Upminster Tutors and Upminster Tuition

Personal Description:
I am 37 years of age and have a first degree in Education.My specialist subjects are Mathematics and Geography and I am able to offer tuition in groups or on individual basis up to A level . I have also worked with students of varied age groups and have an in depth knowledge of the student curriculum at all levels.

Teaching Experience:
I have been tutoring Mathematics to primary, secondary and A level students for the past 4years both in schools, as a supply teacher and to private tutees. Recently I have been working as a supply teacher of Mathematics and Geography in secondary schools and as a tutor in a private tuition centre. I can assist your child with their SATs (for year 6 pupils),GCSE (all exam boards) and A-level (Edexcel, AQA ,OCR and Cambridge ). For any questions please be in touch.

Tutoring Approach:
I always tailor my teaching to the individual and through my patient and positive attitude I always get the best out of my students. I also believe students learn best in a more positive,fun and friendly environment.

Subjects

Personal Description:
English language tutor, with more than 10 years of teaching experience in Latin America and US. Have taught high school, university, and business classes at large corporations. In addition to conversation lessons, I assist students with their business and academic writing. Have become engaged in online tutoring during the past 4 years. Am currently tutoring students online in Europe and Asia-- mainly adults but some children also. I possess a variety of recognized and widely used material for both General English and Business English.

Teaching Experience:
July 2005 - April 2012
English Teacher, London
Taught in-company English classes at BRANCA FRATELLI, (American Forum ), BREA
SOLANS & ASSOCIATES ( Auditing Services, Tax Advice, Transaction Advisory Services,
Transfer Pricing, Consultancy and Assistance in Conflict Resolution ), and taught high school
student ( TOEFL and First Certificate )

May 2003 - June 2005
English Teacher, Columbus, OH
Taught business English at SIDERAR, steel company, BREA SOLANS
& ASSOCIATES ( Auditing Services, Tax Advice, Transaction Advisory Services, Transfer
Pricing, Consultancy and Assistance in Conflict Resolution ), Allergan, Inc ( US Pharmaceutical Company ), and Law firms.

January 2000 - May 2003
English Teacher, Buenos Aires
Prepared spanish speaking students transferring to american universities.
Helped students with TOEFL SAT and GRE exams and taught English on a private basis.

March 1999 - December 1999
English Teacher, Highlands School, Columbus, OH
Taught English Literature to elementary and secondary students. Course work emphasized
Literature comprehension and Listening.

August 1998 - December 1998
English Teacher, British Cultural Center of Buenos Aires
Taught buisiness english to CFO's at publicly held companies such as YPF, Perez Companc,
IBM. Responsabilites included the teaching of business english focusing on financial english
and preparation of financial statements for presentations. Duties entalied preparing argentine
transfer students to take SAT and TOEFL exams.

Education:
NYU, New York
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, 1986 - 1990

Language Skills:
Absolutely bilingual in Spanish and English

English Teaching Certificates:
Celta, University College London, 2010

Tutoring Approach:
English language tutor, with more than 10 years of teaching experience in Latin America and US. Have taught high school, university, and business classes at large corporations. In addition to conversation lessons, I assist students with their business and academic writing. Have become engaged in online tutoring during the past 4 years. Am currently tutoring students online in Europe and Asia-- mainly adults but some children also. I possess a variety of recognized and widely used material for both General English and Business English.

I teach professional interpreters, English teachers, lawyers, and numerous other advanced-degreed 2nd language speakers who have had 10-16 years of English in schools, but who have not yet mastered the English communication skills.

Having grown up in US with argentinian parents, I am perfectly bilingual in Spanish and in English, therefore i can understand the kind of issues you might stumble into when going from one language to the other one. I also have a lot of experience teaching pronunciation and intonation.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Oxford graduate with more than fifteen years' experience as a private tutor and consistently excellent results in Latin, Greek, Classics and English.

Studied Classics at Oxford University and awarded an academic scholarship.

Earned a Master's Degree with Distinction in Latin literature at UCL. Awarded the Dean's Prize.

Since then, I have been working as an award-winning arts journalist alongside my work as a private tutor.

Teaching Experience:
Private tutor for fifteen years, with significant experience in private tuition of Latin, Greek and English at all levels, and excellent exam results achieved by my students.

*LATIN/GREEK*

Classroom experience as teacher of Latin at a prep school and teaching assistant for primary school Latin classes.

