Michael

Hello! I am Michael, a 23 year old from Belfast who just recently graduated from an MSc programme in Mathematics from Durham University. I completed my A-Levels in 2017, achieving an A* in Maths, Further Maths, and Chemistry with an A in Physics. It was Maths in which I performed the best, achieving 593/600 UMS. I then went on to get my BSc in Mathematics from Durham University in 2021, starting my MSc in that same year. Through my degrees, I have had extensive exposure to advanced topics in pure maths, such as algebraic topology and modular forms, as well as advanced mathematical physics, having completed my dissertation in string theory.

Tutoring Experience

I have always had a huge enthusiasm for all facets of my subject, especially the teaching! I first started tutoring fellow students when sitting my GCSE's in 2015, and have continued on and off all the way through my undergraduate degree. I started to take tutoring more seriously during the lockdowns in 2020 and, after a brief break to focus on my MSc studies, I am back!
As I was tutoring and studying throughout lockdown, I have become proficient in delivering online lessons. I am adept with using a stylus and online whiteboard, and understand their importance in delivering a clear and effective online session.

Tutoring Approach

One of the main realisations I have come to after years of studying maths has been the importance of building confidence and developing problem solving skills. Unfortunately, it has been my experience that often these skills are not promoted in the classroom, with the emphasis being put instead on calculation and memorisation. While these are both important, I find the real challenge of the subject comes from having both the patience and confidence needed to tackle unfamiliar concepts and problems head on.
In this way, I believe I can add real value to students of all levels. In my lessons, I promote and encourage a deeper understanding of the topics involved. I do this by creating a collaborative space, where myself and the student both work together through carefully curated problems to gain a full understanding of the concepts used. Rather than teach the student to simply copy example answers, I prefer to ensure the student understands the example answers and what makes them work. I find this helps them to develop greater confidence and hone their problem-solving skills.