Mike

Experience

Unlike the majority of tutors, I am a specialist. I teach history, and only history, and my focus is on working with students applying for entry to elite universities. I have been tutoring the Oxford HAT and Cambridge entrance ever since 2010, and have built an unparalleled record in helping candidates to score highly in the admissions tests and then excel at interview.

In the most recent admissions cycle more than 90% of my Oxbridge students were invited to interview, and a total of 14 were offered places by Oxford or Cambridge.

Biography

I read history at Peterhouse, Cambridge, received my PhD in 1990, and since then have published seven well-received books and worked as a contributing writer in history for Smithsonian Magazine. I have helped dozens of Keystone students to meet and surpass their goals – and, just as importantly, to think about history in new and deeper ways.

Since leaving Cambridge I have spent more than 30 years studying, writing about or teaching every period from the Roman Republic to the 1980s. For seven of those years, my day job was to commission books for Routledge's 'Macat Library' – 220 titles, to date, each contextualising, explaining and critiquing a seminal work in one of the humanities or social sciences that's frequently set to students at undergraduate level. I have a daughter who gained entry to Westminster School and graduated from Oxford last year with a first in history; and every year there are always several students with whom I keep in touch, at their request, and whose university careers I follow. This means I have direct, current experience of Oxbridge entrance and the demands made of Oxbridge students. I combine all this with every tool required to research and write good history – not to mention an undimmed enthusiasm for my subject.

Age and experience play their part as well. With a Cambridge degree, a doctorate, and nearly four decades of serious history under my belt, I'm in the perfect position to offer practice interviews conducted by someone with the sort of mindset and gravitas of an Oxbridge don. Realistic preparation is key to success in this demanding and competitive arena, and I have a solid track record of providing exactly that.

My blog posts

14/06/2022: History Admissions Assessment (HAA) Cambridge

Personal Approach

The Oxbridge admissions system demands more of its candidates than any equivalent system in the world, but it does so for a reason. It exists to unearth young historians who can do more than merely cope with the demands of studying one subject intensively for three years. It seeks out students who have the potential to learn, in every sense of that term.

I think that both universities do a fine job of finding these students, and I do not believe their system can be ‘gamed’. Given sufficient time, it is certainly possible to draw the best out of candidates, and help them to stand out among other equally talented and hardworking people. Ultimately, however, I do this by not by teaching ‘tricks and tips,’ but by helping my students to become better historians.

For many candidates, the process starts in early summer. I have developed a broad and varied guided reading programme that introduces students to the core questions of how history can be thought about and “done” that form the basis of many Oxbridge admissions interviews. The full programme comprises 30 carefully selected advanced readings, complete with exercises and questions; candidates typically take 12-15 of these with me, two extracts at a time, but are encouraged to explore others that interest them in their own time. Overall, the readings are designed to introduce them to new ways of thinking, and to some of the fresh worlds of history that exist outside the A-level/Pre-U/IB curricula – from global history and the history of emotions to “history from below”. I’m especially proud of the testimonials I’ve received from students who’ve been excited and engaged by this part of the programme (below). As one parent wrote: “The school… has its limitations and cannot, and will not, go beyond a mentality of what I would describe as 'tick box teaching’. You have given her a taste of life beyond, and she has never been happier nor hungrier.''

When I teach the Oxford HAT and Cambridge entrance (which switched in 2020 from a centrally-administered written assessment, plus interviews, to a decentralised, college-based process), my focus is on opening a student's mind to the possibilities of what can be extracted from a text with the help of careful reading and historical imagination. I'm also very alive to how little time Oxford and Cambridge candidates have to work on their responses, and how pressured the whole assessment day can be – so I teach plenty of impactful strategies designed to make sure that candidates feel well equipped to tackle whatever it is that is thrown at them.

My interview preparation, finally, goes well beyond this. I teach candidates how to think analytically under pressure, and use further carefully-selected readings, backed up by specially-written exercises, to discuss key concepts and controversies. Overall, the aim is to help students change their whole way of thinking and show them how they can engage with history at the deeper level that Oxford and Cambridge will demand of them.

When teaching GCSE and A-level, my approach is rather different. I still think that history is by far the most fascinating of subjects – after all, it's the story of us – and I believe success in this field is a direct consequence of engagement. My unusual background – an historian with a PhD who has also spent years as a professional journalist and full-time author – means that I'm uniquely well-qualified to spot the compelling detail, the unusual fact, and use it to open up new vistas and new approaches to history. But I also have the experience and know-how to explain the techniques of evaluation, argument and reasoning that are so critical to success at school, and I put a lot of stress on the fundamentals: effective, thought-through source analysis and well-structured, well-evidenced essays and coursework.

What I do when I am not tutoring

My main hobby is writing on a wildly diverse range of historical topics for the Smithsonian Magazine, where I am a contributing writer in history. These have ranged all the way from Roman-era slave revolts to the “toshers” – sewer-hunters – of Victorian London, all via the merchant city-states of the Swahili coast and poisoning scares in early modern Italy. I also run an award-winning history blog at mikedashhistory.com, and am a senior contributor at AskHistorians, the world's biggest and busiest online public history forum. I lecture widely and occasionally consult for and speak on a variety of historical issues for radio and TV – everything from The Today Programme and NPR to The One Show.

