Helen

I have been teaching English in both further Education colleges ( HNC level) and Secondary Schools for over 20 years. I have been tutoring privately for 15 years with excellent results. In this time, my knowledge and understanding of the curriculum has grown greatly.I have a particular interest in Scottish Literature ,returning to the University of Glasgow to study the subject for an additional year. I produce my own resources to support learning by use of both frames and models. My initial knowledge in this area was gained by undertaking PGCE in Support for Learning.I encourage pupils learning by use of clear and appropriate language. I have an excellent rapport with pupils which I feel is essential to promote confidence and learning.I often tutor pupils who did not gain the desired results on first sitting but with focused learning , together with tried and tested teaching strategies, the pupils achieved excellent results.

Tutoring Experience

20+ years of teaching experience.
Extensive experience in teaching the Scottish Curriculum from S1 to Advanced Higher.
Experience of teaching in FE colleges from Communications 3/4 to HNC level.
15 years of tutoring experience at all levels.

Tutoring Approach

Pupil and tutor harmony:
I know the importance of an excellent rapport between pupil and tutor: It is essential that the pupil feels comfortable in their learning process at all times. This promotes both confidence and progress.
Meaningful feedback:
Meaningful feedback is essential between tutor and pupil. Feedback is received by the student both verbally and in written form, continuously. The feedback also includes monthly parental reports in order to inform the parents/ carers of progression or areas of difficulty at all stages.I have found it an essential part of progression to make clear to the student which steps should be take in order to promote to progress.
Knowledge and understanding:
Pupils greatly benefit from having the ability to demonstrate profound knowledge and understanding in all areas of study before progressing forward, however, pupils should never feel they are being pressured:All pupils learn at a different pace and excel in certain areas of the curriculum more than others but this does not mean that the learner will not be strongly encouraged to challenge themselves.
Progression:
Areas of study already undertaken is incorporated into new learning which consolidates knowledge and shows overall progression .
The basic tools:
It is essential for pupils to be given a solid grounding in all literary techniques and language skills which will be used throughout the course. These skills will be given in handouts which fully explain each skill and show examples of skills in use. This allows the student to refer to the worksheets consistently as reference guides. This process promotes learning and establishes solid grounding and intuitive understanding.
Confidence in learning:
It is essential the pupil should be feel both supported and comfortable to communicate with ease whenever they do not understand any aspect of the work. This allows for further explanation and homework in the specific area if required.
It is vital that the pupil is made to feel confident by genuine encouragement at all times.
Complements the curriculum:
I have found it essential that the contents of the private tuition always complement the pupil’s school learning. This allows for consolidated learning and gives the student a clear direction in order to meet their learning goals.