Stuart

I am a specialist in academic improvement, with over 13 years’ teaching and tutoring experience in both state and private sectors, including five years full-time tutoring. Many of my students improve by 2–4 grades at GCSE and 2 grades at A-level, gaining entrance to leading universities (including medicine at Cambridge and History at Durham) and selective schools (such as Lancaster Royal Grammar and Urmston Grammar).

Educated at Oxford and Durham, I am a Chartered Linguist and a Member of the Chartered College of Teaching. I also work as an examiner for AQA and Pearson Edexcel, giving me insight into how students can achieve the best results.

My tutoring is focused, usually short-term (3–6 months), and designed to deliver substantial improvement. This is often more fruitful and sustainable than semi-permanent tutoring which, unfortunately, can become unfocused. It is also often easier for the tutee to engage for a shorter period with a target in clear view. It also means the overall cost is similar or less to the traditional year's tutoring.

I adapt lessons to suit individual needs, including supporting students with dyslexia, ADHD and mild autism. I provide monthly feedback to parents and combine a highly academic approach with an understanding of confidence, motivation and personal obstacles.

I offer tuition in English, maths, modern and classical languages, and entrance exams, both online and in-person (evenings Mon–Thu and weekends).

Practicalities

1. Lessons contracted through my company (with full public liability and professional indemnity insurance)

2. First lesson discounted (to offset First Tutors’ introductory fee)

3. Payment monthly by bank transfer or cheque

4. 24-hour cancellation policy

5. No free/taster lessons

Usually Year 5 upwards (not primary below Year 5).

Tutoring Experience

My approach to tutoring is enjoyable, based upon my own deep enjoyment and knowledge of my subjects. This is a dialogue with the tutee. I have a patient and very pleasant manner which is nonetheless focussed and I am determined to do the best for any tutee of mine.

My approach does focus on examinations and how candidates can improve their performance in view of their knowledge, skills and personal characteristics. I provide monthly written feedback linked to expected outcomes to parents. At present, I offer both online and in-person tutoring. Please note that in-person tutoring is usually available in the evening on Monday to Thursday and on the weekend. These can be either for individuals or small groups (group rate negotiable).

Tutoring Approach

My approach to tutoring is enjoyable, based upon my own deep enjoyment and knowledge of my subjects. This is a dialogue with the tutee. I have a patient and very pleasant manner which is nonetheless focussed and I am determined to do the best for any tutee of mine.

My approach does focus on examinations and how candidates can improve their performance in view of their knowledge, skills and personal characteristics. I provide monthly written feedback linked to expected outcomes to parents.

At present, I offer both online and in-person tutoring. Please note that in-person tutoring is usually available in the evening on Monday to Thursday and on the weekend. These can be either for individuals or small groups (group rate negotiable).

I do not currently offer homeschooling nor do I work in schools or tutoring centres.