Testimonials

''I can’t thank you enough for all of your support and guidance, it was most definitely the distinguishing factor that helped me to get an offer. All of your advice and tips for the HAA, for the interview and approaching History in general were so useful and much more specific and practical than what I was being told at school. I truly could not have done it without you. Your teaching methods and advice work!'' Successful Cambridge applicant

"Mike is absolutely brilliant, I don’t have enough praise for him! Our daughter is very lucky to have him as a tutor." Mother of HAT student

"The first session was great! He is a fantastic historian, and also an amazing teacher. I’m really looking forward to our next meeting!" HAT student

''I think he did such a brilliant job. He is extremely committed and hard-working, as well as incredibly knowledgeable about the test itself and also history more generally. Absolutely no complaints on my end! Thank you so much for all your help on this. You guys definitely made a stressful process much more manageable.'' HAT student

''Oxford sent me my admissions feedback a while ago. It includes my HAT score, which they say places me in “the top 20 of almost 2000 applicants” (!!!hey, Mike, you really fixed me up for that considering I came to you knowing nothing at all about the test!!! Very mind blown now). Please don't get tired of me saying this, but thank you so much for all you've done! I'm beyond excited to embark on this new chapter of life, and it would not have been possible without your guidance.'' Oxford candidate

''Beth has gained an enormous amount from her sessions with Mike, with impacts way beyond the Oxford application process. The sessions have both broadened and deepened her love for the subject, and also massively improved her ability to express herself in both written and verbal form. This has also reaped benefits in her A level studies, in English Lit as well as in history. Of course we are incredibly grateful to Mike for the support in the application process. The excellent materials and bespoke guidance no doubt enabled her to cope with the very complex HAT and to secure an interview. Mike’s confidence in Beth’s ability has also done wonders for her own self confidence.'' Mother of successful Oxford candidate from a state school background

''I don't believe I will ever have a teacher better than Mike. He helped me develop my interests, bringing out the best in me. His knowledge and enthusiasm was endless, allowing me to become familiar with histories I never knew existed. Every lesson was interesting, thought provoking and often challenging. But even when I struggled, Mike would always walk me through it, giving me enough space to improve my skills. Beyond this, Mike was one of the nicest people I have met. He was patient and kind; he always created a welcoming environment, and I felt at ease to push myself as much as possible, free of judgement for any mistakes I made when put myself out of my comfort zone. I sometimes wish I had discovered Mike sooner, but I can only say I'm glad I had the opportunity to be taught by him and learn so much from him.'' Successful Cambridge candidate

''You've been a great help to him. I read one of your corrected HAT papers and told him I found your corrections excellent, and he very spontaneously told me, 'Ah, mais Mike c'est un génie...' So I guess you two make a good team. Let's hope the hard work pays off!'' Father of French candidate to read history at Oxford. He was offered a place.

''I think the first session went well. Jonny said that Mike was quite different from anything that he’s come across before – which is, of course, great!'' Mother of Oxbridge History & Politics candidate

“I have nothing but good things to say about Mike! He is an incredible tutor; he is of course very knowledgeable about history, but also very passionate about it, which really helps in terms of motivation. In terms of structuring our lessons, he is clever about how to approach material, identifying what content is the most important, sensing what needs work, etc. He is also incredibly dedicated, and wonderful at accommodating my crazy schedule, which is much appreciated! So, all-in-all he is amazing, and I am very happy I sought Keystone out and got placed with him. I can’t stress enough what a difference it made to my Oxbridge application, and more importantly how I view history generally.” Successful Oxford applicant

''I wanted to write to you earlier, but I thought I would wait until the result was out, as I was confident the news would be good. She was so well prepared by you. I had the chance to hear the last interview preparation she did with you when she was in Cambridge, as she was in the hotel room with me. You supported her so well then, made her comfortable and confident. Just what she needed. In the weeks before, you helped her with your amazing structured support. The texts you had assembled for practice were enormously helpful. She said again yesterday that you made all the difference. But you not only prepared her well for her interview and supported her with her written test. You gave her a skill for life. The way you taught her, being analytically structured and how to interview, will stay with her and be helpful for many years to come. We are so happy that this has worked out so well and we are so lucky to have come across you.'' Mother of applicant to Trinity College, Cambridge

''My college sent me my HAT score in the feedback – 79%! They say the average this year was 61.7%. That's quite a difference.'' Oxford candidate

''Mike was great, so helpful and really enthused Rudy. What he did with the sample HAT paper they looked at was absolutely AMAZING! Rudy said afterwards he had no idea it was possible to look at a source like that. We are so grateful for all this help, as it's been a bit hit and miss at school.'' Mother of Oxford candidate

''You are by far the best history teacher I have had, and have inspired me to delve deeper into interest areas. My writing skills have developed, and all our interview practice made the interviews an enjoyable process! I also want to thank you for helping me to build confidence – applying to Oxford is a daunting process, but I can't wait to read history at university!!'' Successful Oxford candidate

''I got an offer from Cambridge! I wanted to email you to let you know how grateful I am for all your guidance and help. During the interview, I was concentrated, took copious amounts of notes, and made sure to keep my answers short and concise, all pointers I got from you, and all that I think were crucial to me getting in. However, I also want to thank you for changing the way I approach history, introducing me to a whole new level of historiography and really helping me advance to a new level of thinking. Needless to say, I do not believe I would have got a place without your patience, and your wisdom.'' Cambridge applicant

''As you remember, when we were first in contact, I was of the opinion that he should study politics and that historical studies are only a stage for politics. You and he have changed my mind. My son is looking for fascinating intellectual adventures, and I think he has already come to the conclusion that reading history can give him the access to this in full extent. Whatever life brings, I am very grateful to you for working with my son. Cooperation with you is the best decision I have made since he decided to apply to Oxford. I don't know if he will be a historian, but he will always ask questions and analyze the subject in the way you taught him. Sorry, my English is not good enough to express everything I think but I am sure that this hard work from him (and you) will bring something good.'' Mother of Oxbridge candidate from the EU

''There is a before and an after knowing you in Marco's education. After three weeks (only three weeks!), his perception of history is totally different. Even if he does not get a place at Oxford, the knowledge and methodology that he has acquired from you will help him to achieve excellence and success in his academic future. Although he was always determined to study History and Political Science, I'm also sure if he had met you before, he would apply only to History.'' Mother of Oxford candidate from an EU background

''I thought the first session went very well, and I really like Mike's style of teaching as it got me excited about history and the HAT, when I’d previously felt overwhelmed and intimidated by it.'' Oxford candidate from a state school background responds to the initial ''Introduction to HAT'' lesson

