Cookstown Study Skills Tutors and Cookstown Study Skills Tuition

Personal Description:
For over a decade now I have worked with a diverse range of students, engendering a passion for learning as well as producing tangible results. I prefer a flexible and dynamic approach crafted from an understanding that we are each upon a unique learning pathway according to our particular styles, aspirations, aptitudes and needs.

"Thank you very much for the great work you did with my daughter Sophie. She progressed from a 'C' grade to an 'A' grade in the space of 6 months and I would have no hesitation in recommending you to friends." - Billy, Bangor

Teaching Experience:
"The learning exercises were always set around my interest areas, making tuition both fun and effective. Following my sessions with Andrew, I have developed a more concise way of communicating. My writing now has more flow, which helps me say what I need to say." - Neil , Newtownabbey

I'm passionate about nurturing the potential of each student with whom I have the privilege to work. With over 8 years experience as a Learning Coach with countless individuals and groups, Diploma in Life Coaching as well as a successful university graduate (1st class hons in Philosophy) and additional Masters research degree in Developmental Psychology, I previously taught at Secondary school and most recently trained nursing professionals to pass their IELTS exams.

I am also a regular public speaker and workshop leader in the private health sector, delivering courses in areas from stress-management and communication skills, to self-care and personal development.

Tutoring Approach:
"Andrew was very professional in his approach to tutoring. My daughter gained confidence in her ability to understand her subject and to recall information using association techniques which proved very useful in her examinations."
Grainne, Randalstown

This coaching-based approach I take has proven highly successful. I approach each student and the sessions with an open mind to learn what I need to be of support.

Combining motivational coaching techniques, I offer a uniquely engaging, personally attuned service. The first lesson typically consists of a complimentary educational assessment (usually 30 minutes) to help identify key areas for improvement . All results can be shared with the parent/guardian. Based on this initial assessment, a 100% individual and tailored programme of learning is created. While encouraging the student to adopt high yet realistically achievable targets for their own education, I am also sensitive to the level of each student and what he or she is ready to adopt.

3 EXAMPLES OF HOW I HELP FOR LITERATURE-BASED TASKS:

1. Working from the question to the answer: appreciating and understanding key requirements of a question, and any relevant marking criteria.

2. How best to structure and qualify sentences so that the answer is complete and accurate.

3. Most effective study / revision / exam techniques such as mind-mapping, worked answers, memorising.


AREAS COVERED / WHAT TO EXPECT

My specialist subjects at all most levels are literature-based and the human sciences particularly philosophy, religion and ethics. Alongside these, I also specialise in 'study skills', offering a very personalised, tailored approach that incorporates motivational coaching on exam and essay skills, ensuring maximum value for investment of your time, money and effort.

**Upon request I am also able to provide emotional literacy around life skills such as: motivation, communication, self belief and concentration.

"I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for tutoring Philip this year; he adapted well with you as his new tutor and enjoyed your approach to teaching.
"I would have no hesitation in recommending Andrew as a tutor. I found him to be polite, courteous, reliable, and accommodating."
- Doreen, Ballyclare

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Personal Description:
I am an experienced, professional, private tutor, offering tuition in French, German and English (EFL/ESOL). I am experienced at teaching both adults and children online, using Zoom, Skype or other software and use a variety of materials and resources to keep lessons interesting. Classes are available during both daytime and evening during the week, and also on Saturday mornings.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring privately for 20 years and have references available from former students as well as an enhanced DBS disclosure. My clients range in age from 8 years to retirement and beyond. I cater for all standards from Beginners to Advanced (A1 to C1 on the Common European Framework).

I have extensive experience of tutoring for GCSE, IGCSE and A Level examinations for several different exam boards. In addition, several of my adult students have taken German exams with the Goethe Institut.

As a former volunteer leader within the Guide Association (now GirlGuiding UK) and now as a volunteer with the Scout Association, I
have considerable experience of teaching a variety of skills to young people aged 10-25. I have led a considerable amount of adult training, both as a language tutor and in my previous roles in the IT industry.

Tutoring Approach:
After initial assessments to see what support is needed, classes are tailored to a student's particular needs and interests. There is, of course, a vast difference between a school student who requires additional support in preparation for an exam and an adult student who is pursuing a modern foreign language out of personal interest or for business reasons. We would look at verbal and listening practice as well as written exercises.

I have a particular interest in grammar and feel that it is very difficult to have a good grasp of a language without some grammar competency. This is especially important for A Level examinations. However, grammar does not have to be taught in a boring way and I often use games and fun exercises as well as more formal methods. Primary pupils learn mostly through games, puzzles and songs.

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Personal Description:
- qualified ex-secondary MFL teacher (PGCE, QTS obtained), familiar with and taught Mandarin Chinese GCSE specifications (AQA and Edexcel), A Level Chinese specifications at UK secondary schools. My students have great exam results.
- Native Mandarin and Taiwanese speaker, Excellent communication skills
- Experienced Mandarin Tutor. I worked with pupils at different levels: pre-School/ KS1- 5/ FE/ HE/ adults/ retired/ business Chinese/ tourism Chinese, including those with SEN and from diverse cultural background using English as an additional language)
- Freelance translator (television programmes subtitles, between English and Mandarin Chinese)
- Freelance interpreter (legal/Immigration)
- Experienced in tailor-making and delivering one-to-one tutoring lessons
- Knowledge of traditional Chinese/Taiwanese culture, politics, history, geography, society and current pop culture. Also able to combine the above with Mandarin learning/teaching
- Patient, reliable and honest
- mentored PGCE student teachers, Early Career Teachers.
- conduct and co-lead research projects with IOE (Institute of Education, University College London), on Content and Language Integrated Learning, 2021 to date. Co-presented the research results at 2 international academic conferences in 2023.

