Prestonpans Study Skills Tutors and Prestonpans Study Skills Tuition

Personal Description:
I am an academic and scholar who holds both a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) and a MLitt (Master of Literature) from The University of Glasgow, and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) honours degree from The University of Paisley. My first academic book 'Robert Taylor: Male Beauty, Masculinity and Stardom in Hollywood' (University Press of Mississippi, 2019) was shortlisted for the Best Monograph of the Year at BAFTSS Awards 2020 and my second academic book, 'Tyrone Power; Genre, Gender and Image in Classical Hollywood Cinema' (Edinburgh University Press, 2021) was released in February 2021. Among my other publications are chapters in anthologies for Palgrave Macmillan (2016) and Bloomsbury Academic (2021). I have contributed to several academic journals and been requested as a guest lecturer, guest speaker and reader/reviewer on several occasions. I am currently working on my next book, some academic papers for journals and chapters for scholarly edited collections.

I am a personal tutor with over a decade of experience in several subject areas including English, English Language, English Literature, Media Studies, Film Studies, Theatre Studies, and General Writing Skills. I have taught a wide range of students off-line from pre-exam age (11+) to Standard Grade, Higher, and university level, and on-line for pre-exam level (12+), GCSE, AS level, A-Level, university level, postgraduate and the adult learners over this time.

Teaching Experience:
A well as being an experienced on-line and off-line personal tutor, I have also had several other academic jobs including:

Lecturer at Forth Valley College

Seminar tutor at The University of Glasgow

Graduate Teaching Assistant at The University of Glasgow

Top-Up Tutor at The University of Glasgow

Step Up to University Lecturer at University of West of Scotland

REACH Tutor at University of Glasgow

Proof Reader at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Note Taker at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Study Support Tutor at University of Glasgow, University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Transcriber at University of the West of Scotland

Support Worker at University of the West of Scotland and Scottish Rural University College

Exam Scribe at University of Glasgow and Scottish Rural University College

Exam Invigilator at Scottish Rural University College

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that learning should be fun and in a relaxed atmosphere but at the same time academic and useful. My approach to teaching is to have the tutor and student both feel that they are getting a lot out of the experience and that the time is being well used. I will break down subjects into easily manageable blocks and make sure that my student understands the unit before moving on. I also like to vary my tutorials by having some in the form of lectures, some in the form of question and answers, some where I will give students feedback on homework they have done and suggestions to improve what they have done, etc.

I also find that on-line tuition is the best method and students can ask questions that they may not ask if they were face-to-face with someone, it is a much more relaxed approach but students get a lot out of it (and can save all the notes from lessons for use later on).

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced tutor and have been tutoring for the past 20 years. I am friendly and supportive and tailor learning according to the pupil's individual needs. My specialism is 19th & 20th century history and I am especially knowledgeable about British and American history. I teach pupils essential research and study skills including effective exam techniques. I have also tutored English language at secondary and GCSE level with good results. I aim to inspire confidence in my pupils and promote enthusiasm for learning in a supportive environment.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a tutor for over 20 years. I have also helped out in primary schools on a voluntary basis and I have part completed a PGCE in Upper Primary (1999). I am have completed a PGDE at Bury College so I am qualified to teach in further and higher education.

Tutoring Approach:
I am supportive and caring and I encourage pupils to take responsibility for their own learning. I aim to inspire confidence by teaching them essential study skills and exam techniques. I teach pupils to break down learning into manageable chunks and teach them to analyse and revise their work. I make my lessons interesting and I am warm and friendly which puts pupils at ease. I also have a good sense of humour and aim to build up a strong rapport with pupils. I ask pupils to contact me between sessions if there are any concerns and I fully update parents on their child's progress.

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 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.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My passion is to help develop confidence in young people both academically and their emotional wellbeing. As well as a qualified teacher I am an Accredited Practitioner Coach and work 1-1 with students to build confidence, self-esteem and reduce anxiety. I use these skills to support students in managing exam pressure and work load as well as helping them stay organised to reduce the overwhelm that comes with exams.

