Stamford Tutors and Stamford Tuition

Personal Description:
I am an Oxford Classics graduate with experience of teaching children and adults.

Teaching Experience:
I have seven years experience of teaching a range of ages up to 18, both private tutoring and school teaching.

Tutoring Approach:
Tutoring programme designed according to the student's needs and aims,

Subjects

Personal Description:
Experienced and fully qualified school teacher and university lecturer, teaching in schools and universities for nearly 10 years. Fully trained A Level examiner for Pearson, and private tutor to students from Primary to Postgraduate research - and every stage in between!

I have published my research in International Academic Journals, but also in the E-Magazine for A Level pupils.

Teaching Experience:
Private tutor to students ranging from primary to Postgraduate, and every stage in between!

5 years at Oakham School teaching: IGCSE English Language, and English Literature; A Level English Literature; IB Diploma Programme English Literature; IB Diploma Programme Theory of Knowledge.
Oxbridge Mentor, UCAS references. Marking and setting Entrance Exams.

1 year in Uppingham Community College teaching GCSE English Language and English Literature.

2 Years Tutor, Seminar Leader and Lecturer at King's College London.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor my lessons for each individual, drawing on my broad range of experience to meet my tutee's needs. My experience as an examiner means I can offer the feedback necessary to enable a student to meet their potential. Approachable and entertaining, I enjoy keeping my students engaged and productive.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Oxford-educated and experienced English tutor, with a fantastic track record of guiding students to phenomenal success. I am an enthusiastic, supportive and encouraging teacher with a sense of humour, bolstered by a true passion for English Literature and Drama.

Students often describe me as friendly, hard-working and reliable and I love to help them to achieve their academic goals. I help with
rigorous academic preparation and a sharp focus on the demands of the exam syllabus, often helping tutees to jump several grades.

Teaching Experience:
I have been a successful private tutor for over ten years, as well as having taught English and Drama in some of the best schools in the country, helping to guide many students to phenomenal exam success. I have taught at Stamford High School and Oakham School - teaching all ages from key stage 3-5 and specifically including GCSE/A Level and IB. I also rigorously prepared students for university entrance at these schools, helping with personal statements, interviews and reading material. I helped many students achieve top grades, founded discussion groups, led the debating society at Stamford, coached the winning house play entry at Oakham and assisted on multiple interview panels. I also led a Shakespeare day, assisted with creative writing, organised multiple theatre trips and led specific workshops on set texts.

I cover a range of specialisms in my tuition, encompassing Shakespeare, poetry, drama texts, novels and essay-writing skills, as well as being highly skilled in exam and coursework technique and 're-teaching' Literature texts in a short space of time to students who feel their tuition has been below par.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe strongly in finding the best approach for each individual student. I don't believe in 'one size fits all' tuition and never have; we are all so gloriously unique and different! I do believe passionately in helping students to feel confident as quickly as possible and, as such, I tend to ensure that for each text, task or question, there is the opportunity for the student to quickly put into practice whatever has been taught. This might be quickly re-writing an introduction, re-ordering a thesis or perhaps simply writing a single line of analysis and quotation. Sometimes little and often is best, as English can be overwhelming for some students and they need continual practice in the art of forming articulate and well-informed sentences at every stage of an essay!

I believe in finding opportunities for the students to enjoy the texts they study, in addition to coaching them rigorously in the necessary set of analytical skills they need to write top notch essays or descriptive/narrative pieces. I enjoy assisting students at all stages of their education and have experience in teaching all key stages. In addition to preparing students thoroughly for public examinations, I have been able to help pupils explore a variety of texts and genres and discover the joy of great writing

I enjoy helping students contemplating Higher Education - having helped students look at different courses, selecting modules and advising them on their personal statements; it has been rewarding to try and help students play to their individual strengths. I have delivered several specialist seminars for University applicants and assisted in delivering intensive mock interviews, both at Stamford and Oundle School, assisted with interviews and entrance examination preparation.

I am also a professional actress and writer and have lots of experience guiding young people in the realms of theatre auditions and Drama GCSE and A Level. In addition, I hold an MA from The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and further training at The Drama Studio in London and am also available for individual coaching for scholarships, drama school entrance and professional auditions.

