Stuart

I am a qualified teacher and graduate of the University of Edinburgh with an MA in English Literature and a PGDE in Secondary Education English, as well as being a qualified TEFL teacher. In my spare time, I enjoy playing rugby, mountaineering and work as an editor for the online review magazine Broadway Baby.

I possess a sound knowledge of the Scottish education system including Higher Education, the former SQA syllabus (Standard Grade) and the current format (Curriculum for Excellence). I am reliable, adaptable and strive to achieve the best I can for my students. PVG certified and experienced in working with children and adults, I can offer a variety of differentiated learning methods to suit individual needs.

Tutoring Experience

My experience as a teacher consists of:

• Private tutoring in Poland including preparation for Cambridge exams for adults and children with successful results. I also taught in two high schools and two primary schools as an EFL teacher during this time.

• Secondary teaching within The City of Edinburgh Council and East Lothian Council, teaching broad general education and national grades including National 4, 5 and Higher.

• 3+ years of TEFL teaching at Heriott Watt University with Oxford International in preparation for IELTS exams.

• 9+ years of private tutoring for preparation for NAT 5, Higher and Advanced Higher exams, with a universal pass rate and strong percentage of A grades.

Tutoring Approach

I build upon a student's prior knowledge of English and their set texts, and invite them to offer their own perspectives through critical analysis. After assessing what level they are at, I devise a specific strategy tailored for their needs and expectations. I focus upon improving:

• The construction of essays

• Grammar and vocabulary

• Reading for understanding, analysis and evaluation

• Creative writing

• Technical writing

• Listening skills and talking skills, including solo and group presentations

• Timed essay writing, short creative writing pieces and mock exams

• Confidence in a pupil's work