In-depth, up-to-date knowledge of the current syllabuses for Common Entrance, GCSE and A-level, as well as all major textbooks, including Oxford and Cambridge Latin Courses, Athenaze, Greek to GCSE, Shelmerdine, ISEB Common Entrance publications and other frequently used courses. I also have a wide range of my own resources.

*ENGLISH*

English tutor for ten years, complemented by working as an award-winning arts journalist. Through this work
I've personally interviewed several of the authors on the English syllabuses, including Margaret Atwood and Arundhati Roy. I have a particular love of bringing Shakespeare alive, and I have also extensively interviewed many actors and practitioners about Shakespeare's work, including Sir Ian McKellen; I love to feed this real-world experience into lessons, to show that learning English is not just about words on a page.

Tutoring Approach:
CONFIDENCE: I love seeing students gain confidence as they study with me, and passing on my knowledge and enthusiasm until they are as excited about a subject as I am. My main focus is finding something for them to enjoy within a given subject and building our learning around that.

TARGETED APPROACH: I find out the areas where the student will need the most help, then I plan my lessons carefully to address those areas of difficulty. I always try to build on the way the student has been taught at school, so that my tuition complements their school learning rather than clashing with it.

EXAM TECHNIQUE: I also ensure that we are always working on exam and revision techniques while learning. This includes helpful mnemonics, studying past papers and mark schemes, and ensuring we are engaging closely with the relevant syllabus to pick up as many marks as possible when it comes to exams.

TIPS AND TRICKS: I like to build routine into tuition sessions, so that the student knows what to expect in each session, which helps boost their confidence, and so that grammar which can seem strange and unfamiliar at first becomes second nature. I've got plenty of tips and tricks to help with the most difficult parts of grammar and syntax. It's useful to break things down into smaller chunks - for example, the large set texts can be daunting, but they become manageable when taken piece by piece.

Above all, my approach is to be friendly, patient and knowledgeable.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a Biology graduate (BSc. Hons) from Newcastle University with three years of classroom experience as a teaching assistant working in Japan. I also worked with International NGOs to select and train young people to volunteer overseas.

Teaching Experience:
I taught English to Japanese school students in classroom and 1:1 sessions for three years, working in the public school system.

Tutoring Approach:
Being relaxed helps to prevent undue stress and promote clear thinking. Being prepared and having a mutually agreed plan allows the tutoring to become more productive.

It's important to be flexible to the needs of each individual and understand what is needed from tutoring.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a qualified and registered NHS doctor. A skilled medical professional who is deeply passionate about education.
I have an easy going and laid-back personality.
I'm a Mum to an energetic little boy and enjoy hobbies like outdoor walks and quality family time.

Teaching Experience:
My journey began by teaching primary and high school students after college. I continued this path into university, where I mentored younger students. With four years of post-graduate clinical experience as a registered NHS doctor, I aim to leverage my expertise to educate and support others.

Tutoring Approach:
I tailor my teaching approach to match the learning style of my students, whether it's visual, auditory, or reading-based. Regular knowledge assessments ensure comprehension, and I'm flexible in adjusting my teaching style to suit your needs.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi all, I am currently welcoming students looking to perfect their interview knowledge, skills and technique for Medical School interviews for both undergraduate and graduate entry Medicine. Being as close as it gets to the interview process and medical school experience, I have a strong track record in pass rates for interviews with my tutees.

I am offering a 6 week programme of intensive learning and interview skills practice with an optional mock interview in the format of your choice, in order to maximize your chances of gaining a place at medical school.

I am currently a Graduate-Entry Medical Student currently studying at the University of Birmingham and hold a first class Bachelors degree in Sport and Exercise Sciences alongside extensive A level and GCSE qualifications.

Teaching Experience:
I have a year's experience tutoring family members and friends through exams and entrance tests.

I have also coached children ages 8-18 for three years as a rowing coach, helping them to improve and grow in confidence.

Tutoring Approach:
My students and I enjoy a fast paced, interactive and bespoke approach to their learning.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi, I am Hulya. I am from Turkey. I have been living in London for the last 7 years. I can teach Turkish language.

Teaching Experience:
I am a native Turkish speaker. I can teach grammar to anyone that needs it; also pronunciation and writing at any level.

Tutoring Approach:
I check the student's level first and I plan the lessons according to the student's needs.
I consider the student's learning styles.

