I'm Phil, an English tutor and GCSE English Language examiner. I was a 6th-form teacher for 17 years, teaching A-level language and literature and, crucially for the work I do now, the GCSE resit course, which involved raising students' grades up to a good pass within the space of an academic year (initially a mad rush to get their grades up within the first couple of months for the November resits!).
Tutor Profile
Teaching Experience
17 years as a classroom teacher in an inclusive disaggregated 6th form college, working with learners from all backgrounds and with a range of SEND needs. Former moderator for A-level coursework. Examiner for two years with AQA. A year working with a private mock examination company assessing and feeding back to schools on their mock exam approaches.
Tutoring Approach
I have a central analysis template that I introduce at the beginning of tuition. I then look at how variations on this approach can apply to the range of questions on the language (and, indeed, the literature) papers. Once we're up and running with the analytical approach, I default to a student-led approach, working on issues the learner may have with knowledge gaps, exam technique, and general English skills.
Availability
Morning
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Qualifications
BA English and Theatre Studies
Bachelors · University of Derby · 2:2 · 2024
PGCE Further Education
PGCE · University of Derby · Pass · 2006
Reviews
Feedback
6
Published6
Unpublished0
Extra comments0
JaneFirst Tutors
Philip is very kind, knowledgeable and proactive. He came to the first lesson well prepared and emailed me with information for my daughter to read prior to the lesson. I would definitely recommend him you won’t be disappointed!
Tutor response
Thanks so much, Jane. It was a pleasure working with you both, and I hope the coursework project turns out well!
RenjanaFirst Tutors
JahedFirst Tutors
Philip is an excellent tutor who quickly identifies areas for improvement and tailors his sessions accordingly. This was our first experience arranging English sessions for my son, and initially, he was hesitant, especially with his GCSE exams being so close. However, within just one or two sessions, he began to truly appreciate the value of the lessons. As a result, we are expecting his performance to improve by one to two grades, and we couldn’t be happier. Philip is not only knowledgeable but also humble and accommodating—he even makes time for extra sessions when possible. Our only regret is not having found him sooner. Thank you so much, Philip. We genuinely hope other students benefit from your support just as much as our son has.
Tutor response
Thanks, Jahed; it was great working with your son and I look forward to hearing how he's got on later this week!
KarenFirst Tutors
Phillip supported my son over a number of months. Excellent tutor, has a great teaching style to connect and support his students. Clear communication, explains well, polite and professional. Phillip, put more structure in the subject content, which helped my son appreciate what was expected of him in the exam. My son showed more interest in learning the subject and was more confident in sitting the exam. Phillip tailored the sessions to what he and my son felt was needed. We would highly recommend Phillip.
Tutor response
Thanks so much, Karen. Here's looking forward to results day!
AbdallaFirst Tutors
Tutor response
Thanks for the review, Abdalla; good luck in your exams!
