What length of time do you suggest tuition sessions are booked for?

I would suggest that sessions for GCSE students are 1 hour long outside examination times. During examination times, I may suggest students increase the length of sessions to a maximum of 1.5 hours if I feel that student would  benefit.

A’ level and university students may benefit from slightly longer sessions.  I would usually suggest sessions between 1-2 hours in length, dependent upon individual needs and proximity to examination time.

What type of activities are used in a typical session?

This will vary depending on the age, ability level and learning style of the student.  However, at the start of a session, any homework which was set by me at the previous session will be reviewed and any difficulties with the homework will be discussed.  The learning objectives for the current session will then be introduced and the student’s current knowledge of the learning objectives will be evaluated.  There is little point covering ground the student already feels confident with, but on the other hand, it is also necessary to ensure a student’s understanding of a topic is as secure as they may feel it is.

Having established the learning objectives, I use a variety of resources, which may include (but are not restricted to) discussions, PowerPoint, exam questions, mind-maps, card-sort activities, research activities, practical science experiments and games, to support students’ learning.  I like to be guided by the student’s own interests and motivations, so the more information you/they can provide in this regards, the more I can tailor sessions to meet their interests.

The session will end by reviewing and re-evaluating student progress against the learning objectives.  Any areas of weakness or uncertainty will be recorded to ensure these areas are re-visited in a subsequent session.  Homework may be set (but only with the agreement of parents) to support learning during the session.

Do you travel?

I do not travel for tuition.  This enables me to maximise my availability for students, ensure efficient timetabling of sessions and keep prices affordable.  I use a dedicated work area within my own home which is free from distractions.  This enables me to have all my books and resources immediately to hand.

For students who prefer the convenience of tuition in their own home, those too far away from Tupton or for those who simply fancy a more environmentally friendly option, I also offer a live on-line e-tuition service using Zoom or Skype and an interactive online whiteboard, BitPaper, which can be accessed by both the student and the tutor.  This service is surprisingly efficient and whilst parents may occasionally voice concerns that the student will not be able to develop a rapport with an online tutor, most young people today are very comfortable with communication online.  These perceived barriers are therefore rarely an issue for students.  Online tuition is also offered as an alternative when adverse weather prevents travel.

Do you hold an enhanced DBS/CRB disclosure?

There is no legal obligation for tutors to be DBS checked and I do request that under-18’s are not left alone for tuition.  However, I believe that the safeguarding of your child is of the utmost importance and hold a clean enhanced DBS disclosure.  I am happy to show you the original on request.

What insurance do you have?

There is no legal obligation for tutors to be covered by any insurance.  However, I believe that holding relevant insurance is an important part of demonstrating my professionalism.  I therefore hold Professional Indemnity Insurance and Public Liability Insurance.

What if we are late for our session?

Please do let me know as soon as possible if you are going to be late for a session.  I usually allow 15 minute breaks between students and therefore may be able to make up missed time up to 15 minutes if you are unavoidably delayed.  However, I can not guarantee this.  Beyond 15 minutes, I am afraid that the lesson time will be lost.

Which subjects do you offer?

I offer all three sciences and maths at GCSE, biology and chemistry at A’ level and selected biology and chemistry topics at undergraduate and postgraduate level.

Do you tutor at primary level?

No.  I do not have any intention of offering primary level tuition in the foreseeable future.