as Autism, Aspergers, Dyslexia, ADHD. Coming from a background of researching Autism during my degrees, I worked in a SEN school based in Bermondsey and have also worked with several families during the past decade. I've had wonderful success managing their behaviour when difficult, but also coming up with creative strategies to ensure the learning is achieved.
Lastly, I have tutored students privately up to A-Level. A teacher is much more than someone who teaches you a subject, I aim to make students love learning, grow their confidence, and also give them advice on things they're struggling with. Some of my students have gone to Russell Group universities.

Tutoring Approach:
For me, every student is an individual and no one learns in the exact same way. It's so important to be adaptable and honest with learning, so I focus on delivering lessons based on your learning style and personality, using a variety of exercises and methods. I am very hands on when teaching, I think energy and perseverance brings the best out of each student. I also put problems into context and make sure to be creative, but once an idea is understood, I think the key emphasis is to practice and repeat. I work with a lot of structure and am very organised which allows students to not feel overwhelmed with the amount of information, but to rather understand it in very easy applicable steps and for the long-term. I also think it's important to transfer these skills to the students I tutor so I will ensure I support them with their organisation and work ethic, by mentoring them.
I am very accessible, supportive, calm and patient. I make learning fun and enthusiastic while being still able to be strict and regimented. I am highly organised and always listen to feedback to better improve the student-teacher relationship.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Teaching has always been a vocation rather than a job as I love to see 'the penny drop'.
I am married with a daughter of 33 and a son of 29. My husband and I garden for the elderly and disabled. I graduated from Exeter University in 1985 with a B.Ed Honours.

Teaching Experience:
In the last 2 Secondary schools I was a Deputy Head of Science and the Professional Tutor for the school.
I have now been a tutor for 18 years and love making each subject accessible to the individual.
I offer day time tutoring as well as evenings.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is informal. I believe students learn best when they are at ease and not under pressure. If students are distracted in their own home I offer them tuition in mine. Students understanding has risen by 2 to 3 levels, leaving them, their parents and myself very happy.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Maths for English, Russian and Polish speakers
English for Polish and Russian speakers
Polish for English and Russian speakers

I am a qualified teacher (formerly KS5 Co-ordinator & IB Subject and GCSE Curriculum Lead for Maths) and a private tutor with more than 15 years of experience teaching maths at all levels from Secondary through to GCSE and A-levels or equivalents. The great majority of my students have achieved or exceeded their goals and passed their examinations. I speak all three languages (English, Polish, and Russian) fluently and am a qualified translator, so I can teach in any of them for your convenience.

I am a Polish native speaker who has lived in the UK for many years. I offer Polish language lessons for English and Russian speakers as well as English lessons for Polish and Russian speakers. I offer typical tuition focused on learning from the basics as well as conversation-oriented classes for more advanced students.

I will be happy to help you as well. Prices vary from £30 to £40 per hour depending on the level required, location, and the number of hours. Additional information is available upon request.

Teaching Experience:
approx. 15 years

Tutoring Approach:
Based on individual assessment of each person's circumstances.

Subjects

Personal Description:
After finishing my A level in Weymouth, Dorset, I then went to Essex University in Colchester to study Science. Ater getting my first degree, I then decided to do a masters Degree in Chemistry and passed. In my University days, I have always loved Maths and Science and in my first year at University, I did Physics, Chemistry and Maths. I have a very high understanding of Maths because of my passion for Maths and I have solve several problems in Maths, Physics and Chemistry up to A level. I am very passionate about numbers and anything that has numbers in it, I will solve. My chemical knowledge is absolutely unbelievable. I have been taeching Chemistry and Maths longer than A level Physics but I teach A level Physics in my current School. If you really want to be tutored by someone who understand and know how to teach, then, contact me and I will get you the best possible grade in Physics, Chemistry and Maths.

