Essy Leeming

My name is Stella (Essy) and I recently graduated from Oxford Brookes University with a 1st in Fine Art. Although I eventually chose Art as my future career path, I have always had a deep passion for Maths and the sciences. At A level, I studied Maths, Chemistry, Art and EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) and received two As and two A* respectively. As I undertook my A Levels during the COVID period, I tutored my fellow students and led study groups as school lessons became more difficult and sparce online. From this experience, I have developed an approach to tutoring that works both online and in person depending on individual circumstances.

In terms of teaching formats, I take a three band method. The first band is curriculum based, finding out where the student struggles in their school work, helping them correct their mistakes, and helping create a deeper understanding of the work they are currently being taught during the day. The second band involves a wider perspective of the subject: finding out how the subject relates to everyday life and particularly their interests. This helps the student see the subject as less of a chore and can help build learning strategies as a way of visualising questions. The final band (the most important one) is learning how to actually learn. By this, I mean trying out different learning techniques that the student can trial in order to apply in future, generating productivity and eventually revision strategies so they can teach themselves. This three band method provides the student with the necessary skills in order to become independent and confident whilst seeing learning as an opportunity rather than a punishment.

Overall, I use my creativity and academia in order to create a fun and informative learning environment catered to the student and their needs. Depending on the age of the student, I start with an initial session getting to know the parents and student (or just the student if they are older and more independent) to talk through how things will work and see if we are a good fit. If you would be interested in setting this up, then please send me a message and I would love to arrange it!