Macduff Reading & Writing skills Tutors and Macduff Reading & Writing skills Tuition

Personal Description:
Professional tutor (and mum of three) with 20+ years experience, additional needs friendly. 1-2-1, pairs and groups available.

I bring a wealth of knowledge and dedication to my teaching. My background also includes extensive experience in community learning and youth work, which has enriched my approach to education.

I specialise in teaching a wide range of subjects, including math, English and the sciences, catering to all age groups. My diverse skill set and passion for teaching ensure that each student receives personalized and effective guidance.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about my tutoring services, please feel free to get in touch!

Teaching Experience:
Professional tutor with 20+ years experience - St Andrews Graduate specialising in maths, the sciences, and English, with extensive experience in supporting students with additional needs.

In addition I am experienced in tutoring both one-to-one and to large and small groups. I have also supported adults to improve their literacy and numeracy and have worked with children and young people in classroom settings and youth and holiday clubs.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring centers entirely on the student's needs, with learning sessions tailored to their specific requirements. I offer intensive tutoring sessions for several days or weeks leading up to exams, focusing on any problem areas. Additionally, I provide long-term tuition to help students gain a comprehensive understanding of their subjects.

I have a proven track record of successfully assisting students in catching up on missed work due to illness or other reasons, and in helping struggling students significantly improve their grades.

I treat all my students with the same care and respect that I would want for my own children. One of my key skills is putting students at ease, creating a comfortable learning environment where they can thrive. I strongly believe that building and maintaining a positive relationship between learner and teacher is crucial to effective learning.

I am an excellent motivator with a deep understanding of how people learn and respond to different teaching methods.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello. I am a fully qualified teacher with experience across the whole of the primary curriculum, including special needs and teaching for SATS tests . I continually update my teaching, mainly through the National Education Union online training sessions. I have had great results tutoring children extensively on a 1-2-1 basis for SATS and the 11+ entrance exam, plus have experience teaching adult literacy and English as a Foreign Language. I aim to motivate both children and adults who find reading and writing challenging, building both confidence and skills. Practical strategies and numeracy games are used to assist children to gain improved competence in mathematics. Assessment is used to inform my teaching in order to make efficient use of the tutoring time.
I enjoy running, Pilates, reading and volunteer for charity, including as a volunteer youth-worker with children and young people.

Teaching Experience:
Currently. I teach English to and host visiting international teenage students. Recently I volunteered as a tutor for the Catch Up Programme, Year 5 and 6 Literacy SATs, online with the charity Action Tutoring.
I am experienced in administering and marking voluntary SATs papers.
I have over twenty years of experience teaching in UK primary schools as a full time classroom teacher and as a supply teacher.
I was a special needs teacher in a public school for one year with individuals and small groups.
I have volunteered as an adult literacy tutor and taught Pilates to adults.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a patient, understanding approach to tutoring. Tasks are broken into small, achievable steps. Praise and encouragement are used to build self esteem and motivate learners. Your child will be encouraged to enjoy learning and to gain independent learning strategies.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm amazing!!!
And I help other people be amazing too!!!
My aim is to increase everyone's understanding of everything!!!

I've been tutoring Maths, Science and English since 2007, for ages 5 to 50. However, I mostly help teenagers with their SATs, GCSEs and A Levels.

Maths, Science and English are the three main subjects that people tend to want tutoring in. (Actually it's five subjects if you break the Science down into Biology, Chemistry and Physics.)

Anyway, as I tutor all of these subjects, my students find it very useful that I can potentially cover a different subject each week, or I can do two hours a week and cover a different subject in each hour.

This obviously makes it much easier for the parents too, because they don't have to find a separate tutor for each subject, or leave their child without the valuable one-to-one support in any of the core subjects.

I've also helped my students with pretty much every major school subject; from History and Religious Studies, to French and Spanish, and even Psychology and Health and Social Care. In fact, experience has shown me that I can help anyone to better understand anything - even something that I didn't even know myself a minute earlier!

Teaching Experience:
Educational Employment

Private Home Tutor
The Right Line
2007 - present
Tutoring GCSE and AS Level Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology.
Tutoring GCSE English Language and English Literature.
Tutoring Numeracy and Literacy (including Phonics) for ages 7 and up.

