Mill Hill Study Skills Tutors and Mill Hill Study Skills Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified teacher with Cambridge MA, PGCE & DELTA, with 30 years' experience of teaching in a variety of contexts including general secondary school English and Drama, GCSE, A Level, IB, and tuition at university and postgraduate level, including assistance with theses and similar.
I have considerable experience of TEFL/TOEFL and a successful record in teaching Cambridge FCE, CPE, etc as well as Business English classes for non-native professionals.
I recently returned to the UK from Spain for family reasons and I am new to the York area. I'm taking time out for a while to write that elusive million-seller or sitcom! Meanwhile I am a member of SfEP and work part time as a professional proofreader and copy editor. I am very happy to help groups or individuals with their academic needs.

Teaching Experience:
15 years in all key stages of secondary school education in England.
5 years Adult Education, TEFL and private tuition in the UK.
10 years teaching a British curriculum in an international secondary school in Spain at all key stages incl. GCSE, A Level and IB.
Group and individual EFL classes for children and adults, including Business English for professionals and TOEFL in an American-affiliated college.
I have an excellent record of success in preparing students for English and Drama exams - GCSE, A Level, International Baccalaureat and beyond - as well as for Cambridge First Certificate, Advanced and Proficiency in English.
Amongst other notables, I was employed as personal tutor to the actress Rebecca Hall as a child and also to one of Tony Blair's sons!

Tutoring Approach:
I believe in a supportive approach and a friendly relationship, but without forgetting it's work: you're paying me because I can improve your (or your children's) future prospects.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a qualified Science teacher with over 10 years of classroom experience and 18+ years of tutoring expertise, specialising in KS3 and KS4. I have also successfully supported learners across KS1, KS2, KS5 and adult education. With a BSc (Hons) in Pharmacology and an MSc in Educational Leadership and Management, I deliver clear, engaging and results-focused lessons that build confidence and secure excellent progress. My scientific background enriches my teaching, enabling students to grasp complex concepts with ease and apply them effectively in exams.

Teaching Experience:
I am a former AQA GCSE examiner for Biology, Chemistry and Physics, with experience marking live examination papers and applying grade boundary criteria accurately and consistently.

I have over 8 years of classroom teaching experience, including 6 years in inner-city secondary schools and 2 years in a specialist SEN provision, where I successfully supported learners with dyslexia, autism and challenging behaviour. My expertise is strongly rooted in KS3 and KS4 Science, delivering both Combined Science and Triple Science pathways across Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

I have planned and delivered high-quality, curriculum-aligned lessons informed by QCA guidance at Key Stage 3, and have taught GCSE content across multiple examination boards, including AQA, Edexcel, WJEC and OCR. I have also written and adapted schemes of work, assessment materials and differentiated learning resources to ensure full compliance with the latest curriculum reforms and to support pupils in achieving strong outcomes.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching philosophy is centred on identifying each learner's starting point, pinpointing areas for development, and transforming those weaknesses into strengths over time. I am a strong advocate of personalised learning, and I create bespoke resources-including concise educational videos, mind maps, and simplified flashcards-to make complex concepts accessible and memorable.

I take a diagnostic and adaptive approach during the first week to determine which learning methods best suit the student. Based on these insights, I design a tailored progress plan that includes clear goals, appropriate pacing, and systematic progress tracking. My aim is not only to enhance subject knowledge but also to unlock confidence, resilience, and independent learning skills.

For students with limited time before an exam, I adapt this approach into a focused, accelerated programme that prioritises high-impact topics, targeted revision strategies, and exam-style practice, ensuring they make rapid, measurable progress and feel fully prepared within the time available.

Subjects

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
Professionally qualified (DfES number RP 04/31188).

I am a musician, qualified primary teacher (QTS) with a Master's degree in Education, Pets As Therapy volunteer, founder and facilitator at Meta for learning CIC.

My interests in education are in Open Learning, Outdoor Learning, Animal Assisted interventions, Blended learning and helping learners build international links.


As part of a distance-learning Masters degree in association with FUNIBER and the Universidad de León, I carried out an ethnographic action research project using a democratic approach called Community Language Learning. In this approach there is no syllabus or textbook to follow. It is the learners themselves who determine the content by means of meaningful conversations.
It incorporates translation, transcription and recording techniques.

When I am not working I love volunteering, practising ice skating or track cycling with my daughter and also growing an edible garden !

Teaching Experience:
I was born in Madrid where I trained as a primary teacher and classical musician (cello and chamber music).

I worked in Escuelas de Musica in the outskirts of Madrid which are inclusive socially-minded music schools where I taught cello lessons and support the development of the String Department by assisting during orchestra rehearsals. Both adults and children of all ages are welcome to take lessons.

Shortly after moving to the UK I started a part time job teaching Music to 5-7 yo children at the Rowans Prep school in Wimbledon alongside studying a Mater's and working in Adult education- I carried out a 2-year ethnographic action research project at St Luke's centre in Islinghton.

I then applied to a position in Esadst London and started working for Children's language services teaching at several primary schools in Tower Hamlets. My roles were to deliver the MFL primary curriculum; coordinate the implementation of new initiatives in schools ie use of the European Portfolio for language Learning which was being developed between the Council and universities, provide class teachers with CPD training; undertake tasks such as EAL First Language assessments.

After taking maternative leave I trained to become an online tutor and worked part- time for Own Tutors, Clapham.

In 2019 I founded a learning community Metaforlearning Cic where I run Self-Manage Learning programmes for young people.

In my tutoring work I am reliable, flexible and experienced. I have been working in the UK, Ireland and Spain and have experience in exam preparation for the Spanish internationally recognised DELE junior and DELE for adults; Spanish GCSE, IGCSE, Spanish A-LEVELS with AQA, OCR and EDEXCEL exam boards; and IB ab initio and Language B international qualifications. In the past I have prepared young cellists for 1-8 ABRSM performance grades.

Tutoring Approach:
Students set their own learning goals and I assist them in order to map the neccesary learning to achieve them and also by working at the level that they feel comfortable with at each stage of the process.

With young learners I make use of VR, AR and gamification for enhancing engagement in language learning.

