Dornoch Reading & Writing skills Tutors and Dornoch Reading & Writing skills Tuition

Personal Description:
I graduated from Cambridge University with a BA in English Literature, and then from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, graduating with a BA in acting, where I was the recipient of the Noel Coward Scholarship from 2008-2011. In July 2011 I won the Michael Bryant Award at the National Theatre, for verse speaking and Shakespeare.

When I'm not acting or tutoring I can be found in the plumbing, plastering, kitchen or grappling with a cryptic crossword.

CURRENT AVAILABLE SLOTS: 9-10am + 10-11am Sundays, weekly.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a private tutor since 2008.

Currently tutoring students in: 8+, 10+ & 11+ preparation (all four subjects); GCSE Maths. Adult English and pronunciation skills.

Previously: English - KS1, KS2, 7+ (Successful entry to Highgate), 11+ (Successful entry to, Haberdashers' Askes Boys, Trinity, City of London School for Boys, Alleyn's, St Alban's), A Level (A at A Level English and Extended English). Maths - KS1, KS2, 7+, 11+, 13+ (successful entry to Oundle, Haberdashers' Askes Boys), GCSE (grade improved from D to A*). University application assistance (Successful entry to Durham and Oxford). English as a foreign language - including public speaking and native pronunciation and grammar for business professionals.

During my gap year I spent some time as a special needs classroom assistant, working closely with a child with Asperger's Syndrome. This involved facilitating the social and academic change between primary and secondary education on a one-to-one basis.

Also at this time I ran Welsh language games sessions for primary children in non-first-language schools to improve and encourage their use of the language outside of the classroom environment.

Whilst at secondary school I taught reading skills to children who had low reading-ages.

I wrote a thesis on the connections between Maths and acting whilst at Guildhall.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is tailored to the individual's needs; firstly finding ways of fully explaining a concept, then cementing them with useful and memorable material to build students' confidence. My main objective would be to aid the student in understanding not only the specifics of the work but also the broader aspects of it, which I believe provides a truer grounding in - and enjoyment of - a subject. By making the work useful and enjoyable, and by finding alternative and effective approaches to study, I hope that my tuition will shed new light on subjects for students.

My passion is building confidence and fostering resilient approaches to problem solving.

I specialise in tutoring Maths and particularly enjoy helping those students whose confidence in the subject has become a barrier to their learning and enjoyment of the subject.

Previous Students' Comments:

'Before I met Alex, as a dyslexic, I was academically unconfident and dreaded having tutors who had never really helped me before. Alex tutored me from Year 8 to 11 and she completely changed my attitude to studying, helped me develop my organisational skills and gave me a huge amount of confidence in my abilities. As I approached GCSEs she tutored me particularly in Maths where I was struggling with a D grade. Without her expert tuition I doubt I would have been able to achieve my A* in Maths.

I think Alex is an amazing tutor because she has an extraordinary talent for making it a thoroughly enjoyable experience to the extent I would genuinely look forward to our lessons. Alex was far more than a tutor to me, helping me through such formative teenage years. I consider her a friend.'

- Tally

'Alex is a truly outstanding and gifted tutor as well as a fantastic person. I have very much enjoyed being her student for over six months, and have not only learnt a lot due to her expertise and impressive knowledge but also grew to love English Literature because of the inspirational nature of her tutoring. Previously, I used to constantly struggle with my assignments since English is not my first language, however, after a few weeks of sessions with Alex my grades and confidence significantly improved. She has an ability to keep the lessons varied and interesting; always well prepared for lessons - she was kind enough to provide me with extremely useful books and personal notes. Her incredible dedication and hard working nature also deserves mentioning as she was willing to help me even in the evenings when I was panicking about coursework and the approaching exams. With Alex's assistance and firm confidence in my ability I have achieved a high A in my A-level English Literature and even a merit award in Extended English. I would enthusiastically recommend Alex to anyone who wants to succeed in their exams and learn heaps of interesting information.

- Natasza (Graduated with an MA from Oxford University)

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified teacher with, with 25 years experience. I have worked in the state sector and in private education facilities.
I am committed to high standards both academic and in behaviour, I believe that my encouraging and student-centred approach is effective in this area.

I am experienced at teaching key stage 2 and 3, GCSE at AS/A2 level.. I have delivered these courses effectively and with successful academic results in my teaching career.
I am AQA examination marker for A level Psychology.
I am a qualified Psychotherapist.

Teaching Experience:
Over 25 years teaching experience, in secondary schools and colleges .

Tutoring Approach:
I am a highly experienced teacher who has worked across the educational spectrum. I am committed to high standards both academic and in behaviour, I believe that my encouraging and student centered approach is effective in this area.

Subjects

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an Arabic linguistics PhD student at the Language and Linguistic Science Department of the University of York, UK. I hold a BA in English literature and linguistics as well as an MA in translation studies. My study makes me familiar with written Arabic and spoken Arabic in its different forms (dialects). This is why I am quite familiar with Egyptian, Syrian, Lebanese, Gulf and Sudanese Arabic. In addition, I am also a CELTA-trained teacher and an Assistant Fellow of the Higher Education Academy in the UK.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught English as a foreign language for 10 years at Minia University, Egypt. I also taught Arabic to adults as well as young people for 5 years in England. I teach face to face and online.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching depends on immersing you in enjoyable daily-life situations so that you can easily imitate and, after not too much effort, read, write and speak Arabic/English like a native speaker. Culture cannot be separated from language. So, I also immerse you in the main cultural aspects of Arabic/English-speaking countries in general and offer a brief background to language as reflected in culture. Also, I try to compare Arabic and English (as a language) and the culture represented by it with other languages, including French and German (languages that I am familiar with).

