Holmfirth Politics Tutors and Holmfirth 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.

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Personal Description:
I am a Cambridge graduate currently teaching at a secondary school in Birmingham. I offer private tuition in English and Latin as well as Oxbridge application advice.

I specialise in coaching students through GCSE/A Level. However, I am happy to help all students from 11+ and even adult learners. I am proud of my strong track-record in helping students to achieve excellent results in their exams.

A little about my academic background: I graduated with a degree in English from the University of Cambridge (Girton College) in 2008 and in 2010 completed a Masters in Medieval Literature and History at the University of York. In 2019 I completed my PGCE at the University of Warwick and have since taught in a local secondary school.

Teaching Experience:
I am experienced teacher currently employed at a Birmingham secondary school, where I teach across Key Stages 3,4 and 5.

I have several years of experience in private tuition and and have tutored students preparing for GCSEs and A Levels in Latin, English (both language and literature), and Politics & Government. I've had great success in helping students of a range of abilities improve subject confidence and achieve exceptional results (including many A*s and Grade 9s).

Tutoring Approach:
Latin:

Puzzled by perfect participles?
Confused by conjugations?
...and what on earth is a gerundive?

Let's face it, studying Latin can be difficult, but it is the challenge which makes it such a rewarding subject.

My approach to teaching Latin is to develop translation skills whilst reinforcing the key building blocks of grammar. I endeavour to work at the student's own pace and tailor my sessions to complement school work.

English:

As a qualified teacher of English, I understand how to get the best out of students. I have an intimate knowledge of most GCSE and A Level set texts and can advise students on revision strategies and exam technique.

I am comfortable working at different paces and levels to support the individual needs of a student.

It is difficult to offer a single "approach to tutoring" as I believe the right teaching method depends entirely on the interests, level, and personality of the individual student.


Interviews:

I am also available to tutor students preparing for university entrance interviews (in particular Oxbridge). Having experienced the process first-hand, I feel I am well positioned to offer meaningful advice on how a candidate can impress during the application and interview process. I am willing to conduct mock interviews.

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Personal Description:
I live and work in Northumberland and in the Fife area.

I am employed by both the Open and St Andrews universities as an Associate Lecturer tutoring modules in history and the humanities. I have also worked at other universities teaching history and politics, including Newcastle University.

I am used to working with people outside the formal university environment too as I give talks and presentations to the Joseph Cowen Lifelong Learning Community Interest Company in Newcastle.

I have research interests in history at post-doctoral level, specialising in late nineteenth and early twentieth century British electoral politics.

I am looking to teach students at a higher education level or those aspiring to it. I can work with students at levels including at foundation degree level, at undergraduate and post-graduate levels.

I am looking to work with students studying history, politics or those looking to build study and learning skills for higher education, especially those interested in studying the arts and humanities.

Teaching Experience:
I have over twenty years experience of working at higher education institutions at foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

My main teaching has been in the field of British and European history, other humanities subjects at foundation level (including literature, history of art, music, religious studies, history of science and medicine and philosophy) and contemporary politics. I have also specialised in study skills teaching to aid access to further courses, working with students from a broad range of educational experiences.

I regularly provide teaching in the form of lecturers and tutorials, supervision of dissertations and marking of assignments.

Tutoring Approach:
I am familiar with a range of teaching methods and would tailor the support to students on the basis of their requirements.

Much of my work is distance and online learning-related which involves correspondence, online and telephone communication so I am happy to provide this sort of support to students across the country.

I can also meet up with students for face-to-face contact even some distance away if that is suitable.

I am happy to mark work and offer feedback to students, including essay and dissertation work.

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
I am an exam-focused Modern Studies, History and Politics tutor. I currently offer online tuition. My original degree was in Economics & Politics and I have always loved History.

The Scottish Higher exams in these subjects are skills based, so I aim to prepare students to allow them to fulfil their potential in the exams.

