Rebecca

Following completion of my A-levels, I started my undergraduate degree in Cell & Molecular in 1995, graduating with a BSc. (Hons) in 1998. I then went on to successfully complete a Masters Degree (MSc.) degree (Cell & Molecular biology) followed by a PhD (Cancer biology). I have been working in the university research and education system since 2001 in cancer biology and autoimmunity/arthritis research fields. I strongly believe that A-level biology provided a fundamental base of knowledge that engaged my interest in this field and subsequent career path. I always wanted to find other channels in which to convey my passion for biology which led to my decision to become a private tutor. I work with my students to help improve their understanding of the subject, build confidence, breakdown complexity and simplify content, and encourage positive approaches to exams and exam technique.

Tutoring Experience

GCSE & AS/A2-level Biology - private tutor
Laboratory training & practical skills
Laboratory work experience
Problem-based learning for medical students

Tutoring Approach

What has become apparent throughout my experience is that academic success and a student’s confidence can be influenced by many factors, from the classroom teaching approach to an individual’s ability to self-motivate and learn independently. The recent change in syllabus and paper structure to a more unified/applied approach to knowledge testing has come with new challenges for students, including an increased mathematics content, which for some students creates an extra level of anxiety.

I aim to help students become confident, independent learners by working with them to develop a customised approach to learning subject content, organisation, cognition and retention. I provide concise subject notes for all modules and work on a topic-by-topic basis incorporating appropriate topic-related test questions each lesson to engage interest and expose students immediately to past papers and question structure. I work flexibly with my students to identify and focus on topics they struggle with, providing any supplementary information/questions that will aide their understanding. In addition, with the increased mathematics content of the new syllabus, and following feedback from past and present students, I am now incorporating a solid ‘Maths Skills in Biology’ module in my teaching content which seems to be lacking from current structure.
I am happy to accommodate a student’s needs, whether that is on an ad-hoc basis or a long-term commitment to provide support throughout the entire GCSE or AS/A2-level process. By building a solid relationship with a tutor, a student gets tailored tutoring in subject matter and for their particular learning situation. I work to build a relationship of trust with my students to ensure they feel comfortable and build confidence. As well as home visits, I can offer online lessons via Zoom or Skype, which allows flexibility when needed.