Maida Vale Tutors and Maida Vale Tuition

Personal Description:
Hi guys, to start off with my academic background: I studied at Winchester College and Cambridge University.

I was generally a straight A* student at Winchester, and in my final exams I received some of the highest Cambridge Pre-U grades in the UK for my subjects of Philosophy & Theology, Russian and French (these were D1, D1, D2 - which translates in A-Level terms to A**, A**, A*). At Cambridge I studied a mix of Theology and Philosophy, with a focus on philosophy (ethics and metaphysics), history and literature papers.

In terms of my personal background: I was born in London and have lived in Islington most of my life. I've travelled a great deal, and in my gap year I spent stretches of time living in and travelling around America, Italy, Malta, Russia, Jordan and Pakistan.

In my free time I like classic cinema (Hitchcock especially) and novels (Tolstoy, Dostoevsky and Dickens are my favourites) but I'm curious about everything really, and I read books of any kind whenever I have the time - especially those relating to History (classical and modern), Philosophy, Theology, Politics, and Literary Analysis.

For most of my professional life so far I've worked as a salesman, lawyer and corporate strategist. I like theatre and stand-up and sketch comedy - Dylan Moran and John Cleese are my favourite comedians - and at Cambridge I performed in a couple of sketch comedy shows alongside members of the Footlights.

I'm friendly, good-humoured, energetic and I love teaching more than anything else!

Teaching Experience:
I've received excellent feedback on my tutoring so far. Here are some quotes I've received from former students who've been kind enough to supply written references for me (I can provide these and their contact details to you on request) :

- "the best teacher I have ever had the pleasure of learning from"

- [different student] "I can say without any doubt that he is the best tutor I have ever had."

- "thanks to Jasper, my school results became much better."

- "I can talk endlessly about how much I loved having meetings with Jasper"

- "His ability to convey complex historical concepts with clarity and engagement is a superpower."

- "Jasper's professionalism is also worth highlighting. He is highly organised, punctual, and dependable. He never came to a session unprepared, his teaching materials were always well-structured and insightful."

- "I must give a massive word of praise"

- " I truly hope he will have more students to teach, as he is very talented and truly deserves to be recognised. I wish everyone had a chance to have such a wonderful and supportive tutor."

Please note: The website format unfortunately limits the numbers of subjects I can list; I shall therefore add three more here. In addition to Philosophy, Theology, English, History, Russian and French I am also capable of tutoring up to and including GCSE Latin, basic (ab initio) German, and Debating.

More generally, I am also happy to advise on academic interview performance for elite boarding school or Oxbridge admissions.

Tutoring Approach:
1. So first of all we'll have an introductory session to determine what your interests, strengths/weaknesses and ultimate aims are. If you like me then we can have another session!

At the end of this I'll set an assignment for you to work on before our next session. The assignment may be easy, it may be tricky, it may be normal, it may be quite unusual! It will depend on what your aims and interests are and what I can come up with etcetera.

I'll also try to recommend some valuable learning resources and techniques for you to work with as you prepare that assignment.


2. In our second session we'll go through and discuss the assignment and your answers to it, focusing on different ways of looking at the issue and thinking around it, or effective ways to internalise that knowledge. This will take the form of a dialogue and a conversation that I hope you'll find stimulating and rewarding.

Note: You are welcome to stop sessions with me at anytime; it's entirely up to you and I won't be offended at all. But if you let me, I truly hope to teach you as much as I can.


- In summary the fundamental idea is to make the ideas as fun as possible, to assist you in learning them effortlessly and wanting to learn more. Education is always self-motored; the trick is helping you to fall in love with it. It is also to expose you to a wide array of alternative perspectives to broaden your bank of wisdom. Finally, I can recommend books and podcasts and resources to you that can have enduring value for you far beyond our own sessions, perhaps even for your entire lifetime.