Teaching Experience:
I have recently provided tutoring for the Scottish Higher exams in Modern Studies, History and Politics.

So far, all of the students I have tutored have improved on their mock exam results and over 95% have achieved A grades at Higher in History and Modern Studies.

Early in my career, I trained and worked for 3 years as a Teacher of English as a Foreign language, both abroad and in the UK.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe exam technique is vital in the subjects I tutor and can make a real difference to grades achieved. Consequently I ensure that my students are completely familiar with what is required in the exam and my focus is on helping them to reproduce their knowledge under exam conditions in order to gain the most marks.

I also specialise in preparing Higher students for the Course Work Assignment which is now a part of the Higher History and Modern Studies exams.

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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:
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 have taught, supervised and mentored more than 1000 BSc, MSc and PhD students from around the world to deliver individual and team projects. I worked as a trainer, programme leader and module coordinator in the courses on IT Strategy and Management, Global Business and Sustainable Management, Business Administration, Organizational Development, Public Sector Management and Research Methods (Qualitative & Quantitative), supervising & managing research projects, (re)developing curricula for eLearning, producing course syllabi and designing evaluation methods together with colleagues and support staff in various UK and European universities.

Teaching Experience:
I am competent in most subjects within Management and Economics programmes and have extensive experience in thesis and assignment supervision, research guidance as well as academic writing.

MSc Dissertation in Project Management with A. - I worked with A. to help her with her MSc Dissertation in Project Management. I clarified the key issues and concepts, helped her develop a plan and a reading as well as reference list. Tutored her academic writing skills and coached her throughout the entire process. She was almost sure she would have failed, yet not only she ended up enjoying the time dedicated to her dissertation, but she also achieved a merit.

MSc dissertation in Economics with I. - I. was confused about the literature and the research for his course work and dissertation, he was also worried about his writing style. With regular sessions with me, I. gained the understanding and tools to improve his research and writing and submit his course work dissertation on time.

Research Methods (MBA dissertation) with P. - I helped P. prepare a first class approach for the research methodology of his MBA dissertation and to identify articles in arabic that were relevant for his topic.

BSc, Project Management Essay with J. - J. was under intense time pressure to deliver his project management essay and prepare for his exams at the same time. I worked with him two days in a row so that he could achieve high results in both.

BSc, Management, Accounting & Economic Philosophy assignments tuition with T. - T. is a hard working student from China. Unfortunately, his brilliance and knowledge was not emerging following his first essay results. Working with him 2/4 hours per week for 4 months, T. is now confident again he can truly express his knowledge and get the results he deserves.

BSc, Microeconomics tuition with H. - I worked with H., a native English speaker understand the way to approach and revise for her micro-economics module. She requested one week of intense online tuition, albeit the exam was imminent in one month. H. has now successfully completed the module

BSc, Advanced Economics Subjects, Econometrics (essay based) with V. - I worked 2 and half months giving V. 2-5 hours of tuition every day to prepare for his exams and coursework. V. learning needs had to be tailored to his special needs: being a dyslexic student I had to stimulate his learning ability and memory skills using visual aids and ad hoc examples. Even if the subjects were highly technical he benefited immensely from my dedicated approach, exclusive to him.

MBA dissertation with H. - H. was a full-time working mum of two children with special needs and had very little time to complete her MBA dissertation which was due in two months when we started. Working evenings and weekends with me H. was able to complete and submit her thesis on time and still thanks me for it!

BSc, Economic Development, Regulation, Business & Management with S. - I gave S. tutoring in three final year BSc subjects helping him increase his grades and better plan for his revision in order to use her time well.

PhD Management tutoring with K. - K. is one of my current tutees studying for a PhD in management. We have highly intellectual sessions on his research progress and he consults with me regularly on all aspects of his PhD studies.

