Alison

Degree and doctorate in Biochemistry from the University of Oxford, with over 17 years experience teaching GCSE and A level science as a secondary school classroom teacher and private tutor. Personalised learning and deep understanding of the marking criteria helps my pupils achieve their best.
I have over 35 years experience in Science and for a large part of this time have been involved in Science education and training of some form. My background in Science is broad having worked in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology. My work at one point took me to Germany for 14 months giving me the opportunity to learn German. When not teaching I am a keen musician. I play violin in a local orchestra (Trinity Camerata) and am a member of the orchestra committee. As part of this role I help organize 3 concerts a year. I also play piano and guitar. I enjoy a variety of styles of music from classical to rock and jazz improvisation. I am married with two children.

Tutoring Experience

I have a Post Graduate Certificate in Education and have over 17 years' experience in teaching Secondary School Science (Physics, Chemistry and Biology at Key Stage 3 (ages 11-14) and GCSE level, as well as teaching Chemistry and Biology at AS and A2 level). I am used to teaching all attainment levels and teaching students with special educational needs as well as students for whom English is not their first language (I have experience at teaching English as a foreign language). In addition to teaching in Secondary School I have also tutored at Oxford University (Medical, Biochemistry and Chemistry undergraduate students) and run training programs in Industry. Outside of science I teach music (piano and violin and up to ABRSM Grade 8 and I coach for the ABRSM Grade 5 Theory exam).

Tutoring Approach

My goal as a Science teacher is that students should enjoy the subject. An important aspect of my teaching is tailoring it to the need of the individual since learning is an individual experience. Being successful in Science (and being able to enjoy it as a subject) is about understanding and then applying that knowledge successfully and with confidence to problems. In my approach to teaching I provide alternative explanations where needed and give students lots of opportunity to answer questions (written and verbal) providing support where needed. From the very start GCSE and A level students will be exposed to exam questions so they quickly gain confidence. Another key area is helping exam students develop strategies for revision that will make best use of their time and will focus on getting the maximum return for their efforts. Understanding what an examiner is looking for (including having a thorough knowledge of the specification for a particular exam board) is another important part of this. I am also experienced at helping students deal with stress and anxiety.