Teaching Experience:
- Mandarin Teacher at University of Leeds (Sep 2008- May 2011), a private school in north Wales (Y7 and Y9, complete beginner group/individual and GCSE preparation, 2011), a grammar school on the Wirral (2015- 2020, Y7- Y13, including GCSE/A Level preparation), and a comprehensive state school in Liverpool (2020-2023).
- Author/proof-reader of online Mandarin course contents (targeting KS2, KS3, and GCSE learners); Online Mandarin Tutor (KS2 learners and GCSE candidates. One of my pupils was accepted by a Chinese undergraduate course as her first choice for Sep 2014 entry, because of my lessons); eLearning Specialist advising the management team regarding VLE/ LMS and providing training on online teaching for fellow teachers (all above under this bullet point: between Jun 2012- Jun 2014, employed by a private company in north Wales)
- freelance one-to-one Tutor of Mandarin, face-to-face and online
- University Lecturer in Audience Development in Taiwan
- University Lecturer in Arts Management in Taiwan
- University Lecturer in English in Taiwan
- Tutor of English (adult/primary/secondary level, face-to-face, individual and groups) in Taiwan

Tutoring Approach:
- Use real-Life scenario for examples and conversation practice
- Integrate Culture into language acquisition
- Offer Business/Leisure/Travel/Conversation Mandarin Lessons
- Offer Pin-Yin and Phonics; Simplified and Traditional Mandarin characters
- Lessons are tailor-made to suit different levels from beginners to advanced Mandarin speaker
- You can choose to get trained in Listening, Speaking, Writing or Reading skills, or a combination of these four
- Deliver lessons in English-only, Mandarin-only, or a combination of English and Mandarin
- Devise different learning methods/ activities/ content for each individual learner to suit their own confidence, Mandarin abilities and learning targets/ motives.
- Encourage students to participate in their own learning process actively by creating an interactive and friendly learning environment.

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Personal Description:
I am a mature lady (60yo) with a 1st Class Electrical/Electronic Engineering Degree (B.Sc) and a Postgraduate Management qualification from Cambridge University. My own 'A' Levels were Biology, Maths and Physics with a particular focus on electronics. At University I studied Maths at degree level.

After working as an Engineer I changed career in my late 20s and moved into the world of Therapy and Healing. I trained in hypnotherapy and craniosacral therapy as well as Human Design. I have worked with young people utilising various modalities to help them gain confidence and choose careers/subjects that bring out the best in them. I studied for a time in a Rudolph Steiner environment so I appreciate the value of alternative approaches and Artistic therapies to educating young people. I was also a member of the Steiner Academy Appeals panel for some time in Hereford.

From 2009 to 2012 I worked in an Admin capacity for OFSTED travelling around Schools and Colleges up and down the SW of England. My particular area of responsibility was the safeguarding and protection of children.

In 2011 I attended an Introduction to Autism training with the HANDLE organisation as I increasingly meet young people struggling on the Autism spectrum so this topic is of particular interest to me. I would be able to help refer any child who needed more specialised care. Related to this I have also been studying Human Design which is an invaluable tool for understanding how unique we all are.

I have a non-verbal family member who I am very close to and have devoted much of the last decade to working with her and bringing out her latent ability to communicate in novel ways.

I am friendly, empathic and good with younger people. I listen and watch and adapt to each situation I meet. I endeavour to help bring out the best in people on all levels. I am offering a broad ranging expertise. I would say the help I really bring is an encouragement for the person to express who they uniquely are and to feel empowered to meet life in new ways.

I can travel to people's homes but I am allergic to cats and dogs so it may work better to hire 3rd party premises.

Teaching Experience:
I have successfully tutored Maths and Physics to High School students whilst living abroad in Canada and in the UK.

I work with a variety of ages and people from all walks of life and my skills are oriented to sensitive listening and increasing a person's confidence in themselves.

I CAN tutor Maths and Physics and Electronics but its not my forte these days to focus on this as I have not kept up with the GCSE requirements......

Tutoring Approach:
I work outside of my home in non-pet and non-smoker environments only at this time.
I ask the student to bring all relevant texts with them for the lesson.
If you also have past exam papers please also bring those..

I have recently reduced my rates in recognition of the economic climate. I am negotiable to an extent in cases of hardship so please feel free to enquire.

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Personal Description:
I provide one-to-one and group tuition via Skype or Zoom. Most students are very comfortable with this method of learning., I also travel to student's home's within a reasonable distance.

I am a very experienced teacher, head of faculty, head of sixth form, examiner and writer. I have recently worked for one of the major examination boards on the new specifications for both G.C.S. E. and A-Level.

During my career as a teacher I have taught English, philosophy and religious studies to Advanced level and English, history, religious studies, geography, and citizenship to G.C.S.E. I also specialise in developing study skills and examination techniques in a range of subjects. I have prepared VI form students for university and UCAS application, including Oxbridge, and acted as a mentor to new entrants to the teaching profession.

I am also a freelance writer specialising in education, social, religious and moral issues. I have written and designed e-learning resources for two international educational e-learning-platform providers.

Teaching Experience:
My teaching experience at Key Stage 3 & 4, G.C.S.E. and Advanced level has been extensive. I am an examiner for two major exam boards and have diverse experience of creating original teaching resources tailored to the needs of pupils both individuals and classes.

I have spent most of my career teaching across the ability and age range in 11-18 comprehensive schools although I have also taught in a Sixth Form College and the independent sector.

I have also been a part-time on-line tutor for one of the Oxford colleges and also tutor on-line. This has included online tuition for a premiership football academy!

I have served on several school boards of governors as a foundation, teacher and parent governor. I am currently Chair of Governors at a local primary school.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that the key to success for most pupils is to develop their skills and self-confidence to enhance their ability to successfully complete their examination by developing study skills and examination techniques.

My first session with a tutee and their parents is to establish their needs and goals. Together we draw up a plan of the work which we will pursue. This plan will be reviewed regularly and a progress report compiled.

Each of the subsequent sessions comprises of:
review of any homework set
review of any problems which have occurred that week
lesson on a topic previously decided upon

My primary aim is to help my tutees overcome any difficulties which they are having with their work and to help them to achieve their goals both in the short-term and the long term. Secondly, I aim to give my tutees confidence in their own abilities and to help them develop their skills necessary to succeed in their examinations.
Relevant homework is set as a means of reinforcing the development of skills since assessment and feedback procedures largely rely on this.

