Lara

My name is Lara and I am a tutor from Maidenhead, England.

Qualifications

B.A. Art History
B.A. French Literature
M.Res. in Assyriology
Current PhD student at the University of Oxford
Subjects I Teach

French and English
I offer lessons for all levels, whether you're starting from scratch or looking to refine your skills in English or French. My teaching covers grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and spelling, with a focus on fluency and accuracy. Over the past two years, I have successfully helped students improve their speaking and writing skills, enabling them to communicate concisely and effectively.
For GCSE and A-Level students, I specialise in:
- Exam preparation, including essay and literature analysis
- Understanding and identifying language devices
- Developing clear and persuasive writing styles
I take a communicative approach to language teaching, ensuring that my students feel confident using the language in real-world scenarios.

Geography
For geography students, I focus on building exam success through:
- Exam question analysis and review of examiners' reports
- Identifying areas of weakness using past papers
- Topic revision and creation of effective revision materials
I have taught all geography modules, but I particularly enjoy coasts and earth hazards. My sessions are tailored to each student's needs, ensuring they feel fully prepared and confident.

Ancient World
As a current PhD student at the University of Oxford with a focus on Assyriology, I am uniquely positioned to teach topics related to the ancient world. My expertise includes:
- Ancient Mesopotamian history, art, and culture
- Cylinder seal iconography and ancient artefact analysis
- Interdisciplinary approaches combining history, archaeology, and digital humanities
For students interested in the ancient world, I offer lessons that explore key historical themes and provide a deeper understanding of ancient civilisations. I also support students working on essays or research projects in this area, helping them refine their arguments and analysis.

Art History
Drawing on my academic background, I help students engage critically with art and visual culture. My lessons include:
- Analysis of artistic styles and techniques across periods
- Essay writing and argument development
- Preparing for exams and coursework

Physical Education
As a former swimming instructor and sports coach, I also provide support for physical education students, focusing on:
- Exam preparation and understanding key theories
- Creating revision plans tailored to PE syllabuses

Oxford Preparation
I offer tailored sessions to help students prepare for:
- Admissions Tests: Guidance on test preparation for subjects like English, History, Classics, and more, focusing on strategies to tackle challenging questions.
- Interviews: Mock interviews with constructive feedback to help students build confidence and improve their ability to think critically under pressure.
- Application Strategy: Insights into crafting a strong application that highlights your academic achievements and extracurricular interests.
I aim to demystify the Oxford admissions process and provide my students with the tools and confidence they need to succeed.

CVs, Cover Letters, and Personal Statements
Whether you're applying for university, internships, or jobs, I can help you create professional, polished application materials that stand out.

CVs and Cover Letters:
- Structuring and formatting your CV for clarity and impact.
- Tailoring cover letters to specific positions, highlighting your skills and experiences effectively.

Personal Statements:
- Developing a compelling narrative that showcases your passion and suitability for the course or role.
- Editing and proofreading to ensure your writing is clear, concise, and free of errors.
- Tailored advice for specific university requirements, including Oxbridge statements.

With years of academic and professional experience, I know what admissions officers and employers look for in applications. My goal is to help you present your unique strengths and achievements in the best possible light.

Tutoring Experience

Lecturer | University of Oxford
Planned and taught undergraduate lessons focusing on Assyriology and Egyptology.

Teaching Assistant | University of Iowa & University of Birmingham
Facilitated class discussions, prepared lesson plans, and supported students in Classics and Ancient History courses.

Online Tutoring | Remote
Delivered interactive, goal-oriented lessons using screen sharing and personalised lesson plans.

Swimming Instructor | Iowa & Birmingham
Taught children and adults of all levels, developing detailed lesson plans and fostering a supportive environment.

Tutoring Approach

I see tutoring as an opportunity to build on the cornerstones of learning, helping students achieve their goals in a way that’s engaging and enjoyable. Each session is tailored to individual needs, starting with an assessment to set clear joint aims and targets.

I break goals into manageable mini-targets so students, parents, and I can track progress over time. While exam preparation and past papers are essential, I also focus on general principles such as essay structure and argumentation, which apply across subjects.

Whether you're looking for help with academic subjects, exam preparation, or a passion project, I’d be delighted to work with you. Feel free to contact me to schedule a lesson—I hope to hear from you soon!