If your enquiry is regarding learning for either improving wellbeing, traveling or living in a Spanish speaking country then we will be looking at different learning objetives and skills than for example an enquiry regarding accessing an university of your choice.

I have wide experience supporting international students in understanding and preparing to access Universities in the UK.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Coupled with considerable experience of working in top business universities, as a Professor I presently hold a visiting professorship with Buckingham University. This integrates predominantly working with Masters and PhD students as a lecturer, tutor, assessor and mentor. This is supplemented with wide knowledge of awarding bodies through my role as a principal examiner with the CQI. My f/t role incorporates as Head of Continuous Improvement for the NPS. A highly qualified trainer/lecturer with a PGCE, assessor awards, post graduate diploma and advanced skills trainer status. I also possess a MBA and a PhD in Lean from Aston University. I am also a Master Blackbelt and possess senior project management qualifications./experience. I have held senior positions in education and industry within the field of Learning and Development with an excess of thirty years experience. My present part-time roles; namely a principal examiner for the "Chartered Quality Institute" - a global authority in this field - coupled with visiting lectureship with Buckingham University maintains my professional knowledge and skills. I am continuing my cutting edge research and professional development reflected to date by articles published in internationally renowned journals; invitations to present at thirteen international conferences as a key-note speaker and am working on my third book depicting an elevated degree of communicational expertise.

Teaching Experience:
• Head of Continuous Improvement; Probation Service
As "Head of Continuous Improvement" for the Probation Service, my role primarily involves managing the organisation towards a greater maturity level in continuous improvement. This includes supporting the change management teams to ensure resource is focussed in those areas requiring most backing to achieve the transformational vision. I run and maintain externally accredited programmes.
• Quality Assurance Manager; April 2005 - Present; NOMS Civil Service College - Rugby;
Chief scrutinizer of all learning packages to authorise their application within the Service; Internal verifier aiding areas towards awarding body accreditations, i.e., CMI, ILM and CIPD; Lecture on selective externally accredited programmes ranging from levels III to VII for staff
• Buckingham University
Visiting lectureship; co-supervisor for Doctoral students which includes advice and guidance on all aspects of their learning journey to completion. This integrates guiding them on choosing the appropriate theoretical frameworks, undertaking data capture aptly and offering advice on research modules which includes undertaking lecturing, tutoring; marking and consultancy work as and when appropriate. Main work involves dissertation at MBA and PhD thesis (ensuring literature reviews, methodologies, conceptual frameworks, analysis (as a Master Back belt) and having seen over eight candidates to completion at PhD, am fully familiar with the broad requirements. At MBA the modules I have worked with over 40 students on are: Managerial Economics, Marketing Management, Organisational Behaviour, Corporate Finance, Corporate Innovation and Intrapreneurship, Creating and sustaining value and Strategic management. The main work has involved supporting the MBA students with their dissertations.
• Chartered Quality Institute
Devise assessments, marking and moderation policies for under and post-graduate modules
• Staffordshire University Regional Federation - Stoke
Senior Management Lecturer and Advanced Skills Lecturer and Module Leader July 2000 - April 2005
Wrote, lectured and assessed programmes to under and post-graduate students
Dissertation tutor and managed college accreditation to CIMA, CMI and CIPS programmes
Senior NVQ assessor and internal verifier on management NVQs run by Stoke College
• Burton College 1997- 2000; P/t lecturer on management courses ranging from levels III to VII
• 2005 -2022 - Freelance Private tutor in spare time on areas identified; have tutored from GCSE to students undertaking PhD programmes. Specialise in helping MBA students too.

Tutoring Approach:
I have substantial experience of one - to- one teaching, coaching and mentoring students and managers in a work environment.
Most of my recent projects have concentrated on masters students and in particular MBAs. The end goal of the candidate is always paramount, i.e., if preparing them for an exam the subject knowledge and familiarity of past papers is imperative. My approach incorporates determining the learning style, ability and time available with the learner; this can range from a very methodical style, i.e., provide knowledge and then re-cap to a more fluid approach if favoured by the candidate.
The time spent with the candidates should be used effectively and leave home-work for periods between sessions ensuring learning is reinforced. Since 2005 I have substantive experience of Private tutoring in my spare time on areas identified; have tutored to a level of students ranging from GCSEs to those undertaking PhDs. Most of the work is done via Teams or Zoom to reduce the time commitments whilst aiding the flexibility levels.

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

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

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi! I'm an Oxford graduate with a 2:1 in English Language and Literature. I graduated in 2013 and went on to study an MSc in Psychology at Oxford Brookes, in which I achieved a distinction. I am now a published author, and split my time between writing novels and tutoring. Tutoring has always appealed to me as a rewarding way to put the skills that I learnt during my degree and masters to good use. Reading English at Oxford honed my critical thinking, analytical abilities and study skills, while my masters gave me experience in data analysis and conducting research. My day job as an author has also deepened my understanding of how to write effectively. I enjoy tutoring others and helping them to develop these skills too! In my spare time, I like to read and play boardgames. I'm highly experienced in teaching both in person and via Zoom, Skype and Teams. As well as tutoring, I also specialise in editing, copy-editing and proofreading academic essays, job applications and CVs, and articles. I offer creative writing coaching to writers of all ages.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring for over ten years and have worked with lots of students of all ages. Many of my students have worked with me through the transition from primary to secondary school, or through their GCSEs and on into their A Levels. I am particularly experienced in helping students to prepare for secondary school entrance exams, GCSEs, and A Levels.

I successfully completed an assessment for the selective tutoring agency Blue Tutors. During the assessment I had to demonstrate my tutoring ability to a trained assessor, who described my communication skills as 'excellent'.

In my final term at Oxford, I volunteered with Schools Plus, a program which runs after school tuition sessions for struggling students in areas of economic disadvantage. I spent half a term working with GCSE English students, tutoring them on an individual basis in the run up to their January modules. As part of the selection process for the program, I also attended tutoring training.