I love teaching and watching my students grow. I can create a comfortable and positive learning environment quickly so that the student feels at ease and ready to learn. My role as a teacher and a coach allows me the opportunity to inspire and empower students of all abilities to enjoy education and achieve their full potential.

Teaching Experience:
I have twenty years experience in education with outstanding success in adding value to students. I specialise in teaching Business Studies and ICT I have also ran my own business, so I can offer my students real-life examples of how businesses are run. I plan my lessons to identify gaps in knowledge and understanding. Once these gaps have been filled I move onto to building the students confidence in exam skills. I have taught all major exam boards.

Experienced in supporting students with the following courses -

Btec Business Level 2 and 3
Edexcel and AQA GCSE Business
Cambridge iGCSE in Business
Oxford AQA International GCSE
Edexcel International A Level in Business
Edexcel, AQA, Wjec and Eduqas A Level Business

Tutoring Approach:
I am a friendly and inspiring tutor. My philosophy is to make learning a pleasurable experience for the student. I teach with passion and authority. My friendly and approachable teaching style combines tried and tested teaching techniques and learning strategies.

I believe that education is the key to success for students of any age. As a tutor, I hope to motivate students in ascertaining their inner strength and abilities and discovering what truly inspires them. I aim to provide a stimulating learning environment that encourages students to trust their own opinions, while fostering confidence in order for students to realise their full potential.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello there,

Thanks for taking a look.

I have been a tutor for over 15 years. Along the way, I have learnt a lot about the role and how significant it can be. For some students, I am a mentor for their whole educational experience whilst others see me as a specialist in one area.

Alongside tutoring, I am a professional actor (hence the posey photo!) and have recently worked at the National Theatre and onscreen. Acting has deepened my ability to connect with others on a personal level, fostering empathy and understanding - qualities that I bring directly into my tutoring. I believe this helps me create a supportive, engaging, and personalised learning experience for every student.

I specialise in tutoring English Language & Literature, Drama, Maths, 11+ Common Entrance exams, and general Primary school support. Beyond traditional subjects, I also work as a Communications Coach, where I've helped over a hundred clients improve their Public Speaking, Interview Techniques, and Accent Clarity.

Choosing the right tutor can be challenging, and I'm more than happy to answer any questions you may have. I look forward to helping you or your child thrive!

Nick

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring for over 15 years. This has included lots of online tuition as well as face-to-face. Here is a selection of my clients:

IB English - I worked with Pietro online for over 7 years and saw him through his IB, in which he achieved grade 7 (highest grade).

A Level English Literature (AQA) - worked with Oliver (17) helping with coursework on The Great Gatsby and the poetry of Keats and Larkin. Oliver achieved an A grade.

AS Level Drama (AQA) - helped Yasmin to explore the analysis of texts of Lady Windermere's Fan and A View From The Bridge in preparation for exams, in which she achieved an A.

iGCSE English Literature / Language - I have been working online with Pietro (based in Rome). We have been working on both his school work as well as his wider approach to learning and English.

GCSE English Literature / Language - I worked with Joseph during his final year of GCSEs. Texts included Macbeth, Love & Relationships (Poetry), Jekyll and Hyde and An Inspector Calls.

11+ - I tutored Amaara through her 11+ exams on all papers (English, Maths, Verbal and Non-verbal Reasoning). Amaara gained entrance (including some academic scholarships) to City of London School for Girls, Putney High, Francis Holland and JAGS.

11+ - I worked with Olivia in preparation for her Common Entrance exams on all papers (English, Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning) as well as interview practice. Olivia is now attending North London Collegiate School (her first choice) but I also prepared her for entrance to Highgate School for Girls, City of London School for Girls and Queen's College.

Primary Help - Worked with brothers Teddy (7) and Alfie (10) mainly on English and Maths but across all subjects generally to improve knowledge, confidence, spelling and vocabulary.

7+ I worked with Inigo on in preparation for his 7+ exams in Maths and English. Inigo is now attending Dulwich College.

