Christopher

I’m 59 years old, living on an organic farm in Tibberton, near Droitwich. I have a BA (Hons) in English and American Literature from University of Kent, and a PGCE in English and History from University of Exeter. One of six children, I quickly learned the importance of being articulate in order for my voice to be heard!

I love the Worcestershire countryside, especially the views across the Teme valley, and enjoy cycling along the beautiful country lanes in this part of the world. I still play cricket and, as well as being a member of a book club, I also belong to the Worcester Writers’ Circle- the oldest continuously-running group in the UK.

Tutoring Experience

20 years as a classroom teacher in six schools- comprehensive, selective, private, co-educational and single-sex; 17 years as a private tutor; 9 years as a GCSE examiner for AQA and Cambridge IGCSE.

Most recent results:
A Level 60% B-A*
GCSE. 70% 7-9 (Language)
GCSE. 61% 7-9 (Literature)#/k#

Tutoring Approach

Robin Williams says in ‘Dead Poets’ Society’: ‘we read and write poetry because we are members of the human race’- language and literature are the essence of our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. Self-expression through language is a central part of our identity as individuals, and the more skilled we are, the more we can develop as human beings; this is why I love teaching English

I try to find out what makes a student ‘tick’, what their interests and passions are. By building this rapport, I can then explain things in a way they can more easily relate to, making the subject more relevant and engaging. I also use different resources including, music, art/images, videos etc as stimulation for creative tasks, or to encourage creative interpretation of literature texts.

As much as possible, I use this student-centred approach to help each individual identify what they can do well, and try and build from there. Everyone has different strengths and abilities, but it is vital that your son or daughter can find their voice and use the skills of reading and writing to express themselves authentically; therein lies one of the keys to fulfilment.