When I was in the 6th form (in 2009), I also volunteered as a classroom assistant in my school. I was working with students who were having difficulty with essay-based subjects like History and English. I worked with two students in their History classes, helping them to understand the work they were set in class and working through it with them. I had to use my knowledge of French to help one student who had not yet learnt to speak fluent English, translating the teacher's instructions for her and helping her with words she did not understand. Between 2009-10, I helped to run two after-school classes for Key Stage 2 pupils, one in Literacy and Art and another in Drama. This involved planning and delivering lessons to classes of about 5-10 children, and keeping them engaged with the topics they were learning through activities designed to both teach and entertain.

Tutoring Approach:
My experience of tutoring has shown me the importance of patience and respect in teaching. Especially in essay-based subjects, it is crucial that a teacher allows their pupils space to develop their own ideas, and respects their independent thought. Learning by rote has only limited usefulness: the best way to excel at a subject is to understand it, so I always explain concepts as fully as possible and move at the tutee's pace, making sure that they have properly grasped each concept or issue before moving on to the next. My Schools Plus training emphasised the idea that the goal of tutoring is to help a student to help themselves, enabling them to tackle problems rather than solving things for them. I think that this is fantastic advice, and it is a rule which I always try to bear in mind when tutoring.

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Personal Description:
A computer science graduate and former software engineer that got out of the 'rat-race' in 2001 to develop my own coaching business. In addition to business and personal success coaching I also run a very successful Academy teaching martial arts, self protection, and personal development to students of all ages based in my home town of Dursley in Gloucestershire.

I also teach photography, I have a distinction from the Royal Photographic Society, and spend much of my working time as a professional photographer too, focused mainly on teaching others, both individuals and group workshops.

Teaching Experience:
General:
In my former career as a software developer I was also responsible for writing technical documentation and running training courses worldwide. I'm very comfortable with planning, organising and delivering courses up to a very high standard.

Personal Success / Life Coaching

Having successfully escaped the rat-race to pursue my own goals it's fair to say I've learned a lot about personal development. I now share this experience with a number of private clients for success coaching / personal development and business coaching to help them with motivation, goals and productivity in their own careers.

I've completed a number of courses and seminars with world-class coaches such as Anthony Robbins and I am an accredited Elite Performance Coach, specialising in coaching individuals to help them achieve their maximum potential in achieving their personal, academic or career related goals.


Photography:

As a photographer I have been teaching now for more than ten years, I teach individuals from complete novices right up to those with aspirations of Royal Society distinctions. Indeed a number of my students have been awarded distinctions from the RPS. I also teach workshop sessions and presentations to groups, camera clubs / societies etc.

Martial Arts/Self Defence:

I'm a high-ranking martial arts instructor (6th degree black belt with nearly 40 years experience) and have been teaching now for around 30 years.

At my school in Dursley I have students of all ages from five years up to those in their sixties's. I teach courses and seminars to groups of all sizes. I've taught in schools, worked with police and youth groups etc. I often teach private lessons to individuals, both from my own school and those with no prior experience. It goes without saying that I have a current DBS, first aid and am fully insured. I can offer 1-1 coaching in person or online consulting to school owners, or motivation/mindset for those looking to take their training to the next level.

I have a current DBS (CRB) check and can provide references relating to all aspects of my coaching.

Tutoring Approach:
Friendly, informal and always tailored to the specific needs of the individual.

Happy to chat about your individual requirements prior to booking so please get in touch with any questions :-)

If you're looking for photography, business or personal development coaching I'm happy to chat on the phone, skype or obviously to meet in person (I do charge travelling if you're not coming to me).

Self defence coaching obviously needs to be in person, and there are minimum training requirements to ensure we can cover enough basic skills. Please note the rates listed on here are for individual one-to-one coaching only, but please get in touch if you're interested in discussing group seminars/workshops etc.

When teaching from home my minimum booking is 1h. For any booking on-site at your location I have a minimum booking of 2 hours, plus travelling charged at 50p/mile pre-agreed based on google maps.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Human Resource and Human Resource Management are the area of my expertise and this is something I am very passionate about. I thoroughly enjoy teaching this subject and I enjoy working with students at college and university level. I also teach business studies and its relationship to HRM at degree level.

Teaching Experience:
Human Resource Management, Business Studies and Strategic Management Studies are the key areas of my experience. I have worked and taught in this subject area for over 35 years at University level. I thoroughly enjoy my subjects and i particularly love teaching university and college students.

I am a qualified and approved Chartered Member of the Institute for Personnel and Development (CIPD). I am also a Fellow at the Royal Society for Arts (FRSA) and a Member of the Institute for Economic Management (MIED)

I have been tutoring students for many years and it is often a case of panic rather than a need to improve their academic ability that drives them to seek help and support.

Whatever your reasons ... I am here to assist you manage your work, your assignments and your dissertation. Not all sessions require payment there are a fair amount of goodwill sessions on my part to continue to be your anchor during your challenging moments in the lecture hall. Therefore you are free to email and call me as much as you wish to discuss any aspects of your learning. All reasonable levels of telephone support is free. (if you call me at 3am I may over-charge you but if you call me at 3pm it may be free)

I am happy to continue to communicate with you until such time you decide what you wish to do.

I have extensive academic experience in

 Business Management
 Human Resource Management
 International Communications
 International Cultural Studies
 International Relations
 International Political Economy
 Social Sciences Research Methods
 Social and Political Science Studies

I have no experience in finance management.

Tutoring Approach:
Each student is different when it comes to learning. Some students enjoy 1 to 1 and some students love group learning. My approach is to create an individual style for each student and work with you to meet your learning needs.

The key to any success is READING and then having the opportunity to discuss the subject in detail to analyse the the debate.

In addition to this, it is important to develop skills and understanding of your subject area so that you are aware of the key areas of policy and theory and how theory is applied to policy in the real world.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My approach to teaching is friendly, supportive and fun. I can instil confidence in students which allows them to believe in themselves and make good progress. I have experience teaching students who are neurodiverse as well as students from ages 6 to 11.

Teaching Experience:
I have 20 years of teaching experience mainly in primary schools. I have also taught many students who have English as a second language

Tutoring Approach:
To develop genuine, honest relationships with students. Get to know them and their backgrounds and discuss the areas they need to work on. I would like to make tutoring interactive and fun whilst still teaching a particular concept.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The classes must be as efficient as possible!