''Eddie finds you super-encouraging but quite demanding, and that's a good thing. You're really stretching him in ways he's not been stretched before, and showing him what the next level looks like, too. That's not something his school has been terribly good at.'' Mother of Oxbridge candidate

''Our heartfelt thanks and deep gratitude for all you did for Sam. Your calm, clear guidance together with your insightful, knowledgeable grip on history, inspired him and fortified his love of learning, discussion, and the pursuit of understanding. The time he spent with you was more valuable than you can imagine, and he enjoyed every minute. Thank you so much.'' Mother of grammar school boy receiving minimal school support with his university application who won a place at Cambridge, secured a double starred first, was the top-ranked history student in his year, and went on to full-ride postgraduate study as a Kennedy Scholar at Harvard

''Thinking of you this week – Neil is graduating with a double starred first, 'the highest in decades'. He remembers your teaching as the start of it all. Most of all, he is happy.'' Sam's younger brother followed him to Cambridge two years later and emulated his academic achievements

''I would like to thank you VERY much for all the effort you have put into my son's preparation during the last few weeks, and for the quality of the material and advice you have offered him. Even if he does not succeed in this application, you have achieved an unprecedented level of transformation in his views, motivation and interests. While he has had some good teachers at school, in all these years he has not had someone who could truly inspire and motivate him to try to come close to what he can achieve. It is a rare gift. If one has not had a teacher or a tutor like you, it next to impossible to explain what it is like to have one. Working with you has changed his view about what learning can be – and, should he succeed, I believe that (thanks to you) the process will have been more important than the outcome.'' Father of HAT student

''Slowly sinking in at home that it is all going to be OK. What a roller coaster. He would not have done any of this without you - and in particular I am convinced that he must have performed really really well at the HAT and interview which was down to you. I do acknowledge your faith in him as well, when mine was certainly wavering a bit. One does wonder where he would have been without you, without me (and my wallet) and determination. But mostly I don't think he would be where he is without you. He is a lucky boy.'' Mother of Winchester student who gained an Oxford place at the second attempt, converting from Pre U to a full four-module medieval history A-level course, taught in five months, with additional Oxford HAT prep and interview practice

''I want to thank you for introducing me to the idea of studying history from below and to oral history. A couple of weeks ago I would honestly have said that my interest was all about leaders, government and state. You have opened my eyes to whole new worlds of history that I had no idea existed.'' EU student on the Oxbridge guided reading programme

''Soooooo, I just woke up to my unconditional offer from St. Hilda’s and I couldn’t be more thrilled!! I couldn’t have done it without you and I am so grateful for all your help and support. Thank you a billion times!'' Oxford candidate from a state school background

''I’d like to take the opportunity to say how much Isla has enjoyed her sessions with Mike this summer. They have really opened her mind to the huge breadth of academic possibility beyond the A-level syllabus, and she has left each session bursting with enthusiasm. The guided reading programme is really excellent, as are the HAT tools that Mike has developed and shared. In addition I really feel he has gone above and beyond in recommending and lending additional materials (including his own books), and putting Isla in touch with others who share her interests. The marking of test papers has been really detailed and constructive, so that our daughter has felt she has been able to learn effectively from it each time. She is on a positive trajectory. Whatever the final outcome, the programme has been a hugely rewarding experience for her and one which will undoubtedly make her a better historian.'' Mother of Oxford candidate

''I wanted to let you know I have met my Cambridge offer! Thinking back to where I was before our lessons, I really could not have done it without you. All of the extra papers you wrote, the detailed feedback you gave, and your willingness to always have more lessons with me even the night before my interview made all the difference in giving me new skills and confidence. I often joke with my sister who is applying for medicine this year that she needs “a Mike” because you gave me structure and guidance through such a stressful time. I really can’t thank you enough.'' Cambridge candidate

''I just wanted to say how pleased my daughter and I were with the superb History tuition provided by Mike. My daughter found his tutorials inspiring and informative and this reinforced her decision to apply to read History at university. Mike also provided comprehensive feedback on her written work and discussions. I feel that she has been privileged to have been taught by such an inspirational historian. Many thanks Keystone and Mike!'' Mother of Y13 student who was offered a place to read History at Oxford

''I just wanted to say thanks so much for all the help you've given Elizabeth. She went to the HAT this morning feeling pretty confident and happy, with a much more pragmatic attitude than usual. She was also saying last night that even if she doesn't get an interview she really feels like these lessons have made her a better historian. It's been a really positive experience for her and I'm so glad we did it.'' Mother of Oxford candidate

''The Guided Reading programme has greatly helped me. Looking back, I can see that when we started the sessions I had very limited conceptions of what history is and what it's for. Our sessions widened my perceptions. The course offered me new perspectives, introduced me to new types of history, and showed me something of the different ways in which historians work. I've learned a lot, and I now have a lot more reference points when I discuss history. I'm very grateful to have worked with you – overall, it's been an immense addition to my education.'' Cambridge candidate

''I am really happy with Mike. He stood out from his profile as single-focused and best-qualified. We spoke and he was very straightforward. The result is that we are extremely happy with the process. He’s thorough and provided lots of additional material, and there’s no doubt Finn has learnt a lot, and most importantly has enjoyed it. It’s been a big step up for him, both in the work he’s doing and the serious way in which he’s been taught (the school is very relaxed). I always felt I could approach Mike about anything but simply didn’t need to – Finn felt in good hands. I would and will very happily recommend Mike for anyone following this path.” Mother of Oxbridge candidate

''Your preparation sessions had a deep impact on our son, although he is not yet really aware of it. It is reflected in his yearning for a deeper quality in the learning material he is exposed to. It has set a new standard for him in terms of what is interesting and challenging, and we thank you for that.'' Parents of Oxbridge candidate, looking back 12 months later

''Mike was very helpful to Courtney in the face of this unusual and unknown test. He gave her the scaffolding on which to build and the techniques to do the job.'' Mother of Cambridge HAA candidate

