Toby

I'm a digital producer and postgraduate teaching assistant with more than 15 years experience working with HTML, CSS & JS, and a background in full-stack development and technical support. I have also worked with Java, PHP, VBA & SQL. A regular part of my day-to-day work involves training and tutoring colleagues or students to code – something that I particularly enjoy doing!
However, my spare time is filled with music – playing and writing songs with my wife; transcribing and composing; and serving as part of the music and tech teams at my local church. I have spent many years organising, performing, directing and conducting both small and large ensembles, including brass bands, jazz/big bands, orchestras, pit orchestras, chamber groups, marching bands... and even busking!
I can play a number of instruments, but my main talent lies with the piano, trumpet and bass.
I studied both music and computing at degree level, and received an A in music technology at A-level. I also hold a grade 8 in trumpet and grade 5 in music theory.

Tutoring Experience

My experience isn't just in the subjects themselves. I am employed by my local university to teach and tutor students – both individually and as part of a group – each week as part of the Digital Media Technology BSc course.
I also teach and train adults on a regular basis as part of my role as Digital Producer, and I have taught a number of younger students up to GCSE level in music, maths and English.

Tutoring Approach

I seek to create a comfortable environment for my students, and encourage them to always ask questions and be curious about their subject.
In my first lesson with a student, I aim to work out where they are at in terms of their knowledge and understanding, as well as any areas they are finding particularly tricky. I am happy to provide tutoring that compliments a school curriculum, where appropriate, and to offer coaching on exam technique or to work through past papers as required.
I find that individuals learn best and remember most when they are enabled to solve problems themselves. I therefore work to give students the tools they need to succeed and to guide them through various tasks – building confidence, 'muscle memory', and proficiency.