I believe in sparking creativity and helping students make the ideas their own. My aim is to ignite imagination and enthusiasm as I put your intellect to the test, because only then will you really enjoy learning, and only then will you truly do well. Therefore I'll do my very best to generate an enthusiastic but rigorous atmosphere.

My enthusiasm can be pretty infectious... I promise you our conversations will be the opposite of boring!

At the same time, many of you will have real goals : to get better grades on your essays, to pass a crucial academic interview, or to smash your final exams. I believe utterly in studying carefully how to do that, and devising a strategy, so you can work "smart", not just "hard", and achieve your goals. I did this with great success for my own exams, and for many former students. I'm a former corporate strategist at an industry-dominating company! This is a real passion of mine.

Finally I also promise you that I'll also prepare carefully in advance of every session you have with me, to ensure you get the most out of me that you can. I have immense respect for my responsibility to you and your development.

Feel free to try a preliminary session with me!

I so look forward to talking with you,

All the very best,

Jasp

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have been teaching Russian Language for more than 18 years with 9 years experience working in London, and in addition, have also taught Russian Literature.
From January 2009 until present I have been teaching children from the age 3 -18-year-old and adults. I am using the communicative methods to teach my students. I started to work as a private Tutor of Russian as soon as I came to London. Since that time I have developed an extensive database of students, especially young children due to the fact that their parents employed me when their children were 3-4 year old. I have been tutoring the same students until they reach the age of 14 -16 year old.

Teaching Experience:
I have completed a Thesis in Pedagogy studies, and I have achieved a PhD in this subject.
Expertise in all levels of student education primarily with children age groups from 3 to 18 years of age and adult learners. Able to assist in supervision, organisation of all areas of student curriculum, including preparation of GCSE and A-level.

Tutoring Approach:
My professional focus is on teaching Russian as a Foreign Language and I recommend the communicative method to improve conversation skills, developing grammar and vocabulary, the key phrases and expressions that can be used in real life situations.

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Personal Description:
I am a singer/composer/producer and songwriter. I've worked mainly in the advertising world, composing and producing for television.

In terms of teaching, I have helped people with regards to Vocal Coaching, Singing, Songwriting Techniques, Music Production and Relaxation, all under the bracket of music and performing.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught privately for 4 years. I have helped people develop their songwriting craft and assisted them in developing their songs and finding their own uniqueness. I also assist in recording sessions/rehearsals, focusing on making sure the vocalist is in a good emotional space and we can also look at technique and diction and the emotion behind the song.

In terms of production, I tend to work with Logic Pro, but the principles of production are to do with sound selection and arrangement. I help students hear which sound choices work, and hear the finer details in well crafted and produced songs. Once the principles are understood, this allows them to apply them to their own work.

Tutoring Approach:
I have a relaxed yet very focused approach to tutoring. First we'll identify the student's goals and intentions, whether it's purely singing based, or involves aspects of songwriting and performing or production. We then set some targets and work together to achieve them.

In terms of vocal technique, I have studied and integrated elements of 'Bel Canto', Speech level style singing, and more contemporary forms of vocal development. I also explain what each vocal exercise is designed to do, so we know why we're doing certain exercises.

Relaxation techniques are a big part of my work. This allows us to breathe more freely, and helps free us of any tensions which may stand in our way.

The confidence of technique and precise execution that becomes second nature is the key to successful musical delivery. I help develop those techniques that can be relied upon to deliver the true emotion and intention behind your of your work.

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Personal Description:
Hi! I'm an enthusiastic and experienced tutor specialising in GCSE Maths, GCSE English, and Psychology at GCSE, A-Level, and University levels. I hold a Master's in Psychology (Distinction) from the University of Wolverhampton and have five years of tutoring experience.

My teaching approach is tailored to each student's needs, breaking down tricky concepts into clear, manageable steps. Whether you're mastering psychological theories, tackling essay writing, or solving complex equations in maths, I'll help you achieve your best. My students increase their marks by 20% on average.

I also work as a Wellness Counsellor, which means I'm skilled in supporting students with learning or mental health barriers, ensuring a calm and empowering learning environment.