Teaching Experience:
I actually started teaching as soon as I left University in 1993. In those days, I did not have teaching qualification. I then decided to get some experience outside education. After gaining experience in Industries, I decided to get back into teaching and took my teaching qualification. I am now a fully qualified teacher and then started teaching again in September 2007. My strength in teaching has always been on a one to one basis. I do teach in a Grammar School at the moment but I always prefer to teach on a one to one basis because I enjoy helping individual student's as each student's requirement is different and you can't properly help individual student's in a class of 30 students. I am very passionate about teaching and devote a lot of my time teaching.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring style is quite unique. Being a school teacher myself, I now understand why it is so difficult for students to understand the subjects that I teach. I do not believe in pressurising students to learn. I prefer a much more relaxed atmosphere whereby the students needs and requirement is the absolute paramount. Style of teaching is also important and how you come across to the students is also very important. Investing into new ways and new ideas in order to aid students understanding is also very important. When you come to me for tutoring, I will not move unto another topic until I am fully satisfied that you have understood the topic that we are doing at the moment and that you can answer questions on those topics that we have done comfortable and confidently.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a MSc construction project management student and had my Bsc in Statistics.

Teaching Experience:
I've been a tutor on mathematics for more than ten years.

Tutoring Approach:
Breaking down problems in the simplest methodlogical approach is the best way I use in making my students understand complex calculations like Differentiations, integrations, probabilities, algebra, e.t.c

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi. My name is Saif and I presently work as the Assistant Head of Science responsible for Chemistry at a school in London. I teach sciences at KS3, KS4 and deliver the 'A' Level Chemistry curriculum at KS5. I read Medicinal Chemistry at University College London and completed a PGCE in Science upon graduation. I studied Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Mathematics at 'A' Level and achieved very strong grades in all four subjects.

Teaching Experience:
I presently work as the Assistant Head of Science responsible for Chemistry at a school in London. I teach sciences at KS3, KS4 and deliver the 'A' Level Chemistry curriculum at KS5. I am now in my fourth year of teaching in a secondary school, having received successful school lesson and OFSTED observations. This has allowed me to progress rapidly and reach the position in which I am now. Whilst at University, I was regularly involved in helping young people with their studies through charities and other voluntary companies.

Tutoring Approach:
As a practising teacher, I am aware that all pupils will have their individual needs. That is why my approach will always vary depending on the needs of the pupil. However, generically speaking, we will need to work together to identify areas of weakness and then address those specific issues in order for progress to be made.

Subjects

Personal Description:
QUALIFICATIONS

- MPhil (Distinction) from University of Cambridge
- BEng (First Class Honors) from Imperial College London

AWARDS

Willis Jackson Medal & Prize - Imperial College London
Honorary Jesus College Scholar - University of Cambridge
Cambridge Commonwealth Trust Scholar - University of Cambridge

SERVICES

• Regular tutoring
• Exam preparation (identification and support in weaker areas, exam technique practice)
• Last minute exam sessions
• Advice for university applications
• Homework assistance
• Setting and marking of homework
• Confidence building
• University interview advice
• Mastering Word, Excel, PowerPoint (for professionals)

Teaching Experience:
EXPERIENCE

- Teaching Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Business Studies/Management, Computing and Electronics

- Taught over 75 diverse students since 2009, usually for several months, providing support to students consistently through the academic year

- Experienced in tutoring degree level students

- Conducted remedial classes to Business Management undergraduates at the University of Cambridge

- Guided university level students in preparing first class coursework assignments and final year dissertations under tight deadlines

- Successfully supported two students in preparing for their Oxford University entrance exams

- Coached a student for his Imperial College London interview for Mechanical Engineering (MEng Mech Eng)

STUDENT FEEDBACK

"Umer explains things in a clear and concise manner and has made learning Physics ever so fun for me. He is punctual and continuously tailors his teaching style to suit the needs of the student he is teaching." - Kalpna, A2 Mathematics

"More often that not, students spend a considerable time studying unimportant things. Umer has the ability to channel the effort of his students in the right direction, resulting in effective exam preparation. If it wasn't for him, my son wouldn't have scored so well in his exams." - Carlos, A2 Mathematics, A2 Physics

"Umer often uses visual aids to explain abstract concepts. He takes time to understand the interests of his tutees and then uses something of their interest to explain complex phenomenon to them. This really keeps the child motivated and involved. Hats off to his teaching style." - Roma, AS Physics

