Amanda

An Oxford University graduate, I tutor English Language and Literature at all levels. 
Teaching the subject I have always loved is a vocation. Unlike some tutors, I do not have additional employment or commitments - I am happy to be 100% dedicated to my students, 24/7/365!

I teach pupils from age 7 (though I can take younger pupils to non-native adult speakers who are keen to perfect their English). Lessons are personally prepared for each pupil, often using material I have personally produced, and any homework assigned is carefully selected to boost progress and nurture self-esteem in the subject.

I would advise tuition to start at least two years before grammar school exams and at least one year before other entrance exams. For GCSE and A level, I would advise tuition as early as possible in the course. English cannot be "crammed" at the last minute. Good preparation, well in advance, is the key to good grades and yes, it`s essential to prepare and revise for English language exams! 

Whilst I am happy to teach those who just require a general improvement in their work, I focus on training my students to get the best exam results they are capable of. I tailor teaching to each individual student’s needs but usually concentrate on exam strategy and technique. I focus on quality, not quantity in any homework I assign. I do not normally offer an assessment in the first lesson as one hour is not long enough to fully cover all areas of the syllabus. 

I am not a dyslexia specialist, but I have taught many dyslexic students, including my own child. I do not teach English as a Foreign Language. 

I have enjoyed an extraordinary success rate with my pupils, including numerous scholarships at 11+ (up to 20% off the school fees). I also assist with scholarships in subjects such as art and drama. My pupils have achieved scholarships at Surbiton, St Teresa’s, and Notre Dame, and offers of a place at Lady Eleanor Holles, Surbiton High, Guildford High, St Teresa’s, Sir William Perkins, St John’s, Reeds, and Claremont Fan Court.

All students who have failed their GCSEs prior to my tutoring have passed following their sessions with me. GCSE, A level and IB pupils have achieved a 100% pass rate, and all exceeded their predicted grades. Students have a 100% successful first choice university entrance rate, often at Russell Group Universities and some have gained places at Oxford. 

I offer advice on suitable senior schools, universities, and careers for pupils, as I have numerous contacts in graduate recruitment. I will work with a family for many years, seeing their child progress from 11+ to postgraduate or career. I support my pupils and their parents offering advice and acting as a pastoral and academic coach and mentor.

Availability: Available at all times.

Willing to travel: Home Only

Experience: MY EDUCATION AND WORK AS A JOURNALIST, CREATIVE WRITER, AND WRITING COMPETITION JUDGE
I attended The Lady Eleanor Holles School, as have my daughters, before gaining an MA from Oxford University. Before having a family, I was a journalist and so have decades of experience of writing and editing articles for national newspapers and magazines, as well as appearing on radio and television. This rare background for a tutor gives me a unique ability to teach non-fiction writing skills, presentation, and editing of coursework. In my free time, I study creative writing - I am currently writing middle-grade fiction. I am also a judge for the BBC`s 500 words creative writing competition. My constant personal learning experience gives me an additional unique approach to teaching. 


SCHOOL INTERVIEWS

With my background in journalism - working in print, on radio, and on television  - as both an interviewer and interviewee, I have wider experience than most tutors. I teach interview techniques in terms of deportment, manners, and attitude, as well as questions and answers. 

PERSONAL STATEMENTS for UK and US universities and Oxbridge entry
I guide pupils through the process for their Personal Statement for university entry in any subject. All my personal statement pupils have achieved places at Russell Group universities.

OXBRIDGE
I specialise in Oxbridge preparation and entrance, including mock interview sessions with detailed feedback. 

MOCK EXAMS
I offer mock exams, marking, and feedback at all levels. 

DBS CHECKS
I am enhanced DBS checked.

DISCOUNTS
I never offer free first lessons or discounts except for a £10 discount per lesson for A levels/IB taught during school hours ie before 4 pm Monday - Friday. 

GROUP LESSONS
I offer group lessons at a reduced per person rate - please contact me for more details. 

CANCELLATION
During the pandemic, I will not be charging for lessons cancelled in advance. Normally full charges are made unless I receive 24 hours` notice for the cancellation of a  (48 hours` from 1 April - 15 June).