Jonathan

I hold a B.A. (Hons) from the University of Nottingham in English, and an M.Phil in Modern and Contemporary Literature from the University of Cambridge. Currently, I am a P.hD student at the University of Cambridge, specialising in the work of Samuel Beckett. In addition, I have a wide knowledge of the history of English literature spanning 1500 - present day. I especially welcome any students interested in literary modernism, whether this is for an A-Level NEA project, or at undergraduate university level, while I'm also keen to take on students interested in any aspect of English literary history. I also have a wide knowledge of theatre studies, ranging from ancient Greek drama to modern theatre, and therefore any drama students are welcome. I also have a qualification in EFL, so non-native speakers can be confident in approaching me as a private tutor.

Tutoring Experience

I have taught in a number of sixth form lessons, delivering lessons on the poetry of Owen Sheers and animal studies in literature, as well as aiding in close reading and critical approaches in lessons on dystopian fiction. Moreover, I am familiar with the A-level English syllabus, and welcome students looking to write their NEAs on modernist literature.

Tutoring Approach

My approach to tutoring is to adapt to the requirements of the individual, and hence differs from student to student. In my one-to-one sessions, I therefore work with my students to develop an individual, structured course of study, working with their syllabus to tailor the sessions to individual needs. This shall include discussing primary texts in close detail, tutoring on the historical context of texts, and working on essay, exam, and study skills. As I am keen for my students to develop a wide knowledge of English literature, the course of study will take into account the student's individual interests and extra-curricular reading, and we shall work on integrating this reading into their GCSE, A-level, or university work. I shall further work to improve any aspects of English skills that students require, and the course shall prepare them for their assessments. My sessions will be structured around a dialogue between the student and I, working together to discuss areas in which they are struggling, interested, or developing, and we shall work together to examine the key texts for their course. I can also work directly with the student on their essay and writing skills, if work is sent in advance of tutoring sessions, as there shall not be time to read and give feedback on work in the session.