James

I graduated with a degree in English Literature from Clare College, University of Cambridge in 2021. I am currently undertaking a Masters at the University of Cambridge in Creative Writing. Before that I attended Highgate School where I had a very strong academic record. This included an academic scholarship, 10 A*s and an A at GCSE, an A** in English Literature Pre-U, an A* in Theatre Studies A Level and an A in German Pre-U. I only recently left full-time education and as a result have a comprehensive understanding of the various syllabuses and a unique ability to ensure the content is taught in a relatable, relaxed and effective manner.

In the short term only accepting new clients that are Online.

Tutoring Experience

I worked as a teaching assistant at Heathside School for a year between school and starting university. I built experience there in creating and executing lesson plans whilst watching and implementing more experienced teacher’s techniques for running a classroom. I also ran a Dyspraxia Physical Education class which gave me experience in driving enthusiasm and confidence in areas where the student is potentially insecure or nervous. By leading with games, and a fun, low-pressure environment I ensured the kids could thrive. Additionally, I have some prior experience in writing 11+ mock papers for tutoring companies and am aware of how to push children towards excellence. Furthermore, one of my parents has taught at leading independent schools for over 20 years and I have had a wealth of experience, advice and resources to draw on in that regard.

I also have experience running after-school musical theatre clubs and tutor period. This was part of my duties as a Prefect at Highgate School. I ensured that pupils started their day energised, calm and confident, whilst dealing with any pastoral issues that came up calmly and warmly.
I have also run Football courses at Camden Park Youth FC, alongside Mallinson Sports Centre. In addition, I taught at a literacy summer school at Highgate for underprivileged children new to the country.

Tutoring Approach

I create a flexible style of teaching tailored to the student’s interests and needs, in constant communication with both the parent and student in order to both achieve tangible goals and fuel a lifelong passion within the subject. I am passionate about Literature and reading and hope to ensure that this same drive is mirrored within every student I teach. For younger students helping to foster a habit of regular reading is so crucial and I can offer a weekly reading class to help inspire and challenge students.

I also work in the creative industry as an actor, singer and writer and am keen to bring a sense of creativity, exploration through performance and fun to my lessons. For example, I performed in an international tour show of Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors attempting to bring it to new heights to crowds of Mid-west American schoolchildren!

I’m a big believer in the maxim ‘work smarter not harder’ (well maybe ‘and’), especially with regards to exams. I know how to fulfil exam requirements and how to treat it as a game to enjoy rather than a trial to fear. Hopefully this is something I can pass on. This is something which has helped me and past tutees successfully navigate through the Oxbridge admissions and ace the ELAT exam and interview process.

Please do send me a message if you want to ask any questions or talk about what sort of teaching you might want!!