''I achieved 113/120 in my A2 Cold War paper and I am heading off to Manchester in September. I would like to thank you for all of the help and advice you have given me in my essay technique and my knowledge of history. I'll be taking that forward with me to University. I would like to feel that I could contact you in the future.'' A-level retake pupil from Haberdashers' Aske's School for Girls

''Thought you would like to know that Ella handed in her first paper at Manchester, having written it using the techniques you taught her. Her work was copied and circulated to the entire class as an example of how it should be done.'' Father of the same student

''Kathleen is so happy with the tuition. Although she was sceptical about having a tutor for the HAT examination, she is now absolutely delighted by how things are progressing, and with your guidance. She has nothing but praise for all the help that you're giving her, and your words seem to have had a profound effect on her today. She clearly holds you in high regard and seems to be extremely encouraged by your feedback. Thanks for your continued support – it means a lot to us.'' Mother of Oxford candidate

''I just found out I got into Newnham for History & Politics!!! It’s midnight here in Malaysia but I couldn’t wait to share the news!! Thank you so much for all your help with the HAA and the interview! I genuinely don’t think I would have been able to go through the process without your help!! I am still in disbelief - this feels like a dream come true - thank you for helping me reach this goal!'' Cambridge candidate from the Malaysian school system

''In the brief time Hayley has spent with you, I can see how my little bud full of such potent strength has swollen, with your support. Thank you – the school is a cage and has its limitations and cannot, and will not, go beyond a mentality of what I would describe as ''tick box teaching”. You have given her a taste of life beyond and she has never been happier nor hungrier.'' Mother of Oxbridge candidate from a state school background

''The guided reading discussions and HAT practices we have done have genuinely been the most intellectually enjoyable thing I have done so far in my life, and have made me realise that I want to spend my life reading and writing history. I thank you for helping me develop a passion for history to a level I did not think was possible.'' Oxford candidate

''Andrew finds Mike really cool, and it's intellectually challenging for him to learn and relearn and think through things through from a higher and different perspective. Having his brain working at that level is really rewarding.'' Mother of Cambridge candidate taking the guided reading programme

''Thank you so much for your help over this past couple of months. Getting an interview by itself was more than I could’ve expected and I owe a lot of that to you. And then, of course, your help with the interview practices themselves was amazing. I think I would’ve just cried had I gone to Oxford without the prep you gave me. So thank you!'' Oxford candidate from a US background

''He got such a lot out of it, and I genuinely think it made all the difference – where last time he had no real idea what he needed to do, this time he recognised there was always more he could have done, and he realised, by working with you, how much better he had the potential to be. He learned so much from the sessions – he would come back unsettled by how much more he could know, but at the same time feeling inspired by what he'd learned from you. We came to realise that was a very good combination.'' Father of successful seventh term Cambridge candidate

''Jack has been offered by Brasenose!!!! I can't thank you enough – you are an absolute treasure and a star, thank you, thank you!'' Mother of HAT candidate from a state school background

''I just wanted to let you know I got my coursework back today and got 38/40. It was the highest overall mark in the year. I want to thank you for all your help with writing it. I really gained from your suggestions with regard to structure and expanding the scope of my answer.'' A-level student

''Many thanks for the help you have given my daughter, your sessions have made a huge difference to her confidence and learning strategies.'' Mother of A-level student

"I can’t thank you enough for all of your help in the entire process, I definitely wouldn’t have been half as confident if we hadn’t had all of our sessions, and I’m really glad that we managed to go over so many things that came up in the end. My essays so much clearer than a few months ago, so I’m really hopeful that that came across in all of the papers; all the skills you’ve taught me will definitely be invaluable at university." A-level candidate needing A,A,A to take up a place at Oxford

''Got home to find him bouncing off the walls like Tigger – he was that excited by the first session. What a turnaround! From being almost 'on the floor' to being more focused and clear on what needs to be done. His confidence is beginning to return. Happy to share with Mike that Alex thinks he is 'fantastic and brilliant.''' Mother of grammar school boy worried by patchy progress in his preparation for the Oxford HAT

''Apart from being the best historian she could have had as a tutor, you are also the most supportive and generous teacher. Helena feels very privileged being tutored by you.'' Mother of grammar school HAT candidate receiving inadequate support from her school

''Thank you for the lovely reassuring email – much appreciated. You were right that a tough interview was a good sign!!!! Naomi had some great news today – Pembroke have offered her a place to read History. Thank you so much for all your help and support.'' Mother of HAA candidate

''I want to say a huge thank you for your help – which went well above what I could have expected, with all the extra plans and tools you gave me. I have gained from this in historical insight, and in interpretation that was previously alien to me – I can see now that, until we started, my insight barely scratched the surface. So again THANK YOU! (CAPS not written in anger but in joy!) You could not have a more appreciative student.'' Oxbridge candidate who had been significantly disadvantaged during her school years

''Without you this would never be possible; apart from getting into Oxford, my genuine interest in and excitement with history would have probably never happened. The way I think now about history (and the world more generally, for that matter) is certainly much more developed than half a year back, and the credit goes to no one but you! Our work was a real change for me in terms of thinking as well as life goals. I cannot tell you how grateful I am to have encountered such an intelligent and passionate a person as you. It has been a great pleasure and a true honour to learn from you – let me tell you, if I ever become an actual historian, it will mostly be your fault, so thank you once again!'' Oxford candidate

''''I've really enjoyed our sessions – the topics you selected were all so interesting that it didn't feel like work, and you gave such good feedback that I've learned a huge amount.'' Student heading to Manchester sums up his views on the summer school-to-uni course that was prepared for him

