• GCSE Physics
• A Level Physics

I am an experienced Physics teacher and senior school leader, currently teaching GCSE and A-level Physics at Downside School, where I also serve as Head of Science and Head of Sixth Form. Alongside my teaching, I contribute to assessing applications for 13+ and 16+ scholarships.
I have led academic enrichment and scholars’ programmes at my two most recent schools and have supported many students in preparing successful Oxbridge applications. While the core principles of Physics remain consistent across exam boards, I have a strong understanding of the subtle differences between specifications, particularly in assessment style and marking approaches. I tutor students from Year 9 to Year 13, supporting them through GCSEs, A-levels, and university preparation.
What you can expect:

• Honest guidance tailored to each student’s individual needs
• A clear, structured approach focused on mastering fundamental principles
• Practical, effective exam-technique coaching
• Targeted practice using carefully selected exam questions to consolidate understanding, identify areas to develop and sharpen skills.

Upon leaving St Andrew's university after completing my degree in Maths and Theoretical Physics I chose to follow my passion for teaching, and it’s a decision I’ve never regretted. Early in my career, I was given the opportunity to establish a Physics department from the ground up while completing my PGCE. I then joined the Ladies’ College, Guernsey, as Head of Physics and Head of Sixth Form, where Physics grew to become the second most popular A-level subject.

I later moved to St Mary’s Shaftesbury as Head of Science and Head of Lower Sixth, Physics again became one of the most popular A level subjects and I supported a number of students each year to secure places at leading universities to study Physics and Natural Sciences. Since 2016, I have been Head of Science at Downside, where I continue to teach A-level Physics and, in some years, A-level Maths and Further Maths. I have also served as Head of Teaching and Learning, overseeing the scholars’ programme.

Currently, as Head of Sixth Form, I guide students through applications to higher education in the UK and internationally, helping support the Oxbridge and medical students with interview practice and mock MMIs. With over 30 years of experience teaching GCSE and A-level Physics, I have extensive expertise in helping students achieve top grades and successfully prepare for Oxbridge entrance.

I have a friendly, supportive teaching style and an ability to make challenging physics concepts clear and approachable. I excel at breaking down complex ideas through real-world analogies, practical applications, and structured explanations, helping students engage confidently with abstract material. My focus is on building learners’ confidence and ensuring they feel well prepared for GCSE and A-level examinations. By celebrating small successes, addressing misconceptions, and removing barriers, particularly in the quantitative aspects of physics, I help students strengthen both their understanding and their exam technique, enabling them to see measurable improvements in their results.

I work full time in a full boarding school, so the majority of my free time is in the holidays, where I like to travel with my family, as well as playing golf (very badly, often lamenting over the Maths and Physics telling me that a tree is over 90% air and yet....).