Abigail D.

Hi, I’m Lester, a TEFL‑certified science teacher with experience in Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and GCSE/JC Science. I make learning clear and practical using real‑world examples, interactive discussions, and step‑by‑step problem solving to build confidence and curiosity. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Science Education (Biological Sciences) and hold a TEFL certification. My training built a strong foundation in science, teaching strategies, assessment, and classroom management, enabling me to create effective lessons for diverse learners.

Lower Level: Business Studies, English Literature GCSE: Business Studies, English Literature, English Language A-Level: Business Studies, English Literature Preferred exam board experience: AQA for both English and Business Studies, however, the Edexcel Business Studies course has a lot of crossover and therefore could teach this. Languages: German up to GCSE level. Preferred student age group: Primary Level and GCSE level however would be happy to teach up to A-Level for both subjects. From a young age I had a passion for teaching; setting up my dolls and teaching them about whatever I had learnt that day at school, now I have the opportunity to do that and see the results of what we have gone through. Throughout sixth form, alongside my A-Levels I would tutor the younger pupils and help them gain confidence and find enjoyment in learning. now at University, whilst I no longer have the opportunity to do this I now volunteer at the local hospital organising activity evenings for the patients there. Not only do I meet a variety of people here but it has also greatly improved my organisational skills and challenged my already creative brain to new lengths. When I get the chance to relax I do so by reading. I hope that I can incorporate my love for literature in my teaching to create memorable and long lasting connections through what I teach my students. I hope my passion for teaching can be seen through my lessons and will inspire those who I work with to achieve their personal and academic goals! Up until leaving school at 18 I attended The Priory Academy LSST. Here I completed my GCSEs, coming away with 12 GCSEs securing two 9s in English Literature and English Language. I decided to choose English Literature, Psychology and Business Studies as my A-Level options and completed the two years with an A* in Psychology, an A in English Literature and a B in Business Studies. Currently, I am in my first year at Durham University studying Psychology with an optional module in English Literature.

About Me: Relatable & Expert GCSE Maths Tutor with a Double Master’s Background Hello! My name is Daphne Zhang, and I am a dedicated educator here to help you conquer GCSE Mathematics. My academic foundation is built on two Master’s degrees from prestigious Russell Group universities: an MA in TESOL from the University of Sheffield and an MA in Education from the University of York. However, my most valuable asset as a tutor isn't just my degrees—it’s my empathy. To be honest, I wasn't always a "Maths genius" as a child. I personally experienced the frustration, confusion, and "Maths anxiety" that many students feel today. Because I had to work hard to overcome my own struggles with the subject, I truly understand the mental hurdles you might be facing. This personal journey, combined with years of professional teaching experience, allows me to teach GCSE Mathematics (AQA, Edexcel, and OCR) with a unique perspective. I specialize in turning that "I can't do this" attitude into "I understand this now." My TESOL background further helps me deconstruct complex mathematical terminology into simple, everyday language, making even the most intimidating word problems feel manageable. What we will achieve together: • Build Real Confidence: We create a safe space where no question is "silly." I’ve been in your shoes, so I know exactly how to rebuild your self-belief. • Step-by-Step Clarity: I break down Algebra, Geometry, and Statistics into logical chunks that actually make sense. • Exam Success: By mastering exam techniques and past papers, we will work toward jumping 2–3 grade boundaries. I am not just here to help you pass an exam; I am here to show you that with the right support, anyone can master Mathematics. Let’s start this journey together! My Educational Journey & Professional Foundation My academic and professional foundation in the UK began at the University of York, where I earned my first MA in Education. Studying at one of the UK’s leading centers for pedagogical research provided me with a deep understanding of learning psychology and curriculum design. It was during my time at York that I officially began my career in mathematics instruction. I worked extensively as a GCSE Mathematics tutor, delivering both online and face-to-face sessions to local students. This hands-on experience was very helpful and meaningfull; it allowed me to apply educational theories directly to the classroom, helping students navigate the complexities of the AQA and Edexcel syllabi while building their confidence from the ground up. Following my success at York, I moved on to the University of Sheffield to pursue a second MA in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). While this might seem like a shift in focus, it was actually a strategic move to enhance my math teaching. At Sheffield, I specialized in applied linguistics and communicative strategies. This advanced training gave me the unique ability to "decode" the language of mathematics. I realized that many students struggle with GCSE Maths not because of the numbers, but because of the complex wording of the questions. My expertise from Sheffield allows me to bridge this linguistic gap, making abstract mathematical concepts accessible and clear for every learner. By combining the pedagogical mastery from York with the linguistic precision from Sheffield, I offer a sophisticated, dual-lens approach to tutoring. My background ensures that I don't just "show" students how to solve equations; I use evidence-based teaching methods to ensure they truly internalize the logic, leading to long-term academic success.

I have over 10 years of experience in Education, learning, and development, teaching in both Primary and Secondary Schools. I specialise in teaching 11+, Social Sciences and prepping for national exams. I love helping students bridge the gap between what they currently know and what they need to know, by building confidence and resilience in their subject knowledge and approach to learning, especially in areas which they find particularly daunting. Engagement in learning is key. All lessons must be interactive to encourage learning and development. I encourage engagement through quizzes, questions, games, opinions, matching & sorting activities and use of mixed media. I adapt to different learning styles by meeting children where they are at, finding out what they currently know and using that information as a foundation to make learning accessible for them. I use assessments to track progress and plug gaps in their knowledge. My passion is to create successful learners who are able to achieve and exceed the goals they set for themselves. At A-Level, I studied Sociology (Grade A), Psychology (Grade B) and ICT (Grade C) at Southwark College. I then completed my BSc in Sociology and Criminology at City University, achieving a 2:1. I also have a PGCE in Upper Primary which I completed at Goldsmiths College. Additionally, I have a CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in Learning and Development.