I was Theatre Director-in-Residence at Kings College School in Wimbledon, directing many plays and productions, establishing a new writing group and adapting and creating Brighton Rock from an original adaptation, as well as leading the large scale community production of Macbeth. I have touring experience of my solo show and working in the industry which can be shared with students and especially help those wishing to join the profession.

I am based in Lincolnshire and, as such, I tutor all my tutees online.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am currently a lecturer on the BSc Psychology and Language science degree at University College London and a psychology examiner for AQA. Prior to this, I was Head of Psychology at a secondary school where I taught the AQA A-level psychology specification. I also introduced and taught Sociology A-level. I graduated in 2003 with a degree in Psychology from Durham University (First Class Honours) and have since completed a Masters degree in Cognitive Neuropsychology at The University of London, Birkbeck College and a PhD in Psychology at The University of London, Goldsmiths College.

Teaching Experience:
I have coordinated modules in developmental psychology and lectured undergraduate and postgraduate students. I have also taught A level psychology for over 10-years and sociology for 2-years. I have been an examiner and Team Leader for AQA Psychology for the past decade. I have tutored students preparing to sit both OCR and AQA A-level exams. I also have some experience supervising students preparing to take IB Psychology.

I have a PGCert Qualification in the Management of Teaching and Learning in Further and Higher education and am an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach is very much student-centred and I adapt my teaching style to the students in front of me. I like to present an idea/argument/concept and then allow my students the time they need to independently process and grasp the concept before asking them to explain it back to me using their own words. Once I am confident that my student has understood the concept we can then work through the application of this knowledge to practical exam-style questions to consolidate the knowledge and sharpen exam technique.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name's Louisa, I'm 36 years old, and I'm an experienced tutor of both adults and children. I play the flute, accordion and piano. I have had a classical music education, and in recent years I have also studied blues, jazz, rock, pop, folk and gypsy music.

Teaching Experience:
I have been giving private lessons in music theory, flute, accordion and piano since 2002.

Music Theory: Many of my students are gigging musicians who have decided they want to learn how to read music and how to understand harmony. I also teach a lot of students who are studying at music colleges, universities, or in schools, who need extra help with understanding music theory in able to pass their exams. Alongside music theory I also teach sight-reading, aural skills, and composition.

Instruments: My first job when I was 14 years old was as a flute teacher! I now teach flute, piano and accordion to both adults and children.

Tutoring Approach:
I provide a friendly and affordable service in a professional environment, with lessons tailored to the individual's needs.

Music Theory: I teach all ages and abilities, so whether you're a student needing extra help at college or school, or you're a gigging musician who wants to improve and learn more about what you're doing, or even if you've no previous experience of music at all but simply want to start to learn, get in touch and I'm certain I'll be able to help.

I offer a £10 taster lesson for music classes with no obligation to continue.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have been a full-time, specialist, one-to-one biology tutor for 34 years. I was based in Oxford, for 25 years and was widely regarded as 'Oxford's Premier Biology Tutor'. I have now moved away from Oxford to rural Devon and have been offering my services online only, nationally and worldwide, for the past nine years via the medium of Skype and 'Scribblar'. Scribblar is an interactive online whiteboard that is better than face-to-face tuition as there is zero travelling and waiting time and cost and it is more intimate and concentrated than 'in-person' tuition. I have taught online to 43 countries per date and can teach up to 55 hours per week. I have my own printed, illustrated notes for all sections of all the A-level specifications, plus the IB, and many of the GCSE specifications which I can e-mail in advance of tutorials as well as putting them up on Scribblar. I charge £80 per hour normally but offer a £10 per hour discount for tuition after 11 am and before 3 pm on weekdays.

Teaching Experience:
34 years (the last nine totally online) of one-to-one tuition in A-level, IB and GCSE biology.

Tutoring Approach:
Stick to the specification. Do ALL the past paper questions and go through them with the mark schemes. Take the exam. and get on with your life.