Teaching Experience:
I have five years of teaching experience, working with students in mainstream schools, homeschooling environments, and adult education. This diverse background has allowed me to adapt my teaching methods to suit a variety of learning styles and goals.

I also have hosted study skills, stress management, test anxiety, neurodiversity and wellbeing workshops at schools and universities.

Tutoring Approach:
My goal is to help students reach their full potential through a collaborative, flexible, and empowering approach that focuses on building self-confidence and self-motivation. I work closely with parents or caretakers, providing regular feedback and tailoring lessons to each student's unique needs.

True learning cannot happen without the role of joy and curiosity. My lessons come with plenty of laughs, and I am continuously trying new and creative ways to spark students' interests!

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Personal Description:
Hi! I'm Noah, an Oxford University student studying History. I have a strong academic background, having achieved all 9s in my 11 GCSEs and excelling in my A-levels-History, Ancient History, Maths, and Politics-alongside an Extended Project Qualification.

Beyond my studies, I've earned recognition for my historical writing and ranked in the top 450 of the British Maths Olympiad, showcasing both my analytical and problem-solving skills. My passion for learning drives me to support others in reaching their educational goals, whether it's mastering exam techniques, deepening subject understanding, or building confidence.

I believe that with the right guidance and approach, every student can achieve their full potential. Let's work together to make that happen!

Teaching Experience:
I have extensive experience supporting students at various stages of their education. I have worked closely with A-level students applying to Oxbridge for History, guiding them through the application process, including interview techniques, exam preparation, and personal statement writing. Additionally, I have volunteered as a mentor for two state school students, helping them navigate their Oxbridge applications with tailored advice and support.

Beyond university admissions, I have tutored students preparing for the 11+ and 13+ entrance exams and have provided long-term mentoring in Maths, supporting students from age 11 through to their GCSEs

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach is built on a balance of academic excellence, personal interest, and exam strategy. Having supported four successful Oxbridge applications, I understand that success comes not only from mastering content but also from developing intellectual curiosity and confidence. I work closely with students to identify their interests at every stage of their education, helping them engage deeply with their subjects-an approach that leads to both enjoyment and top results.

At the same time, I place great emphasis on exam technique. By using past papers and mark schemes, I ensure that students are fully prepared for the specific demands of their exams. Understanding how to approach questions, structure answers, and meet examiners' expectations is just as crucial as subject knowledge itself.

A key part of my tutoring is building confidence. I work with students to pinpoint areas where they feel least assured, ensuring that they develop the self-belief needed to perform well under pressure. In high-stakes exams, a calm and confident approach can make all the difference. My goal is to create a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and feel fully prepared for their challenges

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Personal Description:
Worried you or your kid might be lacking at studies????? No worries!!!! I am here to help.
Maths has always been my favorite subject (scored 100 % in 2/4 modules in a level) so I am ready to help in Maths and all the Sciences.
Fully DBS (updated version of CRB) checked as I am a community first responder volunteer ambulance services and I am also a 5th year MEDICAL STUDENT.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a private tutor for many years now (since 2006) and have a record of 93% of my tutees so far having obtained grade A or above in the respective subjects with none of my tutees so far ever obtaining lower than B.
It all started when I was a prefect at my school and college where I used to help students of different levels (including my friends from my own year) in learning difficult topics (in maths and science) and in preparing for exams. I have also helped a few teachers several times during an actual school lesson as teacher's assistant. But most importantly, in these many years as a private tutor, I have helped a lot of pupils only do well in their GCSEs and A-level. So far they have all achieved much higher standard than they were predicted by their teachers and this success of all these past tutees of mine makes me work even harder with all the new ones every year.

Just to assure you that I am not shy of putting in hard work I would like to bring to your attention that I did all my GCSEs in a single year instead of 2 and also ended up doing 2 of the subjects early. Even though maths was one of the early subjects, I still got A* and went on to do AS maths in the same year in which I also got A. So, maybe I can help with not only Maths and sciences but also with the management of time and workloads along with building their confidence and bringing out their desire to learn.

