Mary Ann S.

I have worked as a lecturer at De Montfort University for over 15 years. I hold a PGCE in further Education, an MA in English Language Teaching, and a BA honours in English. I taught English for Academic Purposes at university. This enabled me to develop various teaching approaches at different levels of English usage. I have also taught KS3-KS5 in the UK and abroad during which I have been observed several times and demonstrated that I was outstanding. I have used various teaching aids ranging from pictures, flash cards, to a variety of IT techniques. I have also used peer interaction and assessment to develop learners. Teaching at university enabled me to teach presentation skills. This has enabled me to do the same during training, coaching and mentoring sessions with colleagues. I have mentored a number of tutors. In my experience as a university lecturer I have used a variety of online platforms to teach students during the Covid-19 pandemic. I began my journey into English in 2002 when I did a BA (hons) in English at Demontfort university. Following this I did an MA in Children’s Literature in 2005 due to my immense love of reading. However, it was only when I landed a job at a resources centre that I decided to specialize in teaching and so I did a PGCE in education and an MA in English language teaching both in 2007-2009. I absolutely love teaching since then - as cliche as it sounds it is truly my passion and the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. I love my students and to see them excel truly makes me content. I’ve been told that I have a gift for building a rapport with learners and I to feel this is something that comes naturally to me because as a student I myself struggled with being misunderstood and branded as a ‘bad student’. I feel as a result I can relate to students and their struggles more easily. I’m also very patient and an excellent listener.

I help students turn ‘I can’t do it’ into ‘I actually enjoy this!’ — by building confidence through patience, positivity, and creative teaching. I specialise in Maths and 11+ preparation, supporting students of all abilities to feel calm, capable, and motivated. My background as a learning support assistant taught me how to break complex ideas into clear, manageable steps — especially for learners who struggle with confidence or anxiety around maths. I use interactive methods, games, and real-life examples to keep lessons fun and memorable. Above all, I believe progress starts with encouragement, and I aim to create lessons where students feel supported, proud of their effort, and inspired to keep improving. I studied Psychology at university, where I developed a strong understanding of how students learn and how confidence impacts performance. My studies helped me recognise that progress isn’t just about intelligence — it’s about mindset and approach. Before that, I achieved three A-Levels and gained hands-on experience working in schools as a learning support assistant, supporting students across maths, English, and general study skills. I’m now planning to continue my studies in Marketing and Business Management, combining my interest in psychology and communication with a passion for helping others grow and reach their potential. This mix of academic study and practical classroom experience has shaped my calm, supportive teaching style, helping me identify learning gaps quickly and adapt lessons to each student’s needs.

I am a dedicated and passionate teacher who believes in creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. I enjoy helping students grow not only academically but also in confidence and curiosity. I value patience, clear communication, and lifelong learning. Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading, learning new skills, and finding creative ways to bring lessons to life. I appreciate meaningful conversations, organization, and collaboration, and I’m looking to connect with people who value education, responsibility, and personal growth. I am a dedicated and patient tutor with a strong academic background and a genuine passion for supporting students to achieve their full potential. I hold IGCSE qualifications in Mathematics, English Literature, and English Language, as well as a GCSE in Psychology. In addition I am doing a degree in Maths as a secondary education teacher.

I am passionate about teaching Maths because I enjoy helping students see that Maths is not something that is impossible but with help even the most complex topics can be broken down simply. It is especially nice when students come back to you with better results more confidence and a big smile. I can teach Mathematics for A-Levels and below. Big fan of football, cricket (which I play competitively for a club in the Surrey Leagues), video games and recently F1 I would like to preferably tutor students in secondary school, however I am open for Primary school students as well. Studied at Wilson's School: A-Levels: Further Mathematics - A*, Mathematics - A*, Physics - A*, Economics - A AS Levels: AAAA in Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Economics GCSEs: Further Mathematics(9), Mathematics (9), Physics (9), Chemistry (9), Biology (9), Latin (9), P.E (9), French (9), Geography (9), English Language (8), R.E(8), English Literature (7) Experienced in helping younger students with Maths Y7-12 for GCSE to A Level through various clubs and programs run through school.