Matlock Tutors and Matlock Tuition

Personal Description:
I am the assistant head of the English department at a good secondary school in Derby. I have a 2:1 classification honours degree in English Literature from De Montfort University. I am able to support students studying for GCSE examinations. I am an AQA examiner for English Literature paper 2 and therefore I am extremely confident in delivering the specification.

I live in Brassington, Derbyshire and am able to tutor students living in all surrounding areas.

Teaching Experience:
I am currently teaching to the following exam specification:

English AQA 8700 Specification

Tutoring Approach:
- Subject knowledge support (English Literature and Language)
- Examination preparation
- Teaching of 'exam craft'
- Revision
- Mentoring

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Personal Description:
I am a graduate in Physics with Astrophysics, which was a four year degree, which included me living and learning in Italy. My degree was challenging yet enjoyable, and contained a lot of Maths, which to me was great! As a born communicator writing and teaching have always appealed, and having spent the last decade tutoring and working for the Institute of Physics, I can definitely say I enjoy it as much now as I did when I started.. I also have a qualification in teaching English as a foreign language.

Teaching Experience:
For the last 12 years I have taught a wide variety of learners from the age of 6 all the way up to 45! This includes Maths, physics, and EFL at all levels, as well as English language/literature and Biology and Chemistry up to GCSE. I also taught children EFL for 6 weeks over a summer. Whilst at university I tutored 1st and 2nd years in Physics, which included a lot of Maths. I taught English as a foreign language whilst I was in Italy. I am very comfortable in a one on one environment, and enjoy preparing all ages for exams- I have had a lot of experience at running courses with an exam in mind.

Tutoring Approach:
As a keen learner myself, I understand what it is to learn. My vast experience tutoring has given me a good body of knowledge to call on, as well as confidence in my ability to communicate complex ideas to students, especially those who are struggling with them. Always patient I can push without pressuring and make you feel more confident in your ability. I am also keen to know what and how my pupil wants to learn, and can listen as well as I can communicate.

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Personal Description:
I am currently working with East Riding Supply Services for day to day and some time long term basis, as Tutor/instructor (maths) in different schools (nursery to Secondary) of Hull and East Riding Area.

Teaching Experience:
I am teaching face to face and online for more than 10 years. I am also working for different agencies to teach maths up to GCSE level. I Working with variety of pupils have given me great strength and experience in teaching maths. Teaching maths is my passion and give me great satisfaction when I achieve my goals

Tutoring Approach:
Negotiate with the pupils to get commitment. Ask for suggestions and remember to justify and compromise.
Regularly review the rules together
Encourage pupils to devise rules
Remind pupils of any relevant rules
Encourage and develop skills
Regularly get pupils to self-assess their own behaviour
Have high expectations and let them know what those are.
Develop flexible responses and teaching styles.

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Personal Description:
I believe it is very important for children to have a knowledge of a modern language,and that anyone can learn a foreign language, as long as they put enough work into it.I love my teaching work and my subject,and am currently studying for the Diploma in Translation.

Teaching Experience:
I have been working as a private tutor now for eighteen years,mainly to GCSE and 'A'-level students,.although I have also taught adults in a family environment.Before working as a private tutor,I spent nine years teaching my subject in secondary education.Over the years I have been able to improve students' exam grades,so that they are able to continue with their studies,or,in the case of 'A'-level students,gain entry to University.I am happy to supply recent references.In recent years, I have come to specialize in helping GCSE pupils with their speaking and writing tasks for their controlled assessments, which many find daunting. In the majority of cases I have been able to achieve a significant improvement in the final grade.

Tutoring Approach:
Every student is different,and I will always try to adapt my teaching methods to the needs of each student.I use both computer technology and up-to-date textbooks as teaching aids,as required.I believe that each lesson should be carefully planned as part of an overall programme of development and study.I cover the syllabus and examinations of all the National Awarding Bodies, and provide any assistance with coursework.I believe that establishing a good rapport between tutor and student is important in order to improve standards.

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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:
Hello and welcome :-)

I'm Craig and I have been teaching languages for almost 15 years now. I am a relaxed and patient teacher and will be well suited to anyone who needs to learn at their own pace or who needs things explained well and carefully to them.

I am also well qualified for the job with a BA Honours degree with triple distinctions in Spanish, Italian & French as well as Teacher Qualified Status and a CELTA. I have also lived, worked and studied in Spain, Italy, France and Greece.