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have a BA Honours Degree in English Studies from Aleppo University in Syria in 2000. I embarked on two Postgraduate Diplomas at Aleppo University one in Linguistics (2002); the other in Education and Qualification in 2003. In both of these Diplomas I was awarded a Distinction. In 2002, I was fortunate in gaining a scholarship to study in the UK and was nominated to study in the department of Language and Linguistics at the University of Essex. I found this course to be immensely useful to me as a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) professional as I was able to observe a range of different EAP (English for Academic Purposes)classrooms; make academic presentations and really developed my love of scholarship which fired me with the enthusiasm to read for a PhD degree. I finished my doctorate in TESOL at the University of Ulster entitled "EAP Teachers Approaches to Giving Written Feedback on Academic Writing in British and Syrian ELT Centres". . I am extremely interested in teaching the language skills (as my recent doctorate shows). I am extremely hard working and sociable. I have good comparative knowledge of Western and Islamic societies which I could share with students where pertinent. I also have two qualifications from Ulster University in Peer Mentoring and Counselling.

I have strong interpersonal, communication, and classroom management skills and self-motivator. Apart from being an interesting experience in itself, tutoring is an ideal opportunity for me at this stage of my career as the area of this job is interesting to me and I have got the enthusiasm and motivation and energy to do it well and to develop things.I would like consider offering online tutorials (email writing tutorials for students who can not attend some classes).

Teaching Experience:
In the Diploma of Education and Qualification, I have been trained how to teach and how to deliver lectures in Arabic and English and also how to prepare lesson plan. I have experience of teaching university students in Syria as I was a lecturer at Aleppo University from 2002 to 2013. I enjoy teaching and lecturing and love my profession as I am particularly interested in communicating with individuals and groups. My colleagues and supervisors all say that I am a natural communicator and this, coupled with my knowledge of the field, leads me to think that I would make a good teacher. My mother tongue language is Arabic, yet my knowledge of written and spoken English is very good as well. I am also interested in materials design and curriculum development in ELT and could make useful contributions in these areas. I have also specialized in ESP, Materials and Methods in ELT, Language Teachers in Classrooms and Vocabulary and would be interested in teaching international students. My job in Syria was delivering pre-sessional programmes in academic English language to Syrian postgraduate students. Those students have to attend some EAP and ESP courses and pass the final exam which will enable them to pursue their high studies in Syria or in some English speaking countries like UK, USA and Canada. My teaching experience gives me a deeper insight and understanding of actual teaching/learning contexts. When I did my MA degree at Essex University, I taught some international students as part of the "Teaching Practice" module. I have been trained how to write a lesson plan for international students and how to use the PowerPoint for delivering lectures. Furthermore, I am very au fait with technology in the classroom.

Tutoring Approach:
It is the application of an integrating approach for the development of communicative skills in the lesson, in which the four skills in the acquisition of knowledge of a foreign language can be taught in a coherent way, and practiced together, with a distinction of the importance of one upon the other. One image for teaching English as a second or foreign language (ESL/EFL) is that of a tapestry. The tapestry is woven from many strands, such as the characteristics of the teacher, the learner, the setting, and the relevant languages (i.e., English and the native languages of the learners and the teacher). For the instructional loom to produce a large, strong, beautiful, colorful tapestry, all of these strands must be interwoven in positive ways. For example, the instructor's teaching style must address the learning style of the learner, the learner must be motivated, and the setting must provide resources and values that strongly support the teaching of the language. However, if the strands are not woven together effectively, the instructional loom is likely to produce something small, weak, ragged, and pale--not recognizable as a tapestry at all.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I am a qualified, patient English/ Polish teacher and I have been working as a private tutor for over 10 years. I offer individualised approach and adjusted learning materials to every student. I have many interesting and up-to-date teaching materials (coursebooks, videos, articles, Internet resources). I have also worked as a English/ Polish translator/ interpreter.

Teaching Experience:
My experience includes:
-teaching Polish to British learners (online and face-to-face classes)
-Conversations (focus on listening and speaking)
-Academic English (Dissertation and exam preparations, proofreading)
-Business English (professional vocabulary: Finance, HR, Marketing, Logistics, presentations, negotiations)
-English for seniors (socialising, travelling purposes)
-English for kids
-translating and interpreting

I have many satisfied clients and I can provide references upon request.

Tutoring Approach:
I listen to learner' s needs in order to prepare engaging and goal-oriented lessons. I ask for student's feedback after every class to make sure that my tuturials meet his/ her expectations.

Subjects

Personal Description:
As a child, I learned by being told, by beatings, shaming and a strict examination system. As you can imagine I didn't learn much that I could later apply to my academic life. As a result, I became an inveterate learner, always interested in learning the next thing. At one point, the drive to learn was because I didn't see myself as being good enough. Later on, that drive became an interest in discovering my own abilities as well as about helping others. I have now learned so much about how not to teach that I have gained good insight into how learning happens. I am keen to ensure all my learners learn how to learn and understand how to apply what they discover.

