Raphael

Having possessed a fascination with outer-space from a very early age, and an exceptional ability in maths, the only course that attracted me when applying for University was for a place studying Astrophysics. To some, it would seem to be a natural progression after studying Maths, Physics and Music Technology for my A-Levels although I still hadn't made up my mind about what I wanted to do in life. Only when I reached Lancaster and began my degree did I understand the sheer scope of the field, and there I was awed by the beauty of Cosmology.

I've known I've had the ability to teach Maths, up to A-Level standard to absolutely anybody, since I completed my own with an A grade. My degree greatly affirmed my belief in this respect. This is also true for those willing to learn about the wonders of the physical universe. The satisfaction of understanding a physical or mathematical process, and being able to replicate the results only grows as the difficulty of the problem increases.

Growing up with a physical disability and using the aid of crutches, I have had no philosophy other than aiming high through the empowermet of others as well as myself. My attitude has also seen me through a variety of personal challenges, including the Gold Duke of Edinburgh's award and my successes have seen me to a number of prestigious opportunities, events and locations in an attendee-, and a public speaking- capacity.

Attending university in Lancaster was a revelation to me. Not only studying but in furthering my exploration of music through singing. This found me in several choirs including leading a gospel choir for three years of my degree; teaching all parts and rehearsing a live band to accompany the choir for every performance.

Very near the completion of my degree, I knew I would enjoy tutoring more than formal teaching. It would crush me for somebody to fall behind in a class of twenty+ students. Good teachers make every bit of difference and it is because I understand what it is like to learn in a particularly way that I would necessarily and happily cater for one-to-one teaching.

Helping a student to untap their full potential is something that gives me great pleasure. I understand from my own history that every individual learns in a unique way, and once I have gotten to know a student, I utilise their ideal method of learning in order to make the best use of our time and to accelerate their understanding of their subject of choice. This also greatly aids in increasing a student's confidence in their own ability; which I have found is as important a factor as any when communicating new information with the goal for long-term retention. My enthusiasm is only paralleled by my dedication to see a student succeed, and I work together with my students to ensure they are both comfortable, and enjoying the teaching that I provide.

Tutoring is my method of giving something back, after all the assistance I have found on my own journey.

I do a considerable amount of singing in my life outside tutoring; something I have done for as long as I can remember. This includes performances locally and in churches nationally.

And I have a young family of my own with a daughter just starting primary school and a son beginning nursery.

I am also a Duke of Edinburgh's Award Ambassador. It has been a phenomenal few years which have seen me giving speeches on my DofE experiences in front of royalty, celebrities and the public at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and the House of Lords; dinner with HRH Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, and televised interviews on the BBC and with Phillip Schofield on ITV.