Tom

I am deeply passionate about helping students to achieve the very best they are capable of and celebrating every success on the path we walk together. I strive to make sure my pupils really understand what they are learning rather than simply training them to "reproduce facts" as it is this deep grasping of the subject that pulls pupils through to higher academic success. Having had many years teaching experience both abroad and in the UK I have gained valuable experience in how different students learn, and the paramount importance of building confidence and self belief alongside academic skills.

Tutoring Experience

Summary: I have a very wide range of experience including all three sciences at KS4 and KS5, Maths at KS4 and KS5 and more recently intensive Special Educational and Mental Health intervention and support in students aged 14 - 19.

Specific Experience:
Key Stage 3: All 3 sciences across all ability ranges, Maths across all ability ranges
Key Stage 4: Combined Science Foundation and Higher, Separate Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) Foundation and Higher. Marking GCSE papers for different examination boards.
Key Stage 5: Mathematics A Level (Edexcel Specification), Physics AS Level, Biology A Level, BTEC Applied Science levels 2 and 3.
Special Education and Mental Health: experience working with and supporting the growth and success of students experiencing challenges and barriers to academic success due to autism, ADHD (combined, hyperactive and inattentive) , PANDAs, Severe Mental Health concerns, Mild to Moderate Mental Health Concerns, mild to moderate Anxiety, Downs Syndrome, Body Dysmorphia, Developmental Coordination Disorder and other various physical and mental disorders. I was responsible for the writing and managing of Individual Educational Plans, managing the support offered by Educational Assistants and training and coaching teachers to better support these students and make necessary adaptations.

I can also provide coaching (personal statement advice, interview practice, applying for work experience) for applicants to Medical School having a history in this area prior to teaching.

Tutoring Approach

I am very flexible in my approach to tutoring as it will vary based on the needs of each individual pupil. I am very keen that pupils fully understand a topic rather than simply be able to answer set questions blindly so I will use as many different resources and mediums as necessary to help them learn. Having taught thousands of pupils over many years I have come to learn that building the pupil's confidence and belief in themselves is just as important as learning content and forms an equal part of my approach to tutoring. I also believe parents/carers can have a huge positive impact on the pupils learning and I would be keen to discuss the pupil's progress and ideas going forward with them.
I am very personable and both liked and respected by my students. I am often told by pupils that I "actually make science lessons fun!" What they perhaps have not yet realised is that Science IS fun, I simply make it accessible.

When working with students with Special Education and Mental Health needs I believe it is essential to work alongside parents and carers in order to facilitate the success that these learners are truly capable of, and encourage regular contact regarding this.

I always try to meet with the learner and where applicable their parents/carers prior to starting tutoring to ensure I can provide what the student needs and this usually takes around half an hour, for which I do not charge.