Subjects

Personal Description:
My name is Toufic, I'm 40 years old originally from Lebanon. I have an Engineering Degree in Software Development from the University of Burgundy (France), and a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) with Distinction from Bradford University (UK). I am currently working as the Web Development Manager in a company in Bradford.

Teaching Experience:
I enjoy teaching, and love sharing my knowledge with different types of people, either young beginners or adults.
I helped many young students who had difficulties in their academic studies. But I also taught adults and professionals both IT skills and the French/Arabic language either spoken or written.
Special discounts given for students wishing to learn Arabic!

Tutoring Approach:
Tutoring is all about caring and patience. I'm a very calm person who enjoys talking to people and knows how to teach in a fun and relaxed way.
First introduction hour is given for free for us to discuss your needs and the approach we'll take for teaching!
Special discounts given for students wishing to learn Arabic!

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified teacher of Biology and Environmental Science to A Level, and Maths and the three Sciences to GCSE. I taught for many years in both the private and state sectors.
A semi-retired Environmental Scientist, Zoologist and Freshwater Biologist, I am also fluent in Spanish and German, having spent many years living in Latin American countries, working for German and British multinational companies.

Teaching Experience:
I taught GCSE Science (Biology, Physics, Chemistry) and Maths and A-Level & IB Biology and Environmental Science in both the state and private sectors for many years. I have tutored students in these subjects and levels during the past 10 years, with excellent results almost always surpassing the student's predicted grades..
I have also supported Spanish-language classes and individual students at GCSE level, and have worked on conversational Spanish with adult learners.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe the key to successful tutoring is to provide the help, support and encouragement the student needs. Unlike a classroom setting, the agenda is and must be driven primarily by the student. Thus my first task is always to help students identify their strengths and weaknesses, and what they want to get out of the tutor sessions. From this we jointly develop a strategy and plan of action. I then tailor my approach to fulfil the student's requirements.

Subjects

Personal Description:
***Currently I have availability for 1:1 tuition *** message me to discuss days and times.

My service is limited and I am usually fully booked by October half term. Message now to secure tuition during the summer and a reserved place for September. Get a head start for year 13/11 and be ready to achieve all your goals next academic year.

I am a UK qualified teacher with 20+ years' teaching experience. I graduated from Loughborough University with a BSc (Hons) in Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry in 2003 and a year later completed my Post Graduate Certificate in Education at the same university. I have taught in 3 secondary schools located in Buckinghamshire and Derbyshire. My first language is English.

I currently teach all GCSE sciences as well as Year 12 and Year 13 A Level Chemistry at Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School in Ashbourne, Derbyshire. I am a designated Advanced Skills Teacher; recognition of my outstanding classroom practice and the excellent results that this generates for the young people I teach. I work for the Cambridge International Exam Board, being an experienced marker of A Level chemistry. In 2025 the A-level classes I taught achieved on average a whole grade higher than other students studying AQA chemistry nationally, which put my results firmly in the outstanding category as measured by ALPS.

In person I am able to offer in-person tuition in and around the Derby, Ashbourne and Uttoxeter areas. I also offer remote learning via MS Teams.

I charge £50 per hour, regardless of whether this is in person or online. That fee also covers my preparation for each hour long session and my time spent reviewing a students mock exams, class tests etc. The first lesson is half price.

Having been a 6th Form tutor for over 10 years, I am also able to offer support and guidance regarding the UCAS process, and in particular the writing of UCAS personal statements and I am able to offer preparation for interviews, including mock interviews, for courses including dentistry, medicine, veterinary medicine and Oxbridge applications.
I am also able to tutor Maths, particularly those wanting help and support with the 11+.

Teaching Experience:
I have taught Year 7-9 Science, Year 9-11 GCSE Biology, Chemistry and Physics and A Level Chemistry. I also teach BTEC Applied Science to Year 9-11 and Level 3 Applied Science to Year 12-13. I am equally at home delivering AQA and OCR specifications.

Tutoring Approach:
I am able to accurately asses the needs of the student, plan short activities to address those needs and re-assess to ensure the student has made progress. I am able to explain complex science in a way that makes it accessible for young people. Sessions mainly involve looking at past paper questions and working on exam technique. In my experience most students are able to understand the science involved in a particular question, but lose marks by not presenting their answers in a format that hits the required marking points. This is where students can be coached by myself and make the most progress in academic outcomes.