I like to work in a very methodical and structured fashion and not confuse effective work with hard work. The students who say at the end "yes, I learned biology - but, better still I learned how to study" are the ones with whom I know I have really succeeded.

Apart from an internet connection all that you need for tutorials is a thin A4 ring binder with a copy of the specification punched and put into the front and some coloured dividers in the back. If you are a retake student I ask you to highlight the specification (in yellow with solid highlighter if you are quite happy with the content; dotted highlighter if you are a bit unhappy with it and no highlighter if you have not done it or have forgotten it). This will tell me where to start and I can estimate to within an hour or so how many lessons will be needed to 'reteach' the syllabus.

I have board-specific, illustrated notes for all of the UK A-level specifications and IB, and for most of the GCSE specifications.
Effectively I have written a textbook for you and give you notes (to be filed in the coloured dividers) via e-mail and Scribblar (my interactive online whiteboard) to fill in any gaps in your knowledge. As I cover the specification I highlight my copy in pink so that I can monitor progress.

I have banks of past paper questions that I can e-mail to you that you can work through - these are specific to one exam. specification and contains not only the most recent AS/A2 papers and mark schemes but also the preceding many years of papers for that specification, chopped up into topic headings. So, for example, it will take an hour to 'cover' The Heart and then I'll give you the questions specifically on the heart on that board to do before the next tutorial. It is all very straightforward and actually rather less hard work than doing it in a slapdash, non-systematic fashion. The study skills that you will learn will stand you in good stead throughout life.

I can also advise on coursework/practicals.

Please note that I ONLY tutor online nowadays.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an enthusiastic and hard working individual with 100% pass rate. I am passionate about what I do and I have always ensured the best possible outcome from all my students.

Teaching Experience:
I have 16 years of teaching experience and in this time I have successfully delivered the following subjects:

Higher Business Management
National 5 Business Management
Higher Administration and IT
National 5 Administration and IT

I am familiar with all of the above courses, and my students are known to achieve excellent pass rates.

I am also a Marker at National 5 and Higher level - Business Management - for the SQA.

Tutoring Approach:
I am online based. During the tutoring sessions, I will go over the key points of any/all topics which have been covered by your classroom teacher. I will be able to provide you with additional notes and tasks as well as working through exam past papers to improve your general exam technique. At National 5 level/Higher level I will be able to provide you with guidance on how to successfully answer exam questions using the command words which have been set out by the SQA.

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Personal Description:
I am an avid musician and educationalist, with a passion for sharing my interests in music and learning with children and young adults. As a parent and trained Teacher, I can see from different perspectives the different aspects of learning in life, and am keen to foster a love of learning whenever I am involved with a child or young person. I am also a qualified Music Therapist, and run my own music therapy service which you are welcome to enquire about.

Teaching Experience:
I have 7 years experience working in a Special Needs school working across the 11-19 age range primarily, with much crossover into Primary and Early Years. When my children were at nursery I worked closely with the team to develop their behaviour management and early communication skills, giving me a different range of experiences to call upon. I have also taught private music lessons with great client satisfaction for almost 20 years.

Tutoring Approach:
I am experienced in adapting my approach to delivery depending on context, having worked in classrooms, with learner orchestras, and in 1:1 settings. Fun and enjoyment should be central to a successful learning experience, and I try to ensure a relaxed approach in sessions facilitates this.

Subjects

Personal Description:
PRIVATE CHINESE (MANDARIN/CANTONESE) LESSONS WITH QUALIFIED NATIVE TUTOR (GCSE/AS/AL/ADULT LEARNER)

Hello and Nihao! My name is James. I have realised that Chinese has become a more and more popular language worldwide recently due to the increased economic activities China does with the rest of the world. It is the most widely spoken language in the world (approx. 1.3 billion Chinese speakers in the world). It is also one of the six official languages in the UN. It is now a trend that in order to be a successful business person or even a professional in other aspects, it is important to acquire the ability to speak Chinese and to understand the Chinese culture.