Life Improvement Course Director
COSRECI
2001 - 2012
(A community education and counselling organisation.)
Assisting students on courseroom-based life improvement courses.
Marking and returning lessons for home-study life improvement courses

Tutoring Approach:
Initially:
I find out the student's strengths and weaknesses.
I find out what they want to achieve from the tutoring.
Together we draw up a plan of action to achieve this.

While tutoring:
I ensure the student understands every word of the subject as it comes up.
I aim for a full, conceptual understanding of each point to the best of their ability.
I keep motivation high with reward stickers! (IT WORKS!!!)

Subjects

Personal Description:
I believe in a child centred approach to learning and always aim to work for and with my individual students.
As Senior Teacher/ Teacher in Charge, of a Medical Pupil Referral Unit I headed up a dedicated team of skilled teachers who worked with young people on a 1:1 and small group basis. I am well aware of the current concerns with the mental health of young people and aim to support those I work with in a positive and sensitively focused manner. Many of my student's have experienced exam anxiety, dyslexia and learning difficulties which has made school a problematic environment for them. I aim to help with those areas, working on finding pathways, approaches and methods which help individuals succeed.
I currently focus my attentions on tutoring individually. I find the one to one contact simulating and highly rewarding. I have worked successfully with GCSE and Advanced Level students enabling them to achieve the results required. I have taught for many years and am an Advanced Skills Teacher, who has effectively guided and supported trainee and newly qualified teachers. I have always wanted to teach and love what I do.
I am a published author who writes for young adults. My first book was published in December 2025. I love the creativity of writing and the manner in which it further helps me develop my teaching skills..
I am patient, understanding, supportive and highly aware of the need to enable the student to achieve. I work through praise and careful guidance to ensure the student gains the most from their one to one contact.
I am educated to Masters degree level and have taught in both comprehensive schools and special needs units.
I always put the student to the forefront of my teaching and aim to give them the most rewarding and positive of learning experiences.
Although I still enjoy face to face teaching, more of my time is devoted to preparing and delivering online lessons. I have been fortunate to teach across all exam boards including Scotland's National 5 exam areas and the National Higher exam.

Teaching Experience:
I was Head of performing arts in a school in Dorset for seventeen years. During that time I worked extensively with children of all ages. I have trained teachers and guided those new to the teaching profession successfully through the early stages of their careers. I have directed numerous school and examination productions which has given me an excellent knowledge of plays and productions for use within both English and Drama teaching. I have taught adults GCSE Psychology with a very good success rate. I have enjoyed the opportunities teaching in both the comprehensive and adult sectors have given me.

I continue to enjoy teaching students and young people with a view to supporting them through their preparations for internal and external examinations. I work with a variety of ages which enables me to expand my knowledge of exam boards, their requirements and standards. I regularly support GCSE English Language and Literature, together with A level Drama and Theatre specifications.
At the present time I mainly teach online using zoom. This requires individual learning materials and presentations to be organised, created and developed.
I am aware that anxious students can find online teaching a strange experience. I therefore aim to use their own preferences as a way of ensuring the online environment is less threatening and more comfortable for them.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is always to work with the needs of the student involved. I ensure I listen to their requirements, tailoring my teaching to what is needed. I value student interaction and would hope to use as much student based ideas and thoughts where this is possible. I have a highly positive attitude to teaching which always aims to enable the learner to succeed in a supportive environment.
I have a good sense of humour. I am patient , a very good listener and an individual who works in a proactive manner. I create and work with a range of resources which are specific to the topic and area being studied whilst creating and researching any areas required. I use praise and positive areas continually as I believe we all like to receive positive thoughts about ourselves, and this is means promoting a good and solid foundation to study techniques.
Although I have been teaching for a long time I really enjoy the challenges,satisfaction and creativity teaching offers. For every student I work with I plan and create personal , individual lessons and approaches which are appropriate for each person. This approach has led to many satisfied individuals at a variety of levels.
The demands of online teaching have led me to expand my skills. For individual students to achieve the necessary standards, I now prepare individual PowerPoint presentations which are tailor made to specific requirements. This is method which is working extremely well and all my students are able to use a screen share, screen shots and the materials I send to them. I believe this individual approach is a highly successful one which works positively with the online situation.
Students, should they wish, may receive a copy of the powerpoint we have used online, giving them extra resources and the means to further check details, lesson content and their understanding of any area covered.
I try to be as flexible as possible, aiming to negotiate time and dates which are convenient, suitable and appropriate for those requiring support.
I am confident my approach, working with the individual in whatever is best for them, is a method which enables individuals to succeed.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an Open University graduate having completed an BA(Hons) degree. I chose my own programme of study which consisted of French,English Language Studies with GCSE/Standard grade Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. After my degree, I undertook an A-level/Higher Grade Maths course and GCSE/Standard Grade level Latin course to keep my study skills fresh and updated whilst complimenting my degree.

