Haltwhistle Politics Tutors and Haltwhistle Politics Tuition

Personal Description:
ANNOUNCING NEW AVAILABILITY FOR ENGLISH AND MATHS

FROM MONDAY SEPTEMBER 14TH onwards


***EXTRA TIMES FOR A LEVEL PSYCHOLOGY, MEDIA STUDIES AND POLITICS ALSO AVAILABLE


Hello, all parents and potential tutees!

A very warm Autumnal welcome from Stuart!

I'm an enthusiastic, keen and good-humoured tutor, who teaches with commitment, dedication, passion and style!

I have been teaching Key Stage 3, GCSE and A level students now for more than 20 years - and I achieve great results.

I currently tutor students in English Language, English Literature and Maths - in the evenings and occasionally at weekends.

I am familiar with all of the English prose and play texts, as well as Poetry Anthologies and tutor students for both GCSE and IGCSE English Language and Literature.

I have a passion for poetry, I love Shakespeare, and, in my spare time, publish short stories. Creative Writing is my first love.

I also tutor students in GCSE Maths - and am familiar with all of the syllabi (Edexcel; AQA; IGCSE, OCR).

I am currently coaching a number of students who are working towards their Entrance exams in Coventry and Warwickshire - for Warwick, King's High, the merged Bablake & King Henry Schools and Solihull School.

A native Scot, I attained my English degree (BA Honours) from Stirling University in central Scotland.

In addition to my English degree, I have a second degree in Education (1st class Honours) from Stirling University, which allows me to teach GCSE Mathematics, Sociology, Psychology and Politics.

My hobbies include swimming (I swim a mile almost every day!), writing short stories and poems and motorbiking.
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Current 2026 references are available upon request.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching GCSE and A level English, Drama and Creative Writing for 20 years.

I was one of the 'pilot tutors' on Warwickshire County Council's Tutoring Programme for Children in Care, tutoring teenagers across Warwickshire in literacy.

I write all of my own lessons.

Tutoring Approach:
My style is engaging and enthusiastic. I have a passion for creative writing.

I tutor in the evenings and selected weekends, and set weekly written tasks to monitor students' progress.

A normal GCSE lesson lasts one hour, but I can offer 90-minute or two-hour sessions for AS/A level students.

I also specialise in creative writing workshops, and am a published author, contributing to a number of paid-for UK magazines.

I also tutor online via MICROSOFT TEAMS.

I have had excellent recent successes. In the 2025 summer exams, four of my GCSE students scored A** (level 9) grades in Language and three scored level 9's in Literature.
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All of my last four A level English students have scored A grades.

I have also successfully tutored many students who have been accepted into Solihull School. Warwick School and King Henry School and Bablake School in Coventry.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have tutored a variety of GCSE, A-level, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students, as well as young adult and adult learners for over 30 years.
I HAVE A LONG-ESTABLISHED PROVEN TRACK-RECORD OF DELIVERING SUCCESS FOR MY TUTEES!
MY KEYNOTE RESULTS ARE:
1. my tutee L.W.(Egham):
~ Sat AQA Hist A2 Unit 3 Opt.B (HIS3B) The Triumph of Elizabeth 1547-1603 in June 2013: RESULT 88%. A*

2. my tutee T.S. (Guildford):
~ Resat AQA Hist AS 1041 Unit 1 Opt.A (HIS1A) Crusading Movement & the Latin East, 1095-1204 Jan 2012: RESULT 86%. A (Original Mark June 2011 = 68% B)
~ Sat AQA Government & Politics GOVP2 Unit 2 "Governing Modern Britain" in Jan 2012: RESULT 88%. A*

3. my tutee M.Y. (Horsell):
~ Resat Edexel AS Unit 2 (6H102A) Brit Depth Stud; Opt.A1 - "Henry VIII; Authority Nation & Religion 1509-1540" in Jan 2012: Result 90% A* [original mark 68%]

4. My tutee A.C. (Knaphill):
~ Resat Edexcel AS Unit 2 Opt A (6H102A) "Henry VIII; Authority Nation & Religion 1509-1540" in Jul 2011: Result A* (90%) [original mark June 2010 = 69%].
~ Sat A2 Unit 3 Opt A JUL 2011: Result A* (100%). ~ OVERALL A-LEVEL RESULT: A* [351/400]

~ I am a well-established academic historian and have published many books and articles.
~ I am a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and have been a member of Council of the Society of Army Historical Research.
~ During 2004-2008 I was chariman of the Prestigious Templer Medal Historical literary prize selection Committee. ~ Over the past 20 years I have had a wide variety of tutoring, teaching and lecturing posts in the field of history and military history.