Economic Development BSc exam preparation with J. - J. needed to discuss his understanding of the module to better prepare for his exam. He requested me to have regular questions and answers sessions one a week for two weeks with him so that any knowledge gaps could be filled. Our tutorials helped him relieve the stress and anxiety of the exam preparation.

Tutoring Approach:
TESTIMONIALS:

The feedback Diego gave me was a clear view on how to improve my work

Diego has been very helpful and gives clear information. His classes are very interesting and I have chosen his courses because of his approach.

Diego is a wonderful tutor. His teaching approach towards the subject has made me develop my interest in it.

Diego, for my personal opinion, has been really helpful for me to understand the real meaning of the subject.

The tutoring Diego gave me was great and I wouldn't have been able to do my essay to a good standard without his help!

I am happy with tutoring sessions with Diego, as I was trying to establish the research methods and his advice was helpful.

As a dyslexic final year undergraduate, I would not have been able to complete my revision on time without Diego's tutorials.

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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!

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Personal Description:
I am a full-time, professional private tutor with years of experience, and have an immensely successful record with my tutees. I am a former Teaching Fellow at King's College London, with degrees from the universities of London, Jerusalem and Cambridge. Author of 'Israel and the Cold War' (I.B.Tauris, 2013), I review for the Royal Institute of International Affairs and write for several academic journals and newspapers. I was the first recipient of the Mikardo scholarship awarded by the British Foreign Office, and, whilst at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, was awarded a Golda Meir Fellowship. Whilst at Cambridge, I won a Donner prize in Atlantic Studies for an essay on the role of the United States in the Falklands' War. In addition to the subjects listed below, I tutor in International Relations and Middle Eastern Studies, and am happy to consider all enquiries within my general areas of interest, and experience. I am also available for dissertation consultation, proofreading, and help in exam and essay writing. As of 2018, my students have won places to, inter alia, Oxford, LSE, UCL, KCL, Birmingham, York, Sheffield, Nottingham and Sussex. I offer both online tuition and tuition in person at a mutually acceptable venue. For peace of mind, I have an enhanced DBS check, and am subscribed to the annual update service.

Teaching Experience:
A former Teaching Fellow at King's College London, and Doctor of Philosophy, I have taught MA courses on the Arab-Israeli conflict, US and British Foreign Policy, War and Peace in the Middle East, and Inter-Faith Relations. A fluent Hebrew speaker, I was Peer Tutor in Hebrew at University College London, where I was awarded the departmental prize for excellence in the Hebrew language. In addition to one-to-one and online tuition throughout the academic year, I also offer intensive tuition during school and university holidays, which both tutees and parents find particularly useful for preparation, consolidation of knowledge and, if need be, to get a tutee back on track.

Tutoring Approach:
Patient, understanding, relaxed, interactive, theme-based, and multi-disciplinary. Use of past papers, both Edexcel and AQA new and old specifications, analysis, evaluation, deconstruction of exam and essay questions, concepts, and requirements. Development of essay and exam structure. I pay particular attention to a student's self-confidence and self-expression, which often serve as catalysts for enhanced self-belief and, hence, success.

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Personal Description:
Expert Tutor | Mentor | Academic Coach.

I am a professional private tutor with years of experience and a demonstrably successful record with my tutees. A former Teaching Fellow at King's College London, I have degrees from the universities of London, Jerusalem and Cambridge. Author of 'Israel and the Cold War: Diplomacy, Strategy and the Policy of the Periphery at the United Nations' (I.B.Tauris, 2013), I have reviewed for the Royal Institute of International Affairs and have written for several academic journals and newspapers. I was the first recipient of the Mikardo scholarship awarded by the British Foreign Office, and, whilst at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, was awarded a Golda Meir Fellowship. Whilst at Cambridge, I won a Donner prize in Atlantic Studies for an essay on the role of the United States in the Falklands War. In addition to the subjects listed below, I tutor in International Relations and Middle Eastern Studies, and am happy to consider all enquiries within my general areas of interest and experience. I am also available for dissertation consultation, proofreading, and help in exam and essay writing. As of 2026, my students have won places to, inter alia, Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, UCL, KCL, Birmingham, York, Sheffield, Nottingham, Sussex, and Oundle. For peace of mind, I have an enhanced DBS check and am subscribed to the annual update service.

