Abingdon Tutors and Abingdon Tuition

Personal Description:
Welcome! A freelance tutor and singer, I give "Personal tuition in the right key". I can help you get the highest grades in exams, and study in the "key" that best suits you. Like the right song choices, I often inspire my students to succeed.

- Which subject(s) do you teach?

French, Spanish, Latin, Ancient Greek, English as a Foreign Language, Creative Writing, Singing, Oxbridge Interview preparation.

- Tell me about your qualifications.

Master of Studies in European Literature (Spanish) from Exeter College, Oxford University;
Master of Arts in Classics and Modern Languages (French) from New College, Oxford University;
PostGraduate Certificate in Education and Qualified Teacher Status from the Department of Education, Oxford University;
Diploma de Español como Lengua Extranjera (Spanish Diploma) from Salamanca University, Spain;
Advanced Certificate in Careers Education and Guidance from Canterbury Christ Church College;
Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (Level 5, CELTA equivalent, 140 hours) from EDI and i-to-i Volunteering.
Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts ("Working for 21st century Enlightenment")

- Where do you teach?

I teach online via FaceTime and/or Skype from my home and at students' homes. I live in Abingdon, in Oxfordshire, in the UK, and am prepared to drive up to c30 miles from home if online lessons are not possible, to include nearby towns such as Oxford, Wantage, Bicester, Henley, Reading, Newbury, Thame, Wallingford, Marlow ... I teach pupils online anywhere in the world, latterly in UK towns such as Northampton, Cheltenham etc. and abroad in Hong Kong, Russia, Kazakhstan ...

- Describe your arrangements for online tutoring.

I use Skype or Apple FaceTime. The video feed can be switched off at my student's request, or if it degrades the sound quality. Tests and exercises are sent to the student and returned to me for marking by email.

Teaching Experience:
- What kind of experience do you have?

Two years teaching Scholarship Latin and Greek in a local prep school (Cothill House);
Previously spent 25 years in the classroom in independent and state schools in the UK, France and Peru, teaching all ages;
Sometime Head of three academic departments (one of which I founded at Abingdon School);
c10 years one-to-one private tuition to all ages, latterly often online or through local agencies.

- Do you have an up-to-date DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service, formerly CRB) Certificate?

Yes - fully listed on the DBS update site.

- Where and with whom did you train?

University of Oxford, New College and Exeter College;
University of Oxford Department of Education;
Salamanca University;
Christ Church College Canterbury;

- Do you belong to any professional organisations?

I am a member of the General Teaching Council, the Association for Language Learning, sometime Chair of the Oxford Education Society, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and the Academy of St Cecilia.

Tutoring Approach:
"David has been tutoring our son via Skype for the last year, since his Spanish teacher said she did not want to put him in for GCSE Spanish as she thought he would fail. David has been marvellous with coaxing and coaching him and giving him confidence. Just the one to one attention has been hugely beneficial, and the bonus that "tech"� was involved, and that there was no time lost in driving to and from lessons has been a real godsend too. David is incredibly supportive and encouraging without being at all patronising, and really strikes the right balance to get the best out of his students. Can recommend unreservedly."
Mrs F, Gloucestershire,

"Our son has flourished under David's tutelage; the balance and content of homework and classwork has been very carefully gauged and enabled our son to progress rapidly, with great enthusiasm for his studies. The weekly reports David submits have been of immense value to us as parents trying to support our son's learning, as has the clear structuring, marking and regular review of work." Dr M. and Mr E.

"David has provided my daughter with an excellent grounding in Spanish prior to her starting the subject at school. He has guided her through the basics in a clear, thoughtful and well-informed way and has formed a very good relationship in which she has felt engaged, supported and motivated." Mrs W.

"My two children (ages 9 and 10) have progressed rapidly in their French learning with David. His lessons with them are focused and thorough, and his approach is patient and clear. He has great enthusiasm for languages and significant experience in teaching them, which show through in his lessons. My children both very much enjoy their lessons and are even happy to do the homework! David is also very helpful in working with us to find the best ways to support their learning between lessons. " Jenny T

"Dear David, Thank you so much for all your help and guidance when I applied for the Chaplaincy. It was good, too, to see you there when I went for interview" Revd. Michael P"

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Personal Description:
I am a Chemistry Teacher in a Secondary School where I teach Chemistry and Physics from year 7 to year 11. I also teach A-level Chemistry (AQA Exam Board).

I can help students to practice exam skills and revision techniques.

I am also an Italian native speaker, so I can teach Italian at any level. I am also able to help with French from Primary to KS4.

