Ruth

I am a mature tutor, experienced in group, one-to-one and online tutoring. I want to help students find those gaps in learning, to help them understand mathematics, and help them find joy in English. I started with Horticulture and English at first, then I was asked to train for Mathematics and I found I really love it. I keep myself updated on the GCSE curriculum, learning school ways of tackling a maths problem and I’ve also created resources for other tutors on TES.

Tutoring Experience

I have taught in many establishments from schools, colleges and tutoring centres. In 2010, I started private tutoring one-to-one in my local area with students after school, daytime tutoring children in care and those out of the school system. I really branched into online tutoring in 2021 after I left my school position and I have really enjoyed the varied work and mix of students from young to adult learners.

I have taught students abroad, students locally, those in different parts of the UK, using Zoom, Skype and Google Meet. Online tutoring has given parents more opportunity to find tutors.

I work for a tutoring academy one day a week, within a school setting and we tutor English and Maths from KS3 to KS4. I find going back into the classroom rewarding.

Tutoring Approach

My first lesson is usually an informal assessment, asking about what a student feels they need to work on, followed by some maths or English work to assess their skills and level. From this, I can formulate a learning plan to work towards for that student. I am always open to teacher input, parental input and discussions with the student - if they feel they want to look at a topic.

If the student has already had assessments, or has booked a few lessons to look at a particular topic; or revise for an upcoming test or exam: we can look at this and work together on this during lessons. My aim is to provide the service a student requires, rather than give set coursework.

Homework can be given if it is needed, I don’t push it if it's not wanted. I give verbal and some written feedback if needed, to the student (and parent if requested). If the lesson is a safe space, where they feel comfortable and are able to ask questions, work on problems and make mistakes that can be worked on: they will learn and develop confidence.