''You have given Henry back the taste for studying that he lost over the years. It's really been wonderful to see him working so hard, so seriously – not going to parties at friends' because he wants to work on the essay for you – and to get so much satisfaction from doing so. That's been really fantastic. The main thing has been learning what to look for and think about when reading and the ability to absorb quite a lot of different things in a short time will be very helpful for Uni – but you have been such a good influence on Henry more generally, and so helpful for him. He is now more willing to pick up books about things he doesn't know, about different civilisations, and to explore a bit. He has also realised that it can be fun to work really hard at something, and to study. That's invaluable. So THANK YOU so much for your patience, skill and enthusiasm. It has been wonderful watching him come to appreciate and respond to them.'' Mother of the same student

''My thanks for bringing out the best in Natalie. She thoroughly enjoyed her time with you, you are a wonderful teacher, and we are all so delighted at the result today.'' Mother of Oxford candidate

''I would like to thank you for all your help during the last 9 months. I have greatly benefited from your advice in every way, and I have a new way of thinking at looking at things. I have also really enjoyed having lessons with you, and I will always remember this experience.'' Cambridge candidate

''A very big thank you for teaching me. You’ve made me truly think about history in a way my teachers at school never have, and for that I am grateful.'' Oxford candidate

''The application was a tough process, I gather – but again, that was to be expected and not necessarily a bad thing. Who knows! What I do know is that you have been brilliant, and we are so grateful. Thank you.'' Mother of Cambridge candidate

''Wow, I am really happy to hear that it's such an exceptional grade. I definitely couldn’t have done it without all of your help!'' A-level candidate marked 39 out of 40 on her coursework

''Mike thank you so much for all your help, support and guidance! I am so proud and happy for Meera! You have been so thought provoking, and inspired her to produce excellence and clarity in her work.'' Mother of the same candidate

''Just got my results - so thrilled across the board for everything. I thought I should let you know that I got 100% on the history exam. Thank you so much for teaching me. You made the world of difference, obviously.'' OCR A-level pupil at St Paul's Girls' School

''Thank you so much for all your help and support over the past year both for Cambridge and my retakes. There is absolutely no way that I would have been as prepared or confident within myself without you.'' Pupil at Colfe's who won a place at Newnham, Cambridge

''What an extraordinary lesson! It has opened a whole new world for me, to be honest.'' Hong Kong-based Oxford candidate responding to the starter ''Introduction to HAT'' session

''Many thanks for all of your help and advice for the interview stage – it really made a difference and I felt a lot more prepared. Most of the questions were very similar to the ones we practiced and I consciously made an effort to pause and structure my answers. I definitely would not have been as prepared or confident if it weren’t for your help.'' Successful Cambridge candidate

'''Gabbie did a timed HAT practice at college yesterday, which she said was very difficult – but something is working, as she found she had your voice in her head while she was reading it!!'' Parent of Oxford candidate

''I can wholeheartedly say that I have never learned so much in such a condensed period of time, before or since our brief period of study. The caliber of readings, and the level of sophistication of our mock interviews, massively improved my academic abilities – not just historically speaking – during the all too small window we shared.'' American Oxford candidate looks back one year later

''Keystone's top tutor (history) is a published author and speaker who, in my book, should be running the country.'' Mother of boy tutored in Pre U history, in the London Magazine

''I honestly think your preparation has been fantastic. This year's HAT source was pretty unique, and is a testament to the fact that they can throw pretty much anything at you – so your training to be forensic and historically imaginative came in handy.'' Oxford candidate

''Clare received her A levels results today which were good enough to get her to Cambridge. Her civil rights course-work mark was 75/80 thanks to all your help. I know Clare really appreciated all the time you spent with her and we both want to thank you.'' Mother of South Hampstead High School girl

''I wanted to thank you for the lessons and the interest you have taken in my development as an historian. I feel that through your tutoring I have learnt ways of thinking that have completely changed the way I approach learning, no matter the subject. On top of that, it was just really enjoyable and has made me excited to learn more at university.'' Successful Oxford candidate

''68% in my IGCSE mock turned into 100% in the real exam!!! And I owe almost all of that to the intensive tuition we did in the run up in June. Covering everything from the Russian Revolution to the changing nature of warfare in the twentieth century in one two-and-a-half hour exam was a big ask and I could not have managed it without you.'' Pupil at Godolphin & Latymer

"You very kindly assisted my daughter with her HAT in relation to her application to Oxford last year for History and Politics. I felt I had to write to let you know what a long-term impact that had had on her. She still channels her “inner Mike” as we call it in her studies!" Father of state school candidate

''We are delighted. We really felt you knew your stuff and you went far beyond the call of duty. Our daughter's result was the best we could have hoped for – she has made so much progress in the few months she was seeing you.'' Mother of Putney girl with learning difficulties who was forecast an E in IGCSE history, but achieved a B

''Thank you so much for all your guidance throughout the application process! Your teaching has broadened my historical perspective and understanding, and has opened up many new forms of historical enquiry. Our sessions have enabled me to think in new, exciting ways, which have made my history lessons at school seem restricting in comparison. Thanks to your help I know I have become a better historian.'' Oxbridge candidate from a state school background

''Laura has had mixed experiences with her teachers at school. But she absolutely trusts you, and, because of that, you are able to get things out of her that her other teachers cannot.'' Mother of Oxford applicant from a state school background

''Thank you so much for all the help and guidance regarding my application to Oxford and the HAT. I just completed it today and I think it went reasonably well. Your advice and encouragement have really been invaluable! I really think I would not have been able to get this far in the application process without your help.'' Singaporean student who received no encouragement or support from his family or school for an application to read history at Oxford. Tutored pro bono – he secured a place at Harris Manchester

''We just wanted you to know that Bella has just received her IGCSE result for History - A* !!!!!! We are delighted and owe a lot of it to your fantastic tutoring.'' Mother of Cheltenham Ladies' College girl

''Our daughter has been coming back quite exuberant from her tutor sessions. Thank you for your excellent approach – we have been having interesting conversations in the evenings!'' Mother of student on the Oxbridge guided reading programme