"Umer has tutored me from grade 8 through to A level. He is knowledgeable, reliable, patient and always polite. He constantly maintains a positive approach and encourages me even when I perform badly. He also helps me organise my study schedule and remained a great source of motivation for me. I would blindly recommend him to anyone!". - Basa, Mathematics (grade 8, GCSE, AS, A2)

Tutoring Approach:
- The underlying factor for my success is my ability to change my style of teaching according to each student's ability

- I provide practical and lively examples to explain concepts in Maths, Physics and Chemistry

- I guide my students towards obtaining correct answers with a series of well-placed questions rather than providing them with information to `rote learn`

- Tipping exam questions is a common practice and I can do this nearer to exam period

- I am very patient and endeavour to remove the abstraction in mathematical concepts through simplification of seemingly complex procedures

- I am a strong believer in building a good relationship with my students

- I tend to focus on harder exam questions early on so that students are not overwhelmed with them nearer to exam time

- Providing students with visual representations in science works wonders in establishing their concepts

- Asking students to teach back what I taught them some weeks ago also helps in improving their communications skills besides serving as a revision tool

- Providing students a clear mental image of the process being taught when teaching sciences. For instance, explaining the concept of electric current by modelling it as a flow of water

Subjects

Personal Description:
Semi-retired ex Managing Director and Fellow of the Institute of Chemical Engineers with 30+ years in the Oil, Gas and Petrochemical industry, so not only am I good at maths / science but spent a lot of time applying it on projects worth up to $5 billion !

I am very into rare classic cars, so if you hear a loud exhaust note outside it probably means I've arrived.

Teaching Experience:
Actively worked alongside my 3 children to reach their full academic potential, one went on to the University of Warwick, the other the University of Liverpool and the youngest currently doing very well at Rugby School.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a very good sense of humour so whilst I am serious in reaching my teaching objectives I won't show it while I'm doing it !

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a biology specialist teaching KS3 and KS4 in an outstanding secondary school. I am friendly and approachable, as well as having excellent subject and curriculum knowledge.

Teaching Experience:
I am in my 4th year of teaching after completing my PGCE.

Tutoring Approach:
I work collaboratively with tutees to help improve their retention, overcome exam anxiety, and give them confidence.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am currently about to enter the 3rd year of my MPhys course at Durham University.
I have a passion for my degree and I think that the joy of physical science problem solving is one that can be easily lost in a school environment. With a more tailored approach to teaching, I hope to be able to give students a better understanding of how the tools that they learn work, which enables them to approach exams and further levels with more confidence, whilst also making the subject more enjoyable.

Teaching Experience:
I have experience tutoring for GCSE as an academic mentor at school with both maths and physics. I have also helped lower-level undergraduates with topics of concern.
Although I don't have lots of formal teaching experience, I love to help people understand new topics and have abundant energy to inspire students.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that the subjects that I am looking to tutor are genuinely enjoyable if they are presented in the proper way and students are able to explore where their curiosity takes them. Which provides enjoyment and a great sense of achievement
For older students, however, I do not want to undermine the importance of being properly prepared for public examinations. The beauty of maths and physics is that the amount of rote learning is much less than other subjects and practice problem solving and understanding concepts is the key to success, this provides much more engaging revision. Although if you are struggling with teaching yourself a new topic or just didn't find that you 'got it' in class, it can be incredibly demoralising. This is where a second explanation or some targeted understanding can help out. moreover, with regular meetings, we can increase the efficiency of your study and I can teach you some tips on self-assessment and identifying in what manner you can help yourself, which is a vital skill the higher up the educational ladder you climb.

For younger students, my approach is to build a strong foundation of the basic skills whilst exploring more intricate concepts in a guided but ambitious manner. I believe that many students are capable of going far beyond the scope of their syllabuses, with the right guidance and encouragement.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a highly experienced Head of Physics & Science, with over 40 years of dedicated teaching at leading secondary schools. My expertise spans GCSE, IGCSE, A-Level, and IB Physics (SL & HL). I've also contributed to the educational landscape by examining and writing exams for these qualifications and by training other physics teachers globally. This diverse experience allows me to understand the curriculum inside out and provide exceptional support to students.

I've observed a growing trend of students taking Physics without strong mathematical foundations, which can significantly hinder their progress. To address this, I offer specialised 'Maths for Physics' tuition. My experience shows that a solid grasp of the required maths can improve a student's final grade by up to two levels, helping them unlock their full potential in Physics.

