David

Passionate about all things mathematical & computational. I love puzzles and real world problems. I love teaching others about all subjects, and in particular maths & computer science.

I have 30 years industrial experience working for an investment bank writing advanced mathematical models for derivative pricing and implementing those models in languages such as C/C++ and Python. I now work at home as a software engineer for the BioTech industry, where I fulfil several roles including project & line management and hands-on development. Over the years I have led small teams and have been a mentor to numerous new joiners.

BA Ancient Greek (major) & Computer Science (minor), Pass, Queen's University Belfast
BSc Mathematics, 1st Class, Open University
MSc Financial Mathematics, Christ Church College, Oxford

Tutoring Experience

Mainly home tutoring for Maths & Computing. I have helped young students and mature students through their learning pathway. I am passionate about teaching others. Most real world maths problems break down into simple arithmetical problems - rarely is calculus needed! When Calculus is required, I can make this accessible so anyone can understand it. I can teach GCSE Mathematics, 'A' Level Mathematics and 'A' Level Further Mathematics, GCSE and 'A' Level Computer Science. With enough warning I would also be prepared to teach pre-University maths on subjects such as Complex Analysis, Probability & Financial Mathematics.

Tutoring Approach

Always work with the student, listening carefully to their needs and tailoring the style and materials to their specific abilities. Will structure an individual work-plan around the student to help them get the best of their studies. For best results a course of tutoring over the entire academic period is recommended. Getting a balance between "plug and chug" type maths and understanding core concepts is something that is important. As exams approach, the "plug and chug" methods will be more important as the student works through past exam papers. In the earlier stages understanding where maths comes from, how it is notated and how to think in mathematical ways and apply it to real world problems will be more the focus. I will consider exam-only preparation, but teaching a child over a two year period from the start of their GCSE/A-levels, right up to the exam is the best way to guarantee success and overall confidence with the subject. Students must agree to do the set homework and be ready to start when I arrive. I will prefer self-motivated students over others.