As a Chinese Language Support Officer at University of Exeter and an ex Chinese Teacher at a private boarding school (Trinity School in Teignmouth, Devon), I would like to promote the Chinese language and culture as much as I can. I am now offering private Chinese lessons at a learner-friendly price in the Torbay and South Devon area. The price is as below:

GCSE: £27 PER HOUR PER PERSON
AS/A-LEVEL: £27 PER HOUR PER PERSON
ADULT LEARNER/UNIVERSITY LEVEL: £27 PER HOUR PER PERSON



PRVIATE JAPANESE LESSONS

Konichiwa! With a very good command of Japanese and seeing a growing interest in the language, I am now offering flexible Japanese lessons to the those who are interested. I am willing to travel to teach with added travel expense. Prices as as below:

CHILD LEARNER : £30 PER HOUR PER PERSON
ADULT LEARNER: £30 PER HOUR PER PERSON



PRIVATE ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS LESSONS (GCSE/AS/AL/UNIVERSITY)

Graduated with a Business and Economics background and seeing pupils at my school struggling with their Business and Economics school work, I also offer private Economics and Business lessons for those who need help with their school work outside school. Price is as below:

GCSE: £32 PER HOUR PER PERSON
AS/A-LEVEL: £32 PER HOUR PER PERSON
ADULT LEARNER: £32 PER HOUR PER PERSON
UNIVERSITY LEVEL: £35 PER HOUR PER PERSON




PRIVATE MARTIAL ARTS AND SELF DEFENCE LESSONS (ANY AGE AND EXPERIENCE)

As a life-time passion, I have had an extensive training in Martial Arts since I was 15. So far, I have been training in boxing, wing chun, Muay-Thai, Brazilian Jiujitsu, Filipino Kali free style wrestling and MMA. I was the University Students' Champion in a Muay Thai Tournament in 2007 back in Hong Kong. Seeing MMA and self-defence has become more and more popular nowadays, I am offering private Martial Arts/Self Defence lessons. If you are interested in learning any martial arts, whether as a beginner or as an experienced fighter hoping to sharpen your skills or simply just want to learn self-defence to protect yourself, please do not hesitate to get in touch. You can arrange 1:1 sessions or group sessions according to your needs. Price is as below:

£22-25 PER HOUR, DEPENDING ON THE SIZE OF GROUP


I look forward to hearing from you.

Teaching Experience:
9 years as a Chinese Language Support Officer at University of Exeter

6 years of teaching in Trinity School Teignmouth (a private school)

10 years of home tutoring with various age groups

6 years of teaching private kickboxing and self defence lessons

Tutoring Approach:
Flexible approach according to different students' needs

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a highly motivated, extremely organised self-reliant, conscientious and enthusiastic individual with the drive and ambition to achieve the highest standards possible within both my professional and personal life. I have a strong work ethic, and the ability to work effectively with the minimum of supervision or as part of a team.
I am fluent in English, Chinese Mandarin and Chinese Cantonese and possess excellent written and oral skills in English, Chinese Mandarin.
I am Enhanced DBS certified and can supply supporting documentation on request. (Online New DBS Update Service registered).

Teaching Experience:
Education
• 1997 - 2000: Baoji Weili University, China
Certificate in Secretarial Studies and Administration - Passed
Equivalent to O/A Level of Subjects:
Chinese, Maths, English, Chemistry, Physics, History, Geography -Passed

