Laura S

"Laura was excellent from the beginning: she was calm, professional and extremely knowledgeable, and she explained concepts in a way that finally made them “click” for him."

Parent of A-Level Physics student

IB
Maths
Physics

Academic History

PhD Physics Education Research, Imperial College (current)

MSci Physics, University of Dundee: First Class Honours

About Me

My approach to tutoring is personalised, structured, and strongly focused on building both confidence and measurable progress. I begin by identifying a student’s current level, goals, and any underlying misconceptions through targeted diagnostic questions, and I use this to design a clear learning plan aligned with the relevant specification and exam requirements. My lessons combine clear conceptual teaching with active problem-solving, guiding students through progressively challenging questions and encouraging them to explain their reasoning so that misunderstandings can be addressed early. I place particular emphasis on exam technique, including interpreting command words, structuring written explanations, and developing efficient methods for multi-step calculations. I am flexible in my teaching style and adapt pace, explanation methods, and resources depending on the student’s learning needs – whether they respond best to visual explanations, step-by-step scaffolding, or more independent practice. I also provide structured consolidation tasks and feedback between sessions to ensure consistent improvement, and I maintain regular communication with parents where appropriate so progress is transparent and expectations are clearly managed.

Recent tuition

GCSE Physics

I supported this student in GCSE Physics (AQA) with both content consolidation and exam practice. We worked through foundational topics including energy, forces and electricity using scaffolded questions and regular topic tests. Support was provided over five months leading up to exams. The student improved from a Grade 5 level to achieving Grade 7.

GCSE Physics

I tutored this student in the Physics component of GCSE Combined Science (Edexcel), focusing on closing knowledge gaps and improving confidence in calculations. Sessions emphasised topic-by-topic revision, retrieval practice, and exam-style questions. Support lasted three months. The student improved by two grades in school assessments and performed strongly in the final exam.

IB MYP Maths

I worked with an IB MYP student who understood many mathematical concepts but lacked confidence when faced with unfamiliar or extended-response problems. Together, we developed a structured problem-solving approach, breaking complex questions into smaller, manageable steps while reinforcing the underlying mathematical principles. Lessons combined conceptual explanations, worked examples and increasingly challenging practice questions, helping the student become more independent and resilient when approaching difficult problems. As the student’s confidence grew, they became more willing to attempt challenging questions and developed stronger mathematical reasoning skills that benefited them across the wider IB curriculum.

A-Level Physics

I tutored this student to strengthen understanding of key A-Level Physics (Edexcel) topics including waves, fields and nuclear physics. We focused on building confidence with multi-step calculations and developing strong written explanations for longer-mark questions. Support lasted 4 months. The student improved from D-level performance to a C in mock exams.

A-Level Physics

I supported this student with A-Level Physics (AQA) across the full specification, focusing particularly on mechanics, electricity and exam technique. Lessons were structured around identifying misconceptions and completing timed exam questions with detailed feedback. Support was provided for six months. The student improved from a predicted C to achieving a B.

A-Level Mathematics

I provided A-Level Mathematics tuition focusing on strengthening algebra, calculus, and problem-solving under timed conditions. Lessons combined clear step-by-step explanations with independent practice and exam-question debriefs. I supported this student for nine months. The student progressed from a predicted C to achieving an A in end-of-year examinations.

Hobbies

Outside of my academic work and tutoring, I enjoy reading and running. I particularly enjoy reading because it allows me to explore new ideas and perspectives, and it helps me continuously develop my communication and critical thinking skills. Research shows that reading also improves empathy. Running is also an important part of my routine, as it helps me manage stress, stay disciplined, and maintain a healthy work – life balance. I enjoy setting personal goals with running, as it gives me a strong sense of progress and consistency, which I believe also reflects the way I approach both studying and teaching.

Testimonials

“My son received A-Level Physics tuition (CCEA) for both general support throughout the year and later focused exam preparation. He originally found Physics difficult and was lacking confidence, particularly in mechanics, electricity and multi-step calculations. Laura was excellent from the beginning: she was calm, professional and extremely knowledgeable, and she explained concepts in a way that finally made them “click” for him. Rather than simply repeating what he had learned in class, she quickly identified the exact gaps in his understanding and addressed misconceptions using clear step-by-step methods and worked examples.

Lessons were well structured and tailored to my son’s needs. Laura provided targeted homework after each session and regularly used topic tests to check progress. As exams approached, the sessions became more exam-focused, with timed practice questions and full past papers. She also taught him effective exam technique, including how to interpret command words, structure longer written explanations, and use mark schemes strategically to maximise marks.

Laura communicated progress clearly and helped my son feel more motivated and organised. Support took place weekly over 9 months, and his performance improved significantly, moving from low C/D grades to achieving a strong B standard in mock examinations. I would recommend her to anyone who struggles with Physics!”