Matthew

Experience

• GCSE/IGCSE English

• GCSE Drama

• A-level English

• A-level Drama and Theatre

I began teaching in my spare time while I was working for the Royal Shakespeare Company, helping students who were applying to drama schools with Shakespeare and performance skills. This was when I realised how much I enjoyed being a teacher and decided to take up tutoring on a part-time basis.

I have been tutoring for over a year, teaching a dozen students across a range of subjects including GCSE English, Drama and History, and A-level English and Drama. I have also tutored an 11 year old in English for the 11+ entrance exams. The student achieved a place at Westminster School, which was her first choice. In addition, I have taught English as a foreign language both to adult learners and to students aged 13 to 17.

My speciality is in English Literature and Drama tutoring. In the last year I have tutored five students for their English GCSEs and two students for Drama GCSE and A-level. One of my current students, who takes his GCSEs next year, was struggling with English and needed extra support with structuring essays and exam technique: he is now achieving top marks in his end-of-year tests and is first in his class.

I continue to teach Drama and Acting professionally. Most recently I have taught on the Foundation Acting Programme at Mountview Academy in South London and on the MA Acting Course at Drama Studio London.

Biography

I was born in Surrey and went to Whitgift School in Croydon. I took A-levels in English Literature, History, Latin and Theatre Studies, achieving four A*/A grades. After Whitgift, I studied at Durham University where I gained a degree in English Literature (2:1). I spent a large portion of my time at university involving myself in the student theatre society, and after graduating went on to do a Master's degree in Theatre Directing at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.

Since graduating from LAMDA, I have worked with some of the most exciting companies in the UK, including Shakespeare's Globe and the Royal Shakespeare Company. Recently, I decided to take up tutoring alongside my theatre work and have taught students in AS-level English Literature and English as a Foreign Language.

Personal Approach

I understand that many students find English difficult and can become bored quickly by the challenging language of novels and poetry. That is why I believe in an active and energetic approach to the subject. I like to encourage students to read the texts aloud, to practice their own creative writing and engage with multi-media forms such as audio-books and films to help their learning.

Most importantly, I understand that each student has different needs and objectives. Having an initial consultation with both parents and student before starting a course of learning is vital for setting appropriate goals and anticipating challenges. I like to maintain feedback throughout the teaching process to ensure the lessons remain effective and enjoyable.

What I do when I am not tutoring

I am currently developing projects for theatre on a part-time basis. As a director, I have significant control over my schedule for the year, which allows me the flexibility to take on tutoring clients.

When I am not directing or tutoring, I pursue my hobbies of writing and film-making. To relax, I like to play tennis, watch films and spend time with my family and friends.

Testimonials

Matthew tutored my son in GCSE English, Drama & History. According to my son, one of Matt's strengths is his ability to explain information in a clear, patient and helpful way. As a parent, I was particularly struck by Matt's patience and continued support during the COVID19 lockdown. I would like to take this opportunity to express my thanks and wish him all the best. I would highly recommend Matt. (Josie, mother of GCSE student)

Matthew was very engaged, friendly and really took a lot of time to prepare for the lesson and to make sure everything was properly planned out. (Celeste, mother of A Level student)

Matthew tutored our 11-year-old for more than 6 months, both with a view to preparing 11+ exams and more in general to discuss literature and theatre. Matthew has been of great support and has understood our needs, tailoring his approach and providing helpful feedback. We would highly recommend and look forward to working with him again in the future. (Agathe, mother of 11+ student)

I found Matt not only to be very knowledgeable in his subject but also an inspirational educator. Matt was keen to understand what I needed from each session, and carefully designed and planned learning activities to meet my needs. I found every session interesting and was motivated to further think and read about the subject discussed in the session. He is an expert in English Literature and is passionate to share his love for the subject. I have greatly benefitted from the support I have received from Matt and look forward to many more sessions. I highly recommend him. (Florence, mature student)