Galashiels Tutors and Galashiels Tuition

Personal Description:
My adventure with Martial Arts began in 1991 joining in Karate Kyokushin club in Lublin Poland. After 3 years of training, I become an instructor leading numerous groups for children and adults teaching Karate and Self-Defence. Over the years my interest was directed as well onto other Martial Arts, Aikido, Judo, Ju-Jutsu, Shaolin Chi-Na, Jeet Kune Do, moreover I was practicing with Nunchaku, Bo, Tonfa, and Japanese Fencing Kendo. In 2003 I Have erected Bushido School in Lublin teaching Karate KyokushinKan, Free Running, and as a first person in this region Kendo. In 2006 I moved to Edinburg Scotland where In 2010 reached for 3rd Dan in Karate KyokushinKan and become Branch Representative in Scotland. During that time I took part in numerous Tournaments both regional and international competing in Kata (forms) and Kumite (free fight) Achieving 2nd Place In International Tournament Oyama Cup Gdansk 2003.
I was involved in organizing Self Defence seminars with international recognized specialist Rory Miller in Edinburgh and Coordinating his tour in the UK.
Additionally, I have Master Degree in Sociology of Culture Maria-Curie Sklodowska University in Lublin Poland, and I am qualified Hypnotherapist, currently studying Counseling.
Now I am providing individual and group sessions to motivated and open minded students.

Teaching Experience:
1993-2003 Instructor of Karate Kyokushin ans Self-Defence working for Lubelski Klub Karate Kyokushin. (Adult and children groups)
2003-2006 President of Bushido School in Lublin, teaching Karate KyokushinKan, Self-Defence, Kendo, Free Running. (Adult and children groups)
2006-until now. Teaching one to one and groups (seminar system)
2016- until now Archery instructor in Leith Archery Edinburgh (Adult and children groups)

1997-2008 Instructor on various Karate Kyokushin Training Camps

2009 I was involved in final preparation for 2 Dan graduation of my Student / Close Friend

2003-2006 Founder and Head Instructor of Ken-Do Association in Poland Lublin (Szkola Bushido)
2003-2006 Founder and Head Instructor of Free Running group in Poland Lublin (Szkola Bushido)
2003-2006 Head Instructor of Kumite (tournament system), Kata and Self-Deference Seminars in Poland Lublin (Szkola Bushido)

2010- Branch Chief Nomination for Scotland in Karate KyokushinKan

Author of:
"Moje Karate" available ksiegarnia.publikatornia.pl
and
"Modern Martial Arts" Amazon

Tutoring Approach:
I accept students who are motivated to develop skills on One to One basis or groups.

Student needs to commit for full one grade study (Karate Kyokushinkan). The length of study is dictated by the level Kyu, Dan.
Students who would like to take Karate Study will be registered with the international Karate KyokushinKan Organisation.

Self Defense Students depends on the program (theory of violence, practical application, power generation, tactics) Booking for full blocks.

Japanese Fencing, practical application (no grading available) one session booking or package available.

Archery, one session booking or package available.

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Personal Description:
For the last 7 years I am teaching Mathematics as part time.
I did Mathematics for my A Level (Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry).
I did my first degree in Computer Science and obtained a honers degree. As part of the degree I also studied Mathematics.
In 2007 I did my M.Sc degree at Keele University, Staff, UK.

Teaching Experience:
For the last 7 years I am teaching Mathematics for GCSE students (from year 6 to year 11) and for the last two years I am teaching Mathematics for AS and A level students those who are following both AQA and EDEXCEL NEW Syllabus.

Previous Experience:
After finishing my A Level I worked as a substitute teacher for one year.
Conducted personal classes for GCSE and A Level Mathematics subject.
While I was doing my M.Sc I worked as a computer lab assistant tutor for the undergraduate students.

