Sally

As a mother of two young adults, one still at university, I have gone through the ups and downs, highs and lows of schooling, exams and everything that seems to come our way as parents. This invaluable experience enables me to balance what is required for a tutee with the expectations and sometimes uncertainties from their parent(s) or guardians; Thereby offering not just the academic support but also the holistic support I often see is missing. I have taught for 30 years with considerable exam success in state, Private and grammar schools for years 5 - 13 and as a Faculty Head in a 6th form College. I have held senior positions where many students and several staff were under my leadership. I am passionate about teaching and constantly strive for perfection. In doing so, I keep up to date with best practice and changes to the curriculum. I make it a priority to familiarise myself with exam changes and how students need to tackle questions, which is often the key to success. As someone who has marked exam scripts for GCSE and 'A' level I am familiar with many specifications. I have considerable exam success with 11+, common entrance, Key stage 2 SATS, GCSE and 'A' level. Personally, I love sport, cooking and travel and as a family we combine both with our love for outdoor activities.

Tutoring Experience

I qualified as a Teacher from Exeter University in 1990 and for many years I have tutored children who have required extra help to maximise their potential at Key Stage 2 for years 5 & 6, GCSE or 'A'level or for success in passing entrance exams for senior schools.When last inspected by OFSTED where I was teaching I was given 'Outstanding' by the inspectors who assessed my teaching. I have a detailed understanding of GCSE, IGCSE and A' Level boards. I currently tutor GCSE: Maths, Biology, Chemistry.Year 5 & 6 students to support work at KS2, and 11 Plus entrance exam. I have developed many teaching methods which enable me to teach to a tutee's particular learning style. Exam technique is key to success as well as a solid understanding of the facts. As such, part of my tutoring role when I work with my tutees is to make sure they are secure and happy with exam techniques at what ever level that may be.

Tutoring Approach

I have a very adaptable and flexible approach depending on each student's circumstances but understand that this can change at any stage depending on what else is going on in a tutee's life. Consequently, each tutee is given time and one to one support specific to their requirements, learning style and character. Whilst setting high,realistic and achievable goals I also give detailed on going feed back and encouragement.I do not believe, 'one style fits all' and as such my approach is very much a mixture of what is required as an end goal coupled with how best to get a child to that 'finishing line'. In so many cases, confidence is a critical factor that stands in the way of success and it is an issue I target from day one. My lessons do not just stop after the time is up and I pride myself on being available to support and answer questions from my tutees and their parents when it is not lesson time. I provide a significant amount of material for each lesson and on occasion may ask a parent to purchase a specific book. However, 95% of the time all material is provided by me.
I offer the opportunity to meet and discuss any requirements prior to starting any tutoring at no cost. This enable parent(s), guardians and the tutee to feel confident that it will be a smooth and happy transition into tutoring.