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

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

Let´s get started!

Subjects

Personal Description:
Law essay and dissertation writing support. I am a University of Cambridge law tutor who can help you write a first class grade law dissertation or essay. I have over 8 years of experience in legal practice and teaching law at undergraduate, postgraduate, and executive level. I was a law lecturer at the University of Reading and have learnt the best teaching techniques. I have completed over 300 hours of private law tuition and all my students successfully gained 1st class (70%) or high 2.1 grades (65 - 70%) as a minimum. I can help with law assignments, essay writing, law dissertations, and exam preparation.

Teaching Experience:
My legal career started soon after I graduated with a masters degree from the University of Cambridge in 2013. I have worked as an in-house lawyer for a successful company - International Probiotics Association. Teaching law has always been my passion and hence private tuition has been my supplementary job since June 2013. I have experience in teaching law for both students and legal professionals having worked at the University of Reading.

Tutoring Approach:
I teach all LLB and LLM subjects, including core/compulsory undergraduate subjects. I can also help to structure your law essay or dissertation and proofread it. I can also help with Cambridge and Oxford admissions interviews and A-level Law exam preparation.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a positive and highly motivated Teacher, who believes in providing support for pupils to gain the key skills necessary to reach their full potential and to be successful. I am knowledgeable and passionate about Psychology, Health & Social Care and Child Care and Early Years Education courses. With my knowledge on memory I have an excellent record of supporting students with revision and exams and enabling them to go onto their GCSE, A'Level, vocational level 2, 3 or 4 courses and desired university courses. I provide high quality support for students with coursework on vocational courses in order for them to achieve their potential and to go on and be successful in their chosen careers.

Teaching Experience:
Psychology Teacher AQA GCSE & A Level also OCR, ED EXCEL
Health and Social Care level 2 & 3, GCSE & A Level (vocational and academic)
Psychology Units on Foundation to Higher Education courses
Child Care levels 2 & 3 GCSE and Vocational level 3
Child Development and Early Years Education Level 3 with practicing knowledge of applications of outdoor learning
ACCESS to HE / Nursing/ Midwifery

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring for exams is to focus specificly on the paper that the student is sitting. The content, how to answer exam questions, memory techniques, revision tips, taking into account all learner styles.


I love Psychology, Health & Social Care and Childcare and Education and really enjoy teaching these subjects so my enthusiasm motivates my students. I typically teach within schools but tutor one to one and also small groups either face to face or electronically. My teaching methodology tends to focus upon the needs of the student/s but would always begin with gaining an understanding of the students current knowledge and any gaps in learning. This ensures they are completely up to date on their understanding of the subject. I work in line with the current specification of what the student is learning and revising for or creating coursework for. I set work for students each session to complete for the following session and give them feedback to ensure they are progressing each time. This is measurable and graded. I also look at tasks they have been set by their school/college and support them with planning so they fully understand the requirements that are needed to gain the best grades they can achieve. I ensure I am available throughout the week with some online support via email and can be contacted via skype also at an additional cost.

Study skills tutoring: I provide this as an agreed package where I am your child's 'exam buddy' for a period of time. This involves me supporting your child through a stressful time in their lives. I help them to plan their time and create revision timetables, plans, resources and so on. I would check in with them on agreed days/ times via skype to see how they are doing with their studies and revision on the lead up to exams and assessments and help to support them through this. I provide this for students working towards any assessments such as 11+, GCSE's A'Levels and any other level 2 or 3 courses. This is a holistic educational support service for a fixed period. My Pug 'Tiggy' often joins in with the skype for younger students which can support them in keeping it fun and interesting and help them to stay on target. I also include anti-stress resources, stress busting techniques, basic mindfulness skills, breaking down stress barriers worksheets, tips and discussions. The study skills/ exam buddy package is charged at a rate dependent upon requirements.

I provide face to face tutoring and skype tutoring with email support throughout the agreed period.

Subjects

Personal Description:
PLEASE SEE 'TUTORING EXPERIENCE' BELOW FOR THE MOST IMPORTANT PARTS OF THIS PAGE, THE RESULTS AND FEEDBACK

I am an Oxford graduate (English language and literature, first class), as well as a qualified English teacher, and have been tutoring since 2013. My specialism is A-level English literature.

Please get in touch for online English tuition, particularly if you are or your child is

• Preparing to take A-levels in 2026/27
• Doing coursework
• Working on the basis of continuous assessment, mocks, etc.
• Or planning to do / doing an English degree

I graduated from the University of Oxford with a double first in English language and literature, winning the prize for the best performance in English finals at Mansfield College, and the college essay prize. At school, I was awarded eleven GCSEs at A-star and three A-levels at A.

As well as tutoring, I have worked as a researcher, a copywriter, and a proofreader. I have also completed a PGCE in secondary English at the UCL Institute of Education, the highest-ranking college of education in the world ('QS World University Rankings'), during which I taught all age groups at two west London secondary schools, and received A's for my master's-level assignments. I am currently pursuing a PhD in English literature at the University of Buckingham.

As well as English tuition at any level, I can help you or your child with the following:

• Oxbridge entrance (the admissions process, practice interviews, the ELAT, etc.)
• Essay surgery - how to structure and write an essay
• How to revise - note-taking, organisation, making connections, committing to memory
• Grammar, punctuation, and style (a.k.a. 'usage and abusage')
• Speech-writing and public speaking
• Proofreading and redrafting essays
• Suggested reading and resources, including access to my library of 'TES' resources
• Creative writing
• How to annotate, analyse (and enjoy) English literature - sometimes known as 'close reading' or 'practical criticism'
• If you'd specifically like written feedback on your writing - more like a correspondence course - then I can also provide that.

In my spare time I enjoy cycling, writing, and photography.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring since 2013, teaching English at all levels (including degree level), as well as A-level religious studies and classical civilisation. I have taught AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC/Eduqas, and CAIE (Cambridge International), and am constantly familiarising myself with the new texts that my students are studying. I have experience helping students who have autism and ADHD. And I am interested in the role of generative AI and large language models in education, not to write students' essays for them, but as research assistants for students and teachers alike. It is of course important that students do not get the likes of ChatGPT to write their essays for them, among other reasons because they will not be able to do so in the exams. Tutoring is well placed to discourage this, since it has always been my practice to ask my students many questions about every essay they write.

