Sophie M.

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.

Hello there! Hope you are well. My name is Joshua Hailey and my pronouns are he/him. I have been an online tutor for over three years, and I hope this 'About Me' section gives you an insight into who I am and my teaching style. Before I go into more detail about who I am, I would urge you to read the reviews, (also on this page), from some of my current and past parents whose children I am teaching/have taught! These statements can help you make an informed decision and, (hopefully), choose me as your child's next tutor. I am an English Literature BA (Hons) graduate who studied at the University of Portsmouth. I also have a Masters in Modern and Contemporary Literature from the University of Leicester. With over three years tutoring experience, a strong work ethic and excellent time management skills, I have challenged and supported students across all educational stages, including primary school pupils right up to A Level students! I want your child to succeed and I truly believe they can do this! My lessons are varied, fun, but get the work done! Education is not 'one size fits all', and online tutoring is the perfect example of this. My sessions will see your child grow from strength to strength, as they learn new concepts and methods of success in their respective subject. You will not find me simply reading off a screen for the entire lesson, but you can expect interactivity to drive every single lesson that I will (hopefully) have with your child! In addition to English tuition, I also offer Primary Maths, 11+ and History. I have experience supporting students in all these subjects, and have completed them to a GCSE/A Level standard (for more information on this, please see my 'Academic Background' section). In summary, I promise to adopt a customised learning plan and positive ethos for your child across all sessions. As the parent, you deserve to feel included in your child's progress. I will endeavour to regularly update you through messages, comprehensive written reports and periodic phone calls should you want them! Here is a full list of the subjects I offer depending on the age of your child: Reception-Year 9: Maths (Primary age only), English Language, English Literature, SPaG, Reading, Comprehension, Literacy, History, 11+ (For 11+ I can only offer English and Verbal Reasoning so please keep this in mind.) GCSE: History, (Edexcel and AQA), English Language (including the Speaking and Listening component), English Literature (AQA or Edexcel), SPaG, Reading skills Exam Board Experience: AQA and Edexcel Languages I speak: English SND Experience: Little to no real-life experience, but I have had mentoring from an SND tutor So... what are you waiting for! Are you ready to see your child thrive? Let's do this! I am an English Literature BA (Hons) graduate who studied at the University of Portsmouth. I have completed a Masters degree in Modern and Contemporary Literature from the University of Leicester. Below are my other qualifications and their examination boards. If you decide to choose me as the tutor for your child I am more than happy to go into detail about my qualifications at your first session! Please note the examination board of each qualification is in brackets. This does not mean I am not able to teach an alternative exam board for your child. Feel free to address any concerns around this at our first session. GCSEs: Biology (AQA) - 5 Chemistry (AQA) - 4 Drama (AQA) - 6 English Language (AQA) - 6 English Language (Speaking and Listening) (AQA) - Distinction English Literature (AQA) - 6 French (AQA) - 5 History (Edexcel) - 7 Mathematics (AQA) - 5 Physics (AQA) - 5 A Levels: Drama (AQA) - A English Literature (OCR) - B Psychology (AQA) - B Extended Project Qualification (Level 3, AQA) - A*[star] (Focus was on the poetry of Elizabeth Barrett Browning and the presentation of female stereotypes within literature and history throughout the Victorian era) Undergraduate Degree (English Literature BA (Hons) from the University of Portsmouth): First Class Masters Degree (Modern and Contemporary Literature MA from the University of Leicester): Merit

I’m someone who is curious, motivated, and always eager to learn. I’m currently studying an undergraduate degree in Cybersecurity at university, and I really enjoy the challenge of exploring new ideas and developing practical skills that I can use in the real world. I like learning from constructive feedback because it keeps me motivated and helps me improve, both personally and academically. Outside of my studies, I have a range of interests that I’m passionate about. I enjoy reading, as it gives me a chance to explore new perspectives and ideas. I also like staying up to date with technology—I find it fascinating how quickly things change and how innovation affects our daily lives. I’m also someone who values keeping active, so I make time to go to the gym regularly. It helps me stay focused, disciplined, and energised. I like challenges and enjoy pushing myself out of my comfort zone. For example, in Sixth Form, I chose to study Business and Law without any prior experience. It was tough at first, but fully committing to it taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of perseverance. I’ve found that these qualities carry over into all areas of my life, whether it’s learning something new, staying disciplined, or taking on responsibilities. Overall, I’m a person who enjoys learning, growing, and taking on challenges. I like activities that stretch me mentally and physically, and I’m motivated by opportunities that allow me to develop myself and make the most of my potential. I successfully completed my GCSEs, as well as Level 3 BTECs in Business, Law, and IT, achieving two Distinction* grades and one Distinction. In addition, I was awarded an IT certificate in Year 13, which helped deepen my knowledge and practical skills in technology. I am currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Cybersecurity at University, where I am continuing to build my expertise in IT and develop my understanding of digital security. My education has provided a strong foundation in both academic knowledge and practical skills, preparing me for further challenges and professional growth.

Levels and subjects you teach: I can teach maths at A level and lower Exam boards experience: AQA , Edexcel Preferred student age group: GCSE/A Level I use my communication skills to effectively explain complex concepts in simple terms. My responsibility in my role, is to assist students when help is required. I have gained skills in time management and teamwork. Also I have experienced professionalism and have had to be flexible and resilient to complete a given task. Dedicated, third year Mathematics student at Queen Mary University of London. Having achieved such excellent grades at GCSE and A level, I now move with care and passion in my studies, allowing myself to be prepared for upcoming challenges I may face, ensuring that I always perform to the best of my ability.