Teaching Experience:
My background is in teaching, training and facilitation. I have over 25 years experience of teaching in different forms having worked within primary, secondary and further education settings. I am an NVQ / TAQA assessor and trained and assessed Parenting Practitioners and other candidates up to Level 5 in Health & Social Care. I have specialist skills in Personal Effectiveness subjects such as Report Writing, Speed Reading, Presentation Skills.

Tutoring Approach:
Being a private tutor used to be the preserve of only those with the highest qualifications and the greatest experience. Now all that's changed.

However good a tutor is, the learner needs to be astute in order know if the tutor is a good match for her / him. Importantly, making the right choice can be complex.
Here are three tips to help you decide if I am or someone else is right for you. The following tips describe how I teach and how I will enable you to be an independent learner.

1. Look for a tutor who can teach you how to learn
Here's a funny thing… learners study a subject, sometimes for months and years and can come away with no long-term memory of the underpinning principles of the subject. As disturbing, they have no ongoing understanding of the subject. They are unable to apply what they tried to learn. This is easily resolved by clearing up past issues with learning. In Applied Scholastics it is now well known that if as a learner, you are helped to do so, you can learn any subject. This is central to how I teach.

2. Look for tutors who understand the main barriers to learning and can help you overcome them
There are three main barriers to study. They relate to confusion over an idea, missing out critical steps and having unclear ideas about the subject under study. Gaining a day to day facility with overcoming those barriers is key to effective and efficient study. I use these methods to help my own reading and study. I will introduce them to you so that you can use them too.

3. Look for tutors who can help you find the information you need so that you keep expanding your own understanding of the subject

Sometimes, a learner during a course of study will find that s/he wants to give up. Have you ever experienced this? Whenever that happens it is because there is something - an idea, a symbol, a form of punctuation, the use of a word, or something else - that you did not understand. Without the proper factual information on this and without the correct knowledge of why and how this happens, the learner will struggle. Without knowing what remedies to apply, the learner will give up.

When you study, you are investing time and energy. In this case, money too. If you want to discover more about how you learn, what your barriers to study are and how to understand more, you will benefit from being an independent learner. That will repay your investment.

Those three critical points should help you decide if I could be right for you. They briefly describe the way in which I would work with you and enable you to be an independent learner.

Subjects

Personal Description:
***11+ Subject: Having successfully tutored my son 11 Plus exams for Tiffin School, I decided to teach other students in preparation for Grammar School/Independent Schools entrance exams and have great success since. I coach specific techniques, short cuts and tips which enable students to gain competitive advantages, to be "ahead of the games".

I cover 11+ VR, 11+ NVR, 11+ English and 11+ Maths subjects.

***11+ Verbal Reasoning (VR) is problem solving using vocabulary, language and mathematical skills. I coach students how to complete sequence, work out numerical codes, logical reasoning, mathematical reasoning, alphabet reasoning, word codes, patterns, anagram and coded sequences etc. My tuition helps developing students' word power, vocabulary range and reasoning skills.

***11+ Non Verbal Reasoning (NVR) is solving problems by patterns and shapes. I emphasize tackling questions on analogies, codes, similarities, series, components, patters, layering, movements, manipulations, odd one out, matrices, elements and logic etc. There are about 21 types of question set by GL Assessment, e.g. identifying or rotating the missing coded shapes etc. Strategies of ensuring students to master techniques thoroughly to a high level are implemented. My students will be able to "think on feet" and to solve problems in logic ways.


***11+ English: I prepare students for their Comprehension and Creative Writing skills, including story ideas, structure, dialogues, endings, character development, literary knowledge, vocabulary, sentence structure, spelling, grammar and punctuation.

***11+ Maths: Apart from training mental arithmetic and core maths skills, I ensure students not to get bored with numbers and formulas by introducing an element of fun into lessons, e.g. playing maths games, puzzles at the end of the session.


****Maths subjects(KS2, KS3, GCSE, A Level): Familiar with the National Curriculum, I stretch students' abilities and potentials. GCSE and A level Maths students have improved their grades and confidence following my tuition. I have proven records of raising Grade E to C, Grade D to B and Grade C to A Star.

****QTS Numeracy Skills Test: Focusing on practices of Mental Arithmetic and interpreting statistical information, I am experienced in helping candidates to pass their QTS Numeracy Skills Tests. My "Speed Methods" of calculation enable candidates to solve Mental Maths questions against limited time; "accuracy and speed" coming hand in hand. In addition, I teach Interpretation of Graphs and Data, helping candidates to identify trends and patterns; interpret statistical information; make comparison and draw conclusions when answering multi-stage questions.

I help students to make notes; look out for key phrases; draw on the graphs; identify students' common mistakes.

A basic "spoon feeding" style makes my tutees understand the techniques easily and quickly. They soon become competent and pass their QTS Numeracy Skills Tests easily after my effective coaching.




****Mandarin Chinese: HSK Exams. I am a native Mandarin Chinese speaker, very experienced in tutoring for children and adults at all levels whether it is for business, exams, travel or leisure. Familiar with the required syllabus and criteria, I'm efficient to prepare GCSE, IGCSE, IB, A Level and University Degree Chinese exams. HSK.YCT.

For the Pre-Modern Chinese Literature exam, translation, interpretation, comparison and comment on Chinese Classical Poems are taught, focusing on essay writing skills for Chinese History and Thought Exams.

I helped university student's Mandarin Grade from "Fail" to "2:1", tackling four areas of Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening skills improvement.

