Tom

I completed my undergraduate Masters' degree in Maths and Statistics from Newcastle University in 2014. Maths has always been a passion of mine and I have tailored my A levels and degree to reflect this. I have always planned to be a maths teacher.

Tutoring Experience

I completed my PGCE in 2016 graduating from the University of Birmingham and i have been teaching in a local secondary school ever since. I have taught Edexcel GCSE maths since 2016. I have been teaching AS level applied maths since 2021 and A level applied maths since 2022. I have been taking part in the National Tutoring Program since its inception. This involved small group interventions targeting knowledge gaps created during the pandemic.

Tutoring Approach

I generally prefer to offer one-to-one tuition as I believe this is the best way to get the most out students. However, I am willing to tutor small groups of students at a reduced price per student:

1 : £40 per student
2: £35 per student
3: £30 per student
4: £25 per student

Tutoring maths effectively involves several key steps:

1. Assessment: Evaluate the student's current maths skills and knowledge to identify areas of strength and weakness.

2. Set Goals: Collaborate with the student to set specific learning goals for the tutoring sessions. This helps both of you stay focused on what needs to be achieved.

3. Plan Sessions: Create a structured plan for each tutoring session. Break down the material into manageable chunks and allocate time for introducing concepts, practicing problems, and reviewing.

4. Explain Concepts: Clearly explain mathematical concepts using simple language, visual aids, and real-life examples. Focus on building a strong foundation of understanding.

5. Interactive Learning: Encourage active participation. Ask questions, encourage discussions, and involve the student in problem-solving.

6. Practice: Provide a variety of practice problems at different difficulty levels. Work through problems together, allowing the student to take the lead as their confidence grows.

7. Step-by-Step Approach: Teach problem-solving strategies by breaking down complex problems into smaller steps. Guide the student through these steps to demonstrate the process.

8. Encourage Questions: Create an environment where the student feels comfortable asking questions. Address misconceptions and provide clarifications promptly.

9. Feedback: Provide constructive feedback on the student's work. Highlight correct steps and gently correct mistakes, explaining the reasoning behind each step.

10. Adapt to Pace: Respect the student's learning pace. If they need more time to grasp a concept, be patient and provide additional support.

11. Use Technology: Utilize online resources, interactive maths software, or educational apps to enhance the learning experience.

12. Real-World Relevance: Explain how maths concepts relate to real-life situations, showing their practical applications and importance.

13. Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate the student's progress and achievements. Positive reinforcement boosts confidence and motivation.

14. Variety of Methods: Employ different teaching techniques to accommodate different learning styles. Some students might learn better through visuals, while others prefer hands-on practice.

15. Regular Assessment: Periodically assess the student's progress through quizzes, tests, or informal evaluations. Adjust the tutoring plan based on the results.

16. Review and Recap: At the end of each session, summarize what was covered and highlight key takeaways. This reinforces learning and sets the stage for the next session.

17. Open Communication: Maintain a line of communication with the student's parents or guardians, if applicable, to discuss progress, concerns, and goals.

18. Flexibility: Be adaptable and willing to change your approach if something isn't working. Not all students learn the same way, so be open to trying different methods.

19. Self-Reflection: Regularly assess your own teaching methods and effectiveness. Continuously improve your tutoring techniques based on the student's responses and outcomes.

20. Passion and Patience: Display enthusiasm for maths and show patience, especially when the student encounters challenges. Your attitude can significantly impact their perception of the subject.

Remember, effective maths tutoring is not just about conveying information, but also about building confidence, fostering a positive attitude toward maths, and empowering the student to become an independent learner.