Simon

Since my English degree at Cambridge University, I`ve spent ten years tutoring privately and through top London agencies, gaining 1000s of hours of teaching experience. I enjoy teaching all ages, including GCSE, A-level, and entrance exams (including 7+, 11+, 13+, pre-tests). I`ve also taught and marked coursework for an independent London college and taught in a London drama school.

“Thank you so much for helping my son out of the tunnel of despair – A*s galore and a very relieved boy in the house.”
– Mrs J., Parent, North London

“I want to say again: thanks so much for being such a wonderful mentor (as you are known to my kids) and tutor to the boys. You really did have a special impact on them and they have said they hope they’ll see you again soon!”
– Dr O., Parent, West London

“Simon is an exceptional tutor and has a long-standing relationship with a number of our clients.”
– Mr C., Tutoring Agency Director, East London

I regularly help students achieve outcomes significantly higher than those predicted by their schools: for example, after a year working with a dyspraxic girl who had been predicted a C for her AS-level English, she achieved the then maximum grade of an A in her externally-assessed exam. In another case, I was approached by the mother of a boy who was on a scholarship at a top London private school, but who had lost his love of English (and was ready to choose all science/maths A-levels). She asked me to help restore her son`s passion for the subject. After a few months working together, the student achieved top grades for GCSE English and decided to switch to English A-level. A few years later, he was studying English at one of the most prestigious universities in the country... and along the way, I helped him an exceptional A-level grade - including full marks in his coursework.

I am a big believer in what Dr Carol Dweck calls `growth mindset`: with consistent effort and good coaching, improvement is always possible.

Availability: My schedule for this term is nearly full, but I have space for one/two more students.

Willing to travel: 1 miles

Experience: In my ten years of private tutoring experience, I`ve helped students gain entry to elite competitive schools (e.g. Highgate, St Paul`s, UCS, Habs, Henrietta Barnett, Merchant Taylors`) and universities (including Oxbridge).

I taught and marked A-level coursework for an independent London college, and I enjoy guiding students to maximise their achievement in their coursework / dissertations. I was very proud of a recent student who, after regular tuition with me, achieved full marks for his A-level English coursework.

I have extensive experience working with students for whom English is a second/additional language, and who are studying in (or wish to study in) English-speaking schools.

I work regularly with students who have specific learning differences e.g. dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADD/ADHD. As a dyspraxic learner myself, I`m able to offer an understanding, patient and resourceful approach.

I have many years of experience tutoring online; I find that, for many students, online tuition can be even more effective than face-to-face lessons.

I offer tuition in:
• English - primary, pre-tests, entrance exams (7+, 11+, 13+ etc), secondary, GCSE, A-level, degree
• Oxbridge entry / Oxbridge interview coaching
• Exam technique
• Essay-writing (including coursework, dissertations etc)
• Revision skills
• Creative writing
• Shakespeare (all levels)

In addition to my English degree from Cambridge, I hold a BA Acting from Guildhall School of Music & Drama. I work as a professional actor on stage and screen. I have taught in a London drama school, and I have helped students successfully gain places at other drama schools in the UK and USA. I therefore, where time permits, offer tuition in:
• Acting
• Drama (to degree level)
• Drama School entry / audition coaching
• Public speaking skills (all ages)

“I admire the way you teach, it is so inspirational and different and slowly I am liking English again. By the way, I want to say a massive thank you for helping me achieve my first band 5 [top band] from school for my most recent essay. I can see my money`s worth and am very happy with your service.”
– Miss S., Self-funded Student, South London

“I am delighted to provide a reference for Simon. We have been extremely pleased with Simon as a tutor. He makes lessons engaging and fun whilst ensuring the syllabus is fully covered. When exam-stress and nerves made an appearance, Simon was a very calming and positive influence. Our son has a learning difficulty and Simon showed great skill in adapting his teaching methods to suit. My son really enjoyed studying with Simon and has nothing but praise for him. 10 out of 10.”
– Mrs M., Parent, North London