****A Level Sociology and Psychology: Lots of practices of exam style questions and exam techniques are the keys to gain that top mark. I aim to improve student's exam performances by going through examples and activities to develop their abilities of self-assessment or peer-assessment, thus focus on teaching essay writing skills in the format, styles used by major exam boards' Mark Schemes following the syllabus and specifications.

Students will be asked to practise past papers questions under timed condition. After weak areas are highlighted, a checklist of comments and marking will be provided.

I teach how to have most focused way to approach exam questions in order to gain maximum marks in a variety of ways:

-write balanced essays as close as to the "Model Answers".

- "read questions" (to understand what is exactly being asked), to select relevant materials, to plan and construct essays with a sharp opening, main content and closing paragraphs, using link sentences, attention on grammar and punctuation.

- using "key phrases/words" throughout an answer,link data item to the questions,giving more focused responses rather than a "knowledge list".

-develop students' abilities of evaluation, analysis, interpretation and application integrate knowledge and understanding with context and testing claims, leaving a "critical edged flavour" to the essays.

-provide alternative claims and refer them in the answer.

My teaching methods for A level Sociology and Psychology enable students to be active learners, not just sit and absorb knowledge passively. Students gained Grade A in their re-sits after my tuition defeating their original Grade D taught by their own school teachers.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching methods have enabled many pupils to successfully get into a variety of Grammar Schools (including Tiffin Girls, Langley. Slough Grammar etc). I am able to assist students in building their confidence, reaching their full potentials and stretching their abilities whilst maintaining high academic performances.

In addition, my teaching style is geared towards building problem solving skills, improving accuracy and speed, providing remedial work for those struggling as well as making study interesting and engaging.

Tutoring Approach:
Flexible approach to suit the students' needs, my methods include using past paper practice, taking direct questions from the student, explaining new topics, reviewing old concepts as well as teaching tricks and shortcuts.

If the distance is far, there will be a travel fee.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Cambridge educated, and an Oxford University prize winning teacher, I have recently passed my latest OFSTED inspection. I specialise in :

11+
English Language (GCSE and iGCSE)
English Literature (GCSE/iGCSE/A Level/ELAT)
GCSE/ A Level Business Studies
GCSE / A Level History
Creative writing (adults)
Business English (adults)
ESOL (adults)
UCAS statements
Mock interviews

I am DFE authorised to teach the subjects I advertise.

I hold an excellent degree in English, a PGCE in English/History, a Cert Ed.in Drama, an MA in creative writing from the number one UK writing programme, and a post graduate in teaching creative writing from Cambridge University.

I am a published author and editor.

I have taught students from:

Independent Senior : Rugby School, Gordonstoun, Warwick School, The Kingsley School, King's High School, Kingham Hill, King Henry 8th, Princethorpe, Bablake.

Independent Junior: Crackley Hall, Warwick

State Selective: Lawrence Sheriff, Rugby High, Alcester Grammar, Ashlawn, WMG Academy, Stratford Girls' Grammar, Kings Edward's Boys Grammar, newport Girls' High School.

State non-selective: Kenilworth School, Finham Park, President Kennedy, Babington Academy, English Martyrs, Bilton High, Houlton, The Harris, Avon Valley, Walsall Academy, Joseph Leckie Academy, Myton, North Leamington, Ernesford Grange, Southgate School, East Barnet School, Attleborough Academy, Southfield Girls' School, Rugby Free School.

State junior: Potters Green, Long Lawford, Holbrook, Park Hill, Dunchurch, Hillmorton, Cawston Grange, Abacus Academy, Our Lady of Assumption, Henry Hinde, St Anthony's.

University: Cambridge, Warwick, BCU, Keele, York.

I have taught students in the UK, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Russia and South Korea.

I am a native English speaker - this is highly advantageous to English as a second language students.

Scholarships gained: Rugby School, Warwick School.
Bursaries gained: Bablake School, Princethorpe College.
Grammar Schools: King Edward's Boys, Lawrence Sheriff Boys', Alcester Grammar, Rugby High School.

Having a grammar school education myself has been most useful and that my children were educated in the independent sector gives me an insider insight.

Many of my pupils have gone onto Oxford University, Durham University, and elite Universities to study subjects such a medicine and dentistry. One of my GCSE students moved from grade 3 to grade 7 in three months and another moved 4 levels from grade 5 to 9 in 6 months.

I hold QTS and DBS. Unlike tutorial centres, I focus only on one student in a session, ensuring better progress.

I teach students between the age of 8-adult.

I lecture in Creative Writing.

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced, successful online tutor. I update my teaching skills annually. I have completed my Safeguarding Certificate, Sexual Harassment Awareness, PREVENT training, and my GDPR certificate.

I have worked with Grammar Schools, Independent Schools, Public schools, selective and non-selective state schools. I have been a Head of English and Senior Leader in a highly successful Birmingham school. I have taught writing to post-grads at Cambridge Uni, Warwick Uni, Hull and York University. I have published educational research and resources, edited publications and mentored writers.

I have been an examiner for KS2 SATS, English Language and English Literature and am an Arts Awards Assessor.

I am familiar with the following curriculum:

AQA, EDEXCEL, OCR, EDUQAS, iGCSE, Essex 11 Plus, Warwickshire and Birmingham 11 Plus, IELTS,Trinity ESOL, British Council ESOL.

