Martine

I have an MA in Classical Civilisation; a subject which covers over one thousand years of history and spans several civilisations. In addition, I have a first class degree in literature and creative writing.
As a Classicist I specialise in two main areas; Ancient Greece (5th Century BC Athens) and Julio-Claudian Rome (27BC to 68AD).
Ancient Greece: I am well versed in the politics and society of 5th Century BC Athens including; the birth of modern medicine, philosophical thought and the teachings of Socrates and women's studies. I have an in depth knowledge and understanding of ancient Greek Drama and the writings of all the tragic playwrights and have taught these up to A level standard, though can comfortably teach this to BA level. In addition I am familiar with Homer's Odyssey and have taught this to AS level.
Ancient Rome: My main areas of focus revolve around the death of the Republic and the formation of Imperial Rome under Augustus Caesar and the subsequent Julio-Claudian emperors (Tiberius,, Caligula, Claudius and Nero). I have extensive knowledge of all elements of Roman society during this time including politics, society, religion, women studies and literature. In particular I have great appreciation of the poets Ovid, Horace and Virgil and have taught Virgil's Aeneid to A level.
In addition I am an experienced and accomplished essay writer and have helped students improve the quality of their written work, both for coursework and exam purposes - a skill that is vital across all humanities subjects and I am happy to teach this for other subjects outside of Classical Civilisation.

Tutoring Experience

I have a adult education teaching qualification and have taught A level Classical Civilisation at the Bath Academy as well as tutoring at AS level for Homeric society and the Odyssey. In addition I have taught modern history and English literature/language to both A level and GCSE students as a personal tutor.

I have helped many students prepare for exams, both by working on expanding their subject knowledge and by teaching effective exam techniques, and am pleased to say that on average, my student's improve by one to two grades after working with me. I have also helped both GCSE and A level students improve their essay writing skills across a range of humanities subjects.

Tutoring Approach

My aim as a tutor is to encourage independent learning and creative thinking in a nurturing and supportive environment. At it's core this involves working with students to improve their knowledge of history or literature and, crucially, teaching skills on how to approach and succeed in exams. I have an extensive selection of past examination papers which are invaluable for demystifying the exam process and which give students the necessary experience and practice to succeed.

I am extremely passionate about history and believe this is the key to both good teaching and effective learning. My aim is to inspire students whilst imparting solid practical advice and creating an environment in which students feel free to ask questions and to grow.