Tutoring Approach:
Will depend on the needs of the tutee as everyone is different but one thing that remains the same for all is the commitment and the level of sincerity from me.

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Personal Description:
I am a friendly and approachable tutor with a huge amount of enthusiasm in the subjects I teach. I was awarded a Scholarship to a competitive independent before working towards a Masters in Biochemistry at Oxford University.

I have since worked as a Pharmaceuticals Business Analyst, as a High Yield Chemicals Industry Analyst in Investment Banking and as an Air Traffic Controller. In each case the knowledge and skills from my education have been critical. I would now like to gain the satisfaction of helping others do well in these subjects and attain their potential.

Teaching Experience:
In my industries it is critical to continue learning and passing exams, and in every role, I have always had to pass on my knowledge and understanding to others, which has been incredibly gratifying. More recently, I have enjoyed tutoring maths and other subjects to pupils locally, often to help them gain entrance to competitive schools. I also enjoy spending time teaching my son and my nieces.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that learning should always be interesting to the pupil - inspirational even - and that the onus is on the teacher to make this the case. Learning is about being curious and asking questions; in fact I believe pupils should not be scared to ask any question, which means that learning should feel relaxed rather than formal.

Subjects should not be seen as complex but rather layers of straight forward principals that build on what the pupil already knows in an intuitive fashion. In this way, a good teacher allows understanding to grow naturally and not feel like a challenge.

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Personal Description:
Hi, I'm Ope, an experienced online Chemistry tutor who is also a Masters graduate (MSc in Green Chemistry) from the University of York BSc Chemistry with Biochemistry from Queen Mary University of London (both Russell Group universities).

I am aware that many students study with the concept of the sciences, especially Chemistry and Physics. The pressure can be daunting for a teen and I want to be able to make people `see` in a scientific way, be able to bring understanding so that they can take on any examination and achieve the grades they desire.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring professionally since 2010 and have helped various students boost their confidence and achieve their goals. My students have come from all backgrounds and have ranged from Year 6 to 13. Most of my students have been studying for GCSEs, A-Level or IB

From my experience as a professional tutor, I have taught in several families with a majority of people seeking long term tuition.
I understand that students learn in various ways, so I try to structure my tutorials to suit individual needs. Generally however, I strive for a friendly and relaxed atmosphere and sometimes take an informal approach towards learning especially where the tougher concepts are concerned. I am always professional!

I implore hands-on techniques (where possible) and encourage participation and thought-provoking discussion. I encourage my students to ask "why?" While I work closely with mark schemes to ensure that students become familiar with exam technique, my goal is to help them become thinkers and not crammers, so they can apply their knowledge to any scenario. I encourage personal study and revision outside of the sessions and will often give tips about how to maximise the time outside of the sessions after studying a bit more about your learning style.

I use regular feedback mechanisms which can include tests or assignments (from multiple choice questions to essay-type exam-style questions) to assess understanding and progress. There will always be questions at the end of a session in some form to check understanding.

Tutoring Approach:
I have been tutoring online since 2016 and do my tutoring using a virtual online classroom equipped with chat function, document/picture upload, graph function, math/science symbols etc and can be edited in real time - writing, typing, drawing.

We can upload past papers, do interactive quizzes, watch YouTube videos and much more.

My sessions are completely interactive. I have a whiteboard on which we can both upload documents, make notes, drawings, etc. You can also save parts of the board or all of it at the end of the session. We would use Zoom for audiovisuals.

I typically work with exam style questions after a short session of teaching/revision, but I can focus more one way depending on your needs. I usually leave a short bit of work to be done as assignment based on what we`ve done in the session which you can do at any time on the board after the session. We`ll also do a little recap at the start of a new session.