I am confident that I am able to forge positive working relationships with children and unlock their potential in the sciences. I am friendly, have a good sense of humour and English is my first language.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Privet,

My name is Maria and I am looking forward to share my knowledge and love for Russian language with my students.

Congratulations for choosing the most challenging and complicating language to learn! Good news: Russian is fascinating, by the end of the "journey", you will be confident enough to speak to a Russian in the street or even upgrade your page with information in Russian, to strike your friends with a few bespoken facts about Russia or probably invite your friends to join you for the mountain climbing in the Altai or kayaking in Baikal Lake. I should warn you may fall in love with Russian language and may even dare to start an advanced course after which you are very likely to wake up one morning with a strong desire to see Bolshoi Ballet or fall asleep with "War and Peace" in your hands.

Let me briefly describe you my past experience. I was born in Saint-Petersburg and graduated from Russain State University of Foreign Languages, I have a master's degree in teaching of modern languages. I have been working first at school, then privately for more than 15 years.

I started teaching Russian at Trent College in Derbyshire as an extra-curricular activity for a group of students in year 7-8 and 9, providing all the teaching materials and authentic programme. I covered all the main parts in terms of philology and diverse the lessons with curious facts about the country, traditions and customs. At the end of one term course, students had basic skills in reading and writing, they were able to introduce themselves and speak on common themes (hobbies, cuisine, travelling etc). Later I started to assist students in their preparations for GCSE and A levels in Russian. At the moment, I have positive reviews from my students who passed GCSE and A Levels on A and A*. I also conduct exams for a few private schools in the area.

After relocating to Cornwall, I prepared my own Russian course, which I delivered in Tree Language School in Truro. Having good communication skills, I was able to quickly maintain effective relationships with students, parents and colleagues. Students appreciated my ability to explain in a clear way with appropriate sample illustrations using a variety of media and soon after the first group of experienced learners finished the course, I recieved excellent references and we managed to form a new group. Adaptable teaching and learning styles individually modified to meet the needs of pupils and being innovative in challenging students to ensure the highest level of interest from them helped me to attain high reviews from my students.

During the last couple of years, I taught specially tailored Russian course for a group of Royal navy staff at Culdrose RNAS.

Among my other reliable customers are Atlantic Language Services (Plymouth UK) and Cultural Vistas (New York USA), with one of them I had a valuable experience of private tuition for advanced learner (upper intermediate level), including business language, completing CV and training for interviews in Moscow. My student successfully passed various assessments and interviews for internship with Alfa Group and later received a post in two different companies in Moscow.
Recently I had a contract with Middlesex University preparing a tuition for staff in department of European human rights advocacy.

For the last 5 years I am conducting Russian GCSE and A level in schools across Cornwall and Devon (Truro School, Truro High School for Girls, Richard Lander school to name a few). I also work as an examiner for the Pearson Edexcel board, which helps me to prepare my students for the exam in line with all the requirements of the Pearson.
Last year I took a few students assisting them with TORFL exams, which they passed successfully.

Please contact me to arrange a test lesson to explore your learning preferences, language level and to prepare plan of studies relevant to your target. Thank you for your interest!

Teaching Experience:
Teacher of English and German - since 2002
Teacher of Russian for the UK students - since 2014

Tutoring Approach:
I prepare tailored tuition to meet your individual interests and targets.

Subjects

Personal Description:
In the years 1998-2005 I worked in the IT industry. My responsibilities mainly covered administrating Operating Systems and troubleshooting computer networks in small to medium businesses. I spent most of my time working with customers troubleshooting problems. I found I had a natural talent in communicating with people in a respectful and considerate manner. It also led me to improve my customer service skills which I continue to find useful as a teacher at City College Plymouth.
I have been studying a Computer Networks degree (graduated 2014) and MSc Network Systems Engineering (finishing in March 2018) at Plymouth University.
I am enthusiastic and well-organized with sterling interpersonal and communication skills.

Teaching Experience:
For the last four years I have been teaching IT, Maths and Engineering at the college, delivering lessons for levels 3-5. Alongside teaching I have achieved my certificate in Award in Education and Teaching and currently I am undertaking level 5 Diploma in Education and Training.