Tutoring Approach:
Upon students standard and requirement I will prepare myself with appropriate teaching material and with different & effective teaching methods

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Personal Description:
I am expert mathematician with double degree in mathematics from prestigious UK university and full time tutor for more than 14 years of teaching experience. I am fully experienced in building student confidence to solve challenging maths problem at GCSE, A level and university level. Last year I have achieved above 90% success rate in exams through result-orientated teaching methods.

Teaching Experience:
Key stage 3 and GCSE level- 14+ years
A level - 14+ years
Undergraduates 6+ years

Tutoring Approach:
I am offering online one to one and small group tuition to GCSEs, A-levels and undergraduates. My method of teaching mathematics is based upon rigorous practice on exam style questions.

My in-depth subject knowledge and mentoring experience means I can approach problems multiple ways and select the methods best suited to my student. Above 90% of my students achieved their target grade or better result last year. Biggest gift I can give to student is confidence to solve problems and manage time to relief exam stress so that they can focus on gaining maximum mark in the exam.That is why my focus is on guiding student to the solution by promoting independent learning and research skills.

I am discounting all my fees in order to help students stranded at home by ongoing corona pandemic. Please contact me as soon as possible to take advantage of this discount.

CRB checked: Yes
References will be provided upon request.

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Personal Description:
I was born in Italy and have been in the UK for 30 years. I have worked and finished my studies in this country, including a BA in English & French, and an MA in Translations English/Italian. In 2001 I attended a course for Teaching a Foreign Language to Adults.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching since 2002 in Adult Education Colleges, Companies and Private Students at their homes, as a self-employed tutor and through agencies in the South East. Since 2020 I only teach online with Zoom.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that one-to-one lessons are the best way for a student to learn, as everybody has a different learning pace, so the lessons can be arranged according to the individual needs.

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Personal Description:
I have an excellent rapport with young people, with 30 years experience as a Scout Leader.

Teaching Experience:
The last 16 years I have been girls and boys in Maths, Physics, Biology and Chemistry with exam achievements far exceeding expectations.
I previously worked for BT and was involved in training engineers and managers in utilisation of management information.

Tutoring Approach:
I have the ability to be able to explain complex things in a simple way.
Tutoring sessions are customised to the individual student's needs, with revision strategies to maximise exam performance.
I am very good at motivating students, being enthusiastic and making the subject fun and exciting.
The pace is customised to stretch the young people while keeping within their comprehension zone.

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Personal Description:
I am a native speaker of Spanish with many years of experience in teaching the language to children, young people in their GCSE and A Level courses (I am an Examiner and Specialist for AQA and Edexel), and adults who want to learn Spanish for business or holidays. I have a very interactive and friendly approach to teaching. The structure of the courses is very clear from the beginning but, ultimately, the content and the pace of the lessons is always determined by the students. The emphasis is on having good fun while learning, and a lot of the material used in the lessons is original. As a native speaker, I always make sure that the learning experience also includes cultural aspects of the country. I am absolutely sure that you will enjoy the courses.

Teaching Experience:
I am a qualified teacher of Spanish and a native speaker of the language. For the last 23 years, I have taught Spanish at different Secondary schools in Kent. I have also taught the language privately to adults wanting to learn or improve their command of the language for business or holiday purposes, and also to young people wanting to improve their chances of a good GCSE or A Level grade in Spanish. I am an examiner for AQA and I have taught Spanish GCSE and A Level courses for Edexel and AQA for many years. So, I am very familiar with the course contents.

Tutoring Approach:
The lessons that I teach are always interactive and practical. Students dictate both the content and the pace of the lessons and the aim is always to make the learning experience enjoyable. For example, if you are an adult wanting to improve your Spanish for holidays, we would reproduce in the lessons the situations that you would normally find yourself in while on holiday in Spain or any other Spanish-speaking country: greeting people, ordering food and drink, finding your way around, buying things, travelling around, asking for help, socialising, etc... As a native speaker, I always make sure that the learning experience also includes cultural aspects of the country.

