I graduated in 2013 with a first-class degree in English from Cambridge University, where I was a scholar and academic prize-winner in my final year. I'm 35, love the theatre, and spend much of my own time writing.
I graduated in 2013 with a first-class degree in English from Cambridge University, where I was a scholar and academic prize-winner in my final year. I'm 35, love the theatre, and spend much of my own time writing.
I have 13 years' tutoring experience ranging from pre-GCSE to degree level. Whether it's exam technique and essay-structuring that's holding you back, or difficulty getting your head around a particular author or coursework topic, I'd be happy to help.
I have also helped students prepare for entrance exams (11+, 13+) through multiple tutoring agencies in South London and Sevenoaks, and am TEFL-qualified to teach English as a foreign language.
I have a non-dogmatic approach to sessions, seeking to cultivate in tutees a confidence in the validity of their own views, while addressing areas of technical weakness. Through open discussion, practical exercises, and close attention to written work, I am able to channel their strengths into a methodology that will be appropriately rewarded by examination mark schemes. I have an adaptable style of tuition that can as comfortably accommodate the frustrations of those seeking to gain a pass at GCSE as it can stretch the ambitions of those with their sights set on an Oxbridge interview.
With only one session in, I can already see why it’s hard to get a session with Simon - he’s brilliant! By simply setting out a way to work and study that a 16 year old boy can relate too, has already had a positive impact on how my son studies for his GCSE English. Looking forward to many other sessions.
Simon has instantly connected with our 15 year old daughter and she is enjoying her lessons with him. He is very supportive and encouraging, uses language that she understands and breaks down what she is meant to be doing. His friendly nature means she is relaxed during the lessons and hopefully her confidence in her ability will build. We've had great communication with him from the outset and he has been flexible and accommodating with lesson planning. In brief: answers emails quickly, punctual, reliable, friendly, flexible, brilliant with our daughter, we would definitely recommend him.
Simon tutored my daughter for several months in advance of her A level English. We were both very happy with his teaching and insight, helping polish and prepare her. The end result was an A grade, which we were delighted with.
I contacted Simon to to enquire about starting tuition for my teenage son. Simon was prompt with reply. Discussed requirements and we started the weekly sessions. I have found Simon to be professional, flexible and accomodating. Simon has managed to engage a teenage boy who really did very little reading. I think its abit early to tell if the tution has had a impact on school grades.
From the outset Simon put both me and my daughter at ease. Not only with answering all our questions but also very quickly getting a sense of what was needed. It was incredibly helpful that Simon could come to us for face-to-face tutoring. Simon is personable, calm, funny and engaging. We would definitely use him again should the need arise.