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A student, June 2025: 'thank you very much for all the sessions! It has not only boosted my confidence in English literature but they really reminded me of how much I love the subject. It's always a pleasure to discuss nuance readings of the texts, and it has been a great help leading up to my exams.'

Charlotte, a parent, June 2025: 'Thank you so much for all your help and support for [L.]. We are so grateful for everything you have done with him and wish you all the best.'

Ann, a parent, June 2025: '[Z.] has thoroughly enjoyed her lessons with you and has gained so much from your guidance. We're very grateful for all the support you've given her.'

A parent, May 2025: 'Thank you so much again for everything you've done to help [G.] prepare for these exams - he has really enjoyed his sessions with you and he and we really appreciate your support'.

A parent, May 2025: '[N.] just received the below. It's an A* if the grade boundaries is same as last year. She couldn't have done it without your help. We really appreciate it.'

A parent, February 2025: '[S.] is really enjoying studying with you and has gained a lot of confidence in English. I truly appreciate the effort and dedication you put into teaching.'

A student, January 2025: 'thank you ever so much for your kindness and creative encouragement the past months. What is very special about you as a tutor is that you have never told me "what to write". Instead, you have asked me questions about my work that have led me to discover what I truly wish to write'.

Kate, a parent, December 2024: 'We're so pleased [G.] is enjoying his sessions and seems to be really motivated to read widely in between sessions, is making useful structured notes (which he didn't do before) and his confidence and awareness of what he needs to do when essay writing is really building. Thank you!!!'

Eleni, a parent, December 2024: 'I just wanted to let you know that [D.] received an offer […] today! She is super happy! […] I wanted to thank you again as [D.] found your sessions incredibly helpful and inceased her confidence during the exams process.'

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A-level results, August 2024:

'I wanted to write to say a huge thank you to you for all the help, support and inspiration you have given [E.] over the past year. You have not only given her the technical advice and support to help her make the most of her essays and exams, but more importantly you have helped her keep the love of the subject alive. I know a big part of the reason she is so excited to study English at university is because of how much she has enjoyed your conversations, and how you have helped her to consider texts in a way that the rather narrower scope of teaching at school does not allow. I am so very grateful to you and I really appreciate all the time and effort you put into her sessions - thank you so very much. […] You've been so great, and any other student/parent would be lucky to have access to your teaching.'

'I have just opened my results and am happy to confirm that I am off to Bristol this September with an A* in English! I just want to thank you again for making this possible.'

'I got an A in English, and will be going to Exeter, so mission accomplished. I wanted to thank you for all your help, not only for helping me to get what I needed, but for giving me back my confidence and enjoyment of the subject in the process.'

'Just to let you know [I.] got her results this morning and achieved an 'A' in English. We are over the moon […] Thank you again for all your help with the English, it's much appreciated.'

'thanks for your help this past academic year! Got two A*s in English and Philosophy'.

'I got a B and I was accepted into my firm university (Durham) which I am very happy! Thank you for all your help and support.'

'I was really happy to receive […] A in English Literature […] I secured a placed at my firm university. I will be studying English Literature at Durham University this September and I am very excited! Thank you so much for all of your support, I really appreciate it!'

'i got into Warwick with […] an A* in English!!!!! I am very happy :) Thank you for all your hard work, wisdom and wit over the last year or two'.

'Thank you so much for all your coaching and advice that you shared with [L.], it made such a difference to his confidence leading up to his exams. He is (as are we) delighted with his English result.'

'an A awarded in English […] so she is off to her first choice of Edinburgh University to study History of Art and English Literature.'

'Results day went well and I'm going to the university of Kent. Thank you so much again for all the time spent helping me to prepare for my exams it means a lot I'm very excited to continue my English literature journey.'

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A student, June 2024: 'Thank you so much for being the most amazing English teacher! It has been an immensely rewarding and interesting journey exploring so many books […] I have learnt so much from GCSEs to continuing with more amazing literatures in A-levels'

A student, June 2024: 'I […] wanted to say thank you for the tremendous help you have provided with the English content throughout the A level period. The resources that you provided for me were quite helpful in refining my knowledge in many areas of the syllabus so thank you very much.'

A student, May 2024: 'I've just received the results for my english coursework and wanted to thank you for all the help and feedback!!'

A parent, February 2024: 'your help has kept her love of the subject and her enthusiasm alive and I can't thank you enough for that.'

A parent, February 2024: 'You were such a huge help to [S.], we will always be very grateful to you.'

Kath, a parent, February 2024: 'We would both like to thank you for all your invaluable help, especially all the helpful feedback on the coursework essay. [S.] has definitely learnt a lot and grown in confidence, especially in her knowledge of Twelfth Night.'

A student, January 2024: 'I just wanted to let you know that I got an offer from Oxford! Thank you so much for checking over my personal statement and all the help that you have given me since GCSEs. I really enjoy our sessions every week, the discussions keep me constantly creative and thinking.'

A parent, January 2024: 'Thank you as always for all your continued help and support for [E.]. I know she gets a tremendous amount from your sessions and I'm very grateful.'

A student, January 2024: 'Just emailing to let you know I did get an offer from […] Cambridge yesterday so thank you so much for all your help! It is really appreciated and I'm really looking forward to starting my degree in October!'

A student, December 2023: 'So thank you so much again for all your help; your insights have been very useful and I have really enjoyed talking about literature with you.'

Tara, a parent, November 2023: 'you are really helping [R.], he is becoming much more confident. Thank you so much'.

Paula, a parent, November 2023: '[M.] is always delighted with your teaching. You are asking questions no one else does. My husband and I see her grow academically after every session with you.'

Liz, a parent, October 2023: 'Thank you so much for all the work you have done with, and the kindness you have shown, [E.] to date. She really enjoys her sessions with you, and you've helped keep her enthusiasm for English very much alive. I'm so grateful.'