I have studied a lot of languages myself. I've studied over 30 languages over the years. I have achieved fluency in the languages I teach, but I have also reached a fairly good standard in some other languages or have acquired a basic knowledge of many others. I will use some of the methods I have used to learn these languages to help teach you.

I will help you, step by step, to begin speaking and understanding your chosen language.

I am also DBS (previously CRB) checked for your security.



Here are a few a reviews from my customers:

I thoroughly recommend Craig to everyone as an excellent Spanish tutor. He is kind, patient and commited to his students.
My daughter, who had been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) had an hour`s lesson every week for eighteen months, after her secondary school was unable to offer Spanish lessons. She achieved an A* grade in her GCSE exam (Review by Kerrie, Sittingbourne)

I thoroughly recommend Craig if you are looking to learn a foreign language. I spent my teenage years completely adamant that a second language was beyond me. German was my weakest subject and I sat at the back of the class applying my make up! I am now working towards conversational Spanish, and after just over 3 months I am able to hold a Facebook messenger conversation with my South American friends! Not only has Craig taught me enough grammar to achieve this, he also anticipates difficulties English speakers may have with certain language constructs and works through those too. I always look forward to my lessons each week, and enjoy doing the practice questions I`m given for homework. (Review by Emma, Chatham)

I am giving my Italian lessons with Craig a 5 star rating. I began my lessons as a complete novice and now feel confident enough to be going on holiday to Italy to stay in a non-English speaking village. Craig is a highly-skilled professional. I recommend him to anyone who wants to learn a language (he speaks and teaches many!) whether a beginner or with some existing knowledge, for holidays, for work or to reinforce their language learning. (Review by Amanda, Maidstone)

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching languages since 2004 and have worked as a full time language tutor since 2010.
I have also taught in language schools in the UK and abroad as well as in public schools.

Tutoring Approach:
I am very patient and will guide you step by step towards speaking your language of choice. I use a mix of my own course designed by me and materials from other sources such as course books, grammar books and realia.

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Personal Description:
I have been studying Martial Arts since 1966. Having gained Master qualifications in Ninjutsu, Karate, Taekwondo, Jujutsu and Kung-Fu. My personal martial arts journey began whilst growing up in the far east.
Following a violent attack as a 16 year old child, while perusing various forms of self-defense classes, I was introduced to the Japanese Martial Arts an immediately became a convert.
I have a keen interest in the well-being of people, those who have experienced violent trauma, lack the confidence to defend themselves or their family, or who simply want to learn a Martial Art.

I am also a qualified Life Coach accredited by The Coaching Academy.
Life coaching draws inspiration from disciplines including Sociology, Psychology, Positive Adult Development, Career Counselling, NLP, Mentoring and other types of Counselling.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching self defence/martial arts since 1982. I have also taught members of the British Army having once been a member of the Parachute Regiment.
I have worked as a club doorman, a protection officer, a wheel clamper, a private detective. I am still an active security consultant and working bodyguard.
I am qualified to teach martial arts weapons. My expertise is close contact situations, how to resolve them and how to avoid them.

Tutoring Approach:
I teach in a very relaxed way. I will empower you with confidence and the skills that you will need to protect yourself and your family.

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Personal Description:
Hello dear friends,
I am a creative and adaptable Russian language Teacher from Moscow, holding a Master's degree in Philology, with more than 20 years of experience in Foreign Languages teaching. Skilled in communicative approach in teaching Russian to speakers of other Languages and bilinguals. Able to tailor course syllabi and teaching materials according to age, command of language and learning styles of students. Keen on using Modern Classroom Technology complementing lessons with audio-visual aid. Skype, Zoom, Microsoft Teams online teaching.

Teaching Experience:
Philologist-Specialist in Russian Philology, Teacher of Russian Language and Literature.

Post Degree 3 years Masters Course at Moscow State Pedagogical University.
from 1995 teaching privately (Moscow) Russian as a Foreign Language

2001- 2009 Tutoring in HE establishments (Moscow)

2009-2011 Part-time teacher at UK based Russian Saturday School

2011--2015 Private Tutoring

2015- Award in Education and Training ( Level 3 Teacher Training Course)

2015- 2018 Znaniye Russian School London

2018- 2020 Lingua Play Russian School St Albans

2020 providing private tutoring services online & offline

Tutoring Approach:
I develop individual courses for each student according to the level, interest and purpose of studying language.

I love showing my students how much improvement they can make with a bit of guidance and hard work.
While working with students special attention is paid to pronunciation and speech fluency, developing listening and speaking skills and ( that dreadful) Russian grammar as well!

