Chris

I, Chris Lowe, am an experienced Modern Foreign Languages teacher and Head of Department who has worked in the state and private sectors. I completed my degree (BA [Hons] French) in 2007 at the University of Exeter and then stayed on for my teacher training (PGCE) and most recently have completed an MA in Educational Leadership at the UCL Institute of Education in London. As a Head of Department and teacher, I have been engaged with a range of whole school initiatives focused on effective teaching and learning strategies.

In addition to my work as a teacher and subject leader, I am an experienced A Level French examiner for AQA and GCSE French and Spanish Examiner for AQA and Edexcel respectively. I feel that this has enhanced my ability to break down exams, mark schemes and other information for the benefit of my students. Most recently, I have worked with two different universities providing teacher training. This has been both Modern Foreign Languages specific, as well as for a range of other subjects including English, Maths and Science.

I am passionate about Foreign Languages and their associated cultures and this enthusiasm is evident through my teaching style and the links that I make about between language and culture. I aim to use a range of techniques and skills to help students understand the construction of a foreign language and how to use it in a range of situations. Also, I aim to blend grammar and topic teaching so that there is a practical purpose to everything being studied. In addition to tutoring for GCSE and A level examinations, I am very passionate about helping adults to (re-)engage with language learning and am offering some small group courses in addition to private tuition.

Tutoring Experience

I have taught in both the state and private sectors. In the private sector I was Head of French for 5 years and taught Spanish as well. In addition to my role as a school teacher and subject leader, I have been involved with and continue to be involved with PGCE training for Modern Languages and a range of other subjects. As well as classroom teaching in schools and some lecturing and tutoring at university level for trainee teachers, I have helped a range of private tutees in languages and other subjects and have helped them to achieve their personal and examination goals. I am currently Head of Languages in a grammar school and from September 2024 I will be a member of the school's senior leadership team.

Tutoring Approach

Chris is a professional, friendly and engaging tutor able cater for pupils with a range of abilities.
Chris is a qualified and experienced teacher, Head of Department and teacher trainer.
Chris is an experienced A Level examiner for AQA and GCSE examiner for Edxecel (Pearson).
There is a consultation with the student so that all tuition is carefully linked to the school curriculum/exam board requirements.
Chris caters for students of all ages, from those wishing to boost examination outcomes to those looking to brush up on their languages ahead of a holiday.
There will be a careful consultation about the aims for the individual student (or group) so that the programme of tuition is bespoke.
The material covered will relate to the appropriate exam board specification and students will have the chance to consolidate on that which is secure as well as practice and develop the knowledge and skills to aim for excellent grades.
There will be careful analysis of strengths and weaknesses and selection of the correct tasks to help with progression.
Pupils will be supported and given tasks to develop their confidence with the subject matter.
Chris has an up-to-date DBS certificate.