I have worked with pupils struggling to perform at schools which have not served them well. I have worked on behalf of schools, providing one to one tuition for LAC pupils. I have worked with very good pupils at very good schools in order to support pupils to become excellent.

I am willing to do unlimited prep. I do not pluck activities off the internet and hope they fit as I design work especially for my pupils.

Tutoring Approach:
Your child won't be placed in a group with other children who have different needs and work at different levels!

I have high expectations of your child - this helps them to reach their goals.

I will tell you the truth about your child, sharing information and assessments.

I standardise my marking in a secondary school every year.

Successes in 24-25* ( grade boundaries moved up)
100 % eleven plus passes
100% Grade 8 and 9 at GCSE Language.
100% Grade 7, 8 and 9 at GCSE Literature.

testomonials:

'Thank you ...as your support has very much enabled this success.'
'I am short of words to thank you, for all the help and support you gave.'
'She couldn't have done it without your support.'

2023- 2024 Academic year* ( grade boundaries moved up)

NR-9, 8 GCSE Eng Lang and Lit
LS- arrived in the UK with no English and has made 3 levels of progress within 6 months.
JR- gained an 11+ place at King Edward's Grammar School
AN-gained an 11 + place at LSS Grammar School.
AS-gained a place at Lawrence Sheriff Grammar School
RM- gained places at The Kingsley and Princethorpe independent schools
SG- gained a place at Bablake Independent school
SS- gained bursaries at Bablake and Princethorpe Independent Schools
HJP- an adult ESOL learner from South Korea, has progressed from A2 to C1 British council levels, and gained a distinction at GCSE speaking and Listening in less than 9 months.


Testamonials

LR- " We DID it!!!! Thank you so muchhhhhhhh. The scores gets him into the best grammar school - KEGS!Thank you so much for your perseverance and amazing teaching!!!"

SC-" We think you're best English tutor there is so no surprises with your ofsted rating."

Successes 2022-2023.

AC-9, 9 GCSE Eng and Lit ( school predicted grades were 6,6)
ES- 9,8 GCSE Eng and Lit ( school predicted grades were far lower)
HH- 8, 8 GCSE Eng and Lit
WN- 8,7 GCSE Eng and Lit ( school predicted grades were 4,4)
PH- 6 Eng Lang ( school prediction was a 3)

LH gained a place at Medical School and met the offer.
NQ gained a place at University, and met the offer, when the school stated she was not able to.
KS- gained several places at university for Mechanical Engineering and met the offers.

Successes 2022

FO - gained a music scholarship at Warwick Snr.

WH- gained 225 in his 11 Plus exam, entitling him to places at two top grammar schools.

HG- gained his place at a highly competitive Grammar school sixth form- in July of Year 10 he was told he was 'pushing' grade 5 by his teacher.

TW- gained his GCSE score two grades above his September working at grade and 1 grade above his target grade.

SDP- gained a place at a competitive independent school, with a massive bursary

SR- gained a place at a competitive independent school, with generous bursary

HA- passed 11 plus at 249 marks

EK- passed 11 plus at 226 marks

FO has gained a place at his chosen Independent School- he was the first to have been accepted while only in Year 5.


Successes 2020-2021

HL-invited to a medical school interview

KC-Grade 8 in GCSE Business Studies- he was a grade 5 in September and had a target of grade 6.

QN- Grade 5 in English Lit after three months of tuition and beginning at Grade 3.

BJ- Grade 5 in English Language despite predicted grade of 4.

Successes 2019-2020

VY- Grade 8 in English Language- was struggling to maintain a good grade 5 in school.

MS-Grade 7 in English Language and in English Literature- was working at Grade 5 in school.

HL- Year 13- grade 7 in Eng Lang GCSE November re-sit- HL started with me on a very low level 5 and has worked with me for less than one year.

SK-Grade 6 in English Language- was a low grade 5 in school.

WL-Grade 6 - was low grade 5 at school.

LS- Grade 5 in English Language after working with me. School gave him a Grade 3 in their August teacher Assessment GCSE.
BJ- Year 11 - BJ was working at a grade 4 in mid September when I began working with him. He gained a grade 5 in the Eng Lit exam.

KC- Year 10- KC was a low level 3 at the start of year 9 - gained a high grade 5 in GCSE Eng Lit at the end of Year 10.

II- Year 10 - II was a low grade 3 - gained a grade 5 in Eng Lit GCSE.

NE- Grade 4 in English Language - a very low Grade 3 in school.

AA-Year 6-AA passed her 11 plus.

HL- Year 13- received an offer from a good university to take a great Science course only 15 days after sending her UCAS application in on October 15th. Has two interviews for medicine too.

HS- Year 13- HS began studying medicine at Norwich after working with me to write his UCAS personal statement.

SE- Year 13 -SE lacked confidence when trying to write a UCAS personal statement. With my help, SE is now at a very good University.

BR-First Year University- BR was struggling to write his first academic essay. I taught BR how to reference and the importance of using authentic and serious sources.

Parental/ Learner Testimonials:

20-21

I was accepted into LSS...I would like to say thank you for the help in Business Studies as that helped me ace my exams.

KC- GCSE students

P was so happy with the lesson yesterday. He told me that V taught me more in one lesson than school taught me for the whole year which is fabulous !

