How long are lessons?

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Lessons are 55 minutes long.  This gives us enough time to really get into a topic without exceeding the student's attention span.  It also allows me time to prepare between students.

 

How much do lessons cost?

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If you pay in advance for 4 lessons, each lesson costs £30.  If you pay weekly, they cost £35.

 

Where do lessons take place?

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Currently all lessons are online. Once the restrictions of Covid-19 mean that it is safe and conducive to learning then lessons will be available at my home as described below.

Lessons are taught at my home.  This way I can help more students.  It means there are less distractions for the students and so they tend to concentrate better.  Parents are welcome to stay although most take advantage of the opportunity to get other tasks done like shopping or jogging or to spend some quality time with their other children.

 

When do you offer lessons?

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Lesson slots are on weekdays at the following start times: 4pm, 5.05pm, 6.10pm, 7.15pm, subject to availability.  There are limited slots available during the daytime as well. Lessons are available during term time and during some school holidays.

 

What is covered in the free consultation?

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Before the consultation I will ask you and the student to think about what you want to achieve and why you need tutoring.  During the consultation we will discuss your goals and requirements and I will explain how I tutor and why and then we will agree on a plan for the student’s learning.  After the consultation I will send you a statement summarising what we have agreed.  Typically the consultation will last about 30-40 minutes and doesn’t involve an assessment.

 

How many lessons will be needed?

I can't give a general answer to that question as it will depend on what needs to be achieved, what level the student is starting from and how much time and effort the student puts in to following up as directed between lessons.  However, if there is a specific deadline such as an exam date, I strongly advise that you don't leave it until just a few weeks before unless there really are only one or two topics that need to be revised.  The earlier the better.

Will you give homework?

Yes.  It is really important that students follow up and practise what they have learnt in the lessons.  Ideally students will review and try out a couple of questions the same day as this has been shown by memory experts to maximise how much they retain and then again, the next day.  Depending on the student and the exact topic/skill being learnt it may be necessary to find time to practise every day for a short while - often no more than 5 minutes.  Please feel free to discuss with me the level of homework you or your child needs and can manage.

What happens if I have to cancel a lesson?

I would appreciate as much notice as possible but regardless of the reason or length of notice you will be charged for the lesson. Where it is possible I will try to offer an alternative slot to make up the lesson.

Do you have a DBS?

Yes.

What do I need to bring?

You will need an A4 ringbinder, dividers and plastic pockets for use at home.  I will provide pencils, calculator, worksheets, etc, if you want to use a pen you will need to bring your own.  You might choose to bring your own calculator if you don't use the same type that I have.

Do you know and follow the school curriculum?

Yes, I am up to date with the curriculum.  Normally I will start by ensuring that the student has grasped the basics and then we will agree together what further topics they need to work on rather than following along with what is being taught at school that week.  We will work on a topic as long as needed to master it.  Students are always welcome to ask for help with something they've done at school but not fully understood even at short notice.  Exactly what we cover in a lesson is always a collaborative decision unless parents and students have elected to leave it up to me.

Can I get help between lessons?

Yes.  I encourage students to email me with any questions and if it is needed will arrange a phone call to help students iron out problems and get back on track rather than just waiting until the next lesson.

Have you worked with students with specific learning needs such as dyslexia or dyscalculia?

Yes.  I have had several students with specific learning needs including dyslexia, dyscalculia, and students on the autistic spectrum.  There is no one size fits all approach so I will get to know the student and seek the input of parents to work out how best each student learns.

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