Laura

Hi! My name is Laura and I am 43 years old. I am originally from Birmingham but now I live by the sea in Worthing with my partner and our daughter. I am an intelligent, creative person with an English Language and Literature BA from Oxford University.

Aside from writing, I love reading books, photography and watching films. I also like working with people, which is one of the (many) reasons why I enjoy tutoring. I have worked with KS3 pupils (Years 7-9), worked with students interested in applying to university, helped Year 10 and 11 pupils through their English Language and Literature GCSE syllabus, worked with A level students, and helped BA and MA students with their essays and dissertations. I have been a private tutor for around 15 years now, and enjoy it hugely. I have an up-to-date DBS check and am available immediately.

Tutoring Experience

September - November 2024
Teaching assistant - SEN support
Durrington High School

2020-2022
Online tutor for the National Tutoring Programme (a government catch up scheme for students most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic)

2010 - 2011
GCSE English tutor at Durrington High School

Employed through the Aim Higher scheme, I worked with targeted Year 11 pupils in order to help them secure a C grade in their AQA English language GCSE.

2007 - present day
Private tutor

I have been a private tutor for 15 years now, helping students (ranging from Year 7 to university level) with all aspects of their English Literature and Language courses - including in-depth analysis of texts, improving coursework, exam preparation and revision skills. I have in-depth knowledge of the AQA English Language and Literature courses at GCSE, and AQA, EdExcel and WJEC Edexcel A level English Language and Literature courses.

January – December 2005
Academic Coach

Employed by the ACES (‘Academic Coaches Ensuring Success’) Project and Sandwell LEA, I was part of a team providing additional support and learning opportunities for Key Stage 4 (15-16 year old) pupils at risk of underachieving at GCSE level.

The role involved working closely with targeted students on a one-to-one or small group basis, developing and delivering innovative study sessions designed to overcome barriers to learning and assist underachievers in fulfilling their potential. My specific academic focus was within the English Language and Literature GCSE syllabus.

February – August 2004
Project Officer for Oxford Colleges Admissions Office

Employed by Oxford University, I took on a six-month post as Project Officer for the Oxford-Dudley Partnership Project, a scheme which aimed to work with the Year 9 Gifted and Talented cohort of all schools in Dudley LEA in order to raise aspirations.

I also organized and ran a programme of ‘Aspiration Days’ for Year 8-11 pupils from schools across the country, aimed at encouraging applications from students from state school and/or underprivileged backgrounds, as well as speaking with Year 12 students interested in applying to university, providing specific information and advice regarding applications.

September 2002 – June 2003
Learning Mentor

As part of the National Mentoring Pilot Project (NMPP), I was a mentor to four Year 8 pupils, providing support and encouragement in an environment removed from the classroom. This took place in weekly one-hour sessions with the individual student for an entire academic year, charting their progress in terms of behaviour, confidence and attitude.

Tutoring Approach

I am friendly, patient and passionate about my subject. I am sensitive to the needs of others and strive to tailor sessions to suit the needs of the tutee. I am relaxed and enthusiastic when tutoring and aim to build confidence as well as increase knowledge and understanding.