~ My tutorial style is enthusiastic and engaging, and is tailored to the individual needs of the student.
~ I can use my expertise to enhance a tutee's essay writing and exam technique, their analytical and writing skills, and their coursework, to maximise the impact of their answer's on the examiner.

~ I have a valid CRB and MOD Security Clearance.

Teaching Experience:
Teaching Assistant, History, King's College University of London (1992-94)
Assistant Lecturer, History, King's College University of London (1995-96)
Associate Lecturer, Dept of European and International Studies (1995-96)
Senior Lecturer, Ministry of Defence (1996-present)
Tutor in History/Politics for Home Tutors, London (1990-1997)
Tutor in History for Premier Student Conferences (2004-2005)
Tutor in History/Politics for UK Tutors, First Tutors GCSE, AS/A2, Undergarduate (2008-present)
Tutor in History (Independent) at GCSE, AS/A2, Undergraduate, Graduate & Doctoral Level (1991-present)
Tutor/Lecturer in History, various American University Summer Schools (2001-2009)
Visiting Lecturer in History, The University of Birmingham (School of Continuing Adult Studies)
External Examiner, University of Wolverhampton (2004-2008)
External Examiner, University of Birmingham (2009-)
Examiner for Edexcel (2005)
Student seminars in History:
The University of Wolverhampton; The University of Salford; The Universty of Birmingham
I am a Parent Governor at the local primary school (2009-)

Tutoring Approach:
I will hone your essay writing/question answering skills so that your responses have the maximum impact on the examiner.
I will respond to the student's individual needs.
You will get a carefully structured approach that suits your abilities and individual objectives.
I aim to make learning fun.
You will get considered feedback to help you develop your skills.
I will, if required, develop your essay writing skills so that you obtain better marks with whatever subject-matter knowledge you possess.
I will, if required, develop your analytical skills.
I will, if required, develop your background knowledge and subject-matter understanding.
I wil, if required, assist with revision programmes.
I am flexible with regard to frequency, timing, duration and scope of individual sessions.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have been a lecturer for the past 20 years at both college and university levels. Educated at the universities of London and Birmingham, I am an experienced tutor, teacher, lecturer and author of articles, reviews and a recent book. An historian by training, I am also interested in literature, politics and cultural studies.

My experience of education was incredible, but it might not have been were it not for the motivation and support that I received from a number of outstanding lecturers. It was their example that led me to start teaching and I have found that helping others to learn and achieve academic success gives enormous job satisfaction.

I believe every student has unrealised potential and that with the right approach, all can succeed. I am flexible and believe in helping my students to find a learning style which suits them and enables them to succeed. I have a lot of energy and enthusiasm and besides teaching and writing, my interests include keeping abreast of current affairs, playing cricket and listening to world music.

Teaching Experience:
I tutor a variety of subjects at a range of levels including GCSE, AS, A Level, and Degree in addition to adult learners requiring support. I have experience of teaching students from a variety of cultural backgrounds. I have mentored post-graduate students and proof-read theses and dissertations.

I have over 20 years experience teaching and have taught in classrooms and universities in the United Kingdom and abroad. My students come from a wide range of different age groups and backgrounds and I pride myself on helping all of them to succeed. I am a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and a faculty member of the Foundation for International Education, London and the New College of the Humanities, London. My previous posts have included Programme Director at Birkbeck, University of London and Director of Academics at the Foundation for International Education, London.

Tutoring Approach:
One of my main aims in tutoring is to stimulate an interest in learning, by making the topic as relevant in contemporary terms as possible. Most of the subjects I tutor, from History to Religious Studies have current and on-going social consequences. I have found that making an otherwise dry topic of relevance to a student awakens an interest and desire to learn more. It is those inspirational moments when students become aware of the linkages between what they have read, and what is going on around them that makes tutoring particularly satisfying. This coupled with a growing ability to think critically, usually translates into enhanced coursework grades.

My approach to teaching is based on two fundamental bases. The first is that it is absolutely essential to find contentment in the learning process. This may not come through the actual material that needs to be learnt and it is up to the tutor to inspire in the student the self-assurance to succeed. As your tutor, I will lay down the learning structure and will cement this through detailed lesson plans. The second basis is that supervised practise testing is very important. This needs to be followed by a thorough assessment of the results, in order to understand where improvements need to be made, in both knowledge and approach.

