Peter

I am a highly experienced, results-driven English teacher, specialising in 11+ entrance exams.

I was awarded a full scholarship at 11+ to Merchant Taylors' School, Northwood. I achieved A Levels in English (Grade A, which was the highest grade available then - there was no A* grade), Ancient Greek and Latin. I also gained 9 GCE O Levels (now GCSEs). After school, I studied English and Law at The University of London. I also qualified as a classical guitar teacher with the London College of Music (LCM). I teach English privately, and guitar at St John's School, Northwood and privately. Ever since I was young, English and music have been my favourite subjects. The balance this brings to my own studies and working life keeps me fresh in both subjects.

Tutoring Experience

I have been teaching for over 20 years. My focus is on working with Primary School age children, although I have worked with all ages.

In my role at St John's School I am continuously CRB/DBS checked. I also undertake comprehensive child safety courses at the school annually.

Tutoring Approach

Success at 11+ exams requires a combination of technical and imaginative skills. I teach students to approach studying English as an interesting, creative and fun activity.

As a result of my many years' experience teaching, I understand how younger students think and behave, what motivates them and what puts them off study. I have a natural ability to form successful working relationships with children and this is very important in order to achieve the best outcomes possible.

I teach all the skills required to achieve success. This includes: vocabulary, spelling, grammar, punctuation, comprehension, creative writing skills and verbal reasoning. I begin with an assessment of the student's current skills. I then use a range of books to target the areas needing improvement.

We will focus on specimen and past papers which target the specific skills tested by the schools your child is applying to.

Good exam technique, including time management skills, is as important as having the required English skills. As we progress, I ensure each student has the skills needed to express their English skills in the ways the examiners are looking for.

I gain immense satisfaction from my work, and am completely committed to delivering the highest standards of teaching.

Here are some suggestions for your child's development:

• read often and widely to develop numerous linguistic skills.

• write down unknown words when reading, then look them up later. This is a highly effective way of increasing vocabulary.

• learn 2 new words each day, or 10-15 each week. Practise putting them into sentences

• practise evocative descriptions. 11+ requires students to be able to write descriptively and creatively.

• learn technical words such as: noun, adverb, conjunction etc.

• write at least one creative story each week, taking around 25-30 minutes. Pay attention to punctuation and grammar. Read the story back to make sure it makes sense all the way through.