Ben

I'm an energetic, enthusiastic individual who loves teaching and learning. I love all subjects and endeavour to improve my understanding, e.g. I am semi-fluent in Italian; I can write programs to a professional standard in five languages; I am a qualified Sports Massage Therapist. I am a keen sea kayaker, a former international swimmer (backstroke, freestyle and IM) and used to love playing rugby well into my 40s. I'm from a former mining village in Dinefwr, on the slopes of the Black Mountain, called Brynaman ("Y Gwter Fawr"). I love heavy metal and rock festivals, but don't tell anybody!

Tutoring Experience

Thirty years teaching and tutoring. Former Head of Chemistry and Head of Sixth Form. I have taught in Welsh-medium and English-medium schools in the RCT and Cardiff local authorities. In addition to the sciences and mathematics, I have taught ICT, Welsh and English to GCSE; and Environmental Sciences to BTEC Level 3. I have professionally tutored many students over the last 10 years and have helped them achieve the results that reflect their ability. Some of them were disaffected, some were "disregarded" by their subject teachers, some were simply trying to edge a better grade for uni. All reasons are valid, there is no judgement.

Tutoring Approach

I'm an enthusiatic tutor, committed to meeting the individual's needs. Following an initial session, we work together to draw up an ambitious plan of action. Explanation, exploration and discussion are far more important than performance with past paper questions. Students should understand not regurgitate. Information is not knowledge. Private tuition is not a magic bullet. It takes commitment from the tutor, the student and their parents/guardians. If you're ready and willing, we can really make a difference.