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
Hello! I`m Simon. I hold a PhD in structural biophysics/biochemistry, plus I have an honours degree in biochemistry and a masters in clinical chemistry. I also have eighteen years of experience working in clinical biochemistry laboratories within the NHS. This encompassed various roles and duties, including producing analytical results to help diagnose and manage patients, troubleshooting and problem-solving, discussion of patients with clinical staff, management and supervision of laboratory staff and research and development work. More recently, I also have considerable research experience, both in pure research and from working within the pharmaceutical industry.

I have over ten years of experience working as a self-employed tutor in the sciences and maths. I have a demonstrable track record of inspiring my students in the subjects I tutor, consistently helping them to much better understand these subjects and achieve or exceed their hopes and expectations. I have numerous happy clients who would testify to this.

My approach is understanding students and establishing a rapport with students, which I tend to do quite easily. Obviously, different students have different abilities, personalities, strengths and weaknesses. Therefore I offer a bespoke service and tutorials are carried out in a relaxed atmosphere, where I will involve students in the session rather than just talking at them, giving friendly encouragement throughout. I also make extensive and effective use of various illustrative material and exercises (including past and mock exam papers, for those preparing for upcoming exams).

I LOVE tutoring, both because of some of the lovely people I meet along the way, and due to the fact that I make a difference.

Teaching Experience:
I now have over ten years' experience as a self-employed tutor, during which time I have tutored many students and guided them towards achieving their aspirations and often, exceeding their academic expectations.


PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE:

During my clinical laboratory career, I was frequently involved in supervising, teaching and training staff from various backgrounds, from school placement through to graduate.

As a PhD student, I was involved in a considerable amount of teaching, tutoring and mentoring activity:-
- I taught undergraduates in laboratory-based practical classes.
- I supervised and tutored my supervisor`s final year honours student. She graduated with a first.
- During a fourteen month period of secondment to an academic institution in the USA, I was heavily involved in designing research projects for, supervising, teaching and assessing undergraduates within the research laboratory environment.
- Acting in a consultative, mentoring and teaching capacity for my guest American supervisor`s research group, especially when he was not around.
- I have presented science and research work in various forums, from informal seminars to international conferences, including a prize-winning lecture I delivered in the USA.

Tutoring Approach:
I appreciate that everybody has different expectations and needs, and these always have to be taken into consideration when deciding how best to tutor somebody. Initially, I would seek to find out your strengths and weaknesses and use those to tailor my tutoring to your requirements.

One's ability to learn and understand a subject are inextricably linked to one's interest in it. The classroom nature of school or college education can understandably make it unsuited to students who are struggling with a subject. Similarly, it can lead to the potential of strong students of a subject not being fully recognised and nurtured. In both cases, this can lead to dejection, frustration and disinterest. As a one-to-one tutor, I work very hard to inspire my tutees and make the learning process as enjoyable as possible. I see it as being much more of a coaching role than students might receive within a school class, and seek to bring the subjects I teach to life, drawing on life examples and anecdotal approaches to make even the most abstract of concepts relevant and fascinating. I always try to ensure that tutoring sessions are conducted in a relaxed and friendly way, as students feeling comfortable with their learning environment is important for sessions to be fully effective and useful.

For the interested learner who is not attending a course of study but wants to learn about "science" and all it's wonderful facets, I would be happy to provide a more independently-structured course, that is tailored to your interests and requirements.

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

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

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

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

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Personal Description:
Graduated in Trinity College LTCL in Violin (Masters). Currently active member of The University of Manchester Symphony Orchestra and Manchester String Orchestra. Joined the Aberystwyth Philomusica and Aberystwyth Wind Band for more than 3 years. Over 10 years of music experiences. Have been learning, practising and expertising in music all my life. More like an exchange in music between music lovers rather than boring lessons. Provide violin, pop vocal, piano, basic saxophone and recorder tuition.