Whether you need Russian for business, travel or any other area of communication - I will be sure to make you achieve your potential and reach your goals!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I`m a professional singer and guitarist graduated in modern singing (BAhonsConservatory of Music) drama (Acting Diploma) and performance technique ( Tech Music School Diploma) With over 10 years experience as a coach, mainly working with children and young people.
I`m currently on stage in the West End and I dedicate my time off to one of my biggest passions, which is teaching. I'm a native Italian though I've spent most of my life abroad, due to my career, mainly living in the Uk in the past 15 years.
I offer individual tuition in a fun and engaging way, helping young and aspiring musicians, as well as adults and professionals, find the best way to express themselves through singing/playing.
I also offer Vocal technique tuition for actors and professionals who regularly use their voice at work ( breathing, diaphragm support, voice placements).
Guitar lessons for children and adults of all level, ABRSM, LCM and other exams prep. Music Theory classes also available via Skype.
I work from my home in central London, near Tottenham Court Road Station, in a relaxed and friendly enviroment.
I also teach Italian and diction/pronunciation at all levels.

Teaching Experience:
Over 10 years teaching experience within school settings as well as being a freelance tutor in a number of disciplines. I`ve been working with students of all abilities and age, beginners to advanced.

Tutoring Approach:
My lessons are always customised. I don't like following a standard method of teaching as I strongly believe that music is something very much related to the emotional side of each individual, especially if we are talking about singing.
I trained in several techniques and methods myself, from opera to jazz and musical theatre, achieving a deep understanding of the vocal instrument, and therefore I pride myself on having the possibility to fallow every time a different path, tailor making the lesson for every student according to their personal skills and wish, putting all my knowledge at the service of our goal.
My classes are always fun and effective, and my students and I build strong relationships based on trust and mutual interests.
Regarding the guitar lessons, I believe that the classical approach is always a good start. So we usually go through the basics of music and of the instrument together to build a strong and solid technique that will lead the student to a complete autonomy.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Robin MMus, BMus (hons.), ATCL (dip.), MISM teacher Singing, Piano, Guitar, Bass, Drums and Composition (including Theory).

Teaching Experience:
I began teaching group lessons in school. After leaving school, I began training for the classroom, but I did not feel I could impact the individual in such a large group environment. While maintaining strong links with school curriculum, I began to pursue my career in individual instruction. My home based tuition serves approximately sixty five pupils at a time and my online lessons support many more, depending on the time zone. I have taught students in Australia, the Middle East, France, Russia and a variety of locations around the British Isles. With such a large cohort of students I offer a variety of syllabuses and qualifications. These are embarked upon at the student's request. Lessons are Student-Centred, so the Teaching Method fits the Student.

Tutoring Approach:
I started teaching in 1993 and have been offering a pupil centred approach to happy and successful students ever since. I teach classically, although not necessarily Classical. Whatever your style, you will learn how music works. This helps you to develop your musical skills.

I have a Teaching Diploma which guides my principles and practise in teaching, a BMus which covers general history and performance - I have also have performing experience with a high point of 144 concerts in 2007. My MMus underpins analysis.

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Personal Description:
¡Hola! I am Alba. I was born in the south of Spain and have lived there for the majority of my life. I did Spanish Studies as a degree in Huelva (near Seville), and later enrolled in an MA for Spanish Teaching as a Foreign Language in my home town, Granada. I then moved to the UK to work as an Assistant Teacher of Spanish in London, which led me to taking the PGCE course and acquiring Qualified Teacher Status. I am currently a teacher of Spanish at Secondary level in inner Birmingham.

Back in Spain I used to teach in an independent school in Ronda (Málaga), where we offered from one-to-one lessons to small classes of beginners to advanced level, and I absolutely loved it. In my experience, my students thrive in a more personalised environment of their choosing.

I am able to offer tuition from 9am - 5pm on Saturdays or Sundays in Moseley or nearby. We can meet at your house or in a local pub. Feel free to contact me for any queries or doubts!

¡Gracias!
Alba

Teaching Experience:
- Escuela Entrelenguas (Ronda, Málaga, Spain)
- Greenford High School (London) - Teacher Assistant for Spanish
- PGCE with two placements in Secondary Schools in Lancashire.
- Currently teaching in a state school in Birmingham.

Tutoring Approach:
The lessons are dictated by the students and will depend on one´s needs, whether it is revision lessons for GCSE students, grammar support or improving speaking skills.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I graduated from the University of Nottingham in June 2012 with a degree in mathematics, with honours. I also attained A, A and B in my maths, further maths and physics A Levels, respectively.

