Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What are your qualifications?

Answer

I have a BSc (Hons) degree in Mathematics from the Open University and a BSc (Hons) degree in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Southampton.

Question 2

Are you DBS checked?

Answer

Yes. I have an Enhanced DBS Certificate (formerly called CRB). This provides the most detailed background check for those who work with children.

Question 3

What is your experience of tutoring maths?

Answer

I have been working as a GCSE and A Level maths tutor since 2012.

Question 4

What if I need to cancel?

Answer

I request 24 hours notice for all cancellations. I will always endeavour to rearrange the tutorial on an alternative day if possible. If not, I will have to charge the full fee.

Question 5

How does a tutor differ to a teacher in a school?

Answer

Teachers in schools do a fantastic job, but are limited by not having time to spend on the needs of the individual student. Private tutors are able to teach at the pace of the individual and only move on once a concept is understood. Teachers in schools specialise in classroom teaching, which in English state schools is considered large. Department of Education data showed that in 2020 the average secondary school class size was 22 (with almost a million children in class sizes of 31 or greater). In addition, particularly in state schools, many teachers do not have much autonomy, having to teach what is set by the department in the school. Private tutors can teach in their own style and in a way that they believe works best for each student. I have my own approach to tutoring maths which has been heavily influenced by my own experience.

Question 6

Do you teach science?

Answer

Although I do have another degree in Biomedical Sciences, I do not tutor science (chemistry, physics, biology). I have specifically chosen to specialise in tutoring maths. Having said that, if I'm tutoring a student for maths and they present me with a science problem, I've often been able to help, and will certainly be able to lead them in the right direction. But, I'm not offering myself as a specialist in teaching science.

Question 7

How do I know that you are good at teaching?

Answer

Qualifications and experience are just one part of what makes a good teacher/tutor. There are good and bad teachers regardless of certificates and length of service. One of the best indicators is the experience of others, so please see my testimonials. In addition, I also offer a half hour FREE trial to give you an idea of my tuition and decide if you would like to continue.

Question 8

Do you teach in a school / Have you ever taught in a school?

Answer

No. I didn't want to work as a classroom teacher, but instead chose to specialize as a one-to-one private tutor full-time.

Question 9

What do you do for a living other than tutor maths?

Answer

I only work as a private maths tutor full time.

Question 10

Do you work over bank holidays/school holidays?

Answer

Yes! I am available to tutor on all bank holidays and throughout the school holidays.

Question 11

How frequent should the tuition sessions be?

Answer

Most students have a 1 hour session once a week. More sessions are usually only requested in the run-up to exams, and half-term. My recommendation is once a week, but less frequent sessions could still be beneficial.

Question 12

Do you tutor Further A Level Maths or STEP?

Answer

No, I only tutor Key Stage 3, GCSE, Further GCSE and AS/A Level.