Mathematics Masters graduate from Oxford University with four years' tutoring experience. Offering lessons in Maths, Further Maths and from A-Level to Degree, Chemistry at A-Level and MAT & TMUA prep

Find out more about Jude

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

  I developed a keen interest in Maths and Chemistry during my A-Levels. It was during this time that I truly began to appreciate the beauty and importance of these subjects in explaining the fundamental principles of the world around us. The challenge and satisfaction I derived from solving complex problems and understanding the intricate relationships within chemistry and mathematics solidified my passion for these disciplines.
  
  As for private tutoring, my interest in it blossomed during my second year of university. I had the opportunity to tutor some A-Level students, and I found immense satisfaction in witnessing the moments when they grasped the material that they once struggled with. Seeing their confidence grow and witnessing the positive impact of one-on-one instruction on their academic performance was incredibly rewarding. This experience sparked my desire to continue sharing my knowledge and helping students achieve their academic goals through private tutoring.
  
  Since then, I've dedicated myself to honing my teaching skills and continuously seeking innovative ways to engage my students. My journey in private tutoring has been immensely fulfilling, and I'm passionate about making a positive difference in the educational journey of each student I have the privilege to work with.

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

  Maths and Chemistry are incredibly important for understanding the world around us. In Maths, I enjoy diving into the world of calculus, especially topics like differential equations and integrals. These concepts have a beautiful elegance in the way they describe change and accumulation, and they form the foundation for many advanced applications in mathematics and other fields.
  
  When it comes to Chemistry, I find molecular interactions rather interesting. It's fascinating to explore the intricacies of chemical reactions, the different types of bonding, and the role they play in everything from everyday substances to the most complex biochemical processes
  
  I particularly enjoy helping students bridge the gap between theory and real-world applications. Connecting the concepts learned in the classroom to practical scenarios makes the subjects more engaging and relevant.
  
  While I do find immense satisfaction in these topics, I understand that some students may initially struggle with certain areas. For example, in A-Level Maths, some students may find the transition from basic algebra to more abstract concepts challenging. Similarly, certain aspects of organic chemistry in A-Level Chemistry can be complex to grasp initially. However, I believe that with the right approach, patience, and practice, these difficulties can be overcome, and that's where the true value of tutoring comes into play.
  
  Ultimately, I aim to make the learning process enjoyable and effective, regardless of the topic. By identifying the areas where students face challenges and tailoring my teaching methods to address those challenges, I strive to create a positive and empowering learning experience.

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

  Absolutely, I've been fortunate to have several inspiring teachers throughout my educational journey. One teacher, in particular, stands out as a significant role model who had a profound impact on my life and ignited my passion for learning.
  
  Ms. El-Ali, my high school chemistry teacher, was a true educator in every sense. She had an incredible ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting. Her enthusiasm for chemistry was contagious, and she created a classroom environment where curiosity and exploration were encouraged.
  
  What truly set her apart was her genuine care for each student's success. She took the time to understand our individual strengths and weaknesses, and she never hesitated to provide extra support to anyone who needed it. Ms. El-Ali made me realise the importance of personalised attention and the immense impact it can have on a student's confidence and performance.
  
  Her teaching extended beyond the classroom. She organised science fairs and trips, and encouraged us to pursue our interests outside the curriculum. She showed me that learning doesn't stop at the end of a textbook; it's a lifelong journey filled with exploration, inquiry, and the joy of discovery.
  
  Ms. El-Ali's dedication and passion for her subject, coupled with her unwavering belief in her students, left a lasting impression on me. She showed me the power of education to inspire, empower, and transform lives. It's teachers like her who drive me to give my best as an educator and to make a positive difference in the lives of my own students. I'm truly grateful for the invaluable lessons I learned from her and for the inspiration she continues to provide me on my own teaching journey.

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

  Expertise: A good tutor should have a deep understanding of the subject matter they're teaching. This expertise provides a solid foundation for explaining complex concepts, addressing questions, and guiding students effectively.
  Patience: Every student learns at their own pace, and some concepts may take time to grasp. Patience is crucial to ensure that students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and learning from them without feeling rushed or pressured.
  Effective Communication: The ability to convey information clearly and understandably is vital. A good tutor should be able to break down complex topics into digestible parts, adjust their explanations to match the student's level of understanding, and actively listen to the student's questions and concerns.
  Adaptability: Each student is unique, with different learning styles, strengths, and areas that need improvement. A good tutor adapts their teaching methods to cater to the individual needs of each student, providing personalised guidance.
  Empathy: Understanding and empathising with a student's challenges can make a significant difference. A good tutor creates a supportive and positive learning environment, motivating the student to excel.
  Passion: A genuine passion for teaching and seeing students succeed is a driving force for a good tutor. This enthusiasm is contagious and helps inspire students to enjoy the learning process.
  Overall, being a good tutor goes beyond just transferring knowledge; it's about creating a supportive and inspiring learning experience that empowers students to reach their full potential.

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

  One moment during university that sticks with me was when I encountered a seemingly insurmountable maths problem. As I stared at the problem, I initially felt a mix of frustration and curiosity. I spent hours attempting various methods, scribbling equations, and reaching dead ends. It felt like an intellectual battle, and I was determined not to back down.
  After numerous failed attempts, I decided to take a break and go for a walk to clear my mind. During that walk, I had a breakthrough moment in which I realised that I had been approaching the problem from the wrong angle, trying to force it into familiar techniques. I needed to think outside the box and consider a new perspective.
  When I revisited the problem, I revised my approach, bringing together different mathematical concepts I had learned, and slowly, the solution started to reveal itself. As the pieces fell into place, I felt an incredible sense of accomplishment.
  
  This taught me the importance of embracing challenges, thinking critically, and being open to unconventional solutions. It reminds me that with dedication, resilience, and the willingness to explore, you can tackle even the most daunting problems.

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

  Mathematics, especially at higher levels, can introduce incredibly complex and abstract concepts that require deep understanding and creative problem-solving. As a student, I've often faced the challenge of grasping these intricate ideas, but I've found that breaking them down into smaller, more manageable parts and seeking additional resources, like textbooks or online tutorials, has been incredibly helpful.
  As a tutor, I've faced the challenge of catering to diverse learning styles. Each student has unique needs and preferences for how they absorb information. Adapting my teaching approach to suit different learning styles has been a rewarding yet sometimes challenging experience.

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

  The joy I feel when I can make a difficult topic understandable to a student is immensely fulfilling. It's a reminder of the power of knowledge to transform and empower. This passion is what drives me to continuously improve my teaching methods, to seek out innovative ways to engage students, and to adapt my approach to suit each individual's learning style.
  
  Outside of teaching, I am a track and field athlete, having represented Great Britain on multiple occasions.

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

  What makes me a Superprof is not just my expertise, but my unwavering dedication to my students' success. I believe that being a Superprof goes beyond simply teaching the curriculum; it's about going the extra mile to create a personalised, supportive, and engaging learning experience that empowers my students to excel