Professional, Occupational or Skills Training
Certificates in Education
• KCSIE & Legislation 2024 Update Course for Staff & Volunteers
• Administration of Medication
• Adverse Childhood Experiences & Trauma-Informed Practice
• Appropriate Adult
• Asthma Awareness for Educational Settings
• Bereavement and Loss
• Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)
• Child-on-Child Sexual Violence, Abuse and Harassment
• County Lines
• Domestic Abuse
• E-Safety (including online safety)
• Educational Visits
• Emergency Response Strategies for Staff (not SLT) & Volunteers
• Equality Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
• Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
• Fire Safety Awareness
• Fire Warden / Marshall
• First Aid Basics
• Food Safety & Hygiene Training (Level 2)
• Forced Marriage
• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
• Health & Safety
• Honour Based Abuse (HBA)
• Infection Control in Children and Young People Settings
• Introduction to the Safeguarding Thematics
• Knife Crime & Serious Violence
• Lone Working in Educational Settings
• Managing Slips, Trips & Falls in an Educational Setting
• Misogyny and INCEL Awareness
• Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness
• Policy in Practice
• Prevent Duty for Staff and Volunteers
• Risk Assessment
• Safeguarding & Child Protection for Staff in Regulated Activity
• Safeguarding & Child Protection for Staff not in Regulated Activity
• Safeguarding Legislation
• Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
• Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing of Children and Young People
• Working at heights
• HM Government - Prevent awareness Course
• HM Government - Prevent referrals Course
• HM Government - Prevent Channel or Prevent Multi-Agency Panel (PMAP) Course
• The Open University - Understanding Autism
• First Aid
• Certificate of Safeguarding Training
• +ProActive Approaches
• OLT - Level 1 Attachment and Trauma
Certificates in Interpreting
• Certificate in Community Interpreting
• Certificate in Interpreting for the NHS
• Certificate in Mental Health Interpreting
• Certificate in Health and Safety, Security, Confidentiality, Equality & Environment
• Certificate in Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults
• Certificate in Legal & Court Interpreting Date
• Certificate of Interpreter Training Course(below) successfully and completed
Interpreting Skills and Strategies, Interpreter Code of Conduct, Safeguarding Practices
Customer Service and Conflict Resolution, Continued Professional Development ,Bespoke Interpreting System
• Certificate in Safeguarding Children and Adults at Risk Training for Interpreters
• Certificate in Mental Health Awareness Training for Interpreters
• Certificate in Health Interpreting Language Assessment
• Certificate in Telephone Interpreting
• Certificate in Awareness of Child Abuse and Neglect - Core V7.3
• Certificate in Safeguarding Training Level 2
• Certificate in Introduction to Public Service Interpreting (CIPSI)
• Certificate in knowledge around the risks of radicalisation and the kinds of support available to those at risk

Work Experience
2025 - Present: Helm Academy
• Assist the classroom teacher in planning and delivering lessons that meet the needs of students with SEN.
• Provide one-on-one and small group support to students, helping them engage with the curriculum.
• Foster a positive and inclusive classroom atmosphere that encourages student participation.
• Support the development and implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
• Monitor and track student progress, providing feedback to teachers and parents as needed.
• Help create resources and materials to enhance the learning experience.
• Collaborate with teachers and other staff to ensure a cohesive approach to student support.
2023 - 2025: Optical assistant - Costco Leeds
• Helping customers find the perfect products tailored to their lifestyle and requirements
• pre-screening examinations
• Ordering and dispensing of glasses and contact lenses
• Providing aftersales support through repairs and adjustments
• Relevant operational and administrative tasks associated with the running of a store
• Support other colleagues within the stores to develop their knowledge and skills
2013 - 2023: Self-employed Interpreter
Pearl Linguistics (2013 -2017) Leeds City Council (2017-2023) Languageline Solutions (2018-2023)
• Accurate and precise interpreting of Chinese Mandarin and Cantonese to English and vice versa.
• Clear and concise communication with medical professionals ranging from consultants and doctors to other
healthcare providers such as nurses, physical/occupational therapists and their support services
• Working with the highest levels of professionalism, integrity and sensitivity at all times, whilst maintaining
appropriate levels of confidentiality.
• Constantly working without direct supervision but helping to facilitate appropriate care for patients in very
traumatic and emotive situations.
2005 - Present : Chinese Language Tutor
• Teaching of the Chinese language in both oral and written format to both adults and children.
• Working to ensure that students are competent and confident in the use of the Chinese language in a broad
range of personal and professional situations.
• Working to an accredited syllabus to ensure that recognised qualifications may be obtained by the students.
2000- 2005: Secretary - Xingyuan Group Co, China
A large Hong Kong based company specialising in hotels, industrial complexes and apartment sales.
• Provide first rate secretarial support to senior management in a busy office environment
• Use a variety of software packages to produce professional correspondence and documentation for a range of
executive clients.
• Devising, developing and maintaining office systems.
• Attending meetings and taking accurate minutes and providing high quality representation of events to very
tight schedules
• Managing and maintaining budgets.
• Liaising with internal and external customers of all levels
• Achieved employee of the year 2003

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring is to ensure that the adult and the pupil receives the highest standards of teaching possible. It is about working hard and always trying to improve upon previous success. I am always patient with my students and tailor my approach to their individual needs, varying my teaching style to avoid the student becoming bored and making sure they fully engage with the subject.

