About me

I have over 25 years of experience teaching Chemistry from key stage 3 to GCSE and A-level in leading independent schools in the south of England.

I read Chemistry at Imperial College in London and undertook my third year research project at Leiden University in the Netherlands through the Erasmus programme. I then did my PGCE in Exeter.

I am a member of The Tutor’s Association and hold an enhanced DBS check.

My approach

At my home in Winchester I provide a work space free of distraction, where students feel comfortable and supported to voice their difficulties. Each session is designed around the needs of the individual student so no two sessions are ever the same.

Today’s Chemistry specifications require a sound understanding and excellent recall of a large amount of theory. I begin by consolidating each topic suggested by the student as a weaker area of knowledge. I have my own set of teaching notes for both GCSE and A-level. I discuss the underlying concepts and demonstrate how the points relate to other topics of the specification as well.

I provide practice questions and past paper examination questions to work through. Each question is analysed to establish what is being asked for in order to identify key information given, and to appreciate how the question relates to theory. The student is then supported to build their answer. Discussion of the mark scheme for each question ensures the student gains an insight into the exam board’s preferred way of presenting the answer and focuses on the key words and phrases that must be used to gain the maximum mark.

Following this I emphasise links to other parts of the specification and encourage students to apply their knowledge synoptically.

At the end of each session I suggest work to be completed before the next session to allow the student to fully process what we have discussed and further consolidate their understanding.

Tuition provides a positive focus on chemistry in the student’s week allowing them to progress at a faster pace than they would in the classroom alone.