At the younger end, I create a fun learning environment and aim to enhance originality, conscientiousness and self-assurance in the child's ability. In the longer term, I concentrate on problem areas which may have been skated over in class. For more senior students and adult learners, the same principles apply in terms of tailoring lessons to the individual. I mix core concepts with more general study skills and encourage each student to find their own way of independent learning. I am a patient, hard-working and open individual who strives to get the best out of each student and help them achieve their learning objectives. As your tutor I will be available outside of teaching time to answer questions by email and phone, there will be no extra cost for this service.

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Personal Description:
I have a background in senior industrial and commercial management, both in the UK and overseas; also senior experience in the public sector (local government and NHS). I took time out in my thirties to gain my PGCE.

Teaching Experience:
I have never taught full-time (although I was once up to around two-thirds of a full timetable). I have worked in further education colleges and as a supply-teacher, mostly in secondary. In addition, I have long experience as a governor of my old private-sector school, so understand very well the requirements for successful 11+ and 13+ entrance. I have been tutoring since 2000, and have a multitude of "success-stories".

Tutoring Approach:
First and foremost: flexibility. Equally, I have a wealth of life-experience, across sectors, so can, as my students have often remarked, bring subjects to life: they are seldom bored, if ever. I also have a large stock of teaching resources and past examination-papers and tests. I combine light-heartedness and a level of informality with a focus on the need to meet objectives and achieve results(sometimes having set them).

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Personal Description:
I currently work as an IT Specialist at an Investment Bank.

I am able to provide in person or online tutoring in Economics, Politics, Business and Geography. I have taken A Levels in Economics, Politics and Geography and obtained a First Class Bsc Business Management Degree at King's College London Business School in 2017. I achieved an A* in my A Level Economics with a score in the high nineties.

There is an additional charge if travel is required to the tutee.

Teaching Experience:
Past experience as a Private Tutor in A Level Economics, Business and Geography for 4 students.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a passionate tutor who has clear teaching techniques which help my students consolidate their knowledge and build their confidence in the subject matter so they are prepared for success. I have had tutoring experience with my students which have allowed them to achieve high marks.

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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 31-year old freelance journalist, born and raised in Germany. I have two Master's degrees, one in politics and one in digital journalism. Because of working in media & communications I am used to reviewing written text and highly aware of people's way of expressing themselves. I have a huge passion for languages and have learned Spanish for over 10 years now, including extensive stays in Spain, and I am perfectly fluent in English.

Teaching Experience:
Mostly 1 on 1 teaching and reviewing written texts over the last few years. Also, I taught a GCSE class in German at Royal Greenwich UTC for half a year. In addition, I have been teaching German at The Green Monkey School in Madrid for two years. My students have significantly improved in their skills and I prepared several people for their move to Germany.

Tutoring Approach:
I prefer a natural approach to learning languages which means engaging in everyday conversations that help the speaker get used to the way they usually talk in a new environment. I also look precisely for mistakes in any kind of written work and take much care about correct grammar and spelling as I do in my own publications.

For politics in journalism I can also edit written work and talk through complex political and social processes which I have extensively analysed during my studies.

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Personal Description:
I am a committed and professional teacher with a passion for my subject areas and a determination to help all young people reach their full potential. I enjoy tutoring and have tutored ( home, online and travelling) for over a decade.

I currently teach History at all levels including Advanced Higher, N5 and Higher Modern Studies and Higher Politics. I am happy to tutor : History, Modern Studies and/or Politics

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching for over a decade and have taught from BGE through to Higher and Advanced Higher level. I have a wealth of experience of delivering N5 and Higher and preparing young people for their Senior Phase exams and assessments. I have created a lot of resources and differentiated resources to support and encourage all learners. I also have experience of marking N5 exam papers and N5 Assignments. I have also regularly central marked for Higher Politics. I use these experiences to help inform my practice and support tutes.

