Philippa

Since graduating from Oxford University in 2011 with a degree in Economics and Management, I have worked full time as a private tutor, both in the UK and internationally. My degree required a high level of maths. I took A-Levels in Maths, Economics, Geography and Critical Thinking, and received an A in all of these. I attended Kendrick Grammar School from the age of 11 to 18. This involved an entrance exam with both non-verbal and verbal reasoning papers. I have a good understanding of what is needed to achieve the top marks in maths, economics and business related subjects as well as what is needed to be successful in entrance exams.

I have also completed a post graduate degree in Global Development Challenges (University of Edinburgh, with distinction).

I have now been working as a tutor for four years and love my job. I enjoy building up a relationship with the families and students I work with and seeing a transformation in their confidence and their skills. Families I work with often joke that I have the patience of a saint!

I also work in a secondary school for 2 days a week teaching A-Level Economics and Maths.

Tutoring Experience

Since graduating, I have completed thousands of hours of tutoring in all my subjects. My students really enjoy my lessons and have been very successful. All of my 11+ students were successful this year, including Blue Coat, Kendrick, Reading Boys and The Abbey. All of my economics and maths students see a huge improvement, with the majority going on to achieve top grades (A/A*). My students often tell me that I have a way of explaining complicated things that 'just seems to make sense'.

I have spent 7 months homeschooling three children in the Bahamas and have worked with children of all ages in a wide range of roles. For 5 years I worked at my local dry ski slope as a ski instructor. This involved teaching anyone over the age of 4, and making lessons fun and relevant for them. I have learned to adapt my teaching style and to think of creative and innovative ways to teach new things. I also work with young people with special needs, which requires a great deal of patience and imagination.

I have also spent a great deal of time working with children with a variety of special needs including dyslexia and ADHD. I have had great success, particularly those with dyslexia. I aim to find imaginative and enjoyable ways to help the child and to build their self confidence in the subject.

Tutoring Approach

I have spent five years teaching in Berkshire and have an excellent reputation there. My profile in Berkshire has over 15 reviews averaging 4.9. I have recently moved to London and I am looking to build a base here.

I am friendly, patient and imaginative when it comes to teaching. I will keep finding different ways of explaining something until the person I am teaching really understands. I believe that students are much more likely to learn when they have a positive relationship with their teacher and when they are having fun.