''You have introduced Leilani to a whole new approach to history and at the same time expanded her knowledge and enthusiasm for this subject. She has very much enjoyed her tutorials, and had it not been for your work, she would have been woefully underprepared for the Cambridge entrance application. Leilani, hopefully, will go on to study history at a university and everything she has learnt with you will give her a wonderful start.'' Father of Cambridge candidate

''Thank you for all your help these past 2 years. You’ve been such a massive influence on her development and intellectual thought. We are so grateful for your guidance!'' Mother of girl taking history enrichment sessions in support of her GCSE and A-level courses

''Feedback: firstly, I really enjoyed our sessions, reassuring me that taking history to degree level was a good idea! I thought the HAT top tips pack that you gave us was really helpful as it made the exam seem a lot more approachable/understandable. Also, talking through the HAT papers was really useful as it developed my thought process but also allowed me to practice expressing my thoughts clearly which helped at the interview stage. The annotated essays were very useful too as they showed how many ideas you could get across in quite a short essay. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed our sessions!'' Successful Oxford candidate

''As expected, the interviews were apparently very challenging, but he seems to have enjoyed both them and the whole preparation process. Regardless of the outcome of the application, his work with you has undoubtably made him a much better historian, and it has also improved his general thinking and the ability to articulate it. I also sense that his academic confidence has also increased as a result of your sessions. He is very fortunate to have benefited from your rigour and passion for history. Fingers crossed for January!'' Father of Cambridge candidate

''My daughter just got admitted to the Sixth Form at Westminster School! We would like to thank Mike for his coaching. He went really deep in detail about breaking down questions, and taught my daughter what points to consider when tackling a question. He commands a deep and comprehensive pool of resources – lots of high-level history sources – and trains students’ critical thinking very well by encouraging them to consider all sides of a question, then answering in a complex, instead of a close-ended, way. My daughter wouldn’t have achieved this successful outcome without him.'' Mother of Westminster 16+ candidate

''Natasha received an offer from Oxford today - from her first choice college. Mike has been a truly fantastic teacher and really brought out the best in her.'' Mother of Oxford candidate

''The first session went really well. Martin was challenged, but in a really good way. He hasn’t been through the HAA in the way you did it, and he’s very relieved to be getting this guidance. Thanks for a great start – it has really boosted him. He responds well to challenge - and needs it. He is a perfectionist with school work & essays, but needs this depth and analysis. We are delighted!'' Mother of Cambridge candidate

''Oxford has been brilliant – I’m really enjoying the history course so far, and I can’t wait to get even more stuck in! I’d just like to thank you again for all the help you gave me during my admissions a year or two ago – I’m fairly certain I wouldn’t have made it without you!'' Oxford candidate looking back on his first year at Brasenose

''At the end of last week I had both of my Cambridge interviews! I think that they both went fairly well (particularly the second one which was one of the strongest interviews I've given) and overall I feel like I've given my application the best shot that I could have. Thank you so much for preparing me for it so well! What you told me in our sessions about Koselleck and his ''fundamental oppositions'' of history, talking ''from the inside AND the outside'', or ''the top of society AND the bottom'', really saved me at one point!'' Cambridge candidate

''I cannot thank you enough for all the help you have given me over the last few weeks with applications, and it all ended positively. I was offered a place!'' Girl applying for 16+ entrance to Westminster School

''It would be interesting to gather all the students who you helped into Oxford – I think it would make for quite a remarkable bunch, and it would be fascinating to see how they were moulded by your tutorials and your ''it matters'' approach to history. I'd guess we'd find that, for all of us, history is now something important to us personally, thanks to you.'' Successful Oxford candidate writing ahead of the start of his second year at Balliol

''Denise was really happy with her first session, we went for a walk in the evening and she wanted to talk through what you had discussed together. She is very appreciative of the support that you are giving to her. Thanks for your help, this is a great boost.'' Father of Cambridge candidate

''Philip really enjoyed the session and found it very interesting and stimulating. We feel there are real benefits to your teaching.'' HAT student from a school offering no support with Oxbridge entry

“The prompt and precise feedback is hugely appreciated. All of Niamh’s comments have been extremely complementary and enthusiastic about the work you are doing with her.” Father of Oxford candidate on an intensive combined guided reading and HAT course

''Gisselle has been very pleased with the sessions with Mike and feels she has benefitted enormously from them. We are extremely grateful for Mike’s assistance with the HAA exam and Gisselle is delighted to have the opportunity to work with him. Whatever the outcome, she is sure this has helped her improve the quality of her performance in the exam and also that it has helped more widely, with how she approaches studying History.'' Mother of Cambridge candidate

''Thank you so much for your help with this whole process- I think I have really benefitted from the interview practice and the guidance you gave me. And thank you endlessly for all your help with the HAT. I’m not sure I would have been offered an interview had I not had all the practice I did with you. I really appreciate it, and I think that it’s made me a better historian.'' Oxford candidate from a state school background

''I found the first session with you extremely interesting! I loved hearing the interpretations that you find (which I miss) that are so cleverly inferred and I’m very much looking forward to getting better at this!'' HAT student from a school offering no support with Oxbridge entry

''The source text bore structural similarities to one that you had done together in the practice sessions, and my impression was that he did a good job. But, most importantly: the first thing that François said, by text, on reemerging, was: ‘I think that I have done Mike proud! I thought and wrote as a historian…’!! That was fantastic for me to see, and is amazing evidence of the transformative impact that your work with him has had. Thank you so much!'' Father of Westminster 16+ candidate

''Your approach was different from what Joseph was used to at school, but he found it very stimulating and much more interesting – he would definitely like to continue.'' Father of Cambridge applicant offers feedback on an initial session.

