Subjects

Interview

Which subject(s) do you teach?
I teach general science (which incorporates biology, chemistry, physics and astronomy) and mathematics at Key Stages 3 and 4.
I specialise in physics and mathematics from KS3 and GCSE to AS, A2 advanced level and beyond.
I can help students with university entrance work and may be able to assist with some degree work in mathematics, engineering and physics.

Tell me about your qualifications.
My first degree is in physics from Bristol University. I have a masters in biomechanics from Surrey University and a doctorate in biophysics from Portsmouth.
I am a fully qualified teacher as recognised by The Department for Education.

What kind of experience do you have?
In 1980 I began teaching physics at The Portsmouth Grammar School. I was promoted to head of physics at a large independent school in London for four years before diversifying to comprehensive education. I have taught in two large comprehensive schools, two colleges of further education, two independent schools and a boarding school.
For over a decade I have been marking A-level papers for Cambridge International Examinations.
Recently I have been teaching mathematics and physics for foreign students aspiring to follow degrees at the University of Portsmouth.
Because I have been a personal tutor for over three years I am familiar with most of the examination board subject specifications.
I have been marking A-level examinations for over ten years.
Immediately after university I worked for a computer software house before pursuing scientific research in the biophysics laboratories of Portsmouth Polytechnic. I gained my doctorate at Portsmouth where I contributed to five original scientific publications.

How much do you charge?
For GCSE tuition my fee is £30 per hour. For AS or A2 the charge is £35 per hour and for more advanced (university entrance and degree level) £40 per hour.
There may be a £5 travel expense, or higher (depending on where the student lives).
The fee includes administration, preparation and marking.

Where do you teach?
I usually tutor in the tutees' home. If students are over 18 years of age they may prefer to come to me. I live near the railway station in Emsworth, Hampshire.
I am happy to travel to areas near or in Chichester, Havant, Petersfield, Portsmouth, Southsea and Fareham but there will be a charge to cover time and fuel .

When are you available?
I am flexible on the hours I am available. Currently I see several students in the morning and afternoon as well as after school or college. I also work some weekends and in school or university holidays. It is probably best to have a regular slot but that is negotiable.

Which ages and levels do you teach?
I am able to help school and college pupils at KS3 (ages 11-14), KS4/GCSE (ages 14-16), AS and A2 (ages 16-19).
I have recently helped two young pupils (age 10) and older ones (age 13) pass entrance examinations for selective schools.
Assignments are diverse, which adds to the challenge and enjoyment.
I have helped a number of mature undergraduate students: some have had to resit their university examinations and all have passed!
I am happy to assist anyone of any age who has an interest in mathematics, physical science or engineering.

Which qualifications do you prepare your students for?
Most of my students are being prepared for GCSE and A-level. Some need a lot of help. At A-level most are striving for a grade high enough to reach higher education.
I am willing to help with other qualifications, as already mentioned. A number of independent schools follow International GCSE qualifications.
Some centres now opt for Cambridge pre-University qualifications or The International Baccalaureate, which are generally considered more demanding than AS/A2 levels.

Do you have an up-to-date CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) disclosure certificate?
I am fully qualified and have a current valid CRB check which is available on request.

Describe your arrangements for online tutoring.
Telephone calls are cheap nowadays so distance learning is easier.
Assignments are usually sent and received by snail mail but email is regularly used and accessed. Work can be scanned and attached.

Do you belong to any professional organisations?
I am a member of the Association of Teacher's and Lecturers.
For many years I was a member of the Association for Science Education.

Tell me about some of your current students.
Most of my tutees follow GCSE or AS/A2 subjects. I am currently helping two students with further mathematics at A-level.
In 2011 I assisted one student with IB physics and another with Cambridge pre-U mathematics (to be examined this summer). A year nine student needed help to reach top grade in AS mathematics which gained deserved success.
Previously I helped five students at University, either in re-sitting their examinations or taking them for the first time.
Many students come to me to improve the A-level grades to a standard they need for university entrance.
I have several who are aspiring to higher levels than their schools or colleges predict and I am confident they will make these grades.
In the past the vast majority of my students have attained the grade they realistically target, so long as they followed my advice and had drive!

Do you have a personal message for students?
You must set yourself a target and an action plan to realise it.
With physical science and mathematics it is imperative you practise answering a variety of different styles and types of question in every topic. I suggest every question is attempted from at least three years of old examination papers.
Success is achieved by commitment and hard work. I am up for it but the onus is on the student. You are on your own in the examination!

Articles

Recommended textbooks for physics
Subject: A-level Physics
Tags: books, physics, revision
Created: 15/02/2011

Books for advanced level mathematics
Subject: A-level Maths
Tags: a-level maths, recommendations (study materials)
Created: 03/11/2010