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Personal Description:
I'm a native English speaker (born and educated in America), currently a permanent UK resident. I've been working in schools for the past 21 years and tutoring for 13 years up to KS3. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree, as well as a TEFL certification. I also have specialised literacy training and experience, including dyslexia.

I have been tutoring for a circle of families for the past several years. They have all either moved away, or no longer need tuition, so I am lookin for new students.

I have a good rapport with the students I have worked with and am able to make learning fun!

In addition to tutoring, I am also available for application, CV and proof reading assistance.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked as a supply teacher, learning support assistant (special needs and behaviour difficulties), 1:1 literacy teacher and a tutor for the past 21 years in America, The Channel Islands and London.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that learning should be an enjoyable experience and try to keep my lessons lively and interactive. I welcome feedback from parents and caregivers, as I feel that family centred learning is important.

The first lesson will be to get to know the learner and make an assessment as to his/her strengths and weaknesses as well as their learning style. I can then tailor my lessons to suit.

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Personal Description:
When I was a boy I was taught by people who were larger-than-life characters who dominated the classroom. They made clear to us boys what was expected of us and that if we didn't make the effort we would simply not achieve the rewards.

As a teacher, I share the same ethos. I expect pupils to follow my lead and work to the best of their ability.

I spend a lot of time reading and thinking.

I think it was George Bernard Shaw who said that 2% of people think, 3% think they think and 95% would rather die than do any thinking at all!

Sadly, I think that over the last thirty years dumbing down and inflated grades have shown how accurate Shaw's assessment was.

I see my role as one of reversing the tide of apathy and mediocrity and encouraging pupils to value themselves as individuals each with unique potential.

I finally achieved my educational potential because I came to see intellectual growth as the only sure path to happiness and fulfilment.

Helping pupils reach the same understanding about their full intellectual potential is my vocation and the foundation on which I build all my one-to-one tuition relationships.

Teaching Experience:
After teaching in the UK Primary and Secondary sectors as well as managing English and History departments in three international schools overseas, I now devote my time exclusively to private tuition.

My experience includes 12 years teaching English and History to GCSE and A level in the UK secondary system and eight years teaching the same subjects to the same levels in international schools in Italy, Egypt and Kenya.

During this time I have always had a number of students on my books for home tuition to provide extra help in Primary, Secondary and University level subjects.

My English GCSE students last year all achieved A-C grades and my A level History student achieved an A (predicted C after Year 12) and is now at university. In previous years, my A level History students have never achieved less than a C and in 2014, I had a student who reached A* and is now studying the subject at Exeter University.

Tutoring Approach:
My experience has led me to believe that one-to-one tuition is the best way to educate pupils. It brings them to the realisation that the whole point of education really is to set us free. It's not easy for a student to discover this when confined every day in a class of 30 or more others! Learning to think independently as an individual, and to read and write fluently enables pupils to participate fully in society, to achieve their full potential and thereby become happy, confident adults. Once the student is enthused and inspired by a tutor to think for themselves there is only one way forward.

I like to encourage pupils to develop independent thinking and logical analysis. Too many schools are teaching the children WHAT to think when they should be teaching them HOW to think. Naturally, many pupils become disengaged and even some of the most talented are simply going through the motions rather than actually studying. This lack of motivation together with highly inflated grades means that many of our youngsters are leaving school with minimal reading and writing skills. Indeed, few now have the aptitude for doing much reading, thinking or writing at all.

I like to build up the student's confidence by establishing their strengths first. Thereafter I identify weaknesses and gauge the student's awareness of them and motivation to put them right. Above all, I encourage my students to read widely and with full concentration. My best students learn to read closely and publish their reviews on Amazon. Aside from the huge adrenaline run, the boost in confidence and proficiency students get from seeing their writing in print is awesome to behold!

To put it simply, when they're reading they start succeeding!

Homework set weekly by me will always involve reading, thinking and writing. My feedback will always concentrate on reinforcing the idea that the writing process never ends with the last full stop. I expect students to read back their work to ensure that their writing communicates their meaning clearly and fluently. Editing with the focus on making the right word choices, organising sentences with the words in the right order and structuring longer writing assignments into coherent paragraphs are all priorities schools are increasingly neglecting thereby greatly hindering the life chances of their pupils..

Once the student and I have agreed which areas need improvement we use lesson time to extend the student's competence and skills by undertaking thinking and written assignments that allow the student to develop these.

Weekly homework set will advance and reinforce the skills the student has been encouraged to bring to the lesson.

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Personal Description:
Very personable and hardworking.My teaching style can be the catered to the needs of each specific individual learner.
I also try to use humour to balance out the serious side of teaching, in order to develop a strong working relationship with the person(s) I am helping.
Teaching styles can and will include a variety of techniques, depending on the topic area at that time. I am comfortable working wth learners of all ages, and have worked with those from primary through to Adult learners.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught film and media at Knowsley community college for 13 years, and also taught communication studies in my final year at the colllege. Though it was mainly A level, I have also taught Btec units, and can teach gcse film and media studies, too. I have written one film book, and been published extensively with other journal articles for film and media topics - e.g. "Media Magazine" (English and Media centre) and "Splice" (Auteur publishing) film journal.

I have also more recently taught media at two pupIL referral units on merseyside, working with learners who are no longer suitable for mainstream education. Since 2015, I have been an examiner for A.S. film studies since 2015.
Since 2016, I have been a tutor in English, including working on on one with primary pupils (e.g. SATS exam prep, literacy and numeracy work) and also pupils studying foundation English/GCSE/igcse courses etc.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is to fulfill the potential academic ability of each student I work with, regardless of their starting point.
Though my approach is obviously a serious one, I can also ensure a light hearted tone when the time is right during any lesson, also. My significant teaching experience means I have applied a range of techniques, and methods of differentiation to get the best out of the learner.Clearly one to one teaching requires a different approach to that of one used when teaching over 20 plus learners.
My aim is to link the teaching the learning to the work the student is currently doing on their academic course, to ensure the the best outcomes for the learner, and build on the progress already being made. I always start by making contact with the teacher/tutor where relevant, and use this as a starting point before beginning my own tuition.