Prior to this, I under went a City and Guilds in Delivering Learning which taught me the vital skills required to be able to plan and construct lessons. In conjunction to this, I have also achieved my Level 1 certificate in British Sign Language.

Teaching Experience:
I am currently hired by Borders College based in Galashiels where I teach adult evening classes in Mandarin Chinese, Italian and French, which I love. Seeing my students grow and learn is one of the main reasons why I entered the tutoring and teaching profession.

In addition, I have taught French to various ages ranging from Primary right through to Adult in various capacities. Furthermore, I have taught English as a Foreign Language which was a brilliant experience as it gave me a valuable insight into how people learn not only English but languages in general.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring comprises of friendliness and patience. Having studied at home for my degree, I understand the importance of a structured and warm learning environment. My motto has always been "There is no such thing as a stupid question". If you do not know the answer then the only way to find the answer out is to ask the question, whether it is for the first or tenth time. As I am so passionate about French and English along with reading and writing skills, I feel that lessons with me will be a positive, exciting and worthwhile experience.

I have always strongly believed that education is available to everyone, regardless of past experiences. The only thing that I feel matters when it comes to learning is a want to learn, if you have that then anything is possible.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I decided to start tutoring after my experience in trying to get tutors for my own children. As a professional working internationally I thought it would be easy to hand over this important element of their education to someone with both experience and patience. My notion was quickly turned on its head. The Tutors I found taught textbook style with the one shoe fits all approach. My children and others didn't fit into that mould. I very quickly realised that I could do a better job and took the role in house, initially teaching my own daughters before extending out to their friends.
To date I have tutored over 50 children who have gone onto their chosen schools and streams. I believe that tutoring should be about delivering skills to children that they can carry with them throughout their young lives and provide a solid platform on which to develop.

Teaching Experience:
Have tutored key stage 2 and 3.
11 plus students and common entrance applicants.
Recently started to tutor mildly dyslexic students in English comprehension and Language.
Currently writing essays for publication in English Literature and Sociology and Business GCSE and AS level. As well as E papers for 11 plus students.

Tutoring Approach:
I love seeing peoples enthusiasm toward a subject which I also share the same excitement towards however I am also passionate about helping people who may need help or are looking for methods to improve their skills in these topics.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an arts enthusiast with incisive critical engagement skills and 16 years private tuition experience. I'm able to draw from a wide range of critical theories and approaches when analysing arts and performance related texts. A big fan of film, theatre, visual art, music, literature and comedy. I have taught up to MA level, have directed productions at RADA and currently hold the post of Contextual practice lecturer at Italia Conti Drama school.

Teaching Experience:
I hold an MA from The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and Kings College and graduated from Royal Holloway in 2011 with the highest degree grade of the graduate year. I was approached by many of my co-students to advise them on essays and creative work and was employed by the Drama department to run workshops for prospective students. I'm now a professional theatre-maker, freelance drama practitioner and public speaking trainer. I have led workshops with a wide spectrum of people from ages 10 up to 75 years old and for organisations including BPP law school, RADA, Italia Conti, University of Bolton, Central Film school and UWL. Alongside tutoring I currently offer essay and dissertation guidance, proofreading and editing services. I also offer audition guidance and monologue tuition for actors and acting students.

Testimonial from Ina:

"Thank you for all your help with my Film Studies, I ended up getting an A* and also an A* in Media Studies. so I got my place at the University of Exeter to study Management with Marketing, thanks a lot, I couldn't have done it without you!"

