Laurence

My name is Laurence. I attended the University of Oxford between 2010 and 2018, completing an Undergraduate Masters of Mathematics (MMath) and a Mathematical Doctorate (DPhil, PhD).

I started teaching in 2015 and I have significant experience tutoring the UK mathematics syllabus. I offer bespoke 1-1 mathematics tuition, tailored to your child’s needs, and focusing on where they wish to improve. With over 1000 hours tutoring mathematics online, I am highly experienced at providing online tuition. I use a virtual whiteboard and graphics tablet, providing a seamless and interactive experience, as you would with face to face tuition.

I believe mathematics opens doors to children, not just in terms of opportunities, but also in terms of how they think. Mathematics teaches us about how to approach problems logically and systematically, a highly transferable skill to many other subjects, as well as everyday life. Throughout my time in academia, I specialised into applied mathematics, and studied fields such as quantum theory and special relativity, which fundamentally changed the way I look at the world around me. For me, I’ve found mathematics to be a gift that has helped me navigate the world and appreciate its beauty on a deeper level. This has made me want to share that gift with others through teaching.

I pride myself on meeting your children where they are and working at the pace they need. Given my academic background I can push someone who wants to be pushed, but can also offer a patient, empathetic and nurturing approach based on what your child needs. In addition to my academic background I am also qualified in social work, with 4+ years of specialist experience working with children who have experienced trauma. Due to this, I am also skilled in working with children with complex SEND needs or neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism and ADHD. I hold an enhanced DBS check, I am fully trained in safeguarding, and I am committed to ensuring the welfare of your child.

Throughout my time working with vulnerable children, I have learnt how to support a wide range of young people with empathy and care. This, together with my deep knowledge of mathematics, I can help your child reach their goals. Whether they want to be pushed to explore their fullest potential, or want to regain their confidence and enjoyment with mathematics, I am here to help.

I would love to discuss how I could best help your child.

Tutoring Experience

I started teaching mathematics in 2015, tutoring at several Oxford independent schools and within the university. Since then I have built up experience with many private students and transitioned to primarily online tuition, as I found this a highly effective and engaging experience. I teach students of any age - including adult learners, however I primarily cover secondary school Mathematics. I specialise in GCSE/IGCSE and A-Level Mathematics, including Further Mathematics A-Level. Additionally, having attended The University of Oxford myself, I am well placed to prepare students for Oxbridge, and their associated entrance papers.

Over the years I have taught a wide range of students, with a wide range of needs. It is my sincere wish to tailor my tutoring to the needs of each of my students. I have taught many students who wish to achieve the highest grades, and aim for the most coveted university places. Equally, I have taught many who have found themselves struggling greatly in school, or feel they are not achieving their potential. It brings me great joy to see a student meet their goals, and to see them gain confidence in ways they previously thought unattainable.

The core of my teaching philosophy is to demystify mathematics - to explain, wherever possible, why something works. I have found many students taught to rote learn, rather than to understand. This not only hinders their progress when faced with more challenging material, but also removes the satisfaction of solving the puzzle. It is my belief that a major reason why so many have bad experiences learning mathematics is that they have not been provided with the tools, or mindset, to do so. This is what I aim to provide for my students, as well as a fun and engaging atmosphere.

Tutoring Approach

In my Undergraduate Masters Mathematics course at The University of Oxford, I specialised in Applied Mathematics - studying topics such as quantum theory, quantum computing, special relativity, fluid/solid mechanics, and biomathematics. I completed my DPhil (PhD) in the field of Applied Mathematics. I researched and developed mathematical models of the human eye, simulating the distribution and interaction of injected drugs. Over the 4 years of my research I published three papers in well-respected academic journals, and presented my research at academic conferences.

I have a deep understanding of not only mathematics, but also how mathematics is used to describe the world around us. I find ways to bring in examples from science into lessons, and to explore why mathematics is relevant to our understanding of the universe in an engaging way. Where relevant, I also like to discuss more esoteric mathematics topics, such as theoretical physics, to share the exciting insights mathematics has opened mankind's eyes to. I strongly believe that mathematics should be something that should be taught in a stimulating and enjoyable way, and my academic background helps me provide this.

I specialise in the UK mathematics syllabus, up to university level, however I would be fully capable of providing mathematics tuition outside of these exam boards. I have experience in tutoring a wide range of mathematical or logical topics, such as NVR or Open University courses. If it’s mathematics, it’s likely I can assist, so please get in touch to consult.