7+ Currently working with Ari (5) towards his 7+ exams.

English for Foreign Learners - Helped 8 year old Augustinos (Greek) with reading and homework to improve English, as well as taking him on educational trips around London.

Voice and Elocution - Helped Law Student Amar (20) with speechmaking and projection for use in debating.

SEN - worked with Dean (20), a law student with dyslexia, upon exam preparation and practice.

Communications Coaching - I am a trained communications coach and have worked with over 100 clients one-on-one from Public Speaking, Interview Technique, Accent Clarity and Communication Techniques.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that the key to effective tutoring is strong communication. My approach is entirely student-focused: together, we'll figure out the most productive way to work and make the most of our time. While I always come prepared with a plan, I'm flexible and responsive - if something comes up, we can address it right away.

Above all, I aim to make our sessions enjoyable and something to look forward to. I ensure that lessons are practical and engaging. Even if we're tackling a subject you find daunting, I welcome the challenge of helping you discover a way to enjoy it.

If you have any questions or specific requests, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here to help!

I am happy to give a 10% discount to online tuition.

Subjects

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:
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.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I love teaching! This is my passion and my job. It gives me great satisfaction and fulfills my professional ambitions. I am optimistic and open-minded what makes my students more eager to enrich knowledge and expand communication. I am demanding but rewarding as my goal is to provide effective training. What is more, my international experience has developed my methodology creativity. Last but not least, organisational skills are definitely my second nature.

Teaching Experience:
I have been gaining valuable international work experience as English Teacher since 2000. I have been in intensive cooperation with leading English, Australian and Polish schools of English teaching children, teenage and adult students. I have found fulfilment in providing General and Business English courses to groups and individuals on all English levels ranging from A1 to C2. I have also conducted FCE, CAE, CPE, BEC, IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC and EAP courses and specialised English Training Workshops successfully. My TEFL experience is with students of different cultural background. I facilitate their different pronunciational, lexical or grammatical difficulties what proves my expertise and adaptability to students. Moreover, I was responsible for developing General English and TOEFL/IELTS curriculum and its further coordination. On a regular basis I work online and provide Grammar, Vocabulary, and Speaking classes to students. Moreover, I enjoy working as a translator of economic, financial, legal and technical texts, and as interpreter at business meeting and negotiations.

Tutoring Approach:
How do I conduct classes? I always set the goal of providing effective training. However, I alsways create a detailed lesson plan, based on recommended course books or my own materials and following both language and personal goals. Most of the time they refer to my individual approach to students and make lessons tailored to their specific needs. I believe that effective teaching must be a combination of work and fun. My priority is to make classes varied, engaging, and memorable. Varied as they cover all skills and types of activities. Engaging as I want my classes to be student-centered with the main focus on communication. And memorable as there use fun games and language equipment. I believe that not only planning, but also monitoring and reporting play a great role. To get the full picture of the learning process, I provide students with sufficient feedback and reports.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I'm a very approachable person who enjoys being around people and helping them to achieve their goals, I am currently doing a Masters in Publishing.
I am also a university graduate in Broadcast Media Production and I took Photography and Creative Media at A level.
In my GCSE'S I took Graphics and History/Geography.
In my spare time I do archery (which I've been doing for 11 years) and climbing (for 1 year) I also enjoy reading and travelling.

Teaching Experience:
I have previously worked in a college as a supported learning assistant working mainly with dyslexic students onna variety of subjects.
I volunteered as part time help at Luddington and Garthorpe primary school in North Lincolnshire. I help when I am not busy, this is experience for me as it is something I am considering as a career path for the future, I help with the children, and I help the class teachers when their TA's are ill or busy elsewhere, I have also answered the phones when the receptionist hasn't been in.
I have also been volunteering at John Leggott College in the media department as an assistant to the staff and the young adults, this has given me more of an idea of what it is like to teach older children and a possible career choice. I help them with their pre and post production and general help through out the lessons.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is research what they're doing in school and asking them how they learn - weather it being visual, auditory or kinesthetic - I myself prefer a practical/kinesthetic - "hands on learning" as you can learn whilst doing things. Another way I like to teach is by a reward system which works to help the student feel like they have achieved something they may not have been able to learn by them selves or by classroom learning.