PN's Mum (PN attends a Grammar school)


2019-2020

LS's mother-

I wanted to express my thanks again. I have no doubt that LS would not have achieved a level 5 without your tutoring, and it had been left to the school. I had every faith that LS was capable if he applied himself and had the right teaching and guidance but could not see him getting what he needed from the school. He did it. Thanks to you.

2018-2019

E has improved a lot lately with V's help. V is really good at teaching (E's mother)

I wanted to drop you a line to thank you personally for all the help and support you have given L over the last few months. Whatever the outcome is she couldn't have done it without your coaching. Her work has definitely improved which wouldn't have happened had she continued with just the support school gave her. So thank you.( L's mother)

Earlier Successes

2018-2019

KS 2 SATS - NJ had given up working in year 6. After my support he won a prize for writing and scored 113 and 117 in his English papers.

Scholarships - CA was a Grade 4 in History GCSE. He needed a grade 7 to obtain a scholarship. After my support CA gained his grade 7, got his scholarship and recently went on to gain a grade 9 in the actual GCSE securing his place at Rugby School.

GCSE- MS was at a good independent school and in top set. However, she was scoring at grade 2 in her English Language and English Literature mock exams. With my help MS went on to gain two level 7s for both her English GCSE exams.

Post Grads - S, A, I were all on a PGA at Warwick University. To get onto the MA course they needed to gain a distinction on their PGA assignments. With my support, all three transferred to the MA course.

ZN wanted to do as well as possible in his MA assignments but was struggling with Academic English. With my help he scored merits for his essays and dissertation.

H - a dyslexic adult who struggled with having to write personal emails/messages-she overcame this by just sending emojis. With my support H now composes emails using words and has the confidence to send emails / messages whenever she wants to.


2017-2018 successes :

N J-- NJ went from a Level 3 in school mock exams to achieving a Level 7 in the actual GCSE exams despite being dyslexic.

OL--OL went from a bottom grade D in school mock exams to achieving a high grade B in the actual A Level exams, taking up her place at Leeds Art School.

JA-- JA was home schooled and dyslexic. She felt that she was not able to study beyond GCSE. JA decided to continue with her education beyond GCSE as a result of the self- confidence she gained with my support.

AZ--As a result of my coaching, AZ had started to gain additional days work ( AZ has his own business)

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a primary teacher with many years experience teaching in a wide variety of primary school settings. I feel that learning is really important at all ages and am continually expanding my knowledge using online courses.

Teaching Experience:
As a qualified primary teacher I have over 10 years experience working in schools as a classroom teacher and PPA teacher. I have a strong knowledge of the national curriculum and regularly keep up to date with any changes to education. I work well as a team and am very organised. I have also lead choirs and directed many shows within primary schools.

Tutoring Approach:
I am friendly and approachable. My lessons are fun and informative and I adapt my teaching style to the needs of the pupil. I am passionate about teaching and am keen to share my knowledge with others. I have some experience of teaching SEN children within a mainstream setting and have recently completed an online diploma in SEND.

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Personal Description:
I am a well-qualified and experienced private tutor working online, providing preparation and support for GCSE and IGCSE in English Language, English Literature and French (AQA / Edexcel / Cambridge etc) and for 11+ entrance exams in English and Verbal Reasoning (including CEM/GL style 11+).

I also teach English as a foreign language at all levels, including preparation for PET, FCE, CAE & CPE exams and IELTS and 'Life in the UK' for UK Citizenship, covering all aspects of English from Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing to Grammar and Pronunciation.

Teaching Experience:
On leaving Oxford University, I started out as a lecturer in French and English at Fareham College, Hampshire, where I taught Higher Education courses to both young and mature adults and was commended by the Principals for my students' achievements.
I used this initial experience to launch a successful career of private tutoring in England and France, with many students coming to me through personal recommendation.

Now, with over 20 years of teaching experience, I privately tutor a range of school-aged pupils from 6 to 16, both native English speakers and those for whom English is a second language. At 11+, 13+, GCSE and IGCSE, most of my pupils have successfully obtained places at top private secondary schools and 6th form colleges.

I also have a portfolio of private Chinese, Ukrainian, Russian, French and English adult students learning English as a foreign language, many of whom return year after year to pursue their learning to ever-higher levels and for the considerable pleasure that brings.

Tutoring Approach:
In my opinion the huge advantage of private one-to-one tuition, for both student and tutor, is that each lesson can be tailor-made to suit the student's particular needs perfectly, targeting and strengthening weaker areas while continuing to develop all-round confidence and ability. Lesson content can adapt flexibly from session to session and skills needing more attention can be frequently revisited.

My approach is caring and friendly, and I possess both endless patience and a sense of humour! I am enthusiastic about the subjects I teach and time and again I have seen that enthusiasm transfer itself to students as lessons progress. Encouragement is a great aid to achievement and it is very rewarding to see how this, in turn, leads to excellent results.

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Personal Description:
Hello my name is Anne-Marie, I am from Ireland but have been living in the UK since 2004. This is now a place I call home. I realised I had a flare for imparting knowledge when I became a basketball trainer at 15, working with Primary and Secondary pupils. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, saw the progress the pupils I trained had made and knew from that moment that teaching was my vocation as it was and is so rewarding. I now have a 5 year old son who loves reading and writing. He can articulate himself well and it's truly a joy to see. It's amazing the wonder a child sees in learning.