NB
There is a one-off admin cost due to UKtutors which is collected alongside payment for the first paid lesson. This amount depends on the number of hours requested and my hourly rate - this will be added to the fee for the first session. More information is available on the About Us page Thanks.

30 minute online INTRODUCTORY SESSION FREE

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Personal Description:
I am a warm friendly, patient, understanding and highly motivated tutor. I have the ability to attend to all your learning needs. I am extremely resourceful and knowledgeable on the subjects I tutor in. I will work out the best way that you learn and teach to your learning strengths. Your success is my success!

Teaching Experience:
I have been a Primary School Teacher and a teacher of English as a Foreign Language for over twenty years. I have experience of teaching all levels of English from pre-school to Business Studies and University essay writing. I have also been a Primary School Teacher for fourteen years.

I have regularly coached students for the SATS tests, 11+, IELTS and some subject specific exams.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is to get to know you the person a little first. I like to establish what specifically you want from the tutoring sessions. When I have established your requirements I can then start to build a profile of your learning; what methods best work for you. Your success is my success.

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Personal Description:
A true renaissance man, Alex makes: mini epic films, video installations, games, photographs, sculpture, blogs and books. Using readily available materials and software the work often has a feeling of improvisation, an initial throwaway idea made visible.

Throughout his practice there is a sense of an acceptance of failure or disappointment as important parts of the human condition. He makes light with big issues and is, in turn, haunting and funny. His humorous sculpture typically conveys a sense of the accidental, eternally on the brink of failure or collapse. Recent DIY apocalypses, created from expanding builders' foam, seem to have an unruly, malevolent life of their own and explore the processes of invasion and infection. While his films and writing play with ideas of chance, quotidian struggles, the loss of control and responsibility.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught a range of students of all ages and backgrounds from: National Diploma, Extended Diploma, Art Foundation, Degree to MA level.
I have experience in all fields of art and design but my specialist areas include: Sculpture, Drawing, Video, Art History, Cotextual Studies, Art Theory and installation.
I am expert at preparing students' portfolios for interview at Foundation and Degree level.
I am also able to advise in a number of areas of profesional practice including: Statement writing, CVs, recording work, publicity and basic website construction.
I have also had experience of teaching adults basic IT skills.

Tutoring Approach:
I am happy to tutor online and in person either in my own studio or by home visits (by bicycle)
I am an easy going and responsive tutor, happy to discuss individual student's needs and to guide them through all stages of their art and design career.

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Personal Description:
I am a native English speaker. I enjoyed my work as a private ESL/ESOL tutor, but since I have retired, I mainly only undertake proofreading and giving advice on assignments for work or college, that a tutee may need.

Teaching Experience:
I am a fully qualified English tutor holding a Cambridge CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults)
I have ten years experience teaching English in Further Education Colleges across Kent. I have also taught in English Summer Schools and accommodated students from abroad, in my own home, teaching them English and introducing them to English culture by taking them on excursions to places of interest in London and Kent.

Tutoring Approach:
During the first lesson I will assess my new student in order to place them at their correct level of English language acquisition. Thereafter, I can provide lessons appropriate to that level, taking into account their idividual learning needs and learning style.
I am very patient and aware of how it feels to be learning a foreign language as I have studied both German and Spanish as an adult. I like to ensure my students feel comfortable and at ease in their learning as I feel that they will progress more easily and quickly if they are confident that they will be encouraged and helped at all times along the way.

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Personal Description:
My name is Simon. I am 36 years old. I enjoy teaching and public speaking. I respond well to challenges and like problem-solving.
I really enjoy puzzles, such as Sudoku.
I love helping people to learn, whether this is to learn to in English or Urdu (a language I myself have learnt)

Teaching Experience:
I have many years of voluntary work experience in teaching English to children and adults whose first language is not English and also I have experience in teaching Basic Urdu to a few friends. I have completed a course in accelerated learning methods.
As I too have learnt a language I do understand the challenges people have when learning a language. This helps me in my teaching style and methods.
I believe that learning should be enjoyable.
I have recently completed a course for students of English and Urdu.
I am now looking for my tutees.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to teaching is that learning needs to be fun and enjoyable. I did not enjoy school because of the classroom environment so I want my tutoring to be different. I aim to adapt my teaching to the persons individual needs.

