Information About Rachel - Kinsealy-Drinan tutor

Personal Description:

Hi! I’m a newly qualified secondary school teacher with a degree in Science Education from the University of Limerick, where I graduated with a 2:1 after also achieving a Leaving Cert of 625 points. I specialise in Physics and Biology for Leaving Certificate, as well as Science and Maths at Junior Cycle.

During my teaching placements, I gained extensive classroom experience across a wide range of year groups. I successfully taught Junior Cycle Science, Senior Cycle Physics, and Senior Cycle Biology, achieving an A grade in my fourth-year placement. Alongside this, I have worked as a substitute teacher in both secondary and primary schools, and I also have experience supporting students with additional needs in the classroom and through one-to-one assistance.

My teaching style is patient, encouraging, and student-focused. I believe in breaking down difficult topics into simple steps, building confidence, and helping students reach their full potential. I also draw on my strong background in STEM education, having been involved in STEM clubs and exam preparation support at school level.

If you are looking for grinds in Junior Cycle Science/Maths or Leaving Cert Physics/Biology, I can provide clear explanations, exam-focused guidance, and personalised lessons to suit your learning style.

Tutoring Experience:

School Placement (University of Limerick – Science Education Programme). Successfully completed multiple teaching placements across both Junior Cycle and Leaving Certificate levels.

Taught Junior Cycle Science. Taught Leaving Certificate Physics and Leaving Certificate Biology.

Achieved an A grade in my final-year teaching placement, demonstrating strong classroom management, subject knowledge, and reflective practice.

Substitute Teacher- Provided cover in both primary and secondary schools, adapting quickly to different subjects, class groups, and learning needs. Planned and delivered engaging lessons under short notice, maintaining high standards of learning and classroom discipline.

Special Needs Assistant (SNA) and Bus Escort- Worked closely with students with additional educational needs, including those in the autism unit.

STEM and HPAT Clubs- Co-organised and supported STEM club activities, promoting curiosity and problem-solving skills outside the classroom.

Assisted in preparing senior students for HPAT through lunchtime support sessions.

Approach to Grinds:

I tailor each grind to the individual student’s needs, whether that’s building confidence with the basics, pushing for top marks, or bridging gaps in understanding. I start by identifying areas of strength and difficulty, then create a clear, structured plan to support progress.

My sessions are interactive and student-centred. I break down complex topics into simple, manageable steps and use real exam questions to reinforce learning. I also provide tips for study skills, revision strategies, and exam technique to help students maximise their results.

I place a strong emphasis on encouragement and positive reinforcement, creating a comfortable environment where students feel confident to ask questions and make mistakes as part of the learning process.

By combining my classroom experience with one-to-one support, I help students not only improve their grades but also develop long-term skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and independent study.