I currently teach History at all levels including Advanced Higher, N5 and Higher Modern Studies and Higher Politics. I am happy to tutor : History, Modern Studies and/or Politics

Tutoring Approach:
I have been tutoring now for over a decade. I enjoy the opportunity to work 1 on 1 with students and to help boost their confidence and support them to reach their full potential. I am happy to travel and/or have the tutee come to my home.In recent years I have also tutored onlin and I am happy to offer online tuition. I am flexible and happy to change days and times to meet the needs of my tutees and their families. I have a bank of resources I am happy to share. I am also flexible and can accommodate time changes etc to suit families. I find it easy to get on with people and ensure that I create a positive connection with the young person-one which helps them to believe in themselves and to work to the best of their ability. I also pride myself on my punctuality, organisation skills and professionalism. I also understand the need to maintain communication so as the family knows their child's progress and the next steps.

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Personal Description:
I am a PhD candidate of International Relations in American Graduate School. I graduated from Coventry University with a Master's degree in International Relations and Diplomacy. I enjoy meeting new people through all avenues. I enjoy teaching and I appreciate every opportunity to develop my interpersonal as well as academic skills, and this offers me that opportunity. Having been a student, i understand the needs of a student and offer my services ti help.
I am friendly, approachable and a good listener. I welcome the opportunity to help you improve in your studies.

Teaching Experience:
2013-2014- Tutored English and History English
2014-2015- Research assistant to Professor and lecturers
2016-2017- I taught English and History to high school students, I also tutored undergrads in International relations
2018-Present- Teach English

Tutoring Approach:
I adjust my approach to fit the requirements of my students. Their learning style is important and so I ascertain what it is and adopt it for their lessons. I am eager to learn new approaches as I feel the need to ensure my students have the best learning experience at all times.

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Personal Description:
Are you bored about learning Spanish in a conventional way? about teachers who do not really care about your progress and interests?

I think that the best way to learn a language is making the student comfortable with dynamic and enjoyable Spanish classes. I will make a personal Spanish program for you, where I will adapt your interest (job environment, informal situations with friends...) to your Spanish level. I will prepare everything you feel could be interesting for the class.

I have always loved teaching, I have loved it since I was a teenager, whenever my classmates asked me to help them or even my sisters and I had to help them with their exercises solving the problem they had.

I am really hard working, friendly, very sociable and professional.

Lately, I have been also teaching online with IBERIS to student from different countries among the world. So, I find myself familiar with the latest technologies and programs related to the online teaching. Furthermore, I have a great interest in the international issues and different cultures. I really enjoy teaching and learning something new from my students make me feel better.

In addition, I find myself as an entrepreneur. So, I would be constantly improving the classes and working hard to personalize the classes as much as possible depending on the goals and the Spanish level of every student.

Teaching Experience:
Regarding my teaching experience, I have at least 2 years teaching Spanish in different public and private institutions around the world.

I began teaching Spanish as a volunteer in my university on 2015. I have always had a great interest in different cultures and languages. I really admire people who travel and work around the world, so in 2015-2016 I decided to teach Spanish voluntarily during the whole course (9 months) to those international people who came as an Erasmus to my University. I felt really comfortable helping them improving their Spanish while I was learning a lot from them too.

After this academic course, I made my luggage and I went to the USA for the whole summer. I was motivated and interested in the American lifestyle, so I decided to try my best three months working at Morey´s Piers as a chef while I was working as a native Spanish teacher in my second job at the Christian academy for 3 months in New Jersey.

As soon as I finished my stay in the USA, I came back to Poland where I continued my last year of university through a bilateral international agreement at the Poznan University of Medical Sciences. I was studying while I was working in 2 different institutions as a native Spanish teacher. On the one hand, I was working as a tenured Spanish native teacher at the "IBERIS online academy" for one year. On the second hand, I was working as support Spanish native teacher at the "Gniezno Institute" during the same academical year.

In conclusión, the last 2 years from 2015 I have been working as a native Spanish teacher in 4 different places, at the University in Spain, at Christian´s academy in the USA, at IBERIS online academy and Gniezno institute (Poland). And right now, I am working privately in Scotland.

Tutoring Approach:
Among the qualities a teacher should have, in my opinión would be dedication, passion, patience, and teamwork.

A teacher must dedicate a long time not only to the classes, also preparing the ideal program for the classes in order to satisfy the language needs of the student or student group.

Furthermore, a teacher must be highly passionate to motivate each student making the learning enjoyable and useful at the same time.

The patience is another important quality as each student needs their own time to understand and develop the knowledge. We are treating with people and everyone is different. It is really important to personalize the teaching in each case.

The communication among the students is as important as the proper teamwork between the professionals on the institution in order to give the best service to our students and help growing altogether the academy.