Kim, a parent, August 2023: 'I cannot tell you how happy we all were and your help was clearly instrumental in that. Not sure if he told you but he got 12 points above an A* and it was his best A level result!'

A student, August 2023: 'I really enjoyed our lessons and think it has really helped prepare me for the Oxford style tutorials.'

A student, August 2023: 'wanted to let you know I ended up getting an A* in English, thanks so much for all the help!'

Mark, a parent, June 2023: 'Many thanks josh for your help this year. [E.] has said to me it has really helped, you started assisting her at a time when she felt behind her class mates for the whole of the first year, having switched to English half way through term one.'

Melanie, a parent, June 2023: 'Thank you so much for all your time and effort with [T.]'s English literature. She really enjoyed your sessions together and it really boosted her confidence and inspired her to think more deeply and critically about the texts. It also confirmed that she is happy and excited to study a literature based course at degree level.'

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A-level results, August/September 2022:

'[L.] came home from university yesterday to attend her school prize giving ceremony, and this morning as she was leaving she asked me to let you know that she won a special prize in English […] Until last night, she wasn't aware of any of her awards, apart from her scholarship, so it was all a lovely surprise. Furthermore, the essays she wrote in her A level English exams have somehow found their way into her teachers' hands; they told her, with beams of pride , that the three marks dropped overall were actually in her *non exam* assessment, so 30/30 in all questions across all papers under exam conditions, something she had never achieved before. She had admitted to me in the aftermath of the exams that when she was writing her English papers she had really enjoyed the process, her thoughts flowing pretty effortlessly on to the paper. But she had also worried this stream of ideas might not be fit with the mark schemes. […] she […] wanted you to know about her prize, as she thought you'd be pleased, and she also wanted to say thanks one last time for your inspirational teaching that led to it.'

'I got AAA* for my results much higher than my predicted! particularly for english'.

'[G.] got an A star in English. And is off to Oxford. […] Thanks so much for everything - you were honestly amazing and really helped her get there'.

'[L.] got 3 a stars and an A star as well in her EPQ. Her highest marks were in English Literature ( 197/200)'.

'I achieved 4A*s in my Alevels - one being in English Literature. My teachers also let me know that I got full marks in both the exam papers'.

'[T.] smashed English Literature, A* […] she is absolutely over the moon . Thank you so much for all the work you put in with her !'

'I got a D[distinction]2!!! […] I got full marks on my PI!'

'I got an A* in English!!! Thank you so much for all of your help I wouldn't have been able to do it without you!'

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A student, January 2023: 'Just wanted to let you know I got an offer from Cambridge, thank you so so much for all your help.' And Kathryn: 'You were such a great help to [E.] in her preparation for the Cambridge application and interview and we were all delighted when she was offered a place this week. Thank you for all the support you gave her.'

Shaun, a parent, January 2023: '[E.] has found the sessions really very helpful (and has enjoyed them!)'

Guifang, a parent, December 2022: 'From what I hear from [S.], she really enjoys her discussions with you, it's really one of the highlights of her week.'

A student, November 2022: 'I'm extremely happy to tell you that I received an 8.3 for the literary review […] Thank you for explaining to me what a literary review is […] I remember whilst working on it I was so worried about my grade, but it appears I've survived.'

Deborah, a parent, September 2022: 'a huge thanks again to you for all your work with [S.]. I know he has been in touch to let you know that he got 9s in both English Language and Literature. He was over the moon - well beyond his best hopes, so thank you again for being instrumental in helping him attain those grades.'

Karen, a parent, August 2022: 'Both my girls really like your way of teaching and talking to them, they feel really listened to and respected for their opinions (as well as respecting yours obviously), so thank you :)'

Helen, a parent, July 2022: 'Thanks so much for all the help you gave [J.], he really benefitted from the sessions he had with you.'

Tara, a parent, June 2022: 'Thank you so much for all your help and patience - I think you have been brilliant for her confidence. She found English exams really very difficult before she started talking to you and it's amazing to see how much calmer (relatively speaking!) she has been going in to her A level English papers. Whatever the result, her sessions with you have definitely helped her to enjoy English again and I'm really grateful.'

A student, June 2022: 'This is incredibly insightful and thought provoking feedback. Thank you so much.'

Mei, a parent, June 2022: 'She found your lessons very helpful and always remarked to me how much you went the extra mile for her ; looking up and sending on links to whatever you'd been discussing. Much appreciated!'

Marguerite, a parent, June 2022: 'Thank you so much for all you've done for [T.] in the past year . […] you are a very talented teacher.'

Monica, a parent, June 2022: 'You have been an absolutely wonderful tutor to [L.], and how time has flown since she first met you! […] Many a time she has needed someone to talk to, not so much about AO1-5, but rather about the beauty and burden of literature and life. You have always been willing to do that, and she is richer for it.'

A student, June 2022: 'Thank you for teaching me for the last year; I have enjoyed our lessons and I feel I have grown as an English student, with thanks to your teaching.'

A student, April 2022: 'I received an 8 for my essay!! I want to thank you for your tutoring on Keats and Wordsworth- I wouldn't have gotten such a grade without it!! […] I learned tons because of you.'

Ngozi, a parent, March 2022: 'Thanks for everything that you're doing for [G.] - it has been very helpful.'

A student, February 2022: 'Really, thanks so much. Was such a good and efficient service. Your feedback looks really good and I'm going to implement it today. […] Thanks again for doing this on such short notice'.

Deborah, a parent, October 2021: '[S.] said you make it really fun - he said at school his energy goes down in English lessons and with you it goes up! So that is praise indeed from a teenage boy!'

A student, August 2021: 'I got the A grade ! I'm so pleased, thank you for all the help and the essays really paid off :).'

Monica, a parent, July 2021: 'As would be expected from his first class qualifications, Josh is extremely intelligent. However, in my opinion, he has a a very particular advantage over others of a similar academic background, namely his ability to exhibit an authentic interest in the ideas his students express. He is always kind and encouraging, but without sacrificing rigour; this approach has had a hugely positive impact on my daughter when speaking, writing and reading. Furthermore, Josh has introduced her to a range of authors, poets , films and philosophical thought, thus enriching her far beyond the school curriculum. In the future, my daughter will undoubtedly look back on her time with Josh with both fondness and gratitude. I have no hesitation in recommending Josh as a tutor'.