''Mike was fantastic. We joined Faith on her first Skype call with him and he is ideal.'' Mother of HAT student

''I got an offer from Oxford today! Thank you so much for all your help, wouldn’t have been able to do it without you. So so happy...'' State school student who won a place at Keble

''Mike really went the extra mile which helped my daughter tremendously. He has been very flexible about what areas of history she wants to discuss and has been taking her on an amazing tour of the history of the world.'' Mother of gifted Year 10 student taking occasional history enrichment sessions

''I just wanted to say how thankful I am for everything you've done. I still can't believe that I got an interview. I even find myself enjoying history (maybe more so) when I'm prepping for supposedly stressful situations such as the HAT and the interview. It might be the adrenaline, but I'm just glad that I was able to learn so much. I could not have done this without you.'' HAT student with an international background

'Mike is fantastic – knowledgeable and an excellent teacher. Thank you very much for recommending him.'' Mother of Oxbridge student

''I wanted to thank you for all the support you have shown Andrew over last few months. He was very clear that it wasn’t just the exam and interview prep that he appreciated, he felt very much that he had really developed as a historian and had learnt so much in a much broader sense than an exam can ever test. He was quite sanguine after his exam and interview and stated that even if he had he not got in he was so grateful to have had that time with you and felt that it had given him many of the tools that he will need in order to flourish at university. You have been instrumental in fuelling his love for history and reading, thank you.'' Mother of successful Cambridge candidate

''Really happy to say that I have an offer from Oxford! Thank you for all your help - it really made a huge difference.'' State school student who won a place to read History & Politics at Hertford

''Whatever the outcome of the HAT, Jill has benefited immensely from your tutoring. She has acquired a set of analytical skills that she can continue to hone to perfection doing A-levels, a degree, and I believe at work too.'' Mother of Oxford candidate

''The guided reading course has significantly widened my knowledge, and not just that – it's helped me to understand and make links between different elements of history. I used to read and move on – I've already begun to think more as I read, andI find myself drawing parallels and using the history I know to understand the history that I don't.'' Cambridge candidate

''I got into Westminster! I am so so happy and couldn't have done it without your help. Thank you so much for teaching me and believing in me.'' Girl applying for 16+ entrance to Westminster School

''I just want to say a MASSIVE thank you for your help, guidance, resources and teaching! I am 100% sure that they have made my application much much stronger. My writing skills have developed, and I have thoroughly enjoyed discussing history with you.'' Oxford candidate from a state school background

''I have really enjoyed the workload and had a fantastic time with the two papers I took, especially with British History 1. I found myself especially interested in trying to reconstruct a lot of the social history of early medieval Britain. As you said, this was a great exercise in historical imagination. I think I've had a bit of a head start because of all the work we did together, and you telling me over and over to voice my own opinion. This is what my tutor told me I'm best at - creating my own narrative (even when I'm not always right). I found it so exciting to come out of the tutorial and have so many new ideas and topics for research.'' Successful Oxford candidate looks back on his first term at the university

''Mike is going to be fabulous for Teddy. We are both very pleased to have discovered him. He was absolutely able to pinpoint the improvements that Teddy can make and is very confident about being able to help him to, hopefully, get the grade that he needs. Thank you so much for your help and for having such a great tutor on your books!'' Mother of A-level student

''What I found useful from our sessions: honestly, the dialogue we had just talking about history – I had been so used to just reading and thinking by myself that being able to talk concepts through with you, and challenge them, really changed the way I could answer questions in the interview. And most definitely discussing my written work, as I hadn't had the chance to debate in that way before/be challenged on certain points. Your pack of articles addressing historical concepts and questions (eg: studying gender in history, studying class, should we change our minds about history etc) was A LIFESAVER. Oh, and I took a note book and pen in! Only used it once but I was very glad to have it with me. A huge thank you, again, for your help – I genuinely really enjoyed our sessions and they helped so much. (I'm at risk of sounding too unctuous... but I will say that I most likely would have absolutely bombed the interview if it hadn't been for our prep and mock interviews – so THANK YOU!!)'' Oxford candidate from a state school background

''Just received an offer from Mansfield! I am so excited! I can't thank you enough for all your help and expertise.'' State school candidate for Oxford

''I got an offer to Murray Edwards, and much of it was due to all your help – so thank you so much! The way you taught me to break down the question at the interview stage was really useful, and going through the question step by step out loud definitely helped. I think, in general, just practicing having more academic conversations about history really helped me to be more confident and comfortable in that area, so when it got to the interviews I was less on-edge and more able to relax and concentrate. Your help throughout the entire process has been extremely useful, so thank you so much for all you've done!'' Cambridge candidate

''Wow, you are amazing! Julia thoroughly enjoyed her first HAT session. She has this thirst for learning and feels that you are offering her very needed guidance in a very intriguing way – we feel so fortunate already to have met you!!'' Mother of Oxford candidate

''I can’t thank you enough for all you have done for Lisbeth over these last couple of months. I have seen her confidence grow, and whether or not she gets an offer the process has expanded her mind and deepened her thoughtfulness towards her chosen subject.'' Mother of Cambridge candidate

''Dylan's been getting A*s on her school assignments ever since you stepped in to help with her GCSE technique, and ended the year with a A* overall for history as well. Thank you – it really helped her, and she’s got a renewed interest in history in school now. It’s amazing how a psychological boost helps the teenage psyche!'' Mother of IGCSE student

''Just to say thank you. Billie was so happy to begin work with you yesterday, and said your style of advice was exactly what she needed! She was sitting early at the breakfast table this morning cracking on with her history essay!! Bravo.'' Mother of A-level student offers feedback on her daughter's first session

''Thank you so much for your help. Our sessions have made me more confident, and I really feel I have a process now that I can feel sure of and take into the exams with me, something I definitely didn't have when I did my mocks. I'm feeling so much more hopeful now.'' A-level student

''Allie thanked me the other day for having connected her with you – she says she learned A LOT from you, and I can certainly see that! Perhaps it is the Oxbridge education– you have a very close knit and attentive teaching style, with such high academic and intellectual calibre.'' Mother of Oxbridge candidate

''Just wanted to let you know that somehow I managed to got a place at Oxford - I am shocked beyond belief! Thank you so much for all of your help, I couldn’t have done it without you.'' Successful state school applicant to Hertford College

