Maria

Hello! I’m a qualified Russian language teacher, and I love teaching Russian using a variety of methods to suit the needs of every age and level of knowledge. I hold a BA in English Language and Literature and a PhD in Linguistics from Moscow State University as well as a Certificate in Teaching Russian as a Foreign Language (also MSU). I believe that learning a language is one of the most rewarding experiences, as it opens up doors to new cultures, perspectives, and even ways of thinking. I am a creative writer at heart, and I often weave my love for storytelling into my teaching, helping students engage with language in unique ways.

In addition to my love for languages, I love music (I play the piano), and enjoy exploring new countries, discovering different cultures. I can teach Russian at both GCSE and A-level, as well as beyond, helping students not just pass exams but develop a deeper appreciation and fluency in the language.

Tutoring Experience

I've been teaching since 1993. I first started as a 1st year university student helping young people and adults learn English - be it the school curriculum, preparation for school and university exams or business needs. I also worked as a private tutor for business purposes teaching Russian as a foreign language. Despite my first degree being a teacher of English, I fell in love with teaching my own language to speakers of other languages. Fast forward twenty odd years, and, having completed a course on teaching Russian as a foreign language at the Moscow State, I was teaching Russian to some amazing Russian-language enthusiasts in the UK and also ran evening classes at my local 6th form college: I had a great bunch of students and enjoyed it immensely. I also started teaching at a local Russian weekend school around the same time - a completely different age group, much younger, but it was fabulous to teach them! I then attended online training on how to teach GCSE and A level as I wanted to teach young people in the UK and help them pass these exams. I also prepared my own child who got a 9 in GCSE!
I also ran language days at schools in Brighton and London as well as translation workshops across several festivals and schools in the UK as part of 'Translators in Schools' programme by Stephen Spender Trust.

Tutoring Approach

I believe that everyone has their own unique way of learning, and as a teacher, it’s my job to discover that key to unlock each student's potential. No two students are the same, and that’s why I take a highly individualised approach to teaching. I like to get to know each learner - their interests, their passions, and their goals - so that I can tailor lessons to their specific needs. Whether a student is a visual learner, prefers hands-on activities, or enjoys learning through conversation (or another way), I adapt my lessons to ensure they are both effective and enjoyable.

I focus on making language learning practical and relevant to each student's life, all while fostering a positive and encouraging environment. My goal is to not only help students excel academically but also to ignite a passion for the language that will stay with them for life.