Tony

Hi, my name is Tony and I am a father of three (nearly) grown up children. I grew up near Bath Somerset, studied in Birmingham, Chester and London and worked in and around London for most of my adult life except for 3 years in Brazil where my wife worked as a diplomat for the Foreign Office..

Tutoring Experience

I am a history graduate, a trained lawyer and a UK PGCE qualified teacher since 1997. I have at various times, taught students from age 10 all the way up to 18 although the principal focus in the past decade has been UK IGCSE's and A levels, most recently at a top West London independent girls’ school. I have been a head of department and have been a regular public examination marker. I am extremely adaptable, and my general knowledge is very good. That said, a good teacher will know when they need to know more so no subject is off limits - if you want to know it, I want to teach it. During my career I have tutored and taught small groups when asked doing this alongside my classroom role.

Tutoring Approach

A typical lesson might have me introduce the topic which is nearly always accompanied by finding out what you, the student already know; people learn better when they are able to pin new knowledge onto old. We will then discuss the topic in greater depth. Once established we might look at where the learning fits in a wider context and what questions or issues arise. For example, if relating to an exam syllabus we will look at the types of questions that are typically asked and what methods might be used to answer effectively. There might be a task set that can be carried out after the lesson as well as resources and links to resources that allow the student to deepen their learning in their own time and at their own speed. The next session would begin with any feedback on tasks carried out by the learner.

My job is to work with you to establish what you want, to pitch my teaching at the right level, break down any barriers to learning and ensure progress.