Testimonial from Nadia:

"Dean's tuition was fantastic! He is patient but he still pushed me to do my best. I am much more confident writing about drama and theatre. Dean made sure I understood everything we talked about which meant I didn't forget it in my exam and I ended up getting an A!"

Testimonial from Yin:

"Dean's guidance really got the best out of me and he pushed me to explore my arguments in my dissertation. He gave me very precise, useful feedback on my dissertation. He is very nice to deal with and speak to and I was so happy with him. He also increased my English vocabulary!"

Testimonial from Kevin:

"I was really unsure and didn't know where to start with my first A2 exams but Dean's help made everything much easier and I feel much calmer and more confident about the rest of my course. Thank you."

Testimonial from Anna:

"Dean tutored my daughter via Skype for her Film Studies A Level. He went out of his way to accommodate the times she was available as this varied greatly week on week, sometimes organising other commitments around her. He always asked in advance what it was she wanted to cover so he could prepare for the session and was very good at explaining things that she didn't understand in some of the films, looking at them in more depth and detail with her. He also helped her with exam technique and she felt that she really got a lot out of the sessions. She has ended up with A A B so she is pretty pleased with that."

Tutoring Approach:
I like to spread a love and enthusiasm for arts and humanities subjects with an emphasis on the potential for personal as well as academic development. I am an adaptive tutor skilled at relating the work to the student's own experiences, ensuring they establish their own academically applicable opinions, ideas and approaches. I'm a meticulous problem solver and am able to pinpoint areas that need attention, particularly in essays, coursework and presentation work. I'm a natural entertainer but always maintain focus on the task at hand, offering insightful, productive and engaging tuition sessions to my students.

I maintain an industry standard cancellation/no show policy, please ask for details.

Subjects

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

I am a professional actor with degree level qualifications in both Philosophy (Dundee University) and Acting (Queen Margaret University College).

Teaching Experience:
I have worked with adults in improving spoken and written English for UK degree entry level. I have also worked with college and university students in the Middle East (UAE) to train science and drama education in both Arabic and English.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hemananda (Ravi)
Motivational and patient tutor with 25+ years' experience in IT and education. I simplify complex topics using real-world examples, interactive Q&A, and tailored practice. My lessons build confidence, clarity, and lasting understanding. With international exposure and deep technical expertise, I guide students through software engineering, programming, databases, and business concepts with precision and empathy. I'm currently writing a book to make Software Engineering more practical and accessible for learners and professionals alike.

I am well versed with the following development tools, databases and software:
- Python, Numpy, Pandas, R
- Machine Learning (KNN algorithm, Naïve Bayes, Neural Network, Decision Tree, etc.)
- PHP
- Visual Basic .Net, ASP .Net
- Oracle Apex
- Oracle Forms 6i, 9i, 10g
- Oracle Reports 6i, 9i, 10g
- Oracle SQL Loader
- Oracle Designer 6i, 9i, 10g
- Oracle Discoverer 10g (Discoverer Plus 10g, Discoverer Viewer 10g)
- Visual Basic 6.0, C, C++, 4D, Windev, Forms Designer, Prescribe, HTML, Java, Javascript,
- Microsoft Front Page, Macromedia Dreamweaver, Flash, Image Composer, XML, Seagate Crystal Reports, Microsoft Project, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Powerpoint
- Microsoft Access, Oracle Database 8, Oracle Database 8i, Oracle Database 9i, Oracle Database 10g, and Ms SQL Server, Oracle Database Express Edition

Teaching Experience:
I have been offering private tuitions since 2001 for a side income as well as for charity purposes. My students were:
1. Primary students (Mathematics, English, French, Computer Studies/IT)
2. Secondary students (Mathematics, Statistics, Accounting, Economics, Computer Studies/IT)
3. Tertiary students (Mathematics, Accounting, Computer Studies/IT), including British Computer Society (BCS) students
Notes:
(a) I am very pleased that one of my BCS students topped the Software Development module including the Database Management Systems module examinations in Mauritius.
(b) I have assisted more than 50 students in their final year IT project (including the analysis/design/development of the system).
(c) I am also proud to say that after more than 3 failed attempts in renowned institutions, I have succeeded in getting 8 BCS students to be through the Software Development module examinations in their first 6 months being tutored by me.

