Robert

I studied Mathematics at Cambridge University. I then spent a 37 year career as a systems consultant and project manager in supply chain management, working both in the UK and further afield. During my career I was able to apply maths concepts and principles in the business worlds of sales, marketing, logistics and finance. I was involved with preparing and delivering a variety of technical and business process training courses. I especially enjoyed mentoring junior colleagues. I am a member of the British Computer Society, and have Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.

Tutoring Experience

Over the years I have carried out informal maths tutoring for family and friends. During my career I developed and used a number of techniques for analysing, clarifying and presenting information, and I was often told by colleagues that I was good at this. Now I have more time to spend on formal tutoring, and can use my varied experiences in a teaching context. I am currently helping a number of tutees with the new GCSE 9-1 syllabus, at both Foundation and Higher levels. I am also helping several adults improve their maths skills to enhance their career progression.

Tutoring Approach

Maths can sometimes be seen as a rather dry and abstract subject. I think the key to successful learning is to apply concepts to the 'real world', whether that be business (think of sales forecasting and financial balance sheets, for example!), sport (think of sports statistics, for example!), or nature (think of patterns in trees and flowers, for example!). So, I like to develop and work through practical questions which are relevant to a student's interests. This can be a useful, and hopefully engaging, complement to 'past papers' and 'revision books'.