Teaching Experience:
Orchestra & Wind Band, Violin Music Tutor

Organization: The University of Manchester Symphony Orchestra ,Manchester String Orchestra, Aberystwyth Philomusica,
Nature of Work: First Violinist

Organization: Aberystwyth University Wind Band
Nature of work: Saxophonist

Nature of work: Private Music Tutor
Employment type: Self-employed
Dates: Ongoing

Tutoring Approach:
Introducing the easiest way to grasp the basic music skills in just a few lessons, in focus of performance-level, advanced pop and classical violin, pop singing, classical piano, basic saxophone and recorder.

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Personal Description:
I'm a 40 year old part time teacher of geography. I have been teaching geography for 19 years. I have experience of teaching ks3, GCSEs and A-Levels. I'm passionate about helping students to learn about the world we live in. I have a proven track record of making significant improvements to students exam preparation and ultimately their final grade outcome.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked in three school in my 19 years, each time leaving for promotion from head of geography to head of faculty, to assistant head. Now that I have found children I work part time which gives me the best of both worlds. I have experience of teaching and tutoring at GCSE and A-Level in all major exam boards (AQA, OCR & Edexcel)

Tutoring Approach:
I find the best approach is to listen to the student in what they believe are their strengths and areas for development. Then through a range of diagnostic assessments I help identify the gaps in their knowledge, understanding and skills. I then use a variety of resources, relying heavily on past exam questions to quickly bridge those gaps and widen and deepen subject knowledge.

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Personal Description:
Geographical and geological educational issues, especially those impacting on SW England.
Most sporting activities and currently involved in gig rowing, having rowed in the World Championships in the Scilly Isles several times.
Formerly Head of Soccer at Truro School.
Now volunteer as a tour guide for the National Trust at a historic tin and copper mine.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught for over 30 years in both the state and independent secondary sectors, being a Head of Department in the latter. In my previous post we won the prestigious 'Good Schools Guide School of the Year' on several occasions for best 'A' Level geology results in the U.K.

Tutoring Approach:
I would expect to initiate pupil-centred learning involving the student as much as possible in debate and discussion, avoiding being a merely dispassionate purveyor of facts. Teaching should not involve lecturing, but encourage guided self-discovery with the student, especially at 'A' Level.

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Personal Description:
I hold a BSc (Hons) in Mathematics from Kings College London University. I am also a Postgraduate student studying for a Masters in Data Science.
My personal and interactive approach to tutoring is what has led to multiple success stories and has enhanced my desire to continue helping, developing and lending quality time to many more incredible students.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching for just under 3 years with 555+ hours of tutoring experience and therefore have the necessary experience to take my students education to the next level.

Tutoring Approach:
I will be giving one to one tuition to students who study A level Maths/Further Maths. Improving their understanding of the topics and supporting them in the areas which they find most difficult. I am determined to improve their problem solving abilities by providing them with challenging questions as well as answering any questions the student may have. I will be taking notes of the questions that my students struggle to understand or answer correctly, and from those questions i will form sets of questions that will aid the student in those areas and strengthen their weaknesses. I will be providing quality support during and after lessons. All students are unique so i will tailor my lessons according to the ability and needs of the student, with the overall goal of achieving the A* in the final exams.

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Personal Description:
I teach all age groups up to A Level. I love teaching Physics and aim to give my students as much confidence as possible in the subject. I know the newest specifications in great detail.

Teaching Experience:
This is my eighth year of teaching Physics, up to A Level standard.
I also have a lot of experience tutoring both online and face to face, with a number of current and past students.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a relaxed style and will tailor any sessions towards the individual needs of the student.

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Personal Description:
Experienced & Qualified Native French Tutor (all levels)

Teaching a language is not only about teaching vocabulary, grammar, and conversation - it's also about understanding the culture of the student. Having taught around the world and passionate about languages, I have mastered my teaching techniques by learning about my students' cultures and their native languages.

Teaching Experience:
I taught at the Alliance Française of Wellington in New Zealand to children, teenagers, and adults from one to one tuitions to groups. I've also taught English and French in Europe, South East Asia, the Pacific, and Latin America.