Beyond academic achievements, I believe effective teaching nurtures well-rounded individuals. I am deeply passionate about being a positive role model, guiding students to not only excel academically but also to grow into responsible, caring, and confident young people. This holistic approach, built on care and respect, is at the heart of my teaching philosophy and a key reason why I love what I do.

Teaching Experience:
With over 40 years of dedicated teaching experience, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every tutoring session. My background includes serving as Head of Physics & Science at a large independent school, where I gained invaluable insights into curriculum development and student progression.

Furthermore, I have a global perspective, having worked with teachers and students worldwide as an approved Physics workshop leader, providing online teaching support. This diverse experience ensures I can adapt my methods to suit individual learning styles and needs.

I currently teach or have taught across a wide range of levels:

Physics: Pre-GCSE, GCSE, IGCSE, A-Level, Pre-IBDP, IB-SL, IB-HL

Astronomy: IB-SL

Mathematics: GCSE, A-Level (including dedicated 'Maths for Physics' support)

Tutoring Approach:
In today's educational landscape, personalised tutoring has become essential for many students. Parents often seek additional support when they're concerned about their child's progress, understanding that a strong education is vital for future opportunities.

I consider teaching a profound privilege. Playing a pivotal role in a student's educational journey is incredibly special, and it's a responsibility I take very seriously. My goal is to guide students through the complexities of physics, helping them to not only grasp challenging concepts but also to discover a genuine passion for the subject. There's nothing more rewarding than witnessing that "aha!" moment when a student truly understands, and I strive to help every student reach and exceed their potential.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Current Secondary Science Teacher specialising in Physics and Biology, Master of Education from Cambridge University alongside PGCE and 14 year's experience both in the UK and abroad in both private and UK state schools.

I have held a variety of positions from Classroom Teacher up to Head of Department but with a young family I have stepped back from management for the time being. I teach at a local state school in North Tyneside.

Teaching Experience:
14 years teaching both in the UK along with 4 years teaching abroad. I am qualified to teach all sciences to GCSE and Physics and Biology to A-Level. I have worked with classes from 32 down to 1-2-1 tuition with significant value added to pupils from all levels of ability.

Tutoring Approach:
As different pupils learn in different ways I am happy to tailor my teaching style to fit the needs of the student. I work to ensure that there is understanding of the topic alongside just knowing the facts. I am up to date on current paedagogical research which I use to ensure that I am able to give the best to my students.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a qualified secondary science teacher (specialising in physics), holding a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). I gained these qualifications after having completed a Graduate Training Programme (GTP). I completed a BSc Physics with Astronomy degree at the University of Nottingham. I have qualifications in all sciences and maths at GCSE and A-Level.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught science (biology, chemistry and physics) since 2011, to all year groups from 7-13, following these exam boards and
specifications: at GCSE, AQA Science, Edexcel IGCSE Science, OCR 21st Century Science, OCR Gateway Science and WJEC Science (all including higher tier and separate biology, chemistry and physics content); at A-Level, AQA Physics, Edexcel Physics, OCR Physics A, OCR Physics B and WJEC Physics. I have also taught the physics International Baccalaureate diploma and BTEC Level 2 and Level 3 Applied Science. I have assessed examinations for the AQA, OCR and Edexcel exam boards. I have supported students preparing for physics entry examinations for universities.

Tutoring Approach:
In 2016, I set up my own tuition company and currently operate this full-time. Tuition has an advantage over teaching in that it enables me to better help students on an individual basis. This level of help is often difficult to achieve in a classroom environment, which can be very frustrating for both the teacher and student. Tuition also allows me control over my working hours, which in turn gives greater flexibility in planning quality lessons for students.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a graduate of the University of Cambridge (Murray Edwards College) in Natural Sciences, specialising in Physics, with over five years of teaching experience. After university, I spent a year as a Science teaching assistant in a top Oxford senior school, and a further two years as a classroom teacher abroad, mainly in China, where I taught Physics and Maths A level. I just finished studying for a Masters in Environment, Politics and Development at SOAS in London. I live in Brixton and am available for online or in-person tutoring and have a flexible schedule.