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Personal Description:
I am an experienced sociology tutor and proofreader having taught in the sociology department at the University of Warwick for four years and also for a short while in the School of Languages and Social Sciences at the University of Aston. (I can also tutor at this level in modern history, politics and international relations). I have BA in sociology and politics from Oxford Brookes University and an MSc in social science research methods from Sussex. I completed my doctorate at the University of Warwick. In addition to my university work, I have tutored for a private agency (where I held an advanced CRB certificate) at A-level in sociology, politics and modern history. My last DBS was held from 2023 to 2024. I have a good record of helping A-level students to achieve the grades they require for a place in higher education and I have continued this success whilst tutoring independently. I live in Marlborough, Wiltshire.

At A-level I am happy to help with essay writing and subject research and prep for exams. Please contact me early in your studies though (early in the academic year, as early intervention has greater rewards...).For undergraduates, I can offer advice on essay and dissertation construction and also on writing style and format. Additionally, I can help to formulate ideas for research projects and can proof read long or short drafts.

I charge £50 per week for ongoing students - A-level or undergraduate - one-off jobs are charged according to the complexity of work - I do not charge hourly. I take payment in advance.

Teaching Experience:
I have tutored at A-level and taught at undergraduate level for 7 years. I also worked as a sessional lecturer at Aston University for a year.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is simple: I help to give students the skills and knowledge they require to achieve their goals in education.

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Personal Description:
Ben has been described by a current student as "a brilliant teacher who has helped me with whatever styles of music I have wanted to play". I've been a profession teacher for over 10 years and am well established in the local area. I teach from my home or yours and even offer on-line lessons using Skype.
I have a fully modern studio, and am able to create custom backing tracks for you at no extra cost. Please do not hesitate to contact me at any time for more details.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching privately for over ten years and have got many students to pass their guitar and theory grades

Tutoring Approach:
I have an informal approach, trying to make lessons as enjoyable as I can and still achieve the best possible results.

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Personal Description:
I am a Malaysian who can speak English, Chinese, Cantonese and Malay Language. I have completed my undergraduate degree in Food Science and Nutrition before working as a home tutor for 1 year. Currently, I study Msc in Nutritional Science at University of Nottingham.

Teaching Experience:
1 year teaching experience starting from Sept 2015 to Sept 2016 where I used to teach Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Mandarin.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a friendly tutor and patient in teaching. I guide my student patiently and slowly if they find it hard to understand the topic.

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Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified and practising English language and literature teacher at secondary school level (KS3 to GCSE).English teaching is not just a profession to me but a life long passion to inspire and develop students in my chosen subject.This makes me patient, flexible, creative and enthusiastic. Initially,I will assess a student to target areas for development unless a learner has specific needs which he/she intends to focus on.Since every student is an individual, who learns at their own pace and style, I will adapt my tutoring techniques to suit those personal requirements.
I am willing to hold sessions in the comfort of your home or alternatively arrange a convenient meeting place of your choice, e.g library.

Teaching Experience:
After graduating from the University of Leeds with an English language and literature degree in 2001, I worked as a Core subject Mentor (English specialist) at secondary school where I conducted booster classes with small groups and individuals (0f different abilities) in order to raise attainment. After completing my teacher training,I taught English from key stage 3 to GCSE level (11 -16)in various secondary schools across West Yorkshire.
I have extensive experience of teaching to the new GCSE requirements of major exam boards such as WJEC and AQA. Along with this, I am familiar (and resourced) with most set texts used in schools. I am currently teaching English at a Secondary school.