I like helping others, so I enjoy helping students to achieve good grades.

Teaching Experience:
I am a Science Teacher in a Secondary School.

I have a PGCE in Secondary Science - Chemistry, and a PhD in Chemical Engineering.

Regarding teaching languages, I am an Italian native speaker and I am also fluent in French.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to be systematic without being too severe. I like to establish a good relationship with the students, based on a reciprocal respect.

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Personal Description:
Recently returned to the UK to live near my family after teaching abroad for many years. I have 2 teenagers who no longer need my constant attention. I enjoy speaking other languages and love teaching, especially one to one teaching, where I can focus all my attention on the individual.

Teaching Experience:
1976-1987 EFL teaching in the UK and abroad. 6th form, secondary and adult. Also some ESL and home teaching.

1988- 2008. Primary teaching 3-12 year olds. I am trained in Early Years teaching. For 9 years I was the English Language Support coordinator in a large international school. My responsibilities included assessing children's needs, planning and teaching English as an additional language throughout the Infant and Junior school, improving reading skills and helping train other staff in the above. I have regularly tutored individuals and small groups of children after school.
I have recently completed a course in "Big Writing" with Ros Wilson of Andrell Education, focusing on improving writing skills from KS1 to KS3

2009- present. Nursery teacher and part time Modern languages/ Supply teacher in KS2

Tutoring Approach:
Each person's needs are different and my first job is to develop a trusting relationship so that I can quickly assess the priorities. Building confidence in prior knowledge comes next. It's important to pace the lesson so that there is just enough pressure but no stress. I like to work on all 4 skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) whatever the goal of the class, and to that end use a variety of resources; books, cards, games, music, computer. I am a very good listener and have unlimited patience. I constantly make students aware of the progress they are making which builds confidence and speeds up learning. I set very high but reachable standards.

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Personal Description:
Experienced University admissions assistant with over 5 years experience at Oxford & Cambridge.

I have extensive experience assisting students to understand the requirements and best practices in enhancing their university applications to maximise their chances of securing their dream university.

Currently undertaking a PhD at Oxford and a member of my college admissions team.

Teaching Experience:
I utilise my experience and extensive bank of good personal statements, understanding of what universities are looking for in candidates and offer insider advice on how students can enhance their applications.

I offer the opportunity to coach students into improving their applications, proofreading and reviewing applications.

Tutoring Approach:
I provide a wealth of knowledge and materials to my candidates to enable them to succeed.

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Personal Description:
I am a friendly and passionate mother tongue Italian tutor.

Teaching Experience:
I offer tuition for General Italian and support for all ages and stages. During my studies in Italy, I successfully tutored a number of foreign students who were keen to learn Italian to progress with their careers and I achieved excellent results for my students.

Tutoring Approach:
Friendly and approachable, I always aim to boost confidence in my students along with targeting the specific needs of each student. I believe in assisting all my students to achieve their maximum potential. I am very flexible and adaptable in my teaching style to meet my students' needs.
In my lessons, I like to include an insight into the Italian way of life and culture which I feel enhances the speaking of Italian as my students can feel the soul of my country.

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Personal Description:
From my experience in the classroom I realise that many students benefit from much more individual help than school can provide. I enjoy being able to help students on a one-to-one basis as it is very rewarding being able to improve their achievement and confidence.I am very grateful to my students and their parents for the relationships we have struck up, many of which have continued through the years.

Teaching Experience:
I am an English teacher with over 20 years experience teaching to GCSE, A-level and Oxbridge entrance.I have taught in both the independent and state sectors, in a large comprehensive and a small independent school. I have also tutored in Oxford and London for students from 10 to 19.

Tutoring Approach:
One to one or small groups of 2 or 3.

I aim to develop confidence by supporting the students and understanding their needs as a priority. I then encourage them to explore and develop ideas, giving them support while they grow in this. The key is building an excellent relationship in which high expectations enable them to make progress while always supported.

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Personal Description:
Hello, my name is Alexandra I was born and raised in Greece where I obtained a Bachelor Degree in International European Studies. I worked as an English and Greek tutor for 12 years in Language schools and privately. I have managed to develop a very interactive and efficient way for Adults and young children to learn English as a foreign language as well as Greek since it is my native language.

Teaching Experience:
12 years tutoring language for: Adults and young children 7-16, GCSE, IELTS, TOEIC, A1-C2 level
12 years tutoring Greek students with homework, prep for exams

Tutoring Approach:
Adults: I promote interactive ways of learning that include discussions around films, music, theater and interesting articles, conversations and the expression of personal opinion. I strongly support verbal exercises so that the learner manages to feel confident on having basic conversations within the first month of learning.