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Personal Description:
I'm a Clinical Psychologist with a doctorate in Clinical Psychology. My doctoral research used machine learning methods and a network approach to investigate treatment outcomes in psychological therapies for eating disorders, and this work has been published in a high-impact scientific journal.

I have experience and knowledge spanning multiple areas of psychology and human biology, including scientific writing, research design and planning, inferential statistics, and applying psychological theory to real-world practice. I am passionate about data-driven approaches to researching treatment outcomes and enjoy sharing this enthusiasm with the students I tutor and mentor.

I offer tutoring in human biology up to Highers/A-Level and Psychology up to Doctoral level. Whether you need support for your child in preparing for exams, help navigating undergraduate coursework and tricky statistics, or mentorship while writing your doctoral thesis, I would be delighted to help.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring since 2014, working with students of all ages and abilities. I am particularly experienced in supporting students with specific learning difficulties and other forms of neurodivergence, adapting my teaching style and pace to suit each individual's needs.

In addition to tutoring, I am experienced in providing mentorship to undergraduate and postgraduate students. This includes developing effective study skills, supporting dissertation and thesis planning and writing, and guiding aspiring psychologists through the application and interview process for the Clinical Psychology Doctorate (DClinPsy).

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is collaborative, structured, and tailored to the individual. I believe that effective learning happens when students feel supported, understood, and appropriately challenged. I take time to understand each student's goals, strengths, and areas for development so that sessions are purposeful and aligned with their needs.

Drawing on my background in psychology, I use evidence-based learning strategies to strengthen understanding, critical thinking, and long-term retention of material. I aim not only to help students master content but also to develop their confidence, independence, and academic skills.

I adapt my teaching style and pace depending on the student, whether that means breaking down complex statistical concepts into manageable steps, refining academic writing through structured feedback, or building exam technique through guided practice. For students with specific learning difficulties or neurodivergence, I incorporate strategies that support organisation, processing, and confidence.

Ultimately, my goal is to create a supportive and motivating learning environment where students feel empowered to ask questions, think critically, and reach their full potential.

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Personal Description:
I am a proactive, dedicated teacher hailing from Montpellier, southern France, with a passion for teaching. Based in the UK, I have worked across 3 continents in a variety of education institutions and universities in the last few years, and have always enjoyed making a difference in the learning experience of my students and tutees.

I completed a PhD in the Department of English and Comparative Literature at Goldsmiths, University of London, in 2018, and became an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (now Advance HE). I have gained relevant teaching skills, valuable insights and a solid experience in the UK and abroad both during and after my doctoral programme, and currently teach French language in the School of Modern Languages and Cultures at the University of Warwick.

I am involved in scholarship and have a huge academic interest in American and comparative literature. My research portfolio contains a dozen publications in peer-reviewed outlets, including Academia Letters, The European Journal of American Culture and The Literary Encyclopedia, and a research monograph about two writers from the Beat generation - Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg - published by Peter Lang in May 2022, which has been nominated this year for a BSA Book Award. I am currently working on a research project with Cambridge University Press on the Beat poet Allen Ginsberg.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked in a variety of high schools and higher education institutions, both in the UK and abroad, since 2009.
I taught as French Instructor at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis, USA, for 6 months, and as a French Language Assistant at Dunraven School and at Greenford High School in London (1 year in each).
I went on the work as an Associate Lecturer in the Department of English and Comparative Literature at Goldsmiths for 3 years, and as a Pre-Sessional Lecturer at the University of Southampton in the Academic Centre for International Students.
I also taught as an Assistant Professor in English at Istanbul Kültür University in Turkey for 18 months, and currently teach French in the School of Modern Languages and Cultures at the University of Warwick.

Tutoring Approach:
I view tutoring as a means to empower learners and facilitate knowledge acquisition. The student-centred approach with which I work is tailored to the specific needs of each individual learner - an approach I have used in my 1-2-1 private tuition for over 10 years, and in the different teaching appointments I have held so far as a French Language Assistant and as a university lecturer.
This personalised approach is forged with respect to the uniqueness of each individual profile and learning style, increasing the opportunity for success. My aim is not only to fulfil the learner's scholarly potential; it is also to foster his or her confidence in the language over the longer term by creating an awareness of its greater cultural significance.

I cater for all levels and needs, from A1 to C2 and from Y1 to Sixth Form and beyond, and have worked with children, teenagers, young adults and professionals. Over the years, I have achieved a good grasp of the educational challenges that students face in the UK at various stages of the curriculum. I have worked with various exam boards and am familiar with the current requirements of the GCSE, A-Level, I-GCSE, I-B as well as private school entrance exams.

Owing to my academic background, I am also very keen on developing an awareness of study skills and critical thinking in higher education.

The tuition is delivered either face-to-face, or via Zoom or any other online platform such as MS Teams or Skype. After listening to the learner's needs, which can be discussed through e-mail or on the phone, the tuition will start with an assessment of the learner's linguistic skills, which will enable me to identify a series of specific learning objectives and create an individualised road map towards the achievement of these objectives.

This road map will constitute our programme, and each tuition will cover a part of it. The sessions, based on dynamic exchange, will involve a series of engaging materials and resources carefully selected to meet the learning objectives. These materials, which include videoclips, podcasts, literary texts, translations, news articles, practice sheets or former exam papers, can also be edited or designed from scratch (such as homework or exercise sheets for example), in order to concentrate on a specific point, embed newly-won knowledge.

My private tuition in French covers all language skills, whether it is writing, listening, speaking through thematic conversation with a native speaker, building an ability to read texts in the target language with various degrees of complexity, or developing French cultural awareness - beyond the stereotypical.

A high level of service is maintained throughout the tuition delivery programme, and careful attention is given to the learning experience, which remains my top priority.

