Chris W

My Passion & How I Inspire

I think of tutoring like a conversation (the fancy educationalist word is ā€˜dialogic), and that exchange starts before we meet. After speaking with the family I ask for writing samples before our first session so I can perform a diagnostic exercise and assess strengths, weaknesses and potential objectives. Each session is then structured around developing close reading and analytical skills as well as reviewing written work; sessions always combine something analytical and some kind of writing task, be that free writing, planning, drafting etc. Iā€™m always available outside of sessions to proofread work, which then scaffolds the next meeting as it gives us a platform to build on. I aim to deliver a bespoke programme designed make students more confident thinkers and writers.

My Experience

Iā€™ve been tutoring English Literature, English Language and academic writing for over eleven years. In that time Iā€™ve covered a variety of educational levels ranging from 11+ and 13+ entrance exams through to GCSE, A-Level, undergraduate and post-graduate students. Iā€™ve also mentored students writing dissertations, and Iā€™ve guided tutees through university applications. Iā€™ve helped clients successfully apply ā€“ and thrive ā€“ at schools such as Eton, St Paulā€™s Girls School and City of London; Iā€™ve also home schooled several students, predominantly for A-Level. Iā€™m familiar with all major exam boards for GCSE and A-Level, including Cambridge IGCSE first language English.

Subjects That I Teach

  • PAT
  • Dissertation
  • Dissertation - A-Level
  • Dissertation - 11+
  • English
  • English - A-Level
  • English - 11+
  • Essay Writing
  • Essay Writing - A-Level
  • Essay Writing - 11+
  • Mentoring
  • Mentoring - A-Level
  • Mentoring - 11+

My Qualifications

PhD in American Literature, University of Wales Swansea, 2000-2004

BA Hons in American Studies, University of Wales Swansea, 1995-1999

MSc in Digital Education, University of Edinburgh, 2014-present

My Video Introduction

Fun fact

I love a pair of good cowboy boots!