Subjects

Personal Description:
"After bachelor and masters in computer applications for 6 years, Since 2006, Servicing and advancing along with IT Industry. Being specialised more than a decade in Enterprise Software Architecture and BigData Technology Space, have been enjoying solving problems in BigData, such as streaming solutions Confluent Kafka, data design in NoSQL databases (HBase, Cassandra,..), search indexing solutions (Splunk, Solr..), data processing techniques using different frameworks Spark, Kafka, data visualisation presentations using Tableau, QlikView/QlikSense, Sisense, Banana, Kibana, BigData Security exposure and expertise in SSL and Data Protection, Cloud hosting and management solutions experience with AWS and Azure, Put solutions around VPC and integrating Cloud and On-premise clusters."

Teaching Experience:
5 years in tutoring and mentoring

Tutoring Approach:
Student frequency level to digesting subject.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have over 20 years' teaching experience. I am a retired A Level teacher but continue with private tuition. I teach both the OCR and AQA new specifications at A Level, in Philosophy, Ethics and Christianity, for Year 1 and Year 2. I have testimonials which show that most of my tutees go on to attain A grades. As a mother, I know well the anxieties which accompany these important school years. I aim for academic excellence, bringing out a student's confidence, alongside teaching important critical thinking skills and exam technique. If the student is willing to learn, higher grades are guaranteed.

Teaching Experience:
27 years tutoring privately; 15 years teaching in Further Education; OCR and AQA A Level mostly. I'm very familiar with the specification.
I can supply many testimonials ftom students upon request.
The latest one is from a student who came to me at a low C and attained an A* at OCR A Level 2025 (available on request).

Tutoring Approach:
I tutor by ZOOM mostly these days, as it so successful. Many of my past tutees I have never even met yet they have gone on to achieve As and A*s, last year one going to Oxford, another two to Newcastle... testimonials are available. I work very closely with the specification, using resources for each topic which I attach for the student before the session. I give detailed feedback on essays I set, which most find extremely useful. With other essays asked for, there is a small charge. I keep individual progress records e.g. weak areas etc to build on. I am also only a phone call or email away for students in between tutorials as this is an important element in confidence-building, I feel.

Subjects

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.

Subjects

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.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a long-time teacher, lecturer, examiner and professional tutor with a patient and supportive approach.

I passed my PhD in English at the University of Leicester. I also hold a Masters with Distinction from Oxford Brookes University and a First Class undergraduate degree from Loughborough University.

Teaching Experience:
I have successfully taught at over ten schools, four major universities and tutored several hundred private students.

In addition to weekly supplementary tutoring, I also offer a homeschool tutoring programme and am happy to take full responsibility for the independent delivery of the curriculum.

I hold qualifications in educational psychology and in supporting adult dyslexia.

At home, I live in Oxfordshire with my wife Kate and two stepsons. I enjoy music festivals, running and long walks with our dog Maple.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is friendly, gentle and supportive but extremely professional. I aim to combine creative and emotionally engaging teaching with expert subject knowledge.

At the heart of my tutoring is how important it is that a student believes in their own ability to learn and to progress. If there is one word I hear my students kindly use to describe my qualities it would be 'patience'. Yet I never feel like my patience is tested - I love the challenge of finding new, innovative ways to help them understand their subject.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Background:
• BA (hons) Fine Art,
• Master of Fine Art Photography
• Photography teacher with 20 + years experience.

Enhanced DBS (on update service)


Please contact me if you are struggling to access tutoring financially as I may be able to offer discounts.