Tutoring Approach:
First, we will begin with a level test and assess together your goals (ie: business, traveling, living in France).

Your first lesson will be in French whether you're a beginner, intermediate or at the most advanced l level - this is the most efficient way to learn. I use the best techniques to teach French as a Foreign Language.

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Personal Description:
GCSE & A-Level Computer Science Specialist (OCR Examiner)

I am Head of Computing and an official OCR GCSE Paper 2 Examiner (graded Excellent). I help ambitious students unlock the top grades they're truly capable of.

My Results:
The majority of my GCSE students achieve grades 7-9
Last year, my A-level OCR Paper 2 students averaged 99.6 out of 140 - significantly above the typical average

I teach both OCR and Edexcel at GCSE, with a sharp focus on exam technique and practical skills. At A-level I specialise in OCR, particularly algorithms, Big O notation, and the extended questions that separate good students from the very best.

My teaching combines deep subject knowledge with real examiner insight - helping students understand exactly what top marks require and how to deliver them under pressure.

If your child is serious about achieving a 7-9 at GCSE or an A at A-level, I'd love to help them get there.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching since 2010 and have been Head of Computing since 2012. I launched and have led the Edexcel GCSE Computer Science course since 2013 and have taught OCR A-level Computer Science since its introduction.

Since 2018 I have been an official OCR examiner for GCSE Paper 2, and in the 2025 series I was graded as marking to an 'Excellent' standard.

Tutoring Approach:
My lessons are structured, focused, and results-driven. I combine clear, engaging teaching with targeted exam practice to help students develop both deep understanding and strong exam technique.

Every lesson includes:

Focused teaching on key topics and exam skills
Practice questions with detailed, constructive feedback

Lesson notes and resources sent after every session

I also provide exam marking and personal statement support. All lessons are delivered via Zoom with flexible scheduling to fit around busy student timetables.

Here are some recent comments from parents of students I teach with names changed:

"You are an excellent teacher - thorough, efficient, and explain things very clearly."
- Rachel (parent of GCSE student)

"Thank you for your patience and guidance. James really likes your class and has made great progress."
- Parent of A-level student

"Sam got a 5 in Computer Science - we are so pleased. I wish we had found you sooner."
- Parent of GCSE student

"Alex scored 41 out of 50 in his end-of-year test - a huge improvement. We are over the moon with his progress and can't thank you enough for driving his passion for the subject."
- Parent of Year 10 student

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Personal Description:
I am a professional native teacher of Russian as a Foreign Language with 6+ years of experience and a positive and outgoing person with a passion for languages and life-long learning. I have lived and worked in 7 countries and currently live in Newcastle, England. Besides work, I enjoy travelling, hiking and watching sunsets.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught Russian at all levels from ab initio to C2 to students of all social backgrounds from all around the world (UK, Denmark, USA, Australia, Japan, China, South Korea, France, Germany, etc.). I have led courses with the focus on conversation and grammar as well as Russian for specific purposes, such as travel, business or TORFL (TRKI) exam preparation.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a supportive and positive teacher striving to create friendly atmosphere in my lessons so that students feel encouraged to speak and experiment with the language. The communicative method is at the heart of my teaching approach, and I encourage my students to start speaking from the first lesson. I always tailor my lessons to my students' goals and needs and choose only relevant, engaging and up-to-date materials to work with.

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Personal Description:
If your child is lacking the self-belief they need to do well in mathematics, then I can help. Many students are limited in their enjoyment of mathematics because of some historic experience which has an impact on their achievement. I will help your child to overcome this and transform their beliefs, to increase their mathematical skills and enable them to achieve their potential.

Teaching Experience:
An existing qualified mathematics teacher - PGCE.
BSc Hons Mathematics Specialist
Experience in trade and industry, training over 1000 adults

Tutoring Approach:
A collaborative approach, working in partnership to incrementally improve the knowledge of students.
Adaptive and considerate of issues and barriers to learning.
Multidimensional approach to teaching mathematics with a great emphasis of Mastery.

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