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Personal Description:
Dedicated educator qualified in the UK and Australia. Passionate about working with young and adult learners. Strong commitment to individual development of each student through fostering positive learning experiences. Effective communicator across cultures and age groups. Taught in Sydney, Australia, Krakow, Poland and London, UK.

Teaching Experience:
English as a Foreign Language teacher (2005 - current)

• Thoroughly, holistically and continuously analysing individual needs of every student and creating a learning programme to meet their needs
• Working with adults and young learners one-on-one and in groups
• Assisting students in integrating into the British culture by providing systematic practice of speaking in various social scenarios
• Consistently providing students with homework and extensive feedback on their speaking and writing skills

• Subjects:
- English for Specific Purposes (e.g. English for scientists, medical professionals, psychologists, educators, businessmen, accountants, geologists, UX designers, interior designers, engineers; marketing, branding, and HR professionals)
- ESOL - English + cultural integration
- General English
- Business English
- English for Academic Purposes
- IELTS General and Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- PTE Academic
- A2 Key exam (KET), B1 Preliminary exam (PET), B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency
- OET - Occupational English Test

• Teaching methods used:
Content-Based Instruction, the genre-based approach, Task-Based Language Teaching, Text-Based Instruction, Situational-Language teaching, the Audiolingual Method, Communicative Language Teaching, the Direct Method, and Total Physical Response

Academic writing and study skills tutor (2016 - current)

• how to structure: essays, reports, and presentations
• grammar, style, coherency and clarity of written work and presentations
• how to reference sources correctly
• how to make the most out of the writing cycle: first draft, research, proofreading, editing and seeking feedback
• time management and study skills strategies

English language tutor (2016 - current)

• Working with learners aged 5 - 16 years old one-on-one and in small groups
• Key Stage 1 (Year 1 and 2): phonics, reading comprehension, broadening vocabulary, writing skills, handwriting practice, communicating clearly
• Key Stage 2 (Year 3, Year 4, Year 5 and Year 6): writing stories, information reports, persuasive writing; practising a range of grammatical structures
• Key Stage 3 (Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9): engage with rich literary landscape; imagine stories and rely on facts to compose fictional and non-fictional texts
• Key Stage 4 (Year 10 and Year 11): practising recognising and effectively using a wide range of literary techniques
• The Perse Prep School Cambridge Year 3 (7+) Entrance Test preparation
• Year 3 (7+), Year 5 (9+), Year 6 (10+) and Year 7 (11+) - preparation for Entrance Examination - English
• Mentoring learners on how to build relationships with peers at school and how to work cooperatively with peers and teachers
• Updating parents on their child's progress

Art educator (2015 - current):

• Working with adults and young learners
• Drawing and painting techniques: portraiture, figurative, landscape, cityscape, and still life
• Experimenting with art genres: realism, impressionism, expressionism, surrealism, cubism, abstraction, conceptual art, minimalism and relational art
• Clay sculpture
• Watercolour, acrylic, oil, pencil, charcoal, ink and mixed media techniques
• Art history and theory
• GCSE Art and Design - exam preparation
• A Level Art and Design - exam preparation
• A-Level History of Art - exam preparation

Russian language tutor (2011 - current)
• Absolute beginners, intermediate and advanced level learners
• Lessons for adults and young learners: focus on speaking skills, memorisation skills, accurate pronunciation, reading comprehension and writing skills
• GCSE (9-1) Russian - exam preparation
• The Test of Russian as a Foreign Language - test preparation


English as a Foreign Language Instructor (January 2023 - current)
The University of Cambridge
• Classes for learners with beginner - advanced levels of English to practise speaking in work-related and personally-relevant situations

ESOL Teacher (February - March 2025)
Orchard Park Community Primary School
• Worked with adult learners to practise speaking skills in a range of social scenarios

EFL Teacher (February 2025)
GL-Abroad
• Taught English to learners aged 12 - 13 years old
• Incorporated Cambridge-related cultural knowledge in a gamified form

EFL Teacher (July - August 2019)
International House London, Ellesmere, UK
• Taught English and art to learners ages 8 - 16 using project-based learning

Casual/Relief Teacher (July 2017 - July 2018)
NSW Department of Education, Sydney, Australia
• Taught visual arts, English, history, geography, PE, drama
• Worked in primary and secondary schools

Classroom Teacher (October - December 2017)
Chatswood Intensive English Centre, Sydney, Australia
• Taught: art, English, ICT and music to students aged 12 - 18 years old

Russian Language Teacher
BigWorld Pty Ltd (August 2013 - September 2017)
• Taught classes to learners with beginner and intermediate levels of Russian

Tutoring Approach:
• Using visual and audio material to accelerate learning
• Catering for a diverse range of learning needs in an interactive way that promotes students' engagement
• Analysing individual needs of students and meticulously tailoring lesson plans to address these needs
• Consistently providing students with homework and extensive feedback
• Assisting students in their careers

One-on-one lessons

30 minutes (under 8 y.o.): £25; 5 lessons: £115 | 10 lessons: £225
45 minutes: £35 | 5 lessons: £165 | 10 lessons: £315
60 minutes: £45 | 5 lessons: £210 | 10 lessons: £400
90 minutes: £60 | 5 lessons: £285 | 10 lessons: £540
120 minutes: £80 | 5 lessons: £380 | 10 lessons: £720

Please, enquire about group lessons as the rate will depend on the number of students in the group, on the location of classes, and on learning objectives of the group.

Lessons with 2 or 3 learners are also possible, please enquire.

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Personal Description:
Hello and thank you for taking the time to read my profile. My name is Dr. Alisdair and I am a part time tutor with with eighteen years experience teaching psychology and research methods & statistics. I am currently the Head of Psychology at one of the top online schools. Developing and enhancing a student's learning experience is something I am passionate about. To achieve this, I employ a patient approach to tutoring, ensuring that students have an enjoyable, challenging and interesting experience. My teaching style relies on honesty, dedication and transparency. I aim to offer you a bespoke tutoring service that meets your requirements, be it face to face, or via online technology.