Teaching Experience:
From September this year I have been teaching English, Geography and RE at Beckfoot School in Bingley. I am a tutor as well (GCSE English, KS3 English, Maths and Science). As well as that, I am an EAL teacher to Chinese children online. In the past I have taught English up to GCSE at Laisterdyke Leadership Academy and English and French at Pudsey Grangefield School. In addition to this, l have taught Spanish and French at Carr Manor Community School. I taught the same subjects at St. Bede's and St. Joseph's Catholic College in Bradford from September 2017 to May 2018. Prior to that I was teaching French and Spanish at Cardinal Heenan Catholic High School (formerly a Language College). In addition, I assisted students to prepare for the GCSE German exam. As well as my teaching responsibilities, my pastoral duties included being a Year 10 form tutor. From February to December 2016, I was a teacher of French at Key Stage 3, Spanish at Key Stages 3 and 4 and was responsible for a Year 9 form at Queensbury School. From September 2015 to January 2016, I taught German at Key Stages 3 and 4 and French at Key Stage 3 at Oakbank School in Keighley. I previously worked at Rastrick High School and Sixth Form College where I was a teacher of French at Key Stage 3 and Spanish at Key Stages 3, 4 and 5. I also taught German and PSHCE to Year 9 students, and Accelerated Reading to Year 7 pupils. Four years ago, I was a Year 11 form tutor. This role entailed planner signing, reading and guiding pupils on college and career choices as well as helping them with exam revision skills. During registration, I covered some PSHCE topics and encouraged my tutees to write reviews on the books they were reading in order to find out more about their interests and consequently get to know them better. My form was involved in fundraising activities and have participated in assemblies. As well as that, I have mentored a PGCE student on how to become a form tutor and in addition I had a GTP student in my Key Stage 3 and 4 Spanish classes. In 2015 whilst on maternity leave, I taught Spanish to Years 2 and 6 and French to Years 3 and 4 at a local Primary School on a voluntary basis.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to use an approach that suits the students I teach. I discuss what needs they have and what their interests are and work from there. I like to be well-prepared yet flexible when necessary. I like to do kineasthetic activities to keep the students engaged in their learning and use a variety of resources to enable my students to gain as much confidence when speaking, reading writing etc.

I also create an environment where my students feel safe and at ease when learning meaning they are not afraid to make mistakes and are keen to build on this and see that mistakes are evidence of effort.

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Personal Description:
I'm an enthusiastic and patient teacher who enjoys getting to know new people and help them achieving their goals. I have got several years of experience in teaching on various levels and I find the whole process of language learning equally fascinating and motivating. It's a great pleasure to see my students reach their goals and find joy in learning something new and being able to communicate in a second language.

• Qualifications: B.A. History and English (2013)
• M.A. Teacher training - Teaching English as a Foreign Language, History (2017)
• CELTA Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (2017)
• History, English (A Levels equivalent) (2009)

Teaching Experience:
I started teaching English on a 1-1 basis 6 years ago during my university studies. In the last 6 years, I have managed to gain experience on many different levels of the education system. I taught classes in secondary schools, worked with adults in language schools and most recently on university preparation courses. I've been lucky enough to work with people from all over the world, from many age groups (13-60) and all the different levels starting from complete beginner to advanced (A1 - C1).

Classes taught:

- General English
- Business English
- Exam preparation (FCE, IELTS, ELPT, TOEIC)
- Academic English

Tutoring Approach:
Firstly and most importantly, I believe in the step-by-step approach which means that I understand that we need time to build knowledge, therefore, patience and understanding are key parts of my teaching.

I also believe that we are all different, so I put a lot of emphasis on getting to know my students' individual needs and attributes so I can tailor the classes according to these. I consider my students as partners in the work together and I like to call it "learning together".

Last but not least, I think it's important to set clear goals, have a personalised approach and a friendly atmosphere during the classes combined with continuous feedback.

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Personal Description:
I am as second year primary education student at Liverpool Hope university with a specialism in special educational needs and disabilities with a passion for helping everyone find their place. Having spent much of my training during the COVID pandemic, I am well versed with teaching online as well as face to face, and I am willing to adapt to suit the needs of individual learners.

Teaching Experience:
Prior to attending university, I lived in Australia for five months, volunteering in a school as a sports assistant, where my role was to assist the full time teachers and cover the primary PE classes when the teacher was not available. Further teaching has included block placements in both the early years foundation stage and lower key stage two, teaching a range of subjects that are not limited to maths and English, providing me with a range of experience across the primary school years.

Tutoring Approach:
As a tutor, I will help identify each individual's needs and work with them to find the best solution to support them and help them achieve what they need through a variety of engaging activities. I will always attempt to provide a fun approach to learning whilst remaining approachable and professional.

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Personal Description:
Hello there! 🍁 I'm a friendly Canadian who's made the UK my home. Teaching English is not just my profession; it's my passion. Over the years as a volunteer, I've had the incredible opportunity to work privately with students from diverse corners of the world - South America, Europe, and, of course, back home in Canada. These experiences have deepened my love for helping others learn English, whether it's their second language or they're looking to polish their reading and writing skills in their first language.

What truly inspires me is working with adults who, for various reasons, have limited reading and writing skills. Witnessing their journey of learning and improvement is a real privilege. It's incredibly rewarding to see someone gain confidence in their abilities and open up new opportunities for themselves through language.

But it's not just adults I've had the pleasure of teaching. I've also worked with children, including my own little ones, to give them a head start in their schooling. Preparing them for the early years of school, and making it fun and engaging, is something I find truly fulfilling.

