Ning

Do you want to make real progress in your learning—guided by an experienced educator who truly understands how to help you succeed? Feel free to get in touch to discuss your learning plan and for your first FREE lesson!

-Director of Postgraduate Taught Programmes
-University Entrance Academic Selecter
-Course Leader
-Thesis Supervisor

Hello, I’m Ning. I am currently an Associate Professor in Education at a leading Scottish university, and a former school teacher with over 20 years’ experience teaching languages in both China and the UK. I am passionate about designing and delivering engaging, effective learning programmes tailored to each student's goals—whether online or in-person.

I have successfully taught students of all ages and backgrounds and pride myself on my warm, supportive approach and strong intercultural communication skills. Having personally tutored over 50 students on FirstTutors, I am committed to helping each learner reach their full potential.

Alongside English and Mandarin, I also speak French, Spanish, German, and Italian. Outside the classroom, I love sports, outdoor adventures, travelling, discovering new cultures, and, of course, learning new languages!

If you’re looking for a friendly, expert tutor who will adapt lessons to your learning style and inspire your confidence, I’d love to help you on your language journey.

Tutoring Experience

With over 20 years of experience as a language teacher and academic advisor and over 10 years working in the higher education sector, I take pride in supporting learners at all stages—whether your goal is to travel, work, study, or simply enjoy learning a new language. I am skilled at tailoring lessons to your pace, interests, and unique learning style. I am also an experienced tutor for all aspects of Academic English, Academic Study Skills (e.g. research methods, dissertations from BA to PhD) and University Entrance Exams (e.g. IELTS Academic, TOEFL, Cambridge Tests, Oxford Tests, Pearson Test of English Academic).

My specialist expertise lies in teaching Mandarin at all levels within the UK education system. As Head of Mandarin (Subject Leader/Curricular Team Leader) at George Heriot’s School in Edinburgh (2010–2016), I designed and delivered courses from Beginners through Advanced Higher and led the department to consistently outstanding results. Some highlights include:

-Mentoring the recipient of the SQA Outstanding Advanced Higher Mandarin Candidate for Non-native Speakers award;
-Coaching winning teams for the prestigious HSBC/British Council Mandarin Speaking Competition (2011, 2013, and 2015);
-Consistently excellent SQA exam results (100% A–C) with many students progressing to leading universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, SOAS, and others.

In addition to Mandarin, my advanced skills in English language education are supported by doctoral-level research (PhD, University of Edinburgh, Principal’s Career Development Studentship and Edinburgh Global Overseas Research Scholarship recipient) focused on TESOL and Applied Linguistics. I also hold a Master’s degree (with Distinction) in Language Education (University of Edinburgh) and a prestigious undergraduate degree in Teaching Chinese as an International Language and English Language and Literature (Beijing Foreign Studies University).

Currently, I serve as Course Director for MSc TESOL and Intercultural Communication at the University of Strathclyde and train teachers working in international schools worldwide.

Professional accreditations:

-General Teaching Council Scotland (GTC Scotland) Registered Teacher (QTS);
-Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education;
-Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

No matter your current level or future ambitions, you will benefit from my proven experience helping learners achieve their language goals and succeed academically or professionally.

Tutoring Approach

My teaching philosophy draws on a broad range of proven, contemporary methods, including Communicative Language Teaching, Task-Based Language Learning, and adaptive post-method approaches. Every lesson is practical, lively, and focused on real-world communication. Whether in person or online, I aim to create a relaxed, enjoyable environment where you feel motivated to learn and confident to experiment.

As both a researcher and educator, I integrate the latest Generative AI tools to make your learning experience smarter and more effective. I’m passionate about guiding my students to use these technologies to support their language development as well as enhance daily life, studies, and work.

I understand that every learner is unique—so I design tailor-made programmes based on your language background, goals, and personal or professional needs. My extensive experience spans:

-Primary language learning;
-Secondary exam preparation (SQA, GCSE, A Level, and others);
-University language studies;
-Adult qualifications (HSK, TOEFL, IELTS, CAE, and more);
-Academic English and Business English/Chinese;
-Corporate staff training;
-Adult casual learners.

You’re welcome to book one-to-one sessions or company-wide training. I have a proven track record—check my reviews on FirstTutors for student testimonials!

If you’d like to try before committing, I offer a 100% OFF trial lesson, which includes a 15-minute formative assessment of your current level and a 15-minute consultation to discuss your needs and future plans.

I look forward to helping you achieve your language ambitions!