Studying and tutoring for many years has given me experience in realising the pressures that students face, and I'm able to use my awareness and knowledge to motivate learners. I have a real appreciation for how people learn and are able to adapt my teaching to different learning styles. I try to make lessons informative and fun, ensuring that the student takes an active part in the lesson. I feel my academic experience has given me the necessary skills to help students reach their full academic ability.

Teaching Experience:
One of my subjects of expertise is psychology. Having studied, researched and taught/tutored psychology to numerous students, I am well placed to help you with assignments, exams and general course content in all areas of the subject, including; cognitive, social, developmental, research methods and more. Whether you are studying for a degree or beginning your journey into psychology at GCSE or A-Level, I can help you to get to grips with this fascinating subject.

My other main area of expertise is in research methods/statistics. Since 2006 I have provided support to individuals from a range of backgrounds, including students studying social sciences, life sciences and humanities. My experience extends to helping employees with their data analysis. If you are struggling to interpret your analysis, or need help using SPSS, or if you want to understand more about statistics then please do get in touch.

If you would like support with learning English as a second language (ESL) then I can help you. Please do contact me if you would like to practise speaking or are having difficulty reading and writing in English. I can support you with vocabulary comprehension and word meanings for example.

I have experience in tutoring students with assisted learning needs, including; Asperger syndrome, dyslexia and dyspraxia. My one to one teaching experience extends to the supervision of final year undergraduates and Masters students, therefore I have coherently supported and guided students through empirical projects, improving skills such as literature search & review, analysis and scientific writing.

Qualifications:
My first degree was in psychology (BSc Hons). I then went on to complete a Masters (MRes) in psychological methods, followed by a PhD in psychology/cognitive neuroscience. I also obtained a 'Teach English as a foreign language' (TEFL) certificate.

Awards:
Excellence in Teaching - Awarded by Bournemouth University in 2013.

Feedback:
Below are some examples of student and parent feedback that I have received across various sites:

Lisa (Lily) 5/5
Alisdair was an amazing Tutor for my daughter. Her A Level tutor went on sick leave the term before her A Level exam, and after an initial couple of one to one meetings, we settled upon a series of Skype tutorials which were brilliant. Alisdair would send key exam questions for my daughter to do prior to the Skype tutorial, and she would send them back to him to mark before their tutorial. The system was so engaging and efficient that she went from a grade D in her mock A-Level to a grade A in her actual A-Level exam. Alisdair is flexible, personable and very effective. I would totally recommend his services.

Michelle (Sammy) 5/5
An excellent tutor - patient, kind, encouraging, and well organised with great resources. We used Alisdair`s services both for one to one sessions and online in the run-up to my daughter`s A-levels when she experienced a pre-exam confidence crisis. She found him to be an effective and empathetic tutor, with an obvious enthusiasm for his subject. We really appreciated Alisdair`s experience, which enabled him to work out how best to support my daughter and get her back on track. Alisdair was incredibly helpful, and very flexible in his scheduling of sessions. A`levels are now over, and I am sure that Alisdair`s help made a huge difference. Highly recommended!

Jeremy 5/5
Alisdair helped me with my final major project, both with the statistics, and academic writing. I was very happy to achieve a first for the project and I can`t thank him enough for his help. I learned a lot with his tutoring and improved my understanding of statistics and my academic writing. I now feel more confident going into my Msc next September. He was very fast at responding to my questions and emails and was always very positive and helpful.

Nicki 5/5
I've had the pleasure of knowing Alisdair for over a year, during which time he tutored me with my undergraduate psychology degree. Above all, he has excellent subject knowledge along with the ability to convey complex information in a simple and easy to understand manner. He made light work of SPSS and report writing as well as guiding me to a deeper understanding of psychological concepts. Alisdair's friendly personality immediately put me at ease and he knew the correct level of challenge to ensure that I gained a good grade for my dissertation. I cannot thank him enough! He is a truly talented tutor - smart, efficient, professional, and comes with my heartfelt recommendation.

Mark 5/5
Alisdair is an exceedingly knowledgeable, friendly and patient tutor who responds promptly and with amazing clarity on even the most complicated of SPSS issues. He has a great understanding of the planning and organisational problems associated with dyspraxia, and was of enormous help to my son during his MSc project, keeping him calm and giving advice where needed. I only wish we had discovered him earlier! My son has achieved a Distinction at Masters level, and without Alisdair's reassuring and friendly discussions I don't think he would have managed to even finish his project. I would recommend Alisdair highly as a tutor.

Maha 5/5
The best tutor ever, he makes everything so clear and he trying his best to make sure I understood what we had in the session and clearly he is so kind as person and tutor!

Tutoring Approach:
Other services:
If you require help with developing your study skills, including; revision techniques, essay planning, critical thinking and more, then I can help you to hone your study skills set. In addition, feel free to contact me if you would like your work to be proofread. I will check your document to ensure the spelling and grammar is watertight. If you need me to, I can provide you with comments using track changes with suggestions/edits to improve the quality of the document, for example, the structure, scientific standard and whether you have answered the assignment question. Having published numerous scientific articles, I appreciate and understand the need for precision in the preparation of your work, therefore I'd be happy to help you with things such as APA formatting and preparing a manuscript for publication. Please take a look at the tasks I can help you with below.

Examples of tasks I can help you with:
Understanding concepts/theories/studies
GCSE/A-Level exam technique
GCSE/A-Level homework
Revision techniques
Critical thinking/reading/writing
Essay planning / editing
Report planning / editing / suggestions for improvement
Presentation planning
Dissertation/thesis planning/editing/suggestions for improvement
Preparing manuscripts for publication
Literature search/review
Help with systematic reviews/Meta analysis
Experimental design
Data analysis/selecting appropriate tests/interpretation/reporting analysis
Using SPSS/JASP
Figures and tables
Addressing Reviewer's and Editor's comments
Proofreading
APA formatting / referencing
ESL

Other details:
I also offer tuition via Skype, Zoom and e-mail for those students who do not want to meet in person, or live far away. Therefore I can fully explain any concepts, ideas or subject content that you need help with, and give verbal and written help with assignments and exam prep online.
A-Level exam boards I have tutored students on include; AQA, OCR and CIE. I have many resources, including; mind-maps, evaluation sheets, research study summaries, past exam papers, quizzes and more.
Please enquire directly to me about availability, do not go by tutoring website calendars.
Lessons cancelled less than 12 hours before the scheduled start time will incur a 50% charge, as will no-shows.
Student/parents will be asked to cover travel expenses/time for travel costs if lessons are to take place at the student's home or public place. It is £5 if you need me to travel up to 8 miles away, then 50p for any additional mile over that.
Group sessions (up to 3 students) can be arranged also, please enquire.