Tutoring Approach:
I am very happy and proud delivering my knowledge and demonstrating my skills to others. However, I plan my lessons taking care to follow best practice and deliver using active learning strategies and differentiate effectively through a variety of means. I encourage and support students with walking through problems using probing Socratic questioning to give them the opportunity to find the solution(s) themselves.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Creative art teacher with an emphasis on artistic development, innovation and creativity.
Art teacher who thrives in a highly collaborative, studio-based environment.

Motivating art teacher who stimulates excellent communication, interpersonal and student artistic skills to produce outstanding visual products.

Experienced, versatile and accomplished artist, curator and art director.

Teaching Experience:
Art Teacher of IBDP, MYP & GCSEs at The King Fahad Academy－ London , UK
Curator and Art Advisor at P21 Gallery&Museum － London , UK

Tutoring Approach:
I provide insight, instructions and guidance to individuals from different cultural backgrounds, for the purpose of achieving set of artistic and conceptual goals.

On a personal level I regularly review my own practice, set myself high targets and take responsibility for own personal development. To me everyone's opinion counts and I go out of my way to get feedback from those I supervise.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have a Physics degree from Cambridge and still maintain an active and deep interest in the subject. Among my hobbies is close harmony singing - I run a mixed local singing group and have travelled widely in pursuit of musical excellence. I also appreciate the countryside and am happy to live, and walk, in a beautiful part of our country.

Teaching Experience:
My introduction to tutoring came through successfully helping my sons through their A-levels in Maths, Further Maths and Physics. The experience inspired me to look into tutoring as an alternative occupation, and, for the last couple of years, I have been pleased to take on other students. I now work part-time in software development but love teaching and find tutoring very rewarding. Generally, most of my students are working their way through their A-levels but I can also help out up to University level, either with preparation for entrance exams (e.g PAT, NSAA, STEP), or with some of the topics encountered in Maths / Physics / Engineering courses. I also do occasional work at GCSE level in these subjects.

Tutoring Approach:
I like to treat students as individuals with differing needs. For some the key is to develop a solid understanding - subject knowledge tends to build on itself, and those who miss basic points in class can often find themselves slipping behind, feeling lost and not able to cope. For others, it involves digging deeper into the subject to perhaps make connections that weren`t at first apparent.

At all levels, I have found that guided questioning and encouraging students to think through their own difficulties is very effective. It is very pleasing to see the spark of light when an idea hits home. And once the basics are established, of course, the key to success is practice, and the development of exam technique.

Please feel free to get in touch via the UK Tutors messaging service.

Subjects

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.

*

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.'

*

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!'

*

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.'

*

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'm Andrea, an Italian professional guy with an extensive academic background in cybersecurity, having recently completed my PhD in the field.

As a native Italian speaker with a high-level, neutral command of the language, I am deeply passionate about sharing knowledge. I find great joy in helping others navigate complex technical arguments or explore the nuances of different cultures. I truly value meaningful conversations and love discovering the unique, 'lovely' side of every culture I encounter.

Teaching Experience:
Teaching comes naturally to me. I have experience leading small groups through difficult university projects and helping peers gain the confidence to speak in public for their viva using the experiences of my academic and public viva too. Whether we meet in person or on Zoom, I'll make sure you feel prepared and relaxed.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach is versatile and tailored to your needs. Whether you require a detailed review of Italian coursework, want to refine your pronunciation, or are looking to master natural conversation by correcting common grammatical errors, I provide a supportive environment to help you reach fluency, as well as try to help with specific local said or culture in the various parts of Italy.

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Personal Description:
Hello! I'm a primary school teacher with four years of classroom experience at an Ofsted-rated 'Outstanding' school. Before qualifying as a teacher, I worked as a Teaching Assistant supporting children with a range of special educational needs, which gave me valuable experience in adapting learning to meet individual needs.

The most rewarding part of teaching is seeing children grow in confidence and achieve things they once thought were beyond them. I enjoy getting to know each pupil as an individual, understanding what motivates them, and helping them develop the skills and confidence to reach their full potential.

I decided to offer tutoring because I want to provide personalised, one-to-one support that allows children to thrive. Every child learns differently, and I believe that with the right guidance, encouragement and challenge, every pupil can make meaningful progress.

As a tutor, I am calm, patient and approachable while maintaining high expectations. My aim is not only to help children achieve their academic goals, but also to foster confidence, resilience and a genuine enjoyment of learning that stays with them beyond our lessons.

Teaching Experience:
Throughout my teaching career, I have taught across all year groups in Key Stage 2, giving me a strong understanding of the curriculum and how children's knowledge and skills develop over time. As a class teacher, I have taught the full primary curriculum, with particular strengths in reading, writing and mathematics.