Guifang, a parent, July 2021: 'I have know Joshua for 2 months and He has been supporting my daughter excellently through her GCSE courses, helping her to achieve a 9 in predicted grades. From this, Joshua has always been very serious with the work, needless to say, always punctual and gives detailed homework feedback. I know him to be a wonderful tutor to my daughter.'

Susan, a parent, May 2021: '[T]hank you so much for all your help with [N.] […] [N.] found your lessons extremely helpful which enabled her to enjoy and understand English in a greater depth […] it was excellent tuition . Thank you'.

Jamal, a parent, May 2021: 'Thank you Josh for all your efforts, you have greatly assisted [S.] in better understanding English Literature as whole.'

Zahed, a parent, May 2021: 'We are grateful for all your help and support. We are in no doubt that [A.] has improved a lot in English Literature under your guidance.'

A student, May 2021: 'I just got my coursework back and got an A in it. Just thought i should let you know thanks you!'

Margaret, a parent, March 2021: 'Thanks for helping [M.] to improve her English understanding. She really enjoys her lessons and chats!'

Chris, a parent, March 2021: '[R.] is benefiting immensely from your lessons and is definitely getting more confident in expressing his thoughts in writing! Thank you.'

Amanda, a parent, December 2020: 'Josh has really helped join the dots, encouraged a depth of questioning and ways to interpret and compare ideas, extracting and bringing fresh meaning to narrative styles and creative use of language. Josh has been a great support and steered [R.]'s confidence to look more thoroughly and develop a greater understanding all round. Josh has a kind, approachable style and encouraged [R.] with debating aloud and suggestions for further reading which all continue to be an invaluable help and inspire greater confidence in approaching exams and further reading in future!'

A student, December 2020: 'He helps focus my understanding and makes sure i understand the topic we are learning before moving on. Josh will make sure to ask you questions throughout the process and is always ready for your ideas even if you think it's wrong. He will set homework but makes sure to switch it up each week to make it more interesting and gives his feedback to help me understand what i need to do to improve.'

Diana, a parent, September 2020: 'Josh worked with my daughter for her A Level in English Literature. He was outstanding with his ideas and expanding her critical thinking. He went above and beyond to develop her analytical skills and as a result helped her obtain an A*. He is an absolutely lovely, gentle but dynamic and reliable tutor who has a rare ability combine his academic achievement with a natural talent for teaching. A real gem and we cannot thank him enough.'

A parent, September 2020: 'Joshua is an excellent tutor with great communication skills . He is very patient , helpful , approachable and takes time to explain everything clearly to my daughter . Joshua has been able to breakdown and explain in full detail all aspects of the A Level content.'

A student, June 2020: 'it's been great being taught by you, I've learned so many critical thinking skills in such a short space of time.'

A parent, March 2020: 'I can't thank you enough for everything that you've done for her - you've been the best English teacher she's ever had and she has loved her time with you.'

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During my teacher training, I taught all age groups at two west London secondary schools.

While at Oxford, I was part of an 'e-mentoring' scheme to help candidates from schools without a history of Oxbridge applications.

At Christ College, Brecon, I ran two series of seminars, for sixth-formers studying RS and English literature. In English we covered 'The Tempest', Gothic literature, Pat Barker's 'Regeneration', 'Jane Eyre', Wilfred Owen, and 'The Canterbury Tales'.

Tutoring Approach:
I try to combine three things that I want my students to do, which are three forms of thinking: speak about complex ideas, read high-quality material, and write essays for which they will receive detailed feedback. For obvious reasons, lessons are weighted to speaking, and homework to reading and writing.

Speaking

Pedagogy's holy grail is measuring progress, which is difficult in a classroom and impossible in a lecture. Happily, the tutorial system allows this to occur continuously and efficiently via dialogue. Can a student re-express an idea they have heard or read in their own words? If the answer is yes, they have probably understood the idea. Hence the constant questions!

As well as understanding the ideas of others, speaking is essential for students to develop their own. I love the quotation from the novelist E. M. Forster, 'How can I tell what I think till I see what I say?' We improve the quality of our ideas through the process of articulating them.

For my part, quite a lot of what I say is explaining what texts mean. This might sound obvious, but great works of literature are complex, so, to understand their meaning, one's own interpretation probably needs the support of others' prior interpretations.

I sometimes like to break the question of a text's meaning into two: What's it about? And what's it really about? Answering the first question is comprehension, a necessary first step. To answer the second question is to understand. In 'A Streetcar Named Desire', for example, Blanche goes to live with her sister in New Orleans. She expresses a strong dislike of her surroundings and is frequently associated with images of water. She declines mentally and is eventually taken away. So what's the play really about? Blanche is a Romantic idealist who is disappointed with her life but still tends to imagine things in their perfect form. The play is about the human soul conceiving of things being as good as they could be (as if cleansed by water), reaching for the conception, and failing to grasp it - shuttling back and forth, in other words, on the streetcar named desire.

One thing I frequently encourage is making the link between those oft-cited elements of a good essay, themes and quotations. These are not unrelated ingredients, they are the text itself viewed from different distances. A theme (the desire to be cleansed) is a wide shot, and a quotation ('the land of the sky blue water') is a close-up. So the student of English has to practise their ability to zoom in and out.

Another way I try to support my students' studies is by making connections between the texts they are reading, which in my experience doesn't happen that much at school. Particularly at A-level, there are often many fruitful connections between the half-dozen or so texts being studied: the Romantics were devoted to Shakespeare and Milton, the Gothic is an aspect of the Romantic, the Aesthetic Movement drew on particular strains of Romanticism, etc. When these connections get made with reference to particular writers, they are no longer just isms. They make the material deeper and easier to understand at the same time. Towards the end of their school careers, students of the humanities should be able to get the sense of taking part in 'the Great Conversation that began in the dawn of history and that continues to the present day' (Robert M. Hutchins).

