Olivia

Hiya! I'm Olivia, an enthusiastic and friendly PhD organic chemist at the University of Bristol (viva pending) and experienced science educator. Although I specialise in chemistry tuition up to undergraduate level, I teach at a variety of levels and also provide science, maths and modern foreign languages (German and French) tuition up to A-Level/GCSE. Before my doctorate, I obtained a first class Master's degree in Chemistry from the University of Manchester (including a year abroad at NTU, Singapore), as well as 5 AS/A-Levels and 10 GCSEs all at A/A* grade. As well as being passionate about science, I am a quizzing enthusiast and recently represented the University of Bristol on the 2024-25 season of University Challenge.

Tutoring Experience

I have two years of experience in undergraduate organic chemistry ranging from first to fourth year level. I have also taught AS and A-Level students as part of the University of Bristol’s Widening Participation outreach programme, and a year and half of experience in delivering GCSE tuition with Caritas Salford as part of their asylum seeker and refugee assistance scheme.

My background in science education also extends beyond tutoring. I previously ran a stall at Bristol FUTURES festival, where members of the public could learn about how chemists use new technologies in their research. As a former policy research assistant at the Welsh Parliament, I also have extensive experience in breaking down scientific topics for non-specialist audiences to inform policy work.

Tutoring Approach

As somebody who hated chemistry until I had a great A-Level teacher, I understand what a difference teaching style makes! My approach is highly tailored to the individual student and their educational goals, so I like to start with a quick chat about the student's aims, learning style preferences, and areas that need addressing.

Overall, I believe in teaching an underlying understanding of the subject material, and use positive, encouraging and detailed feedback to build confidence. However, I also provide students with more focussed help for exams where needed, so if there's a particular exam board whose mark scheme you're struggling to get to grips with, we can practice strategies for ensuring your grades fully reward your subject knowledge. Finally, I also believe that the most effective way of learning is by doing, so I like to keep my lessons as interactive as engaging as possible. This might mean we work through some problem questions, discuss certain topics where you need more clarification, or go through exam feedback together. If this sounds helpful or there's another learning approach you think we could try, get in touch and we can start studying in a way that suits you!