I have equally provided training courses on programming (to name a few: Visual Basic, Oracle SQL and PL/SQL, etc..) for at least 8 years.

Tutoring Approach:
Every new batch of tuition starts with getting to know more about the students. It is at the same time important to give the students enough space to familiarise themselves with me. A discussion will then follow to scope down what will be covered in the syllabus. A work plan is also devised with the aim to complete the syllabus well before the examinations, so as to have adequate time for revision. The following steps outline the process of each tuition session:
1. Initiate the subject or topic based on discussion of a real life example / scenario
2. Introduce the theoretical part of the subject or topic
3. Explain how the theory links to the real life example / scenario
4. Work out and explain some examples
5. Immediate evaluation of student's understanding through questions and answers
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until satisfactory response of the student (steps 1, 2 and 3 may also be repeated if required)
7. Give homework and a brief discussion on what will be covered in the next tuition session

Note: Each tuition session starts with the correction of the previous session's homework and explanation of any problem areas, including a summing up of what was covered in the previous tuition session.

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:
Quality Tailored Language Teaching Turkish and ESOL in All Levels
As a Qualified Language Teacher with Degrees in teaching ESOL and Turkish Language, I have over 10 years` experience in working with young people and children to improve their command of Turkish and English language as well as GCSE / A Level Turkish students to develop advanced knowledge and understanding through transferable skills reflected on their grade.

Teaching Experience:
Teaching in mainstream schools and private tutoring in languages for many years has been a great opportunity to work with a wide range of learners from children to adults which enhanced my skills to create individually tailored lessons that spot-on target the points my students want to improve.

Tutoring Approach:
I pride myself on being highly focused on personal main aim of the student which brings out the ultimate teaching plan for the unique learner. Whether it is the ability to use a variety of sentence structures, vocabulary, and tenses in order to access the full range of marks available in a GCSE / A Level Exam, general proficiency, Dyslexia, school support for your child or simply gaining that confidence in a new language that you`re looking for, I `d be happy to help.. Both one-to-one, groups and online lessons are available.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

Teaching Experience:
Personal statements

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

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

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

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

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

French
I teach French to A level and

I teach Classical Greek to GCSE.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
Due to my background of teaching, I have a very caring attitude towards teaching. I will listen to all students needs and I will take care with all resources I create for my students. I will ensure that I take as long as the student needs to understand specific concepts of the language.


Whether you want extra support with conversational classes for trips to Spain, or full lessons for whatever reason I will ensure I will take every care to ensure you gain the best experience learning Spanish

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching since 2016 in Spain, Argentina, USA, Dominican Republic, Cambodia, Spain and of course Northern Ireland.
For each student I will understand exactly what you want to learn and I will take the approach to teaching as the pupil wants.
I can offer to help students with their homework, speaking skills, writing skills, reading skills and listening skills with excellent resources some of which created myself. I can help with essay writing and reading comprehension. I can teach from primary through to a-level and can offer some tuition for primary pupils.

Tutoring Approach:
Whether you want extra support with conversational classes for trips to Spain, or full lessons for whatever reason I will ensure I will take every care to ensure you gain the best experience learning Spanish.

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Personal Description:
Hi! My name is Kathryn and I am a primary school teacher and mummy to two young children. I have been teaching for 9 years and my specialism is Early Years, although I have plenty of experience across the primary age range. I am hoping to do some online tutoring on the side of my day job. I am able to work evenings, weekends and occasional weekday hours. Looking forward to hearing from you and your little ones!

Teaching Experience:
I achieved a BEd in Primary Teaching with specialism of Early Years at Chester University in 2011 and achieved Qualified Teacher Status in 2012. I have always been in a permanent job role and worked my way up to become and Early Years Leader. I am currently teaching in Year 3 and have experience across Foundation Stage, KS1 and KS2.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to build up positive working relationships with children and their families and get to know the learning styles of individual children. I then deliver my tutoring in a way that meets the needs, abilities and interests of the children. This ensures we get the most out of the time we spend together in a session and enables children to work towards their full potential.

