Matthew

I have spent my entire 30 year career teaching maths in secondary schools. 18 of these were as Head of Maths. As a result I have a wealth of understanding of how children develop an understanding and confidence in maths. I understand the many misconceptions and the reasons that students find some concepts difficult to understand. I have developed a wide range of resources to help in breaking down all topics. Most of all, I have a genuine interest in helping young people to break down the barriers that may exist. I am also determined to make maths fun, because in my career as a Head of Maths in so many schools, I have seen too many lessons that aren't fun, and it really doesn't have to be that way.

Tutoring Experience

I have 30 years of maths teaching and tutoring experience. 18 years of those were as Head of Maths departments in London (both independent and state schools), Hong Kong (head of maths at ESF Island School) and the UAE (head of maths at GEMs world Academy, Dubai). Throughout my career I have been a private tutor as well as classroom teaching, and I have extensive experience of online tutoring.

Tutoring Approach

My approach is 100% student centered. Every child is different, and they all have their own individual experiences in the learning of maths. I work quickly to diagnose the issues, then I use a patient and empathetic approach to helping them to get the Eureka moment. The "aha!" "I get it now", is music to a maths teacher/ tutors ears.
I use a wide range of resources, including digital and non-digital. But the key is getting the pace right. Doing lots and lots of practice of the same question type is dull and counterproductive. I aim to keep the challenge at just the right place to keep students feeling confident yet suitably challenged.