Emily

Experience

• 11+ English & Maths: ISEB, public school entrance exams and pre-test

• 13+ English: ISEB and public school entrance exams

• 16+ English: public school entrance exams

• (I)GCSE English Language: Edexcel, CIE, AQA, OCR, WJEC

• (I)GCSE Spanish: Edexcel, CIE, AQA, OCR, WJEC

• A-level Spanish: Edexcel, CIE, AQA, OCR, WJEC

• IB English (A & B)

• English as a foreign language from Beginner - Advanced level (incl. IELTS)

I have taken part in extensive training with Keystone and have a great understanding of the syllabus for 11+ English and Maths. For these pre-tests, I recommend building up a thorough knowledge of the syllabus and focusing as much as possible on comprehension, grammar and cloze procedure and mental arithmetic and word problems. I use a variety of activities to target the time pressured nature of the tests and problem solving.

I have had success preparing students for their 11+ entrance exams to many different schools over the years, including Harrow, Westminster School, Godolphin & Latymer, CLC, Putney High and many others.

For students applying to British schools from overseas, who are having to sit the UKiset, I look to ensure they are familiar with the different sections of the exam (both computerised and handwritten).

As well as pre-test preparation I have done a lot of tutoring of the GCSE, AS and A Level Spanish syllabus for all exam boards (and IB Spanish B), and I have experience teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) to many age groups and group sizes around the world. I have also tutored many students in advance of their 16+ public school entrance exams, and for IB English, particularly those from schools in Singapore such as Tanglin, UWC East and UWC Dover.

I now work exclusively online, and I believe it to be as successful (or more so in some cases) as face-to-face tutoring.

Biography

After obtaining my A-Levels in Spanish (A), Biology (A) and Economics (A) at Bedales School, I went on to the University of Edinburgh to study Spanish. My third year at university was spent at the Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina in Buenos Aires, where I was able to perfect my spoken language skills. I returned to Edinburgh for my final year, achieving a First with Distinction in my Masters, then headed straight back to Argentina to do an intensive CELTA course. Finishing top of my class I launched into the teaching of English as a Foreign Language, as well as Spanish literature and language, which I continued for many years alongside my other jobs.

My career to date has not only encompassed much private tutoring, but also many years in the travel and hospitality world where I have managed large teams, been involved in high profile events, headed up company operations and budgeting, and travelled the globe on research trips. Education is where my true interest lies, however, hence my decision to join Keystone to private tutor on a full-time basis.

Personal Approach

Private tutoring is a wonderful way to teach. Doing one-on-one lessons offers the ability to gear every moment to suit each person’s unique outlook, thus generally achieving quicker results. I believe the key is to first get an understanding of a student’s motivation, learning technique and interests, then plan and tailor classes carefully and accordingly. Situations and attitudes often change, however, so as a tutor it is also essential to be alert, empathetic and flexible to ensure the best results.

Hard work and dedication are also crucial to achieving your goal, and throughout my classes I look for ways to get students enthused and keen to put in the time, which will help them with independent study. It is only when I think they are working to the best of their ability that I am satisfied.

What I do when I am not tutoring

As well as being a professional tutor, I am a jewellery designer and silversmith, a lover of Latin American Literature (especially Mario Vargas Llosa) and a keen follower of outdoor pursuits such as hiking and trekking. I have two young daughters who now take up most of my free time, however!

Testimonials

''Emily was an outstanding tutor for our son. He started working with her after we decided (quite late) to register him for the 8+ entrance exam. It could have been a scary and stressful experience for him, given the short timeframe he had to prepare. It is a testament to Emily's teaching skills and positive energy that, after just three months, our son was confident and ready for the exam. Most importantly, he felt good about the whole experience - and even asked if he could continue weekly lessons with Emily after the exam!'' (Mother of 8+ Student)

''My daughter got a lot of value out of the session with Emily & we look forward to more such sessions. Emily has also been providing regular email support to my daughter & has been in touch with me too.'' (Mother of IB English student)

“Emily has been great thus far - she is dedicated, innovative and patient with our son...Just who he needs, I think, to improve his confidence in maths and to focus on the cornerstone subjects that he finds difficult.” (Mother of Year 5 student)

"I am really excited that our son has such a fabulous, serious teacher and so is he. He is very eager to have his lessons with Emily and never complains about homework, a wonderful sign that he is enjoying the teachings. Compliments to Emily and Keystone Tutors!" (Mother of Year 10 English student)

''Emily is really a terrific teacher and her classes are an enormous help to [our daughter]…Given all of the progress that [our daughter] has made, we are really pleased that she has had the opportunity to work with a teacher of Emily’s calibre. In addition to her evident strengths in the virtual classroom, Emily is really attentive to building on [our daughter]’s strengths and working on her shortcomings. When I have questions and concerns about [our daughter]’s current and future development, I never hesitate to ask Emily about them since I know that I will get a timely and thoughtful answer from her.'' (Mother of Year 10 English student)