Kate

Experience

- 11+ Maths

- 13+ Maths

- GCSE Maths

- A Level Maths

- A Level Further Maths

In my time since graduating I have taught Mathematics in a range of schools, from Y5 up to Y13. My schools range from the Beacon School, a large independent prep school for boys, where I was the Academic Deputy, to being Head of the Sixth Form at Jersey College for Girls. My last role was at St Mary’s School Ascot, a full boarding school for girls. I was in this post for 11 years as the Head of the Upper Sixth House where I was responsible for the academic and pastoral welfare of the Y13s. As well as teaching Mathematics classes, students would pop in for ad hoc one to one tutoring on any aspect of Mathematics, from Y7s to Y13s to keep me on my toes!

Biography

Whilst still young at heart, I graduated over 30 years ago with a degree in Psychology and a subsidiary in Mathematics. I then followed a desire to teach, so undertook a Post Graduate Certificate in Education. I love teaching and sharing my passion and knowledge, particularly in Mathematics, and watching my students flourish. During those 30 plus years I have worked in numerous schools as a Mathematics teacher, from Y5 to Y13 and A Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics, as well as working as Senior Assessment Advisor for the University of Cambridge International Examinations. I also undertook Masters from both the Institute of Education (University of London) and University of Cambridge, with the specialism of Curriculum, Pedagogy and Assessment. Whilst teaching, I have carried on working as a consultant for the examination board to ensure my assessment knowledge remains up to date. This has involved advising overseas agencies and government ministries worldwide, as well as advising within the UK. Whilst no longer teaching in a classroom, I continue working as a consultant for examination boards so my assessment knowledge, both national and international remains strong.

Personal Approach

I have a huge love of Mathematics which I like to share with students. Every student is different, so the key is tailoring the tutoring to their learning style and ensuring they have strong mathematical foundations on which to build. All too often in Mathematics, students lack confidence in their abilities and it is in boosting that confidence that real progress can happen. Therefore, plenty of positive reinforcement is essential. In doing so, when a student is given a situation in which to apply their knowledge, they have the confidence to do so and succeed. My exam results record shows that this approach is very successful.

What I do when I am not tutoring

Having left St Mary’s Ascot to do more educational consultancy work, I missed teaching too much, so I love my online tutoring too. The nature of my work means that my hours are flexible from during the day to early evenings. When not doing these things, I make the most of living in central Cambridge and all the diverse things this great university city has to offer.

Testimonials

'Thank you for everything, steering the ship through stormy waters. I don't know what we would have done without you.' (Mother of an A Level student)

'Thank you so much. You have really boosted my confidence and made me actually enjoy, dare I say love, maths!' (Y9 student)

'Thank you for always being calm and relaxed and not adding to my stress, but helping massively to ease it and help me improve no end in my maths' (Y9 student)