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Personal Description:
I live in Edinburgh with my husband, two sons and our dog. I have had a varied career path, starting as an English Language teacher working in Italy, London and Edinburgh for ten years. In my early thirties I decided to start working as a theatre director and moved to combine EFL teaching with theatre work. Since 2005 I have also worked as a university teacher and have developed a strong skill-set in study skills teaching.
I enjoy reading, hill walking and gardening and home cooking.

Teaching Experience:
I am a highly experienced teacher and have worked in education for over twenty-five years. I have worked part-time as a university lecturer for fifteen years across undergraduate and post-graduate programmes and have particular skill in developing students' study skills and supporting reading and writing development. I can tutor students across a range of arts and humanities subjects to develop the skills they need to succeed at university.

I also have experience in teaching English as a Foreign Language to all levels from Begnner to Advanced levels including preparation for Cambridge exams and IELTS.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a friendly and reassuring tutor and I really enjoy getting to know my students and taking time to ensure that they feel comfortable and clear with what they are learning.
I am highly organised and punctual and like to be well-prepared for the sessions I deliver to ensure students get the most out of our time together. I usually set independent work between sessions and mark prior to a session so no time is wasted. I am happy to teach students in my home or at their home.

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Personal Description:
Hi everyone!

My name is Ceri (pronounced Kerry) and I'm a British teacher with 15+ years of teaching/tutoring/examiner experience.

My main specialism is supporting A Level students with Psychology, specifically exam preparation/research methods support for the following exam boards: AQA, Cambridge, OCR, Pearson Edexcel and WJEC.

I hold a BSc honors in Social Sciences, a Master's in Psychology, a PGCE in Social Sciences and a 220 hour TESOL certificate.

In addition to supporting students with Psychology, I can also support with other Social Sciences, Health and Social Care and English as a Foreign Language courses.

I have a consistent track record of supporting students with a 100% pass rate of A*- B (or equivalent). I am patient and sensitive to learning barriers so get in touch and we can reach your goals together!

Teaching Experience:
8+ years experience teaching A Level Psychology in schools and colleges/tutoring (specialising in exam preparation/research methods).

8+ years experience teaching A Level and BTEC Level 1/2/3 Health and Social Care in schools and colleges.

7+ years experience as a Personal Tutor responsible for Study Skills and UCAS applications in schools and colleges.

4+ years experience as an Online English Language tutor for EAL students (Business English specialism - Adults (A2-C1)/Children age 4-18 (pre-entry to level 6)

Tutoring Approach:
I have a flexible tutoring style and always put my students first by designing sessions that meet their needs and learning style.

I always offer a free/optional "get to know each other session" before we start our paid sessions.

In this session students can tell me their goals, strengths, weaknesses and types of activities they like so that I can adapt to ensure they get the results they want!

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Personal Description:
I am a very confidential and passionate person in the field of business and innovation. My motive is to build a perfect self full of practical experience with a motivating factor for a career achievement.
I am a current student of BA(Hons) Entrepreneurship and Innovation in University of Northampton.

Teaching Experience:
I have an online teaching experience of 1 years online for students motivating them to progress their career in a practical way.
Self started tutor helping students to gain practical experience in the business sector.

Tutoring Approach:
My main motive is to help students motivated and gain practical skills with experience for their career excellence.
Learning should be fun and interesting 🤘

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Personal Description:
I am a compassionate and dedicated individual with a strong drive to support and empower young people, especially those facing educational challenges. My personality is warm, patient, and approachable, which helps me build rapport and trust with children and young adults alike. I pride myself on my creativity, always thinking outside the box to make learning engaging and relevant. I am flexible, proactive, and committed to going the extra mile to help my learners reach their full potential.

In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities like gardening and caring for animals. I also love exploring creative pursuits such as cooking and crafting, which I often incorporate into my teaching to make learning practical and hands-on. Additionally, I have a passion for classic games like Upwords, Cribbage, and Sudoku, which challenge my mind and help me relax. Spending quality time with my family and my pets brings me great joy, and I find fulfilment in making a positive impact in my community.

Teaching Experience:
I approach my role with a high degree of flexibility and adaptability, understanding that each child or client has unique needs, preferences, and circumstances that can change over time. In working with young people, especially those with additional needs, I have found that being responsive and adaptable is key to creating a supportive and effective learning environment.

I tailor my approach to each individual, adjusting my teaching and mentoring methods based on their strengths, challenges, and moods. For example, with children who may become overwhelmed or anxious, I am prepared to adjust the pace or format of activities and introduce calming or sensory-friendly strategies. When working with children who have ADHD or other attention challenges, I incorporate active breaks or hands-on tasks to keep them engaged and focused.

In addition to adapting to the needs of the child, I also remain flexible with parents and clients, accommodating scheduling changes or shifts in focus as needed to best support the child's overall development. My ability to adapt has proven essential in supporting each young person as they progress, ensuring they have the stability, encouragement, and responsiveness they need to succeed.

Overall, my flexibility allows me to meet each child and client where they are, creating a responsive and personalized approach that promotes both comfort and growth.

I have extensive experience working with children who have a range of Special Educational Needs (SEN), including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), ADHD, dyslexia, Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges, and other complex needs. My approach is grounded in patience, empathy, and adaptability, allowing me to connect with each child in a way that respects their individual learning style and pace.