Since graduating, I have worked in finance departments and technology, while tutoring part-time. Because my passion for helping others with their maths has grown, I have been tutoring full-time for over a year now.

My aim is always to get the student to think critically and learn the topics thoroughly, whilst inspiring them to want to learn more about the fascinating world of mathematics.

I am available for both online and in-person tutoring.

Since lock-down in March, all the students I was tutoring face-to-face switched over to tutoring online. I used Zoom for video chat and bitpaper.io for an online whiteboard. This was successful for me and my students.

Teaching Experience:
I was tutoring mathematics part-time after leaving university in 2012 and due to positive feedback, I have been tutoring full-time since last year. I tutor students from KS3 through to A Level including Further maths A Level. I am very up-to-date with all syllabuses, exam techniques and requirements.

Tutoring Approach:
Everyone learns at a different pace and in different ways. My primary goal is to listen and communicate well with each student, so that I can really understand their needs and cater for them; in turn, they get the most out of each lesson. Furthermore, I actively engage each student with what they need (or want) to learn, as opposed to them taking a back seat. I encourage students to ask lots of questions because it gives an opportunity to discuss and challenge what they know.

I motivate students to want to learn and to do well. One thing I do differently from others is I explain how what they are learning is relevant to the real world. I have found that this makes it more exciting, interesting and enjoyable for the student, and they tend to engage more in the lessons. I try and strike a balance between motivating students, but not stressing them out too much.

Working through many examples from the syllabus is important and reinforces what the student has learned. I ensure this aspect of learning is both challenging and productive, ultimately getting the student closer towards their goal of achieving a high grade in their exams.

I am efficient with time management so that each student gets the most out of each lesson. I strongly encourage them to spend time outside of the session learning, including setting them homework, because this is where they will make their biggest strides forward.

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Personal Description:
Hi! I am a PhD student at the University of East Anglia in Environmental Sciences.
Previous to this, I was a research assistant working in climate change fields at the University of Cambridge and completed a masters degree in Animal Science

In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, sports and playing the piano.

Teaching Experience:
5 previous tutees.
Cambridge University Undergraduate Supervisor for over 15 final year undergraduates.
Demonstrator (Large group teaching) for Undergraduate to Masters Level at the University of East Anglia

Tutoring Approach:
I am happy to adapt tutoring to suit you! I want to help students not just be able to learn the subject but also understand and appreciate it. I understand that not everyone has the same learning style so am keen for trying out lots of techniques.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A-level results, August 2024:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A-level results, August/September 2022:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Speaking

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reading

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

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

Writing

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

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

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

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

Why study English?

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

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an online tutor on gender,sociology and development studies .I am very efficient and I always like seeing my students meet the expectations of their academic standards.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 10 years teaching experience both online and physical.

Tutoring Approach:
Due to covid 19,I do all my classes online and help students with report writing.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Dedicated and result driven mathematics teacher, with a proven ability to an imaginative and positive earning environment for pupils. Highly skilled in developing new methods to impact expected and desired knowledge on pupils while encouraging and challenging them to deepen their knowledge and understanding.
I have been recognized for my work in enhancing the learning experience for pupil and enabling pupils to pass their basic Examination council mathematics subject and also covering the necessary syllabus for the class

