Robbie

I am currently a student at Durham University. I first studied Natural Sciences (Maths & Physics) and am now studying Philosophy. I started tutoring four years ago and have taught students both online and in person, between the ages of 7 and 28. My subjects include Maths, Physics, Biology, Chemistry English as a Foreign Language and Philosophy. I play guitar and am generally a big music head, with a huge song collection.

Tutoring Approach

Students often get stuck because they `know` they are bad at a subject and/or are scared of failure. To help them overcome this, I work by the principle that mistakes are helpful, not shameful. Mistakes show us where we have misunderstood, so that we can fix the root problem. Eventually, students build enough confidence to sit in that uncomfortable space of not-knowing and calmly push through to the answer. My goal is to turn difficult subjects into puzzles students are excited to solve.

For the Sciences (Maths, Physics, Biology & Chemistry), my methods range from working through past papers to building lessons around specific areas of concern. The key is to be flexible and creative, and I love adapting lessons to suit my students. I also provide guidance on the best exam and revision techniques.

For Philosophy I can help with a range of areas, from essay writing to understanding core ideas. The most common issues in students’ essays relate to clarity, structure, understanding and originality. I give guidance on these areas by working through current essays and providing a flexible framework for future assignments. I also offer ‘marking time’ sessions. In these, the tutor works through an essay independently, making suggestions for improvements which can be discussed in a tutorial. This is especially useful for coursework and dissertations.

I consistently achieve first class results for my Philosophy work, and at A-Level I received A*s in Maths, Physics and Chemistry, and an A in Biology. I hope to work in academia and teach Philosophy at university level.

Availability: I am currently available on weekdays and the weekend during regular working hours.

Willing to travel: 15 miles

Experience: My first student was really struggling with her nine times tables, so I taught her a trick that made it easier and fun. When I returned the next week, she had continued by herself to over 4,000! This is the kind of teaching I love: giving students the tools they need to build their confidence and address their particular difficulties. When we first met, this student was shy and “knew” she was terrible at maths. Her mother later contacted me, saying that she is now “excelling in her maths and even won an award! Her teacher said it is all down to you, your sessions really boosted her confidence, so thank you!”

From other students I have received 5 star reviews, one saying "Excellent approach and communication with this tutor. Very friendly and down-to-earth person. I would recommend him to everyone."

I also taught varied topics, including English as a Foreign Language and Ecology, to Peruvian children during a 4 month volunteer placement.