Michael

Academic History

Institute of Education, MSc Maths Education

PGCT, Institute of Education, Teaching Advanced Maths

PGCE, Canterbury University, Secondary School Maths

BSc, Lincoln University, Engineering

BSc, Open University, Social Sciences with Social Policy

About Me

My subject specialism is maths and I tutor English in preparation for the 11+ and 13+ entrance exams. I have been tutoring for over 10 years outside of my career as a teacher. In my opinion, the key to being a highly effective tutor is flexibility – using a wide range of methods to help students learn. The ability to empathise and help students improve their study skills and time management is often crucial to improving levels of confidence – which is pivotal to success in maths.

Recent Tuition

I have experience of tutoring over 50 students covering a range of academic levels and various exam boards (AQA, OCR, Edexcel and WJEC). This is an overview of my recent tuition.

11+ School Entrance Maths and Non-Verbal Reasoning

I taught a student once a week for two years. Initially, focus was on building confidence and mastering fundamental techniques and time management skills. I continued assisting him and he progressed through the streaming sets as his mastery and self-belief both progressed at an impressive rate through Key Stage 3. This student gained a top grade at GCSE and subsequently at A Level without additional support, and gained a place at Merchant Taylors’ School.

13+ School Entrance Maths and Homework Support

This student had previously found exams extremely stressful when he sat his 11+ papers. We employed a variety of techniques that worked for him to make the exam scenario manageable. We focused on gaining the necessary level of competence and confidence in Key Stage 3 Maths in preparation for school entrance exams. Consequently, he was successful at 13+ and progressed to gain an impressive grade at GCSE. I tutored this student for one to two lessons per week for three years. He gained successful entry into St Paul’s.

GCSE Maths and Homework Support

This student felt that Maths was one of her weaker subjects and she was extremely worried that it may cost her the university place that she desired. We used different approaches to studying the topics that she had previously found problematic. She progressed from a predicted grade of C to an A* at GCSE. I tutored her for one lesson per week for two years.

A Level Maths

This student’s confidence had taken a knock when she found A Level Maths very challenging after achieving an A* at IGCSE. She had no issue with applying methods but struggled initially with the problem-solving elements of the course and applying the appropriate techniques, in the correct order, to solve composite questions. We took time to breakdown each question into its separate elements and worked on how we could decide which technique was required to complete each stage. Her confidence grew and she progressed from a predicted grade B to A* at A Level. I tutored this student for one lesson per week for two years.

A Level Further Maths

This student had found many elements of the AS Further Maths course challenging and wanted to gain an understanding of the course so that it wouldn’t impact on his A Level Further Maths studies in Year 13. We reinforced his understanding of the AS course and subsequently he re-sat some modules with great success. This took place alongside the Year 13 course of study and we ensured that he gained an effective understanding of each topic of A Level Further Maths, as well as focusing on the AS studies. He was delighted with the result of all his efforts; he progressed from a grade C, at AS, to grade A at A Level Further Maths. I tutored this student for two lessons per week for one year.

Hobbies and Interests

I am writing a book on certain specific elements of Black history and politics. I have travelled extensively as an aeronautical engineer and continue to do so when the opportunity arises. Keeping fit is important to me and I usually start my day with an early visit to the gym.

Client Testimonials

‘Thank you Michael, you have transformed J–’s level of confidence in Maths and in learning generally.  I know this is the case as it has been highlighted in her school reports since you have been tutoring and mentoring J–. She hasn’t stopped smiling since securing offers from all the schools that we applied for. I have recommended you to everybody, thanks again.’

11+ Exam Preparation

“We were delighted with S–’s place at Merchant Taylor’s.  We knew it was a long shot and that there is no way he would have passed without your guidance and preparation for the entrance exams.  Thank you, Michael, your patience and good humour are a true gift.”

13+ Exam Preparation

“Thank you for finding the time to help S–, she will never forget what you did for her. She is now following her dreams on a veterinary course and she is much happier in herself. I’m so glad I made that call to you.’

Parent of GCSE Student