''I wanted show my gratitude for all you have done to help me grow as a historian :). I really cannot thank you enough. I truly enjoyed all the time we spent together. Seriously – you might be one of the best teachers I’ve ever had.'' Oxford candidate

''The first session was fantastic. Thanks for the recommendation – what an unbelievably knowledgeable person he is.'' Oxbridge candidate

''I just wanted to say thanks so much for all you’ve done with Magenta. She spent a lot of yesterday crying and saying there was no point in doing the Oxford interview, then came out of her session with you skipping, with totally renewed confidence. We went for a walk yesterday and she was chatting away about all the things you'd spoken about, and wherever she goes this has done her so much good. We’ll let you know what happens but thanks so much!'' Mother of successful Oxford candidate

''Thanks again for the sessions – they really stimulate and boost my mood, and also general mental well-being! During my last year at school, I fell out of love with History as a subject, but the reading we are currently doing and discussion is re-fuelling my passion. I am seeing the richness and broadness of historical scholarship available.'' Seventh term Oxbridge student

''Many thanks for your tremendous support. Whatever the result, the most important thing from my perspective is how much Ashley has developed these past weeks. I can’t tell you how much she has enjoyed her time with you. She clearly very much thrives on being pushed and learning. Talk about a sponge! So, top priority for me is that whatever happens, she continues with her joy of learning. To that end, I was wondering whether you might have time to do the odd session with her now and again, just so she has someone who is sufficiently demanding, with whom she can joust and who can point her in the right direction with reading?'' Mother of 16+ candidate for Westminster School. She was offered a place.

''I want to say a big thank you. You have been a tremendous tutor for Rex. It was a lot of hard work but he learned a lot - and what he learned will always be useful. I even think he genuinely enjoyed it!'' Father of Oxbridge candidate

''I just thought I would let you know that I've been offered a place at Somerville college! Thank you so much, Mike, for all the help you have given me over the past months. I am sure I owe a lot of my success to your tutoring! I am very excited and the course looks amazing, so I can't wait.'' Oxford candidate from a state school background

''I am glad to let you know that I got an offer from Robinson College. Thank you very much for all your help with the admissions test and the interview.'' Cambridge candidate from a state school background

''Josh has received an offer to read history from Balliol. Many thanks for all your help with the preparations, which helped enormously. Josh feels he has become a better historian as a result of his sessions with you.'' Mother of Oxford candidate from a state school background

''I found out that I've been accepted to Brasenose! I'd just like to say how grateful I am for your help with the whole process, and with how much I've been able to develop as a historian and as a person. Looking back on it now, it seems almost laughable that I thought I would get in last time with what I had rattling around upstairs, but I'm so happy I didn't because I'm sure I would be finding it hellish at the moment without the work we did. Many, many, many thanks.'' Oxford candidate who reapplied after suffering a knock-back at his first attempt

''I can’t thank you enough. I found out this morning I got a place at Jesus! Really couldn’t have done it without you. Many many thanks!!! And also for all of your phenomenal resources! I really appreciated them.'' Oxford candidate from a US background

''I am very happy to tell you that I received an offer from Cambridge yesterday, for History and Modern Languages! I was given two sources 30 minutes before the interview, each about 10 lines, with no provenance. Our HAA work was useful for this, particularly when considering why they were produced. In answering, I gave an example (it was you who encouraged me to use examples where possible), and when we moved onto the written work I took the opportunity to say what I should have done differently in the essay (which I also believe was your suggestion). I am extremely excited to start in October and would like to thank you very much for for your help.'' Cambridge candidate from a state school background

''Molly has an offer from Christ Church! She learned so much from you - we were just very fortunate to have met you, and what she learned from you has given her such a good foundation for studying history. Thank you!!'' Mother of Oxford candidate

''Really great news! I got into Sidney Sussex for History and Politics. Thanks so much for being an amazing teacher. Really appreciate it!'' Cambridge candidate from a state school background

''I received an offer from Oxford yesterday - thanks a lot for your help throughout my application process! This would not have been possible without your support & encouragement.'' Applicant for Magdalen College, Oxford

''You’ll be pleased to know I got in to Somerville! Thank you so very much for your help along the way. It clearly made the difference.'' Oxford candidate from a state school background

''Just wanted to let you know that I have been offered a place at Robinson! I am overjoyed. Thank you so much for your guidance and help. I really appreciate all the sessions we had, and enjoyed not only the preparation for Cambridge, but the widening of my general history skills.'' Cambridge candidate who began preparations with the guided reading course

''It is with absolute pleasure that I am able to forward you this message with my offer from St. Edmunds!!!!!! Studying at Oxford has been my dream for nearly 4 years, and I firmly believe I would not find myself in this position without the help and excellent guidance you have given me over the last couple of months.'' Oxford candidate

''Hi Mike! I wanted to let you know that I’ve just received an offer for history and politics at LMH!! I’m absolutely thrilled/over the moon – thank you so so much for all your help, I couldn’t have done it without you.'' Oxford candidate

''Milly has just heard that she has been offered a place at Cambridge for History! I cannot thank you enough. You made all the difference. Thank you so much for all the time you so generously and kindly gave her, and your brilliant expertise. I am so grateful.'' Mother of candidate for Gonville & Caius

''I wanted to let you know I’ve just been offered a place at Oxford for History and Politics! I cannot believe it. Thank you so much for all your help, I couldn’t have done it without you.'' State school candidate for Brasenose College

''I am SO pleased that we discovered you! You have done wonders for Tom's history work during your sessions and, most importantly, you have inspired him again. How lovely it is to see him feeling confident again about his history ability.'' Mother of A-level candidate

''The first lesson went really well – Mike is a very committed and devoted teacher, and Amber (who is not easily impressed) was VERY impressed by him and his teaching. Mike was extremely thorough and made the lesson a lot of fun for her. We are very grateful to have been connected with him.'' Mother of Oxbridge candidate

''I was very pleased with the tuition. His school reports were predicting much poorer results.'' W.G., Notting Hill