Tutoring Approach:
Initially,I will assess a student to target areas for development unless a learner has specific needs which he/she intends to focus on.Since every student is an individual, who learns at their own pace and style, I will adapt my tutoring techniques to suit those personal requirements. I aim to make learning fun and enjoyable. I believe a student has fully engage with their subject in order to make outstanding progress.

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Personal Description:
Γεια σου! My name is Christina and I am a passionate native Modern Greek Teacher. My background from my graduate Classical studies as well as my postgraduate Moral Philosophy/Ethics studies,in combination with QTS certificate and me being an Examiner associate, gave me the chance to work with everything that I love, hence teaching Modern Greek as a second language.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching Modern Greek as a second language since 2014 in London, both to adults and children.
My expertise is the preparation of A Level Modern Greek and GCSE students in order to succeed the A* grade in their final exams.
I currently work as an A Level Teacher in a Greek School and I teach Modern Greek in groups and in one-to-one tuition both online and in one of the best Universities in London.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach of teaching is communicative and experiental, and my aim is the beginner student to be confident and able to speak Greek from the very beginning as well as to start exploring all aspects of Modern Greek language. I offer a full Modern Greek A Level and GCSE preparetion, with excellent student results and comments.
With regards to more advanced students, my guidance will focus on further enhancing their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills, as well as the further development on the vocabulary and the grammar/syntax.
All lessons are based and planned according to the students' needs.
I am always positive and encouraging, creating a pleasant learning environment where the knowledge goes hand-in hand with fun.

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Personal Description:
I have over thirty years experience of teaching Latin, English, French and essay-writing skills, both in schools and as a private tutor. I specialise in helping students write their Personal Statements when applying to university or to postgraduate courses.

I am the mother of five grown up children, three of whom went to Cambridge, one to KCL and one to Oxford, and I have also guided many other students into achieving offers from top universities, including many to Oxbridge.

After graduating from Cambridge with a degree in English and Classics, I taught for 2 years before going to Drama school, then moved to Granada TV as a researcher and presenter. The next 14 years were spent working for various TV companies, while also writing for national newspapers and magazines.

In 1992, I moved with my family to Salisbury and went back to teaching, first in a college of Further Education, then at a prep school, and subsequently in independent schools: nine years at St Mary's Calne from which I retired in 2015. I was then invited to , come out of retirement to teach at St Swithun's in Winchester and The Oratory School Oxford.

I no longer teach in the classroom, but continue to offer tutoring in Latin, English, French and Writing Skills. A particular speciality is Personal Statements - helping students with their applications to university. I have helped very many students (both pre-university and postgraduates) write successful personal statements for their chosen courses.

As well as the academic subjects mentioned above, I help with any writing task from an A level or IB essay (especially Theory of Knowledge) to university theses and dissertations. I specialise in Oxbridge help, including suggestions for reading, preparation for entrance tests and interview practice. So far I have helped over 20 students gain places at Oxbridge.

Teaching Experience:
Personal statements

I have helped very many students write their personal statements for application to university - both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. This does NOT mean writing the statement for the student - I do not have the breadth of knowledge to write about Astrophysics or Zoology, but it does mean helping the student clarify his or her thoughts, explain what has prompted the interest in the subject, how he or she has developed this interest, what extra-curricular choices have been made, and why, and how current A levels (or degree subjects) have prepared the student for this application.
For many students, the Personal Statement is the first time they have have to talk about themselves, and for many, it is bewildering knowing how to approach it and what to include and what to leave out.

I help the student by asking him/her to fill in a preliminary questionnaire, (Why this subject? What sparked the interest? Why it's important for the student and for society etc). Next, I ask for a first draft - it doesn't matter how bad or poorly expressed this is. Then, I work with the student - either at home or by Skype/Zoom, talking through the first draft and suggesting adjustments, improvements etc. Next the student writes a second draft, and the process continues until the students is totally happy that the statement says exactly what was intended, and show the student at his/her best.
I have many testimonials from happy students (including over twenty five to Oxbridge) which I would be happy to share on request.