I have consistently supported pupils in making excellent academic progress, with many achieving Greater Depth in reading, writing and mathematics. While I take pride in these outcomes, I am equally passionate about helping every child make progress from their own starting point, whether they need additional support or greater challenge.

My previous experience as a Teaching Assistant, alongside my classroom teaching, has enabled me to work effectively with pupils who have a wide range of learning needs, including those with complex special educational needs. I am confident in adapting my teaching, resources and pace to ensure every child can access learning, experience success and continue to develop with confidence.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that effective tutoring is built on high-quality teaching, strong relationships and a thorough understanding of each child's individual needs. I take the time to get to know every pupil so I can identify their strengths, address gaps in their understanding and tailor lessons to help them achieve their goals.

My lessons are carefully structured to help children retain knowledge and build confidence. I begin by revisiting previously taught content to strengthen long-term memory before introducing new learning through clear, explicit instruction. Throughout the lesson, I regularly check pupils' understanding, adapting my teaching and providing additional guidance whenever needed. Once a pupil has demonstrated a secure understanding, they are given opportunities to practise independently while receiving constructive feedback to consolidate their learning.

Building confidence is central to my approach. I believe children make the greatest progress when they experience success and recognise that it comes through effort, perseverance and positive learning behaviours. I use encouragement and meaningful praise to help pupils develop resilience and become increasingly independent learners.

I also value open and honest communication with parents. I believe tutoring works best when parents feel informed and involved, so I aim to build positive relationships based on trust, providing regular updates on progress and ensuring we work together to support each child's learning journey.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced English and History tutor specialising in 11+ and 13+ entrance preparation, GCSE and A-level tuition, and independent-school admissions.

I have delivered more than 6,500 hours of one-to-one tuition and have over 16 years' tutoring experience. My academic background includes a BA in History and an MA in Cultural History, and I have also taught undergraduate seminars. I have extensive experience in assessment and examining, including work as a Senior Examiner for the British Council.

I particularly enjoy working with students who need to develop confidence, independence and intellectual curiosity, as well as ambitious students who need to be stretched beyond the standard curriculum. My aim is not simply to improve a student's next grade or entrance-exam result, but to make them a stronger reader, writer and thinker.

Teaching Experience:
I specialise in English and History from upper primary through to A-level, with particular expertise in 11+ and 13+ school admissions, GCSE English Language and Literature, GCSE History, and A-level English Literature and History.

I have prepared students for admission to leading independent schools including Winchester College, Hampton, Abingdon and St Mary's Ascot, as well as a wide range of other selective schools. My admissions teaching includes English entrance examinations, ISEB and other pre-tests, interview preparation and the broader academic skills students need to thrive after gaining a place.

At GCSE and A-level, I combine detailed subject knowledge with extensive assessment experience. I teach students how to analyse texts and sources precisely, construct convincing arguments, plan effectively and write with clarity and sophistication. I am familiar with the requirements of the major examination boards and adapt lessons closely to each student's course and objectives.

I have taught students with a very wide range of abilities and personalities, from those who have lost confidence or developed gaps in their knowledge to highly able students aiming for the highest grades and most competitive schools.

Tutoring Approach:
My teaching is highly individualised. I begin by identifying what is actually preventing a student from progressing: this might be a gap in knowledge, weak analytical habits, difficulty organising ideas, lack of confidence, inefficient exam technique or simply not having been sufficiently challenged.

Lessons are active rather than lecture-based. I use questioning, discussion, modelling, targeted practice and immediate feedback to make students think for themselves. Instead of simply supplying an answer, I break difficult skills into manageable stages and gradually remove support as the student becomes more confident and independent.

In English, I place particular emphasis on close reading, vocabulary, analytical thinking and developing a controlled, engaging writing style. In History, I help students move beyond memorising information towards understanding causation, significance, change, interpretation and the construction of evidence-based arguments.

For entrance examinations and interviews, I avoid teaching students to reproduce formulaic responses. I develop the underlying comprehension, reasoning, communication and writing skills that enable them to respond confidently when faced with unfamiliar material.

Above all, I want students to understand why something works. Good tutoring should produce more than a short-term improvement in marks: students should leave with better habits of thought, greater confidence and skills they can transfer to new subjects and challenges.

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