Fully qualified teacher (QTS) with many years teaching KS1, Early Years, 7plus, 11plus to GCSE and Undergraduate/diploma, SEND experience, in state and private sector - English tutor with Cecile

Find out more about Cecile

• When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  As a newly qualified teacher in London, I enjoyed teaching busy whole classes in both primary and secondary schools, with a full range of abilities and learning styles to support, for many years. During this time, I was offered the opportunity to take part in a Progress pilot scheme for one-to-one tuition in Literacy and Numeracy within the boroughs of London, which I greatly enjoyed. After the pilot had been ended I was inspired to continue to work in one-to-one tuition.

• Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  I teach a range of subjects including the 7plus and 11plus: English, Maths, Verbal and Non Verbal Reasoning. I like to read and discuss widely around the specific topic with my students and encourage them to research and keep up to date with current thinking and global concerns.

• Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  I had excellent English and History teachers whom I remember most fondly for their good humour, wisdom and knowledge.

• What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  Kindness, strong subject knowledge, patience and flexibility to pivot and back-track, as necessary if the topic is too challenging or speed up to best suit the learning needs of each student.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  I learnt during my early years as a teacher that good time-keeping and commitment to students who are hard to reach can be rewarding. This was true of many of the students I taught in a large comprehensive in South London. When you finally make a connection, it is special and rewarding professionally. I am currently making good progress with a student who has poor motor skills and concentration issues and they are really shining.

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still facing in your subject?

  The challenges are often time-related and so to ensure the student has a good grasp of the topic in order to perform well independently in either an exam or within their own classroom setting. There are also challenges to do with the many varied expectations students encounter, which can lead to anxiety and stress. These must be carefully monitored and managed sensitively.

• Do you have a particular passion?

  Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different? I like meeting new students and even though initially it can be nerve racking for us both, after the first week or introduction the lessons usually go smoothly unless, of course, there is a technical issue or glitch! Learning Mandarin Chinese also motivates and reminds me how it is to be a student. Good to know!

• What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions) ?

  I am a fully qualified teacher, experienced and fully committed to supporting students of all abilities; I enjoy learning with them, while offering reassurance throughout their journey.