Latin
I teach Latin at Latin Common Entrance, GCSE, A level, and university level. The great majority of my students achieve 9s at GCSE, and As and A*s at A level. Many have gone on to read Classics at university.

English
I teach English literature and language - both critical analysis of texts and and writing skills - from GCSE to university level and beyond. Many students whom I have helped with A level essays have come back to me for help with their university dissertations, applications for Masters, or covering letters for postgraduate job applications.

Essay writing
As well as helping with A level essays in all the humanities (RS, Philosophy, Psychology, History etc) I am an experienced tutor for IB Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essays. I have also advised and guided many students with their EPQs.

French
I teach French to A level and

I teach Classical Greek to GCSE.

Tutoring Approach:
1. My first priority is to let the student know that they are not alone - I am here to help. Just being told this can be immediately reassuring, especially if the student has been worrying for about a subject or project for a long time.

2. The next step is to establish exactly how much the student already knows. Nothing surprises or shocks me, but I have come across students seeking help who haven't got a copy of the relevant book or haven't read beyond the title page. I understand this - life is busy.So I am never critical or judgmental, I am always on the student's side. If necessary, I will provide a copy (years of teaching and a large family mean I usually have several).

3. The next step is to encourage the student into thinking of the subject as interesting. This may mean overcoming any resistance, by chatting, discovering how much they already know (always more than they think - another source of encouragement) and relating it to other areas of interest. One ideas have started to flow the student will begin to realise that not only might this subject/essay not be as bad as feared, it's possible they might find something enjoyable about it.

4. Now we look at the project and ways of approaching it. The key here is structure. Quite often the student's lack of confidence has led to panic and accompanying lack of organisation. So I help sort out files, help put notes in order, and encourage the student recognise which bits of paper are/aren't relevant to their work. This is mental housekeeping - and once order has been established, the student is in a better frame of mind for doing the work.

5. The next step varies according the to the subject.

LATIN.
I ask the student translate until he meets a problem. I then explain the topic- taking care to base it only on what the student already knows and feels confident about. If there are big gaps in knowledge, I start filling them, teaching vocabulary, grammar and syntax in an orderly way and asking the student to record what we have covered in his own written file.We then continue the translation, making sure the student has understood everything we have covered so far. This process is designed to lift the fog and give the student the tools needed to translate confidently

WRITING.
If it's an essay, I encourage the student to look at the title and think about (a) what is it really asking and (b) what ideas can he or she think of in response? These can be written down in any order - at this stage it's a question of getting the thought processes going.
We then discuss how to organise the student's thoughts into a coherent whole. This can be painstaking process - it involves teaching essay structure, and and sometimes even working backwards - going from conclusion back to introduction - but we always finish by knowing exactly what direction the essay is taking.
The final step is to ask the student to write something for next time. It doesn't matter if it's short or badly-expressed, and I always make it relevant to school work. The reason I ask for a piece of writing is
a) the act of writing enables a student to know what he/she wants to say
(b) seeing a student's writing shows me how to approach the next lesson. I can see what element of the writing need work, and plan my lesson accordingly.

OTHER IDEAS FOR READING ETC
I often recommend extra-curricular ideas to make the subject more engaging - films, YouTube extracts, magazines, even books - the student doesn't have to read a whole book - even dipping in and out is helpful and there is nothing more deadening to the love of books than being told you HAVE to read them.

STUDENTS WHO ARE STRUGGLING.
. I do not only help academic high-flyers. I am also offer warm and sympathetic help to students who - for whatever reason - find academic study challenging. I help develop study skills, suggest organisational strategies (for student and parent) and above all, restore lost confidence by showing the student that he really can tackle - and overcome - any problem - just by taking it slowly and making sure he or she understands each step before going on to the next.

WELCOME TO MY HOUSE.
, I'm a great believer in the comforting powers of a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit, as well as the presence of my 2 cats (who, despite being to every lesson I've given, are still rubbish at Latin). For allergic pupils, however, the cats are banished to the garden.

Subjects