I believe it is essential to get to know the tutee as quickly as possible to ensure my sessions can be focussed, interesting and that they promote a positive learning environment. I challenge my tutees to think for themselves and become independent learners and I have a growth mindset philosophy to learning- it is ok to make mistakes, through which we will learn more, and through effort and practice, we can be successful. I cater my sessions towards the needs of the individual and assess improvement and learning on an ongoing basis, changing my sessions where appropriate.
My Experience
I have taught Languages since I passed my PGCE in 1996 in two comprehensive secondary schools in England; one in Staines (Magna Carta School) and one in Wimbledon (Ricards Lodge High School) and in one International all-through British school in Panama. I have taught students throughout KS3 and 4 German and Spanish (inc GCSE), as well as PSHE/Citizenship and Study skills. At KS5, I have taught the Spanish and German AQA A level. My students’ results have always been to a high standard achieving their target grades. For the last 8 years of my teaching career in the UK, I was a Head of Year, focussing on the pastoral care of 240 students; a role I enjoyed immensely as I was able to develop relationships with my students and their families. Whilst in Panama, I was Director of Studies and Senior Leader, developing the Teaching and learning within the school. During this time, I worked closely with the Primary team, developing my understanding of the Primary Curriculum and taught in a variety of year groups and a variety of subjects.
Subjects That I Teach
English
English - 11+
German
German - 11+
Spanish
Spanish - 11+
Study Skills
Study Skills - 11+
My Qualifications
I completed my secondary education in Poltair Comprehensive School in Cornwall and then studied A level French, German and C20th History at St. Austell VI Form. I have a BA (Hons) degree in Applied Language Studies from Thames Valley University and a PGCE in MFL Secondary teaching from Kingston University. Whilst working in London, I achieved Chartered London Teachers Status and passed the Threshold for teachers. I have recently taken a TEFL certified course to teach EAL students both in the classroom and online. Over the years I have completed a multitude of training courses from SEN, G&T, Behaviour, Coaching, Middle Leadership Management, child protection and safeguarding.
My Video Introduction
Fun fact
My most recent personal challenge was to sit on the edge of Devil’s Pool on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, overlooking the waterfall edge. I am scared of heights!
