Isobel W

I believe it's important to listen to the student's experience when initially establishing the appropriate strategy and intervention. Through this I am able to work out precisely what and where the student has been struggling, or how they would like more help. Talking this through also gives me an idea of how the student learns and processes information most effectively. I like to develop short and long term goals with the student that they feel are achievable but also push them to their full potential. I think positive encouragement is extremely motivating, and I like to see myself as an indispensable resource for a school learner rather than another teacher. The teacher materials that I use cover one specific topic, but often in the context of exams and exam practice.

I graduated with a 2:1 in Physiological Science at the University of Bristol, and during my studies I started tutoring GCSE Maths. In the four years since then I have gained a lot of experience in teaching this subject. I have found that one of the issues school aged children face most commonly is confidence and through my work I aim to tackle this. Using various techniques, exercises and methods of explanation I build and reinstill self esteem and confidence. This encourages pupils to use the knowledge they are now satisfied they have and understand higher and more complex concepts that they previously found difficult. I assist this “unlocking” process by providing the tools and skills for tutees to succeed and achieve even beyond their own expectations. This approach to tutoring increases capability in weaker areas with existing aptitude, and this new found confidence and competence can be applied to other subjects by the student too, outside of tutoring context. Additionally, students will feel much more prepared for higher levels of learning as they go through school and beyond with a skill set and confidence to succeed.

The general structure of my tutoring follows the curriculum, and I use the exam board specification as a constant guide throughout the school year. At the end of each tutorial I develop a topic and theme for the upcoming week with the pupil which assists with organisation and preparation for both parties. I use a lot of exam practice resources and an assessment diary to keep track of lesson objectives, goals and academic achievements.

I have tutored AQA, Edexcel and IGCSE and feel very confident in tutoring others.

I have worked with students who have gone from a 4 to an 8.