Young children: I support interactive learning by role play, games and short films that include exercises. I focus on establishing excellent knowledge of the grammar and syntax rules and I introduce multiple ways to build on the vocabulary.

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Personal Description:
I work as a practicing artist, lecturer and illustrator I feel extremely lucky have been able throughout my working life to combine two of my favourite things, art & nature.

My award winning work has sold widely across the UK and in the USA. Careful study, thoughtful composition, and atmosphere are the key elements that go into my personal work.

I have been an external examiner for several programmes and I am currently a certfied moderator for Access to HE Art, Design & Media Diplomas through Ascentis.

Teaching Experience:
dI have over 25 years experience teaching degree level, HND and ND levels of illustration, drawing and illustration industrial placement. More recently I have collaborated to design workshops and short courses in art and illustration, working with organisations and individuals. My private 1:1 tutoring often involves preparing students for 'A' Level, college and university or building portfolios for further education.

Many of my university students have gone on to be leading professionals in the creative industries, but you may wish to have lessons to improve your technique of a media or drawing application, as a leisure painter.

Tutoring Approach:
My background is in natural history illustration and wildlife art, working in a variety of media including; watercolour, acrylics, graphite and oils. However I can plan engaging lessons that will help you develop an understanding and skills to convey tone, form colour and light for whatever subject you are interested in.

Through patience, understanding, and working together I will help you achieve your artistic goals. I create wildlife art in a variety of media but teach across a wide range of subject areas in art & design from landscapes to still life.

I have a special interest in teaching the principles of observational drawing, covering skills that can be applied to all visual mediums in art.

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Personal Description:
I am a graduate of Design Engineering of London University and PGCE of Staffordshire University. I am an engaging and charismatic teacher whose supportive learning style builds confidence and achieves results.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught for 15 years changing to exclusively online during the lockdown from March 2020. I teach in harmony with my wife Juliet. My specialist subjects are Maths Non-Verbal Reasoning and Interview training.

Tutoring Approach:
I have an engaging and positive style of teaching which I balance with each child's character and mood as as I read it.

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Personal Description:
41 year old from Wrexham. Involved in Performing Arts since training at 17 in 1987 at a professional theatre in North Wales. Qualified teacher (6th form/FE and above) in Drama but also have taught to younger students/pupils so willing to coach at GCSE level. Also qualified in Media Studies and Film. Very trustworthy and eager to motivate individuals into gaining high grades. huge passion for Drama and performance and particularly open to training acting students in practical as well as theoretical. Great sense of humour! Willing to travel to the following areas: Wrexham, Oswestry, Chester and Deeside for the fee stated but also willing to travel to Warrington area for a higher fee (travel expenses etc)

Teaching Experience:
Involved in coaching and facilitiating since 1990, working in various stage-schools, theatre companies and various organisations. Qualified in 2006 with BA (HONS) degree in Theatre & Media (2.1) and gained PGCE/Cert.Ed Post-Comp in 2007. Also gained QTLS status in 2010. Taught in various schools/colleges/Universities in North Wales and North West since 2005. Trained one of only five students in the UK to gain scholarship to the New York Film Academy. My teaching practice is practical based although willing to discuss and work through theoretical based study also Experience teaching interview skills through drama techniques, film & tv acting, singing, presentation skills, improv, comedy performance, stage-fighting (non-armed combat), monologues, drama school audition techniques, voice work, focus, breath control for performance. I have a healthy interest in coaching the works of Hitchcock, Spielberg and black & white slapstick film (works of laurel and hardy).

Tutoring Approach:
Keen to develop good trust with student and actively demonstrate examples of work. Very keen to encourage and develop self-confidence in students and communication skills through drama training. Willing to teach/train individuals in all aspects of drama and presentation, confidence building, communication skills improvement, reading script, presentation, film genre study, from text to performance (drama and media), job interview skills through drama techniques and drama school audition techniques

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Personal Description:
Art and design has been the love of my life since early childhood. Being able to express oneself creatively and with imagination has always been my primary source of independence and happiness. Apart from that, i am also attentive to creative sparks and fires in the people around me, enjoying when the potential is given the chance to be fulfilled. Plus, i am thoughtful and hard working, with a light-hearted and empathic attitude towards people i work with. I am a bit of a connector, a bit of a maven, a bit of a geek and i always wear a sunscreen. I have studied Art and Design in Latvia and in London, have an Interior Design diploma and a degree in Product Design, strong drawing skills, sane knowledge of a range of arts materials, software skills and a spirit for safe experiments.