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Personal Description:
As a fully qualified, successful English teacher of twenty years, I have a plethora of experience to draw from to enable my pupils to reach their full potential. I am a dedicated, hard-working tutor who has tutored many pupils, all with great success.

I have a BA in English Literature from Lancaster University and an MA in Gothic Literature from Manchester Metropolitan University. I currently work at a well-respected school in the area and have done since I left university. I constantly try to upgrade my skillset through continued professional development and courses, so that my teaching and delivery continues to meet the needs of my learners. I have recently been accepted as a Fellow of The Chartered College of Teaching.

I'm an English GCSE and A level examiner and work with students on a multitude of exam boards all over the world. My average improvement is 2 grades for pupils that have 10 lessons or more, but some students have jumped up by as many as 5 grades. Get in touch for more info.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching English for over twenty years. I am willing to teach both Literature and Language, from KS2 up to and including A level. I also offer grammar school entrance examination coaching for all schools, other than my own. I can also help support non English natives with their oral and written skills. I have tutored a hundreds of pupils previously, all with excellent results. I have worked as an examiner at GCSE level and A level for the last few years, for a wide range of examination boards. This has helped my students considerably.

I estimate that I have delivered around 4000 hours of 1:1 tutorials to pupils since 2010 alongside working in the classroom. I have tutored pupils aged 8 to 20, covering KS2, KS2, KS4, KS5 and degree level. I conduct most of my lessons at home, with some via online platforms like Zoom, MS Teams or Skype. I currently teach AQA specification, but have also taught EDEXCEL/EDUQAS/WJEC/IGCSE at KS4, and currently teach AQA specification at KS5, but have previously TAUGHT CAMBRIDGE/OCR/WJEC. I have also supported pupils with UCAS applications, personal statements, and 11+ entrance exams. I have worked with home-schooled pupils, and those who may have had gaps in their education at times, both with great success.

Tutoring Approach:
I am nurturing, supportive tutor who strives to get the best out of my pupils by gently pushing them beyond their normal limits. I offer bespoke one to one tuition based on the individual needs of the pupil so that they can fulfil their maximum potential. I feel very passionately about teaching one to one and find great reward in my pupils' successes.

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Personal Description:
Electrical Engineer with 15+ years of experience in Electrical Design, Engineering, Project Management

Teaching Experience:
Have tutored professional Engineers for more than 5 years

Tutoring Approach:
Interactive
Feedback

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Personal Description:
I am a current PG student in Engineering at Newcastle University, I completed my Bachelors in Engineering as well in Electronics and Communication. I've completed my high school as a Science student in an English Medium School.

Teaching Experience:
I had the opportunity to take a communication session in my college back in my undergrad days. Apart from that I had taken a few classes for some modules for my undergrad classmates.

Tutoring Approach:
Based on the students area of concern , I will start from the basics and then gradually move towards more complex lessons while ensuring I take feedback from the student on my tutoring method so I can tweak my approach accordingly.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Khushali, a healthcare professional. I am patient and a good listener. Post motherhood, I have learnt many tricks of dealing with children, understanding their psychology, their responses and methods to tackle them.

Personally, I enjoy cooking, travel and spiritual reading. I keep exploring new skills.

Teaching Experience:
I have always been interested in teaching from my GSCE years. I began helping my neighbours and brother with their after school homework. When I lent a helping hand to teachers at school, I realised I enjoyed tutoring and hence conducted tutoring sessions simultaneous to my university years. I ensured the basic concepts were clear to the kids and they were confident in their methodology, along with scoring well. We practised similar concepts repeatedly to achieve this.
I taught the primary children with fun concepts of Art. Secondary kids with Maths, Science and language.

Tutoring Approach:
Foundation is the key to success. Each child is different. Each one needs a different methodology to grasp the basics. Understanding the child's strengths and weaknesses helps in a better learning curve. I will spend the initial class, trying to understand these methods and design a program specific to the needs. It could be visual learning, repeated practice sessions or diagramatory approach. These trial concepts help to build a strong relationship.
I ensure to teach older kids tackling time and nervousness during crucial exam periods. How to remain positive and calm.

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