With children on the autism spectrum, I focus on creating a predictable and supportive environment that reduces anxiety and enhances engagement. I use visual aids, structured routines, and sensory-friendly strategies to help them feel comfortable and supported. For those with ADHD, I incorporate short, engaging tasks and active breaks to aid focus and reduce frustration. My goal is to make learning feel dynamic and manageable, fostering a sense of accomplishment and motivation.

When working with students with dyslexia, I employ multi-sensory approaches and tailored resources that help them process information more effectively, with a focus on building confidence in reading and writing. For children with SEMH needs, I prioritize creating a safe space where they feel heard, validated, and supported in managing their emotions. I incorporate therapeutic activities and life skills training to help them develop resilience, self-regulation, and positive coping strategies.

Throughout my work with SEN children, I adapt my teaching and mentoring approaches to meet each child's specific requirements, helping them build not only academic skills but also essential life skills. I am passionate about supporting these young people to reach their full potential, whatever their starting point or challenges.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that building and maintaining effective working relationships is essential for creating a supportive and collaborative environment, whether with colleagues, children, clients, or parents.

In my work, I prioritise open communication, empathy, and mutual respect. With colleagues, I strive to be a reliable team player who values others' insights and expertise. I actively contribute to shared goals and offer support whenever needed, recognizing that each team member brings unique skills and perspectives. Collaboration allows us to create a more cohesive approach to supporting children, especially those with complex needs, where consistency is key.

When working with children, I focus on building trust and rapport by being approachable, patient, and respectful of each child's unique personality and needs. I create a safe space where they feel valued and supported, which helps them engage more openly and confidently. This foundation of trust not only enhances learning but also fosters their emotional growth.

With clients, I aim to establish strong professional relationships grounded in transparency and reliability. I communicate openly about goals, challenges, and progress to ensure we are aligned in supporting the child's development. This includes sharing insights and receiving feedback, so we can work together toward meaningful outcomes.

For relationships with parents, I recognize the importance of collaboration and trust. I am open and communicative, keeping them informed of their child's progress and any challenges, while also being receptive to their input and concerns. This partnership allows us to work as a team, ensuring the child's needs are met both at home and during sessions.

In all my interactions, I am committed to fostering positive relationships that promote collaboration, growth, and well-being for the children and families I support.

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Personal Description:
I'm an art & craft design tutor with a passion for keeping traditional techniques alive while blending them with contemporary creativity. With 9 years of experience in textiles and craftsmanship, I specialize in Indian handwork such as chikankari, zardosi, aari embroidery, kalamkari, bobbin lace, carpets, and rugs.

As a tutor, my goal is to share skills, inspire creativity, and encourage hands-on learning. Whether it's teaching intricate stitches, design concepts, or craft-based storytelling, I love guiding learners of all levels to explore their artistic potential.

For me, art and craft are not just skills - they're a journey of patience, culture, and self-expression.

Teaching Experience:
Over the years, I have had the privilege of teaching art, craft, and textile design to learners from different age groups and backgrounds. With 9 years of professional experience in textiles and craftsmanship, I bring both practical industry knowledge and hands-on artisan skills into my teaching.

I have conducted workshops, training sessions, and one-on-one mentorships that focus on:
• Traditional Indian crafts like chikankari, zardosi, aari work, kalamkari, and bobbin lace
• Textile techniques including carpet weaving and rug design
• Creative design development, material exploration, and storytelling through craft

My teaching style is interactive, patient, and process-oriented. I believe every student should not only learn a technique but also understand its cultural heritage, design value, and potential for innovation.

What excites me most about teaching is watching learners gain confidence, skill, and creative freedom while connecting deeply with handmade traditions.

Tutoring Approach:
As a tutor, my focus is on creating a balanced learning experience that combines technical skill, creative freedom, and cultural understanding.

✨ Hands-on learning - I believe the best way to learn crafts and design is by doing. Every session includes practical exploration with materials, tools, and techniques.

✨ Personalized guidance - Each learner has a unique pace and style. I adapt my teaching to individual strengths, encouraging both beginners and advanced learners to grow with confidence.

✨ Connecting tradition & innovation - I emphasize the heritage of crafts like chikankari, zardosi, aari, kalamkari, and weaving, while also showing how these techniques can be reimagined for modern design.

✨ Process over perfection - Craft is a journey of patience and practice. I guide students to enjoy the process, experiment fearlessly, and develop their own artistic voice.

✨ Creative mindset - Beyond skills, I nurture curiosity, problem-solving, and storytelling through design - helping learners see craft as both an art form and a career path.

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Personal Description:
Hello. I am Harjot, a specialist Mathematics, Aptitude and Critical Thinking coach. I focus entirely on preparing candidates for high-stakes, timed exams where rapid calculation, spatial logic and speed strategy make the difference between passing and failing. Having personally cleared 12 elite competitive exams, served as a Government Bank Manager and worked as an engineer, I know exactly what it takes to beat the clock under intense pressure. With over 10+ years of teaching experience, I bridge the gap between abstract mathematical concepts and practical, real world execution.

Teaching Experience:
I bring a wealth of diverse academic and professional teaching experience. I have served as a University Lecturer, delivering structured, high-yield quantitative principles to advanced students. In my 10+ years of teaching experience, I have successfully guided students across multiple specific streams: standard school excellence (11+ Grammar, GCSE and A-Level Maths), Armed forces entrance filters (Royal Navy/Royal Marines DAA, RAF CBAT and Army AOSB) and high-tier professional screenings (UK Civil Service Fast Stream, UCAT reasoning subtests, Arctic Shores Assessment and corporate graduate scheme psychometric testing).

Tutoring Approach:
My approach eliminates slow, traditional, long-form formulas. Instead, I focus on equipping you with powerful non-calculator shortcuts, rapid mental arithmetic tactics, and systematic elimination frameworks. We don't just study the material-we study the exam architecture itself. Your first 30-minute trial session is entirely free. During this time, we will evaluate your baseline speed, target your specific exam board or assessment constraints and construct a personalized, step-by-step roadmap to achieve maximum marks in minimum time.

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