Teaching Experience:
Sustainable Opportunities Workshop 2011, in collaboration with British Council - designing the workshop and facilitating it.
Private arts tutor for life drawing and modeling, 2007-currently.
Learning Resources Assistant in University of Arts London, advising on materials and software (Adobe CS; Rhino; Solidworks for beginners) 2009-currently.
Arts tutor and group supervisor in Children Summer Camp, ages 6-16. 2007.

Tutoring Approach:
The best tutors in my life have been the strictest ones, with high demands and set standards. I have learned from them well and would aim for the same level of aspiration they have given me. But in addition, my strongest belief is that the best teacher is the one who understands the way his student works and learns and acts accordingly, being an inspirational teacher. Ages 6-99 can all benefit from expression through the different forms of art. First of all I would discuss the needs and desires of stakeholders and form a brief, which would include:
Desired outcomes
Program to reach them
Sourcing materials - what materials are needed
Timetable
Location

Then, we would be set for starting the learning and revealing the wonders of life and ourselves.

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Personal Description:
I have a BA History (2:1) degree from Plymouth University. In October 2014 I will be studying the Graduate Diploma in Law at BPP University in Bristol.

Teaching Experience:
I am a confident new English teacher. I am CELTA qualified (May 2014). I am working this summer at the Language Study Center in Bristol with 11-18 year old`s.

Tutoring Approach:
*Available August 2014* Conversational/everyday English.

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Personal Description:
I am a native French speaker, aged 21, currently working in a school in Gateshead as a French Language Assistant, so I am already used to teaching my own language. I also aim to become an English teacher after completing my teaching degree in France. I will be in Newcastle until the end of May, when my contract with the school ends. After this I will go back to France to finish my studies.

I am passionate about literature and music, and would be able to teach cultural aspects of France if that is what you are looking for. I have also always loved languages since I was a child, I learnt English and German from the age of 10, I also did some Spanish and Russian at the end of secondary school, and I have been trying to learn Italian for the last few months. I would be glad to pass on this love for languages.

Teaching Experience:
I am currently teaching French in Gateshead as a French Language Assistant. As part of my teaching degree in France I also did a short internship in a French secondary school.

Tutoring Approach:
I am very open for the way of teaching, depending on you needs and the skills you want to acquire (grammar, reading, speaking, cultural aspects of the language). I can bring along teaching resources if needed. I would be happy to discuss your needs to be able to adapt to the way of tutoring that suits you.

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Personal Description:
I am a experienced fully qualified further and higher education lecturer, and have previously within my career been a Senior University Lecturer and Course Leader in textile design and costume design .I completed B.A (Hons) Fashion Textile degree from Central St Martins School of Art London and a went on to further study a Masters Degree in Fashion /Textile at the University of Central England Birmingham.

I am currently a practicing Surface Designer producing design collections for interiors for high end department stores including Fenwicks. This includes designs for glass art, prints,soft furnishings, bedding and cushions. I currently also exhibit nationally .
I have worked as a practicing designer for a number of years having started my career as a commercial designer in Fashion Avenue New York and London after graduating.

I'm currently based in Scarborough and can meet students at my studio for teaching classes. I'm available for Skype appointments at a mutually convenient time.

Teaching Experience:
I have 15 years' experience of teaching all level of learner's in art and design. My teaching experience ranges from AS, A level Art,Foundation Art and Design ,B-tec ,HND, Degree level study.I have particular expertise in studio practice (art and design), portfolio preparation(for entry into higher education and employment)textiles print techniques and process,fashion,costume illustration ,Photoshop, at undergraduate level.

I am also have vast experience teaching at undergraduate level, having taught ay Yorkshire Coast College Scarborough, Bradford College, Batley School of Art and Design, Huddersfield University studio based and live industrial projects. Having taught costume design for a number years enabled me to also build links within the TV, film, opera dance, and theatre industry. Previous student employment destination's and work experience include film "King Speech" "Clash of the Titans"" Bond movie Skyfall" Specialist fashion costume and textile studios.

Tutoring Approach:
I take a one-to-one, approach teaching taking the students skills prior learning and individual needs into consideration , this highlights and establishes the students needs and goals of the student, then clearly identifying a structured plan for achieving these goals. These may be results-focused when preparing for a particular examination, or aimed at developing the students skills and understanding of a particular subject area, depending upon the student's own aspirations I am happy to work with any course materials the student may provide, and I am familiar with all A Level and Higher Education modules and syllabuses'. I am able to guide students through their studies, offering consistent support, mentoring ,and 1-2-1 tuition for the full term of the course. I can also provide practical tuition for students who are preparing their art portfolios for University submission, and can offer assistance with references for students who undertake long-term tuition with me.