Teaching Experience:
Junior and Senior Class Mathematics Teacher June 2021-Present
Ansar-Ur-Deen Secondary School Liberty Road Ibadan, Oyo-state, Nigeria.
Responsible for teaching mathematics curriculum under the direction and guidance of the school principal. In charge of organizing classes and responding to the strengths and needs of pupils during lessons
Duties
• Coordinate extracurricular classes for the student preparing for the national exam (Junior and Senior (WAEC)
• Working in accordance with the school's curriculum statement and policies.
• Monitoring and assessing a pupil's progress.
• Participating in developing appropriate syllabuses, materials and Schemes of Work.
• Ensuring confidentiality at all times.
• Carrying out a share of supervisory duties.
• Participating in and contributing to staff meetings.
• Actively involved in curriculum review and development.
• Teaching within the designated subject areas (Maths)
• Ensuring the correct use and care of equipment and resources is maintained.
• Participating in appropriate meetings with parents.
• Planning and preparing appropriate lessons and suitable teaching materials.
Junior Class support teacher/Internship June 2018-June 2019
National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) Staff School, Oyo state, Nigeria
Responsible for positively and regularly contributing to the school's extracurricular and enrichment program, coaching and supporting students to develop their academic skills.
Duties:
• Supporting classroom management and assisting with general administration.
• Providing administrative support.
• Keeping up to date with new teaching initiatives.
• Maintaining records of student admissions
• Participated in the fieldwork for the collation of data
• Data analysis and updated information in the data bank
• Filling of Logbooks and inputting data generated on the field into the system • organize and coordinating statistical work of the department concerned, accomplishing the tasks in national and local statistical surveys
Junior Class Mathematics Teacher July 2016-June 2017
De- fridaus Model College Omi Apata Ibadan, Oyo state, Nigeria
• Develop Modul for teaching junior class mathematics
• Update lesson notes before and after each class
• Coordinate extracurricular classes for the student preparing for the national exam Junior secondary school examination
Senior Class Physics/Mathematics Teacher September 2014-February 2015
(NCE-Teaching Practice)
Alabata Community High School, Moniya, Ibadan, Oyo state Nigeria
I participated in a compulsory National Certificate of Education Teaching Practice to learn the practical part of teaching and subject-curricular thought in school. I spent days teaching pupils physics and mathematics
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
The Young Mathematics Learners Group May 2017 - Present
Leader Volunteer
• Create and update mathematics Curriculum for Junior and senior secondary school students
• Work remotely to ensure dissemination of math curriculum among students
• Coordinate pre-examination classes for the student within the community.
• Assist high school students with math coursework such as geometry, pre-calculus, and calculus
• Develop quizzes to help students understand mathematics material

Tutoring Approach:
Able to interact and form relationships with other professionals and agencies
associated with the school.
• Knowledgeable about all areas of teaching.
• Can liaise effectively with parents through home/school diaries and phone calls.
• Can support students with emotional or behavioural problems and help develop their
social skills.
• Excellent classroom skills.
• Playground monitoring and interventions to remind children of school rules.
• Strong Behaviour Management Skills.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Greetings! I'm a dedicated and passionate Computer Science student at King's College London, with a drive to make learning an engaging and empowering experience for all my students. My journey has been one of continuous growth, from helping classmates with homework to mentoring students and even my own siblings. These experiences have not only honed my academic skills but also deepened my understanding of the challenges students face. My commitment to learning goes beyond academics; I'm an avid problem solver and believe in fostering creativity and critical thinking. Outside of the academic realm, I enjoy exploring the intersections of technology, art, and society, which often provides unique insights that I love to share with my students.

Teaching Experience:
My journey as an educator has been shaped by diverse experiences. I've tutored primary school students, assisting them in grasping fundamental concepts through interactive and relatable methods. With high school students, including A-level candidates, I've delved into the complexities of Computer Science, Maths, Physics, and Chemistry making abstract ideas tangible through real-world examples. Beyond technical skills, I've been a mentor, helping students build study strategies, time-management skills, and self-confidence. My approach involves creating a comfortable environment where questions are welcomed, mistakes are seen as stepping stones, and learning is tailored to individual needs. Through various roles, I've realized that education is not just about information transfer, but about inspiring a hunger for knowledge that extends beyond the classroom.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach can be summed up in three words: Engage, Empower, Elevate. I firmly believe that engagement is the cornerstone of effective learning. I strive to make even the most abstract concepts relatable by drawing parallels to everyday experiences. This fosters curiosity and a desire to explore further. Empowerment comes from creating a safe space for students to voice their questions and ideas without hesitation. Together, we tackle challenges, building not only subject mastery but also self-assurance. Lastly, elevation entails guiding students to see beyond the immediate coursework, encouraging them to think critically and relate their learning to broader contexts. Through a balance of guidance and autonomy, I aim to equip my students with skills that extend well beyond exams-skills that will serve them throughout their academic and personal journeys.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Pleased to meet you, my name is Cristina, I am Italian and I am 30 years old.
I am a very sunny and active girl. I really like travelling, getting to know new cultures, doing outdoor activities.

Teaching Experience:
Since I've been at university, I've started giving private lessons to high school kids, in maths, physics, science, grammar and english.
After university I worked as a teacher in a primary school, teaching the basics of various subjects to children aged 7 to 12.
In recent years I have started giving Italian lessons to teenagers and adults of different nationalities.

Tutoring Approach:
During my lessons I speak exclusively in Italian. I have found over the years that this is the most effective way to learn a language. I divide my lessons with a grammar part, exercises and I always leave a good space for free conversation.
My personal experience has taught me that making an effort to understand and not being afraid of making mistakes when speaking speeds up learning considerably.

Subjects