Patrick

I am Head of English at a prestigious Independent school (senior school; 11-18 year olds) in the UK, and the author of two published books of poetry and meditations. I have also lived and worked abroad, so have a working knowledge of Korean, a firm grasp of French, and am able to empathise with those for whom English is not their first language (if you happen to be a Korean parent with limited English, I can communicate with you).

Tutoring Experience

I have extensive experience as an educator, starting in 1999 (teaching assistant in America), then ESL abroad, gaining QTS in 2008, working in a high-flying grammar school in Kent, becoming an IB Assistant Examiner in 2010 and since 2014 Head of English, first at an elite international school, then in 2018 at my current school.

My school-based experience has filtered into my private tutoring, in which I have tutored the whole gamut of secondary school age groups for over 10 years, and very much enjoy that one-to-one contact time which has led to greatly increased confidence, love of literature and impressive exam results.

I have particular expertise in:

• IB Literature and Language & Literature
• A-Level Literature and Language & Literature (OCR, Edexcel)
• UCAS personal statements
• IGCSE Eng Lang, Eng Lit (Edexcel, CIE)
• GCSE Eng Lang, Eng Lit (AQA, Eduqas)
• Year 8 & 9 preparation for GCSE

Tutoring Approach

Regardless of the age of ability level, I will typically use great or 'classic' literature as the vehicle through which creative writing, comprehension, grammatical and vocabulary tasks are inspiringly driven.

My core educational philosophy is:

1) maximum exposure to great writing
2) a personalised response to it
3) constant dialogue and Socratic Q&A
4) getting the tutee to 'take the wheel'

With older students the focus will also be intensively on close reading (analysis) and exam technique, including the construction of P.E.E.L. paragraphs which are vital for success. However, that ongoing investment in 'great' literature is what I believe will make the difference between mediocrity and excellence.

I see the first lesson as more of a general interview and testing of the waters. I have enjoyed an excellent rapport with tutees over the years, but I want to ensure that our first encounter is as open and free as possible; no strings attached!