I always instill in adult and children the belief that they can make a difference to their lives through education and that it could broaden their options and give them the future that they desire.

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Personal Description:
I am French with a Master's degree in International Business. I teach adults and children, conversation, business, and exams. I am personable and patient and successful in what I do.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching since 1990. At first for language schools in London. I have been working for myself for many years. I teach one to one or small groups.

Tutoring Approach:
Every person is different so I adapt my style of teaching to the student. To be successful at tutoring I believe you need to listen to the student's needs and understand how they think. I am very good at that and getting on with the student is crucial to be able to impart your knowledge of the subject. Willingness to learn is key and I keep a good gradient to make sure they remain willing.

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Personal Description:
Hi, my name is Sophie. I am a graduate of Zoology at the University of Edinburgh University. I spent a year studying abroad in Hong Kong, and have previously spent a year working at IBM. I love to spend my spare time either on the hockey pitch, in the kitchen or doing some art.

Teaching Experience:
Student science tutor for 2 years whilst at school
Summer Camp Leader for 3 years running, experience with international children.
Leader at Cubs, Brownies, Beavers and Rainbows
Work experience at an Adult Learning Centre

Tutoring Approach:
It has been my experience, both as a tutor and as a student, that the best way to engage with learning is to understand your working style. I personally have found certain aspects of school quite challenging but by finding the methods that most suited my needs, I was able to maximize my learning potential.

My tutoring style emphasizes collaboration and positive reinforcement in order to produce a friendly learning environment.

From my charity work abroad in Ghana to my role as Deputy Head Girl at my secondary school, I have gained the interpersonal skills necessary to develop productive and compassionate relationships with pupils. Students will find themselves excited for their lessons and eager to achieve new standards of excellence.

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Personal Description:
My name is Ellie and I'm a History graduate. I have been teaching English as a second language in Suzhou, China for the last year. I am experienced in teaching particularly Chinese students, using IPA with a focus on oral speaking. I have a TEFL in China certificate and an International Child Protection Certificate. I also have HSK3 Mandarin Chinese

Teaching Experience:
I taught ESL at a school in Ghana for one month. For the past year I have been teaching a wide range of ages and levels in Suzhou, China. I completed 2 weeks on intensive teacher training in Beijing where I sat classroom-based and paper-based exams and received a TEFL in China certificate. Since then I have taught grade-8 students at two middle schools in Suzhou. I also tutored one-to-one and small groups of adults, teenagers and children. I performed demonstration lessons in classrooms with children I had never taught before and had numerous classroom assessments. In September I will be going to teach at Suzhou International Foreign Language School.

Tutoring Approach:
In my lessons I focus on oral speaking and fluency, using images, games and conversation activities. This can be adapted to each student depending on the level and needs. I am experienced in presentations and public speaking. I can also teach writing skills.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a freelance tutor, theatre director, producer and workshop leader based in London. Having graduated in Drama from the University of Bristol in 2012, I have been working for a range of different professional and youth theatre companies since.

As a director, I have worked on numerous plays and musicals with adults and children. I have directed productions for many high profile schools and organisations including The BRIT School, British Youth Music Theatre and Stagebox. My productions have played at theatres nationally such as at Southwark Playhouse, The Drum at Theatre Royal Plymouth, Taunton Brewhouse, Artsdepot and Bridewell Theatre.

I have worked extensively on award winning West End and national productions as an Associate and Resident Director, on productions including The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole (Ambassadors West End, Menier Chocolate Factory, Leicester Curve), American Idiot (Arts Theatre West End) and the Olivier Award winning In The Heights (Kings Cross Theatre, Southwark Playhouse).