Reading

I regularly give my students PDFs of high-quality secondary material pitched at their level or just above it. Explanatory notes, commentaries, and essays can help with understanding, particularly when it comes to context. (And all exam boards have assessment objectives relating to historical context.) To know that a text was written during a particular period and what characterised that period is to have a mental scaffold that does not limit movement but frees it. In studying the humanities we are studying human culture, and no one can do that without a bit of structure. It also helps when thinking about texts in relation to each other - when writing a comparative essay, for example. I like to think of honing in from context to text, e.g. Romanticism (late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries) > William Blake (1757-1827) > 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience' (1794) > 'The Tyger'. (What's 'The Tyger' about? There's a question!)

In my experience, knowledge acquisition operates according to the Matthew principle, named after a verse in the Gospel of Matthew: 'unto every one that hath shall be given'. In other words, the more you've got, the more you'll get. Every time you learn something about Romanticism, the greater will be your understanding of the poetry of William Blake. Your internal bookshelves expand - more connections, greater understanding. Reading secondary material is obviously 'extra', but it works to enhance students' understanding of set texts rather than crowd them out. Homer Simpson said, 'every time I learn something new, it pushes some old stuff out of my brain', and we laugh because it's not true. You can't fill up a brain, so the cliché about people's (particularly young people's) limitless potential is true. Every time you learn something new, you enrich your contextual understanding of everything else you have ever learnt. '[E]very moment is a new and shocking / Valuation of all we have been', as T. S. Eliot put it in 'East Coker'.

Writing

Speaking and reading are in a concrete way preparation for writing. If you think and make notes while speaking and reading, by the time it comes to writing an essay, the question should not be about what to say, but how to arrange the things you want to say. So annotation is an important skill. It's a bit like getting 'in the zone' for a sportsperson - students must practise getting there and staying there. I model the annotation process something like this:

Read with a pencil in your hand. What makes you underline? Something fires in your brain, so that you have a response - you spot a developing theme, you're reminded of another book, you agree or disagree, there's a word you don't know and need to look up, you like the way a sentence sounds. It could be anything. Read until you've underlined twenty words or sentences. Work out the three or four connections between the things you have to say, and you've got a paragraph plan. Work out the main thing you have to say, and you have a thesis for your essay, which, as you aim your paragraphs at it, will accumulate force.

A lot of learning (and life) is about noticing connections, so getting into the habit of doing so is something like learning how to learn. If a student has developed this habit, they shouldn't really have to think 'What shall I write?' in front of a blank sheet of paper or screen. The content of the essay will be a sort of emanation of prior thinking.

When it comes to giving students feedback, I keep in mind one of the best incites I heard early in my PGCE: attend to your students' writing as you would a piece of literature. This way, the marking progress becomes analogous to the writing process. What are all the things that could make this essay better? And is there a connection between them, i.e. what's the main thing this student needs to focus on? (I usually give feedback using comments and 'track changes' in Microsoft Word.)

Why study English?

It has been said that 'If you can think, and speak, and write, you are absolutely deadly', and I think that's right. Learning how to construct and articulate good arguments is learning how to impose ideas on the world. To the extent that English is about feelings, it is about their articulation, and there is a great deal to learn about how feelings have been and can be articulated. Moreover, because English is the medium of instruction in all other subjects, command of it confers a freedom to range through the history of ideas and discriminate between reliable and unreliable, including online. Language is a prerequisite for thought - doing English properly is learning how to think better.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have a PhD in chemistry and have published a book on Study Smarter: a lecture's inside guide to boost your grades.

With over 15 years as an academic, I have published extensively in peer-reviewed academic publications. My passion and outstanding commitment to teaching were recognised by the Royal Society of Chemistry in 2016 with a Higher Education Teaching Award. In 2017, I was awarded a prestigious National Teaching Fellowship in the UK.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored A-level students and taught undergraduate and postgraduate students in my academic work.

Tutoring Approach:
Most students are wasting time with the study habits they use. This may seem like a crazy thing to say, isn't working hard the foundation to good results?
Research shows that at least 6 out of every 10 students are using suboptimal study strategies.
I've met this a lot in my own work. I have created a Study Smarter Audit to help identify where study habits can be improved. This can be over 2 sessions or longer depending on what you want to achieve. I work online and create a personalised plan to target effective study strategies and evaluate the changes.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Having tutored for 12 years and been in mainstream education for the past 9, I am more than ready and willing to work with young people who are in need of a variety of different approaches:

- Stretching and challenging the most able
- Going back to basics with exam content
- Handwriting
- Organisation
- Revision skills and independent learning

Teaching Experience:
Qualified teacher (secondary)

Most recent tutee Results
Student 1: GCSE Spanish - Grade 9
Student 2: SATs 101 / 102 / 102
Student 3: GCSE English Language-Grade 8
Student 4: GCSE Spanish - grade 6
Student 5: GCSE French (current)

Tutoring Approach:
There is no right answer to "what is the best approach" - my first session will always be one hour to formulate a plan based on the requirements of the parent(s) or carer(s), to meet the learner in question, and to come up with a plan of action based on a variety of factors. This will incorporate target grades in school, achievements so far, existing attitudes to learning amongst other things.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Salvia and I am a native English speaker with a deep committment to teaching. Languages are my special interest - I enjoy learning them as much as I enjoy teaching them! I have an enthusiastic and playful approach to teaching, with a focus on facilitating your growth and improving your confidence.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 20 years of experience teaching and tutoring in a variety of situations - in primary and secondary schools, universities, after school programs, and online. I have held many different positions with the schools and educational companies I have worked for, including head of department, senior teacher trainer, private personal tutor, and classroom teacher. I have taught all ages and ability levels. I am experienced in ESOL and well as teaching native speakers.

My students get consistently high results on their exams: GCSE, A-level, IELTS, TOEFL, and more.

I have taught and tutored several languages as well as music, although my speciality and focus nowadays is English language and literature, reading and writing skills, and helping students learn how to study effectively.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is entirely student centred. Our first session is a FREE 20 minute meeting in which I explore your linguistic needs and determine how best to support you. I will then develop a personalised, adaptable curriculum, just for you. Each student is different and has different needs and best ways of learning. I will meet you where you are and create a programme personally designed to support you in your language goals.

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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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