Experienced English Tutor. Key Stage 3, GCSE, A-Level Exam Prep & Uni Essays. Fully Qualified (QTS & PGCE) and DBS checked. TEST

Find out more about Ben

• When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  I have always been interested in teaching and working with young people, but my interest in private tutoring specifically developed during my time as a teacher in secondary schools. I found that I really enjoyed working with students one-on-one and tailoring my approach to their specific needs and learning styles.

• Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  As a tutor for English, Geography, and Drama, I love to explore the different aspects of each subject with my students. For English, I enjoy teaching literature and analyzing texts, but I also find it important to focus on the technical aspects of writing such as grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. In Geography, I like to focus on topics such as climate change, population growth, and urbanization. It is important to teach students about how humans impact the environment and how we can work towards sustainable solutions. As for Drama, I enjoy helping students explore different characters and their motivations, as well as teaching the technical aspects of acting such as voice projection and stage presence.
  
  In terms of topics that I like a little less, I find it challenging to teach topics that are difficult for students to connect with or relate to. For example, in Geography, some students may struggle with understanding the concepts of tectonic plates and land formations. However, I work to make these topics more accessible and engaging by using real-life examples and making connections to current events. Overall, I believe in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and exploring new ideas.

• Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  I had several role models throughout my academic and teaching career, but one teacher who particularly inspired me was my undergraduate drama lecturer. She had a passion for theatre that was infectious and really encouraged me to explore different genres and practitioners.

• What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  I think the qualities required to be a good tutor include patience, adaptability, and a strong ability to communicate complex ideas in a way that is accessible, engaging and enjoyable for students. It's also important to be able to build a rapport with students and to understand and respect their individual learning styles.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  One valuable anecdote related to my subject is that I was once assigned to read William Faulkner's "The Sound and the Fury" in school and found it incredibly difficult to follow. However, after working with my teacher and discussing the novel in depth, I ended up loving it and even wrote my final essay on it. This experience taught me the value of perseverance and seeking help when needed.

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still facing in your subject?

  One of the main challenges I faced as a teacher of English was finding ways to engage students who may not naturally enjoy reading or writing. I found that incorporating multimedia and real-world examples into my lessons helped to make the subject more relevant and interesting for my students.

• Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  My particular passion is education, both within academia and in personal development. I believe that everyone has the potential to learn and grow, and I find great fulfilment in helping my students to achieve their goals.

• What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions :-P)?

  I believe what makes me a Superprof is my extensive education and experience in my subject area, as well as my dedication to understanding and tailoring my approach to each individual student. I also have a strong passion for teaching and helping others to succeed, which I believe shines through in my work as a tutor.