John Schmitt - Tutors - Keystone Tutors

Experience

In terms of English Language and Literature, I have taught the majority of boards from the ages 11+ at some stage during my nine year career. I would say that I am most familiar with AQA and OCR English Language and Literature GCSE, Edexcel and CIE English IGCSE, OCR English Literature A-Level, English A1 for the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge's Pre-U Literature in English course, in which I have been involved since its inception. I am also an experienced examiner for the IB.

As Head of English, I have been involved in writing and marking entrance tests, scholarship examinations, numerous trial assessment papers and my school's own internal course that replaced GCSE English Literature. I would be confident to provide a professional appraisal of a pupil's level of English and to offer careful advice on ways in which it can be improved.

Recent Keystone Work:

13+ English: English 12+ Intensive Programme (Started: September 2011)

11+ English: 10+ ENGLISH (Started: November 2011)

13+ English: ENGLISH 13+ for boy trying to secure St. Paul's offer at CE (Started: February 2012)

Biography

I attended Eton College and then Oxford University, where I gained a First in Classics & English. Since then I have taught in the independent sector, gaining Qualified Teacher Status along the way. For the last few years, I have been Head of the English Department at Charterhouse, a leading independent school in Godalming. However, I have left this employement to train as a barrister and I am currently studying for a Graduate Diploma in Law.

Personal Approach

As a tutor, it is my aim to provide academically rigorous teaching while promoting independent learning; spoon-feeding has limited long-term benefit. I strive for a relaxed, friendly approach but also demand high standards of participation and effort. The ideal learning environment should be both fun and purposeful.

What I do when I am not tutoring

I am currently looking to gain experience of the Law and spend free time shadowing barristers and watching trials. I enjoy reading contemporary fiction and attempt to write my own, alongside some forays into journalism. In terms of sport, I play football, cricket and tennis. An ideal night out would be at the theatre.

Testimonials

I have offered a lot of private tuition within the context of my employment at Charterhouse school. I would like to think that I am held in high regard.

Passport: Keystone Tutors has a copy of John Schmitt's passport and therefore can confirm that John Schmitt is a UK / EU national or has the appropriate visa to be eligible to work in the UK.