Tutoring Experience

I started tutoring in 1994 and I have worked for a number of years as head of maths in a local sixth form college. I am an experienced teacher and tutor of maths, chemistry, physics and general science. I have also got experience as an examiner for A level chemistry.

I have experience of teaching chemistry up to and including degree level and I have supervised students up to and including PhD level in chemistry. I have also taught maths and physics to undergraduate science students.

I have an enhanced DBS certificate, Level 5 diploma in Education and Training and hold QTLS status. I am a member of the Society for Education and Training. 

Teaching Principles

I believe in helping the student to understand fully what they are learning not just reciting information from memory.

Not all students can recall everything they are told to memorise but understanding how something works or what causes something to happen is more readily remembered. Breaking down difficult subjects into more easily understood concepts in a progressive manner makes learning less stressful and more readily absorbed.

Everyone learns at different rates hence I am flexible with bookings and the amount of time required to cover what needs to be learned.

A bit of background about me:

I completed my degree in chemistry in 1993 and began my PhD in luminescent solid state materials the following year. Whilst studying for my PhD I began giving tutorials at university in chemistry and maths and also doing some private tution. 

Following completion of my PhD I continued to work in academic research in physical and materials chemistry and doing tuition until 2002 when I changed career to work in industry. Starting off as a chemist in an analytical laboratory I ended up in management in the automotive, chemical and oil industries. My areas of industrial expertise cover quality, environmental and health and safety auditing and management.

In 2012 I returned to tutoring and teaching and currently I am working as a self-employed private tutor. I have worked for as a teacher and head of mathematics in a sixth form.

In my spare time I coach cycling, kayaking and canoeing and play the classical guitar.

I am a member of the Royal Society of Chemistry and am a chartered chemist.  My other memberships include the Society for Education and Training, British Astronomical Association, Society for Popular Astronomy, and Royal Statistical Society. I have given numerous presentations on both chemistry and quality and have published a number of papers on materials chemistry. I also write book reviews for Intuition which is the magazine of the Society for Education and Training.