Recent review from a GCSE maths client:

"Freya was an absolutely fantastic tutor. My daughter started off really reticent but very quickly started to enjoy and look forward to her tutor sessions. Her confidence increased at each session and Freya was able to explain things in a way that made sense for her. Thank you."

Teaching Experience:
I have completed over 800 hours of GCSE, A Level and Oxbridge admissions tutorials for science and maths. I also used to work for the business side of a tutoring company so I know how to provide a quality service.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to explain concepts using real world examples that students can visualise and recall the next time they have to answer a question on that topic. I absolutely love Science and Maths, and aim for my enthusiasm to rub off on my students! Previous tutees of mine have said I gave them confidence and passion for their subject while made them feel comfortable to dig deep into their understanding of topics without feeling scared of making a mistake. Outside of teaching I enjoy playing music, swimming and writing.

Subjects

Personal Description:
MPhys (Integrated Masters) Physics and Astrophysics graduate at the University of Leicester. Currently working as a Systems Engineer at Thales, I enjoy teaching fundamental science and mathematics and spreading awareness of STEM.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked as a private and with different organisations as a tutor for the past 8 years teaching Physics and Maths at different levels to various age groups.
I have also held my work as a summer school physics teacher, overviewing the basics of physics to students looking to study further. Additionally, I have also been in an internship at the Abingdon School, Oxford, teaching GCSE and A level Physics and Maths, obtaining vital teaching school to students at different levels.

Tutoring Approach:
I approach teaching through storytelling rather than compound teaching. Firstly understanding the level of the student, and the background knowledge they have within the subject.
I then generate a plan according to what they know and teach them utilising different facts and a lot of problem-solving.
Having a good insight into what the student lack, and understanding why they lack the skills allows me to generate a targeted lesson, and help them understand and enjoy learning Physics & Maths.

Subjects

Personal Description:
A chemistry graduate with experience as a Teacher, Examiner and Head of Department. Teaching online Science kS3, Combined or separate sciences GCSE, Chemistry GCSE, Chemistry A level. I love teaching as much as I love the subject, so I feel privileged to help students reach their full potential.
I also now offer group lessons where lessons are charged at £20 with a maximum of 4 students

Teaching Experience:
Having worked with a range of pupils, I can offer support to build confidence, motivation, skills and techniques. The goal is to listen to the student and respond to their individual needs

Tutoring Approach:
In recent years I have identified underperforming students and mentored them to understand and overcome their barriers to success. I can help to raise confidence by adapting to individual needs and share techniques to improve knowledge, understanding and exam technique. Working as an e examiner has helped me to pass on those all important tips to students once they fully grasp the content

Subjects

Personal Description:
Dr. Catherine is a dedicated scientist and educator whose career spans advanced academic research, science education, and personal tutoring. With a deep-rooted passion for physics and its applications, she has combined her expertise in experimental and applied science with her vocation to inspire the next generation of learners.

Born with an early curiosity for the natural world, Catherine pursued her studies in physics with determination. She earned her B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. in Physics from Wroclaw University, where she explored the growth of metals on alloy surfaces. Her doctoral research, "Growth of Pb on Ni3Al(111)", reflected her keen ability to investigate materials at the atomic level. She later expanded her academic journey at Warwick University, completing a second Ph.D. in Physics on "Growth and Characterisation of Metal Alloy and Metal Oxide Surfaces." Her work contributed to advancing the understanding of thin-film growth and nanostructures, leading to several publications in respected international journals. Among her noted contributions are studies on ultrathin metal layers, titanium dioxide films, and surface morphology, establishing her reputation as a careful and innovative experimentalist.

After years in research, Catherine transitioned into education, determined to share her scientific knowledge in a way that would have a direct impact on young people. She completed a PGCE with QTS at the University of Winchester, equipping her with the pedagogical foundation to teach science across all secondary school levels.

Beyond her teaching, Catherine remains connected to her research roots. She has authored and co-authored several publications, including contributions to Applied Surface Science and Materials. These works, ranging from the structural determination of metallic surfaces to the optimisation of thin-film growth, illustrate her ongoing identity as both a teacher and a scientist.