Whether it's guiding someone to discover the joys of reading or helping them express themselves more confidently in writing, or deciding to learn English, I'm all about making learning an enjoyable and enriching experience.

I'm here to help you on this exciting journey!

Teaching Experience:
Teaching English is not just my profession; it's my passion. Over the years, I've had the incredible opportunity to work privately with students from diverse corners of the world - South America, Europe, and, of course, back home in Canada. These experiences have deepened my love for helping others learn English, whether it's their second language or they're looking to polish their reading and writing skills in their first language.

I have also taught in Private School environment and but have chosen to work with students privately.

Tutoring Approach:
In my tutoring sessions, I prioritize practical learning approaches and concepts to foster a nurturing environment for both children and adults. Understanding that learning English as a Second Language presents unique challenges, I tailor my methods to meet the individual needs of my students, ensuring they grasp English not just theoretically but in real-world applications. By incorporating everyday scenarios, interactive exercises, and engaging material, I make learning English accessible and relatable. My goal is to build confidence and proficiency, allowing students to use English effectively in their daily lives and achieve their personal and professional goals. With patience and encouragement, I guide each learner through their journey, celebrating every milestone towards mastery and confidence in the English language.

Whether they are learning to read + write, learning for early years school preparation, or learning English.

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Personal Description:
Hello potential students!

My name is David. I was an actor for 20 years, both as a hobbyist and a professional until becoming a writer. I still am both of those things (as well as a voice-over artist), but now would like to pass on my knowledge to other people and see if it helps them.

Until very recently, I worked in customer service for a myriad of companies--all to allow me the space and time to enjoy a career that was never fully stable. I enjoyed them, but only for the opportunity to meet new people and learn from them. True, I may be a tutor, but I will never stop being a student.

I also class as neurodivergent. For decades I lived with undiagnosed ADHD. Learning this was a surprise to many others around me, but not to me directly. The signs were not as well known back then, and somehow I had adapted to learn. These days, we adapt the teaching; so know that whatever background you have, we will find a way to learn together!

Teaching Experience:
Over one year as a private Tutor. Most of my students have been GCSE level (all exam boards) and a few have been adult learners wanting to know more, or Primary School pupils working to better their grammar. I hold a Master's Degree in Creative Writing and a Bachelor's in Drama--both of which give me a unique but well rounded approach to English Literature and Language, as well as essay writing.

Tutoring Approach:
Easy; good conversation, plenty of debates and a whole heap of laughs! For most texts involved in the English Language and Literature courses, it's hard to really analyse what lies beneath the words on the page; especially in a school-style setting. I like to find out what how the student works, and what works for the student. Then, I tailor our sessions around them, their pace, and see if there's more excitement underneath those words!

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Personal Description:
I have a MA in Production Design for Film and Television from Kingston University and a BA Hons in Furniture Design and Applied Arts from Edinburgh College of Art. I have worked in the film and television industry since 2004. I lead large teams of specialist designers, art directors, junior assistants, crafts people and construction teams. And I collaborate closely with other experts within the industry including cinematographers, directors and screenwriters.

A production designer designs the worlds in which the TV Drama or film is set. That includes working with location people to choose locations in which to film - and building sets in studios. It can also involve working closely with SFX teams. The role juggles creative vision with practical project management. It's a collaborative media/ industry and relies heavily on communication skills- visual and verbal.

Teaching Experience:
I've tutored students looking to win a place in art schools/universities and specialist creative high schools. Students looking to better their results at A level, and I've taught larger classes of young adults in university and workshops. I help my four year old with his art and design too : )

Tutoring Approach:
My approach depends on the students needs and I am very flexible. I can work in a very focused way with the students brief on course curriculum. Or more loosely- developing verbal and practical skills for a portfolio for art school/media design or communication courses. I'm down to earth and structured in my approach.

If it's face to face tutoring, I may charge a small fee for travel time/costs dependent on how far away and dependent on whether the session is one or two hours long, etc. Please message me for further details, thanks.

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Personal Description:
I am a third-year medical student at Medical University Pleven with a strong academic record and a deep understanding of the competitive medical school admissions process. I achieved a high UCAT score of 2920, and received offers from all three universities where I was interviewed-success that reflects not only academic ability but also strong communication, preparation, and critical thinking skills.

What sets me apart from many other tutors is that I've recently gone through the exact same process, giving me unique insight into what current applicants truly need to succeed. I combine this up-to-date experience with a patient, structured, and supportive approach that helps students build confidence as well as competence.

Teaching Experience:
While I may not have formal tutoring experience, I treat every student with the care and attention I would give a younger sibling. Parents can trust that I'm committed, organised, and fully invested in helping their child succeed-not just academically, but also personally, as they take on the challenges of applying to medicine.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is personalized, goal-oriented, and focused on building true understanding rather than just providing answers. I begin by identifying the student's current level, goals, and specific challenges to tailor the learning experience to their needs. I break down complex concepts into clear, manageable steps, often using analogies, examples, or visuals to make the material more relatable. I encourage active learning by asking guiding questions and prompting students to explain ideas in their own words, which helps reinforce their understanding. Practice and immediate feedback are key parts of my process, allowing students to apply what they've learned and quickly correct any misunderstandings. I continually adjust my approach based on the student's progress, moving at a pace that supports both comprehension and confidence. Ultimately, my goal is to help students become independent, critical thinkers who feel confident in their abilities.

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