I also have a background working in media.production, having worked on work for Penguin Random House, The BRIT Awards, News UK and Swarovski.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 15 years teaching experience and am currently Drama teacher at Stagecoach Highgate, teaching 6-16 year olds. I also teach Drama privately for all ages (children and adults) including developing confidence and expression, coaching solo acting LAMDA exams, for private school entrance exams and drama school auditions.

As well as working with a varied range of youth and adult theatre companies and leading workshops, I was also Drama Department Head of a US summer camp for three years.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a friendly and approachable tutor, who will tailor lessons to each individual. I value the opinion of my students, encouraging self expression and personal reflection. I am keen to challenge those I work with, while making sessions fun.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I`m a Polish native speaker and I can help you to prepare for Polish exams at all levels or work on conversational Polish.

Teaching Experience:
I have teaching experience. I can explain Polish grammar both in English and Russian.
I am familiar with Polski Krok po Kroku.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor my teaching approach to each student's needs. With some students lessons are more informally presented as a conversational chat. With other students repetition of work from textbooks is more useful

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am Jackie. I have been Acting professionally for over twenty five years and have had a very varied career I trained at The Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London gaining the A.G.S.M Diploma in Professional Acting. I also have extensive teaching experience from working in both the Private and Public Sector, and established Stage Schools.
My many theatre credits include appearing in London West End Musicals, e.g. ('The Pirates of Penzance' (with Tim Curry and George Cole, 'Theatre Royal Drury Lane'), 'Budgie' (with Adam Faith and Anita Dobson ,'The Cambridge Theatre London'), and at The National Theatre of Great Britain ( 'Guys and Dolls' and 'The Beggars Opera') and in many straight theatre roles in various Theatres across the country.
I also have many diverse Television credits specialising in Television Comedy. I have worked with such renowned writers as Carla Lane at The BBC (appearing in 'Bread' and 'Luv' ) John Sullivan at The BBC, (appearing in 'Heartburn Hotel ') Roy Clarke at The BBC (appearing in Rosie',) and Victoria Wood at ITV( appearing in 'Dinner Ladies) My favourite role was as 'Glenys Pike' in the very popular comedy series 'The Brothers McGregor' written by John Stevenson for Granada TV which ran for four series. ) as well as many other TV appearances such as 'Cracker', 'Brookside', and 'Coronation Street'.

Teaching Experience:
I have extensive teaching experience from working in both the Private and Public Sector, and established Stage Schools. I teach all ages up to degree level or privately,specializing in one to one tuition. I have helped many young people with Drama School auditions with very good success. I also coach actors on audition technique and on audition speeches or scenes.

Tutoring Approach:
Do you need help with auditioning for Drama Schools ? Need help selecting pieces ? Need help with Drama as an academic subject? Want to improve your communication skills or a professional preparing for an interview ? My approach to tutoring is that I am here to help you and lift you up, not drag you down. With my experience there is nothing I have not seen or done performance wise and I understand it takes courage for some people to come to classes. I try to create a warm and pleasant teaching atmosphere for all my students and I have had great successes.

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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.

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Personal Description:
I am a mum of two grown up children and a Labrador and have been living with my family in Surrey for 25 years. After 24 years of teaching maths in the classroom, I am now working as a freelance tutor.
I am friendly and patient, and able to help children at all levels of understanding to improve their confidence and attainment in maths.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching maths for 27 years in local independent schools and a top Surrey grammar school. In that time I have also tutored more than 100 pupils towards SATs, school entrance exams, scholarships, GCSEs and A levels, as well as helping improve their general confidence and attainment.
I am now a freelance tutor and currently have some early evening availability on weekdays. Please feel free to contact me to secure a place for the new academic year, or for holiday sessions. I look forward to hearing from you.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tuition depends very much on what is required: this could be reinforcing topics already covered at school, preparing for an examination, or generally working to improve confidence and attainment.

On meeting a pupil for the first time I would work on assessing current understanding against expected standards for their age, and their confidence levels.
In future lessons I would use a variety of resources and methods to consolidate and extend pupil understanding. Past/ practice papers would be provided for pupils approaching examinations.

Subjects