I think that the best way to learn a language is making the student comfortable with dynamic and enjoyable Spanish classes. So far, I make a personal Spanish program for my students, where I adapt their interest (job environment, informal situations with friends...) to their Spanish level. I also prepare everything they feel could be interesting for the class.

I like making the classes as enjoyable as possible in order to keep the students happy and motivated. In fact, I work with practical and useful material made by my own. So, my classes will be based on a practical Spanish according to the student's needs, I want them to feel motivated and happy. If not, I will not be satisfied at all.

The classes will focus on talking and practicing mainly, as a language is learned speaking and practicing a lot. But of course, we will have a good base of grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing and listening too.

The classes must be as efficient as possible!

Are you ready to start with useful Spanish and enjoyable classes?

Say goodbye to the boring classes and let´s start learning useful Spanish having a good time.

Let´s get started!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am currently an undergraduate student at the University of Oxford studying Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. I achieved a distinction in my first year examinations, as well as A*A*A* at A-Level in Maths, Politics, and Economics. I am strongly committed to academic success and hugely passionate about teaching. I am available to give online tuition for GCSE Maths and Economics, as well as A-Level Maths, Politics, and Economics. I am also able to provide help with personal statements, the TARA (previously TSA) admissions test for Oxford, and Oxbridge interviews.

Teaching Experience:
I have over two years of experience with private tuition and giving support to younger students in school across a range of subjects. This includes leading group revision sessions as well as providing individual help with exam questions. As well as this, I have spent time in China teaching English to various different age groups. Having sat the exams that my students are working towards, I am in a very strong position to help them succeed.

Tutoring Approach:
I aim to give my students not only a better understanding of the subject content, but also the skills to be able to study effectively. I have found this to be an invaluable skill that will help them massively. Throughout my academic career, I have invested much time into developing the most effective study techniques and understanding the science behind learning. In my lessons, I focus in particular on what students find difficult through listening to them as well as assessing their level through exam questions.

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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:
I am a Religious Studies and Politics tutor based in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

In the 2017 A-Level series I scored first in Northern Ireland for Religious Studies and second in Northern Ireland for Government & Politics. I can teach you the same study and exam techniques that enabled me to score highly in the CCEA GCSE and A-Level exams.

I have a Bachelor of Theology degree from Queen's University Belfast and a Master of Theology degree from the University of Aberdeen.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring since September 2017. I have tutored a mix of school pupils, homeschoolers and adult learners.

Tutoring Approach:
I start by explaining the concepts and then focus on past paper questions and exam technique. The specification for both Religious Studies and Government & Politics has not changed since 2016 so there is a decade's worth of past papers to learn from!

For Politics, I can teach the CCEA GCSE course and the following units for A-Level:

AS 1: Northern Ireland
AS 2: The British Political Process
A2 1: Comparative Politics - Great Britain and the United States of America
A2 2: Political Power

For Religious Studies, I studied the Philosophy and Ethics units for both GCSE and A-Level and these are the units I tutor most frequently. I am also confident tutoring the Biblical studies units, drawing from my university studies in Theology.

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Personal Description:
I am a History Graduate and freelance researcher, having worked as a Surveyor in the research industry for over ten years, and have a long-established interest in History and analysing World Affairs, factoring in the economic and political dynamics of what is unfolding and then in presenting my findings through discussion and writing. So, it was largely due to my ongoing fascination with History and World Affairs that I decided to launch 'World' and build an online community open to the public. However, my first and greatest passion has always been History which I love researching, discussing, writing about, and sharing with others.

Teaching Experience:
Testimonial from one of my students;

"Oliver has effectively explained the content of my course in an approachable manner. He is extremely passionate about History and has made the content of the course more interesting while also not losing the facts of what is being taught. I would recommend Oliver as a tutor!"

Tutoring Approach:
I teach the subject across a variety of periods and can help you acquire or fine tune your academic skills if you need me to. But before all that I will have a free consultation with you to understand your goals and objectives and which period and area of history you're looking to study or need help with, so that I can make sure I am the right fit for you and plan the lessons to best suit your needs and then deliver them at the pace and style most suited to you needs.

So I want to inspire you with my passion for the subject through structured lessons, which will enable you to explore the subject matter and develop your own unique understanding and thrive both in the subject itself and in applying it to your own understanding of what previous trends, eras, and related events have to teach us about our world. All relevant facets of history, such as economic, political, and military can be included in this, allowing you to uncover what many conventional economic and political experts often fail to do, which is to correctly identify the overarching and long-term historical cycles and trends that usually persist, often outside the experience and professional living memory of contemporary political and economic analysis.

