Andrew

BSc Honours in Pure Mathematics and a Post Graduate Certificate in Education - both from a Top 10 UK University. I'm passionate about Maths and get a real kick out of seeing pupils understand and come to love the subject.

After graduating, I taught up to A level in a Comprehensive School for 4 years before leaving to work in Finance IT for the remainder of my career. Having semi-retired, I have now returned to teaching, my first love.

I have two daughters, both grown up. I enjoy gardening, music, reading novels, playing bridge and theatre.

Price displayed is for a one hour lesson. However if convenient for pupils I do sometimes go over one hour for no additional charge in order to finish at a logical point. I also provide free support for A level pupils via text message as they approach their final exams.

Tutoring Experience

I taught ages 11-18 (GCSE and A level) Maths in Wiltshire between 1985-1989. During that time I also helped pupils by offering private tuition.

Since 1989, I have tutored my daughters and grandchildren. During 2020/21 I returned to private tuition.

I achieved excellent results in the classroom: in 1989 over 80% of my GCSE class received the top grade available at the time (a class that I had taught for four years from age 12). My A level classes also performed well above average in their exams with many gaining A scores. My private pupils excelled, many turning their predicted grades around within just 6 months - often from a predicted D to A or B grades.

Since offering private tuition again in 2021, my pupils have all done well. They all grew in confidence and competence, climbing several grades in their exams against their school's predictions.

During 2022 I returned to a school, helping out as a supply teacher during the COVID crisis.

Tutoring Approach

Pupils need to understand 'why', not just 'what'. When one understands 'why' something works one doesn't forget it. I'm patient and analytical - working to find out what it is that is blocking a pupil from understanding. I also try to convey a love of Maths in my pupils. Several have transitioned from hating maths to choosing it for A level.

I am kind, patient and encouraging. I build a positive and friendly relationship with pupils and aim for lessons to be fun. Judging from feedback from parents, pupils enjoy the lessons.

I am also a big believer in practising on past papers and start pupils early (around December time for exams the following June). When they sit the exam they might have completed 20 or so past papers and know exactly what to expect.