Tutoring may take place at the student's home, dependent on distance or at my art studio in Scarborough where I can provide a range of art materials and resources by prior arrangement, for more intensive practical art sessions. Please note that I can travel within hour half based on the fee structure quoted below, travelling further will incur a small additional fee.

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Personal Description:
My name is Adam and I'm based just outside Crewkerne in Somerset.

After studying Physics at the University of Bristol, I have spent the past 10 years working in the field of sustainable buildings. Alongside my professional career, I spent five years working as a private tutor between 2016 and 2021. I then took a short break from tutoring as my two sons were born, and I am now looking forward to supporting new students once again.

I specialise in Maths and Physics at KS3, GCSE and A-Level. I understand that these subjects can feel intimidating at times - I believe that by starting simple and building up step by step, any student can gain confidence and tackle even the most complicated problems. I enjoy helping young people to surprise themselves with how much they can learn and achieve.

Teaching Experience:
I have five years of tutoring experience (2016-2021), supporting students at KS3, GCSE and A-level in both Maths and Physics, as well as one student applying to Oxford. During this time I helped many students build confidence and achieve strong results, including grade improvements at A-level. After a short break while my two sons were born, I am now returning to tutoring and look forward to helping new students succeed.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach depends on each student and their confidence level. I aim to build understanding step by step, starting with simple problems and gradually increasing the challenge. I understand that Maths and Physics can often feel intimidating, but with a clear grasp of the basics, students can learn to tackle even the most complex questions. I make use of practical techniques such as structured practice, memory aids, and revision strategies, while keeping lessons engaging and encouraging.

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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.

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Personal Description:
I commenced teaching the AAT qualification in 2009 and currently teach in both a classroom and online setting.

In addition to teaching, I also work as an accountant in the automotive industry. This ensures I bring recent and relevant discussion and expertise to my teaching.

DBS checked. Certification available upon request.

Teaching Experience:
AAT AQ22 units I teach

AAT Level 4
Drafting and Interpreting Financial Statements (DAIF)
Applied Management Accounting (AMAC)
Internal Accounting Systems and Controls (INAC)
Personal Tax (PNTA)
Credit & Debt Management (CRDM)
Synoptic exam (for AAT apprentices)

AAT Level 3
Financial Accounting: Preparing Financial Statements (FAPS)
Management Accounting Techniques (MATS)
Tax Processes for Business (TPFB)
Business Awareness (BUAW)


AAT Level 2
Introduction to Bookkeeping (ITBK)
Principles of Bookkeeping Controls (POBC)
Principles of Costing (PCTN)
Business Environment Synoptic (BESY)

Tutoring Approach:
The teaching and learning you will undergo with me is structured to meet the requirements of the AAT AQ22 syllabus.

My tutoring is student-centred. This means you determine the topic, content, and pace of your learning. Feedback from my students consistently states I am a patient teacher; I am happy to revisit topics you find challenging to help you understand them in a clear and confident way.

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Personal Description:
I am a full-time tutor of Russian, a native Russian speaker and have a Master's degree in Russian language and literature.
I also teach piano Levels 1-8 and music theory Levels 1-5

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching Russian as a foreign and native language in London since 2010. This includes teaching absolute beginners, coaching for GCSE and A-level examinations and consulting school teachers of Russian and students of Russian at the degree level.
I have a Music College diploma as a teacher of piano and have been teaching Level 1-8 piano in London since 2012, mainly preparing pupils for examinations with ABRSM.

Tutoring Approach:
"Result" is my motto. I take pride in my pupils' high achievements that have never been below grade A since 2010. I am a demanding teacher who will never leave a pupil without homework. However, those young and grown-up people I teach are motivated by my passion for the Russian language and literature. My profound knowledge of linguistics and Russian history simulates their curiosity.

I have a relaxed fun personality, I like to laugh and use my sense of humour to make a lesson run as a conversation when I teach both, an adult and a child. This is because my subjects are also a part of my world.

My approach to teaching is also result-oriented. I aim to enable my pupils to progress independently even at the beginner level. My original method of teaching demonstrates how similar the English and Russian languages are. This technique combined with the individualised approach gives a lot of confidence to learners and has been proving efficient: absolute beginners achieve A and A* grades at GCSE Russian in only one year on a reoccurring basis.

As a piano teacher, I am not afraid to give and take the challenge of coaching my pupils at a higher level should their potential exceed their current grade. I organise annual concerts to enhance the students' performance confidence.

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