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Personal Description:
I am an experienced English, History and Government & Politics tutor with over 18 years of teaching experience across secondary and post-16 education. Throughout my career, I have supported students from GCSE to A Level, helping them develop confidence, improve their academic skills and achieve their personal goals.
I specialise in English Language, English Literature, History and Government & Politics, with a particular focus on examination preparation, essay writing, critical analysis and developing the skills needed to achieve strong grades. I understand that every student learns differently, so I take time to identify individual strengths, areas for development and the most effective ways to support progress.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience has involved working with a wide range of learners, including students who require additional support with confidence, organisation, concentration and exam anxiety. I am passionate about creating a positive and encouraging learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, exploring ideas and challenging themselves.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is personalised, structured and focused on achieving measurable progress. I combine subject knowledge with effective exam techniques, clear explanations and constructive feedback to help students become more independent and confident learners.
Whether a student is aiming to improve their grades, prepare for important examinations or develop a deeper understanding of their subject, I provide tailored lessons that are engaging, supportive and focused on helping them reach their full potential.
I offer face-to-face tuition across South London and Surrey, including Coulsdon, Croydon, Caterham, Sutton, Wallington, Oxted, Warlingham and Sanderstead, as well as online sessions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TESTIMONIALS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HISTORY AND POLITICS TEACHER, 2020-2023

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

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF HISTORY, Durham University, 2010-2020

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

Tutoring Approach:
TUTORING

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

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

PERSONAL STATEMENT ASSISTANCE

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
I am an extremely approachable and diligent individual. I love my subjects and strive to see students achieve. With an Honours degree in European Studies in History and Politics and a PGCE from the University of Edinburgh, I have been teaching my subjects continuously since 1998. My entire approach is to identify the student's individual needs and then to design a bespoke method in which we can address any issues together.
I have a proven track record in achieving results and love my job!

Teaching Experience:
Teacher of History - Thomas More School, January to August 2001
Teacher of History - Rosebery School, 2001-2014
Teacher of History and Politics - Richard Challoner School, 2014 to present

Tutoring Approach:
Experienced and passionate History and Politics tutor offering expert support for A Level students. I help students develop strong subject knowledge, improve essay technique and, most importantly, understand exactly what examiners are looking for. Lessons are tailored to each student, with a particular focus on building confidence, developing clear arguments, analysing evidence and achieving the highest possible exam marks. Whether you are looking to improve your grades, prepare for exams or push towards an A/A*, I provide structured, engaging and exam-focused tuition.

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Personal Description:
I am a History and Politics tutor, examiner for IB Diploma and formerly, for AQA A-level. Long-term experience, nationally and internationally, as teacher and tutor.

After years of teaching in England and internationally (South America, Japan and Bangladesh), I am currently based in Germany, where I have taught in accredited International Schools for several years.

I have a German/EU extended certificate of good conduct - equivalent to the DBS background check - which also covers the UK. This is available to view on request.

Teaching Experience:
I have developed a specialist approach in one-to-one remote learning for students locally and worldwide, applying current standards of inclusive education for ESL, SEN and Dyslexic learners.

* 25 years experience in the classroom - History, Humanities, Group 3 KS 3-5

* 15 years tutoring one-to-one

* MA in History

* Former HoD History, I/C Humanities faculty

* Examiner

* PGCE and QTS - History and Social Sciences.

* Expertise AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Cambridge and IB Diploma

Tutoring Approach:
I am available for homeschooling, school support, exam coaching, revision and resits. Short- and long-term tuition is available.

Resources are tailored to the requirements of each tutee and available for sharing on One Drive or Google Drive during the period of paid tuition. I use Microsoft Teams or Google Meet, with additional interactive sites such as One Note.

The first session is free and is an opportunity to find out more about the type of tuition, the course and the resources that are available. It provides an 'ice breaker' so that tuition can be an enjoyable as well as an effective experience.

Further bookings can be made with prepayment, covering 4 hours over a maximal 4-week period*. This keeps a continuity to the planning and confirms the scheduled session without being too rigid. Once a cycle of 4 lessons is complete, you can renew or cancel with no further commitment.

According to past students, I am described as -
• 'informative and entertaining'
• 'calm, punctual and organised'
• 'Listens well, very enthusiastic and encouraging.'

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