Please Note: Any tutoring must be booked within 3 months of request

Teaching Experience:
Experience in Levels:
• GCSE, AS, A2, City & Guilds
• Outreach, youth work, Access (to degree)
• BA photography.
• MA / MFA photography

Subjects Offered:
• Digital photography
• Analogue film photography and alternative processes.
• Art and design
• Reading and writing

Key Skills:
• Adult Mental Health Aware (MHFA England)
• Safeguarding Essentials (CYLiX)
• Emergency First Aid in the Workplace (St. Johns' Ambulance)
• Adobe Suite
• Microsoft Office Suite


Work Place Experience:
• Tutor / technical instructor BA/MFA - University for creative arts (UCA Farnham)
• Photography teacher - The Royal School, Haslemere, Surrey.
• Photography teacher / outreach placements - Alton College, Alton, Hampshire
• Facilitator art-based workshops - community hubs in Surrey and Hampshire
• Outreach Youth Hubs - Hampshire Youth Service

Tutoring Approach:
With a strong foundation in teaching, creative practice, and hands-on support roles, I offer a compassionate, adaptable, and proactive approach to education.
I've worked across a wide range of settings, from secondary and further education to 1:1 tution, SEND, hub-based art and craft sessions developing excellent communication skills, emotional resilience, and the ability to manage complex responsibilities with empathy and professionalism.
Learning should be fun and relaxed, and as such my approach is very practice based.

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!'

*

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.

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Personal Description:
Hello! I´m Matt, a qualified Spanish teacher from Belfast. I hold a Master's degree in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language and a PGCE in Modern Foreign Languages. Over the past decade, I have gained extensive teaching experience in both the UK and abroad, including five years in Spain. My experience spans teaching students from primary school through to adult learners, both in classroom settings and online environments. I have also collaborated with academic institutions such as Queen's University Belfast, leading workshops for PGCE students. In addition to my teaching qualifications, I have managed curriculum development, welfare, and safeguarding responsibilities for summer programmes, demonstrating strong leadership skills. I am currently focusing on providing high-quality tutoring services online, while also exploring ways to grow my educational business.

Teaching Experience:
I am a native English speaker and CELTA-qualified teacher with extensive experience teaching both English and Spanish. I hold a PGCE in Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), and I recently completed a Master's in Teaching and Linguistics. Additionally, I am a degree holder in Spanish with a certificate from the Instituto Cervantes, showcasing my deep understanding of the language and its pedagogy.

Throughout my career, I have worked in various educational settings, including language academies in both Spain and the UK, as well as extensive online teaching experience. I have also served as a GCSE and A-Level examiner, which has given me invaluable insight into the examination process and what students need to succeed.

Beyond teaching, I have held roles as a Safeguarding Manager, where I ensured the safety and well-being of students in educational programmes. I have also developed learning resources, worked with academic institutions such as Queen's University Belfast, and led workshops for trainee teachers.

With my diverse background and dedication to language education, I offer a well-rounded, professional, and personalised approach to help students achieve their goals. Whether it's exam preparation, improving conversational skills, or mastering grammar, I am fully equipped to guide students every step of the way.

Tutoring Approach:
I have extensive experience teaching online, and it's been one of the most rewarding parts of my career. Over the years, I've worked with students from all over the world, helping them achieve their language goals from the comfort of their own homes. My approach is highly interactive and engaging, ensuring that each lesson is tailored specifically to the student's needs, whether they're preparing for exams, improving their conversational skills, or building confidence in grammar and vocabulary.

What sets me apart is my ability to create a structured, yet flexible, learning environment that combines professional expertise with a personal touch. My students appreciate the in-depth feedback I provide after each session, the custom-made homework assignments that reinforce what we've covered, and the clear progress they can see after every class. With a PGCE in Modern Foreign Languages, a Master's in Teaching and Linguistics, and years of online teaching experience, I know how to use technology to its fullest to make lessons as impactful as possible.

I'm not just delivering lessons - I'm crafting an immersive experience that makes learning a new language enjoyable and highly effective. Whether it's through screen sharing, interactive exercises, or real-time language practice, I ensure that every session leaves my students more confident and equipped to reach their goals.

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