Teaching Experience:
In addition to over a decade of experience as a private tutor, as a Teaching Fellow at King's College London, I taught MA courses on the Arab-Israeli conflict, US and British Foreign Policy, War and Peace in the Middle East, and Inter-Faith Relations. A fluent Hebrew speaker, I was Peer Tutor in Hebrew at University College London, where I was awarded the departmental prize for excellence in the Hebrew language.

Tutoring Approach:
My sessions are interactive, confidence-building, and results-driven - blending academic rigour with tailored coaching to help you think critically, write clearly, and perform under pressure. In addition to tuition throughout the academic year, I offer intensive tuition during school and university holidays, which both tutees and parents find particularly useful for preparation, consolidation of knowledge and, if need be, to get a student back on track.

Services include:
Dissertation & essay consultation
Exam strategy & past paper practice
Personal goal planning

Enhanced DBS | Proven Track Record

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Personal Description:
Bonjour!

I hold a double degree in Law and Language Studies from the University of Grenoble Alpes, along with a Master's in International Law. French is my mother tongue, giving me a profound understanding of its structure, nuances, and culture.

Fluent in French, English, Spanish, and Kurdish, I connect easily with learners from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. With over three years of experience teaching French to international students, I have helped learners at all levels achieve success, whether for exams, professional development, or personal growth. Teaching English in France further refined my ability to adapt lessons to individual needs.

Each lesson is tailored to suit your goals, whether you're preparing for exams (DELF/DALF, GCSE, A-Level), planning a trip to France, enhancing your professional communication, or simply aiming to improve fluency and confidence in conversations. My approach is flexible and focuses on delivering clear, measurable progress.

Passionate about sharing the richness of the French language and culture, I strive to create engaging, effective lessons that inspire learners. From beginners to advanced students, I am dedicated to helping you reach your full potential while making the learning process enjoyable and rewarding..

Teaching Experience:
I've had the chance to teach in a variety of settings, from large groups to one-on-one sessions. For a year, I taught English to a class of 33 first-year law students, designing lessons that focused on the specific language skills they needed in a legal context. I created activities to improve both their written and oral comprehension and regularly assigned homework, which they'd send to me for corrections and feedback.

I also taught a smaller group of 15 students twice a week for a year. This gave me the chance to connect with them more individually and adapt my lessons to their needs.

For the past two years, I've been working with individual students once or twice a week, depending on their goals and level of independence. Each lesson is tailored to their needs, with structured exercises and tasks to help them improve their written and spoken skills. I always make sure to provide regular feedback so they can track their progress and stay motivated.

Tutoring Approach:
I design every lesson to fit each student's unique needs, using a learner-focused approach grounded in proven language acquisition techniques. In our first session, I take time to understand their strengths, weaknesses, and learning style. From there, I create a structured learning plan tailored to their specific goals-whether it's building conversational fluency, mastering legal vocabulary, or preparing for exams.

To make learning engaging and effective, I use active strategies like task-based exercises, spaced repetition for vocabulary retention, and scenario-based activities that help students apply their skills in real-life situations. I also create personalized vocabulary quizzes on Quizlet, so students can practice key terms at their own pace and reinforce what they've learned. These interactive methods keep lessons dynamic and ensure steady progress.

To track improvement, I provide study guides, customized assignments, and practice tests. During lessons, I use real-time feedback to adapt our strategies as needed, ensuring each student stays on the right path. My goal is not only to help students achieve short-term success, but also to build their confidence and develop lasting language skills.

I'm flexible with scheduling and work around my students' availability to provide consistent support throughout their learning journey.

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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 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.

Subjects

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.

Subjects

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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