What defines Dr. Catherine's career is the balance she has achieved between the rigour of scientific inquiry and the nurturing ethos of education. She has moved fluidly from the laboratory to the classroom, from international research to local communities, always with the purpose of unlocking potential in others. Whether mentoring young learners, supporting those with special educational needs, or contributing to the broader field of physics, Catherine exemplifies a professional life dedicated to knowledge, care, and inspiration.

Teaching Experience:
Her teaching career has since flourished across a range of schools and academies. Catherine has taught in institutions such as Swanmore College, Wildern Academy, and UTC Portsmouth, where she not only delivered the sciences at KS3 and KS4 but also pioneered the development of a new T-Level course. She embraced opportunities beyond the classroom, leading enrichment activities in CAD and crafts, coordinating SilverCrest Awards, and supporting students in employment readiness. At King's Academy Bay House, she brought her expertise in physics and broader sciences to pupils while nurturing Year 10 learners as a tutor. Her dedication extended to specialist teaching, including her time at Mayville High School and SEN Wavern House, demonstrating her adaptability and commitment to inclusive education.

Alongside her teaching roles, Catherine has pursued private tutoring through KEU Consultancy Ltd and Sherpa, where she continues to support learners preparing for examinations such as GCSE, A-level, and 13+ entry exams to prestigious schools including Eton and Westminster College. Her expertise in exam specifications-AQA, OCR, and Edexcel-has enabled her to guide students with precision and clarity.

Her academic and professional journey is complemented by an impressive commitment to continuous development. Catherine has undertaken extensive training in safeguarding, health and safety, emergency aid, radicalisation awareness, and supporting vulnerable learners. These certifications reflect her holistic approach to education, where student wellbeing is valued alongside academic achievement.

Tutoring Approach:
For Dr. Catherine, tutoring is more than delivering subject knowledge-it is about unlocking each learner's potential by understanding how they learn best. Her approach to tutoring is informed by recent advances in educational psychology, cognitive science, and pedagogy, all of which emphasise that no two students learn in exactly the same way.

Drawing on research in metacognition, memory, and motivation, Catherine builds her tutoring practice around the principle that effective learning occurs when students are not only taught content but also given the tools to understand their own thinking. She encourages learners to reflect on how they solve problems, identify what strategies work for them, and develop confidence in applying those strategies independently.

Central to her philosophy is individualisation. Every child comes with unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations. Some may thrive on visual explanations, while others learn best through hands-on practice or discussion. Catherine takes the time to assess these differences, adapting her lessons accordingly-whether that means breaking down complex physics principles into manageable steps, linking abstract science to real-world examples, or building scaffolds for students with learning difficulties.

Her approach also aligns with student-centred learning models, which place the child's needs at the core of the educational process. Rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all method, she co-constructs learning pathways with her students, ensuring that goals are clear, achievable, and motivating. Catherine is attentive not only to academic progress but also to emotional and cognitive wellbeing. She understands that resilience, curiosity, and self-belief are as important as exam results in shaping a lifelong learner.

Practical strategies underpin her sessions. She uses spaced repetition to reinforce knowledge over time, retrieval practice to strengthen memory, and dual coding (combining words with visuals) to aid understanding. She applies the latest insights from cognitive load theory to avoid overwhelming students, ensuring that new information is introduced in digestible stages. At the same time, she weaves in opportunities for creativity and inquiry, inviting students to ask their own questions and experiment with new ideas.

Catherine's tutoring style is also deeply relational. She believes that trust and rapport between tutor and student are foundational to success. By creating a supportive and non-judgmental learning environment, she allows students to take risks, embrace mistakes as part of the learning process, and ultimately grow in confidence.

For her, tutoring is not about producing short-term results but about nurturing independent thinkers who will carry their learning skills into future challenges. This philosophy is evident in her work preparing students for key milestones-such as GCSEs, A-levels, and entrance exams for prestigious schools-where she combines rigorous subject knowledge with strategies that empower students to approach exams with resilience and self-assurance.

In every session, Catherine demonstrates that tutoring is not just the transmission of knowledge, but the cultivation of learning itself. By combining cutting-edge research with compassion and adaptability, she ensures that each student is seen, heard, and supported on their unique educational journey.

Subjects