Andrew

Based in West London, I have an MA in English from the University of Cambridge, St John's College. I am patient, fun, and empathetic. As a result, I get on really well with my students, and have seen particular improvements in my students with dyslexia and SEN.

My specialisms are in GCSE and Secondary English, and all aspects of the 8+, 11+ and 13+ exams. I can prepare both ISEB and CEM tests and pre-tests, in Maths, Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning, and English. I have also supported Adult Learners wishing to improve their English, or as a proof-reader and mentor for CVs, applications and writing projects.

I will only take on a handful of students, in order to ensure that I can give each student the individual attention they need to excel.

GCSE Grades: 9 A* and 5 A
A Level: A*AAA

Tutoring Experience

I have been teaching for almost a decade. After years at King’s College in Wimbledon and an weekend tuition centre, I am now fully independent and able to offer daytime and after-school tuition from home. I am an experienced home-school tutor, securing high grades for my students.

Recent successes include:
2022
Lydia (IGCSE) - Level 9 Literature, and Level 7 in Language (up from Level 6)
Sophie (home-schooled GCSE) - Level 9 in Language and Level 8 in Literature
Scarlett - secure a place through 13+ examination at Ripon School
Anae and Juliette - secured places as Streatham and Clapham through ISEB 11+
Aava - secured a place at three consortium schools through ISEB 11+
Henry - secured an offer from Merchant Taylor’s school through GL assessment

2021
Phoenix (GCSE) - Level 9 in Literature and Language (up from Level 6)
James (home-schooled) - Level 7 in English Language
Daniel - offers from St Paul’s and King’s College Wimbledon through 8+ exam

Previous:
Theo (A Level) - A in Literature (up from B)
Zinedine (GCSE) - Level 8 in Literature and Language (up from Level 5)
Aroosa (GCSE) - Level 8 in Literature and Language (up from Level 5)
Khushal (GCSE) - Level 9 in Literature (up from Level 6)
Joseph (A Level) - A* in Literature (up from B)
Niamh (GCSE) - Level 9 in Literature (up from Level 6)

Tutoring Approach

No student is the same! Everyone learns in different ways, with different interests and skills. It is impossible for a teacher to provide individual attention to a class of 25+ students in just one hour at school. I believe it is important to get to know my students personally; that way I can teach in a way that makes sense to them, and the sessions are much more fun! One-to-one teaching can be intimidating, so I always begin by establishing a relaxed and friendly environment. Younger students may find lessons feature magic tricks, puppets and games to keep the lesson lively.

I’m able to support students who are struggling with their work to achieve top-tier grades, or simply to top up the grades of high-achievers who keep falling short of those top bands. This covers the exam preparation, coursework, and homework.

It's also important to start by identifying any problem areas, and resolving them. Fixing the big problems first provides a sturdy foundation for further education, making it easier to understand and remember everything later on. This is often neglected in a school environment, and I believe it is the cause of low grades or even apathy in the crucial exam years.

I had a chronic fear of Maths as an adolescent, but thanks to patient one-to-one help, I excelled and achieved three A* grades in Maths, Additional Maths and Statistics. I know the power of a good tutor!

It's also useful for students to have a sounding board or fresh set of eyes for coursework, dissertations and revision notes; I have a keen eye and a sharp mind, and am adept at discussing and provoking textual and theoretical exploration in sessions. I am meticulous when it comes to spelling and grammar - so I make a useful proof-reader!