Ricky Trigg

When I first meet my students, I assess their current situation and ask what they wish to gain from private tuition. Most of my students are working towards an exam and wish to focus on particular topics, but some like to meet regularly to consolidate their classroom knowledge. I take a flexible approach to meet the individual needs of each student.

I plan ahead of each lesson to ensure I have the right resources to support the student and to prepare 'homework' if necessary. Of course, working with one student or a small group of students allows me to focus on difficult topics and give as much support as is needed, without pressure to move on.

Each lesson is unique, but the structure of my lessons is something like this:

1) Recap the previous session and run through homework. Identify any difficulties and provide further support if needed.
2) Identify the next topic to focus on and evaluate the student's current understanding.
3) Deliver subject content using a variety of means, including references to textbooks, online resources, presentations and verbal discussions. Encourage the student to ask questions.
4) Set homework if necessary and arrange another session.

I make reference to exam material from time to time, so the student becomes familiar with the style and scope of questions that may be asked in the exam. Examiners can only ask questions that relate directly to topics on the syllabus, and there are indeed patterns in the types of questions that are asked.