Tamara

I have a degree in Ecology and Conservation (BSc Hon), which I acquired in South Africa. I have lived in the UK for almost 18 years. I have about 13 years experience working in formal education, in both primary and secondary sectors. My specialist subject is Geography. I also have extensive experience teaching and supporting students with Biology English and Maths (from KS1 to GCSE); and A-Level Geography and Biology. Furthermore, I have experience preparing students for a range of exams (11+; 13+ SATS and GCSE). I have experience teaching, mentoring and supporting students with various barriers to learning, including dyslexia, autism, hearing impaired, epilepsy and mental health issues.

In my role as a Cover Supervisor in a Secondary school, a position I held for almost 8 years, I was frequently asked to cover lessons in the above mentioned subjects, sometimes, including long-term cover. I worked regularly with students that need additional support to improve their grades in the Sciences and Maths (Years 7-11). In addition, I supported the head of Geography with revision sessions for GCSE (Year 10 & 11) students. During my time here I have developed skills in exam preparation and study methods.

Prior to this I worked as a Learning Support Assistant for 5 years in a primary school. During this time I gained important insight into the Primary Curriculum, especially English and Maths. I supported students with specific learning needs as well as students that were just lagging behind in specific topics. This meant that I developed a range of skills to help students with reading, comprehension, writing and numeracy.

I have worked as a tutor - 10+ years. I have supported students (in Years 1 to 11) academic progress and competence - in Geography, Maths, Sciences and English - through:
- securing foundation and core knowledge of key concepts/processes/theories
- extending/challenging proficiency of key learning points
- skill development (subject-specific, literacy, numeracy and exam)
As a tutor I have also helped students prepare for a range exams, viz.:
11+ and 13+ entrance exams (English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, NV Reasoning)
KS 2 and 3 SATS (English, Maths, Science)
GCSEs and IGCSEs (Geography, Maths, English and Biology)
A-levels (Geography and Biology)
Consequently, I am familiar with various exam board specifications and schemes of assessment (e.g. AQA, Edexcel, Eduqas, CCEA).

I develop personalised learning plans based on student`s level of ability and purpose of tutoring. I tailor sessions to meet the needs of the individual student and will often plan for several sessions at a time. I do expect students to do homework, however, this will never be more than a total of 2 hours/week (spread over 5 days). Please note: this is largely dependent on the reason for tutoring and the subject, and will take into consideration extra-curricular activities, current HW needs and other commitments. I also work with students to develop a time table, aimed at facilitating effective progress and assists in ensuring that a balance (between work and relaxation) is maintained, while developing organisational skills and a responsibility for their learning.

I believe my varied experience; broad subject range knowledge; and ability to build caring relationships with my students gives me a great advantage as a tutor and ensures a positive learning experience.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Availability: I have weekday sessions and some weekend sessions available. However, available slots are beginning to fill up so please do get in touch at your earliest convenience.

Willing to travel: 10 miles

Experience: - July 2009 to August 2014: Learning Support Assistant in a primary school for 5 years: Years 1 to 6 - 1:1 and small group support, in lesson and out, for students with specific learning challenges, viz. dyslexia; epilepsy; and autism, and other barriers to learning (e.g. social, emotional and/or mental health)
- September 2014: Learning Support Assistant in a Secondary School - about 1 month, current school (when 1st employed) - 1: 1 support in class for students with
- October 2014 to December 2022: Cover Supervisor in Secondary School - currently in same position, 7th Year: whole class teaching, mostly in Geography, Maths, Science and English (KS3 and 4 - Years 7 to 11); 1:1 and small group support in Maths and Science (Years 9 - 11); mentoring (Year 10 and 11)
- September 2012 to present: Tutor (Privately and through agency) - 9+ Years: securing/developing knowledge; exam prep; exam skills for a range of age groups (Phonics, SATs, 11+, 13+, GCSEs, IGCSEs, A-level) and a variety of exam boards (AQA, Eduqas, Edexcel, CCEA, OCR)

DBS Check: Yes