Richard - Broxburn tutor





Richard's profile picture

Information About Richard:


Personal Description:

Hi, I'm Richard. Originally from Northern Ireland, I've been living and teaching in Scotland for the last 20 years.

Maths has always been a subject I've loved, and I enjoy helping young people discover that they can be successful at it too. My goal is not just to improve grades, but to help students build confidence and develop mathematical skills that will take with them after they leave school.

I believe Maths teaches much more than numbers. It develops logical thinking, problem-solving, communication and resilience, all skills that are valuable well beyond the classroom.

Every student is different, so I tailor lessons to individual needs, whether that's building confidence, addressing gaps in understanding, preparing for exams, or stretching high-attaining students towards their full potential. Students will feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes and building confidence. Whether a student needs help catching up, preparing for exams, or pushing themselves towards the highest grades, I tailor my approach to suit their individual needs and goals.



Teaching Experience:

I have 15 years of experience teaching Mathematics across both the English and Scottish education systems. During this time, I have held leadership positions including three years as Assistant Head of Department and one year as Head of Department.

Having completed GCSEs and A Levels myself in Northern Ireland, I began my teaching career in a school offering GCSE and A Level qualifications. Over ten years, I taught GCSE Mathematics and A Level Mathematics, including Pure Mathematics, Statistics, Mechanics and Discrete Mathematics.

I also worked as an OCR examiner for four years, marking Mathematics and Statistics examinations. This gave me valuable insight into examination standards and what examiners are looking for in successful responses.

For the past four years, I have taught within the Scottish education system, delivering N5 Mathematics, N5 Applications of Mathematics, Higher Mathematics and Ad. Higher Statistics. I have marked for the SQA for the past five years, marking both National 5 and Higher Mathematics examinations.

My experience as both a teacher and examiner allows me to help students develop a deep understanding of Mathematics while also building the examination skills needed to achieve their potential.



Tutoring Approach:

I believe that effective tutoring begins with getting to know each pupil as an individual. By identifying their strengths, areas for development and personal goals, we can create a clear plan and set achievable targets to work towards together.
In my teaching experience, I have learned that success in Maths is far more about confidence, perseverance and the right support than innate ability. Many students simply need concepts explained in a different way, the opportunity to ask questions, and the confidence to keep trying.

I encourage parents and guardians to be fully involved throughout the process. We can then ensure that pupils are making progress, building confidence and achieving the goals they have set for themselves.

I offer tuition either in person or online and am available during weekday evenings. Whether a pupil is looking to build confidence, address gaps in understanding, prepare for prelims/exams, or achieve the very highest grades, I provide personalised tuition designed to help them succeed.



Map showing Richard's location

Qualifications:

  • PGDE Secondary Mathematics. University of Edinburgh. 2011.
  • BSc Mathematics. University of Edinburgh. 2009.
  • A Level Maths, Chemistry, Biology (3As).

Further Information:

Availability:  Weekdays (evenings)
Types of Tutoring:   Travels to you / From their home / Online
References Supplied?   Yes
Current DBS/CRB Check?   Yes