13+ Years’ Experience - Oxford PhD Biology Tutor | KS2, KS3, GCSE, A-level & IB | Build Understanding & Top Exam Grades

I’m a biochemist with a DPhil (PhD) in Biochemistry from the University of Oxford and over 13 years’ experience tutoring school-level Biology. I studied at Shrewsbury School, then attended Imperial College London to a first-class Bachelor’s degree, before completing my doctorate at Oxford, where my research was published in leading scientific journals.

This means I don’t just know the KS2 to GCSE, A-level and IB specifications – I work with Biology and Biochemistry at a very high level and understand exactly how the school material builds into real-world science and university study.

As a tutor, I’m calm, organised and very student-focused. Over the years I’ve worked with:
● Students who were really struggling and just needed Biology to feel less overwhelming
● Motivated students aiming for 8–9 / A* and competitive courses such as Medicine, Biomedical Sciences and Natural Sciences

My students and their parents often comment on:
● "Clear, step-by-step explanations of tricky topics"
● "Patience and encouragement, especially when confidence is low"
● "Thorough preparation and tailored lesson plans"
● "Focus on exam technique as well as understanding"

Many students feel Biology is “just memorising pages of notes”. In my lessons we cut through that and make the subject simple, connected and exam-focused, so you truly understand it – and can turn that into marks.

1. Build real understanding (not just memorisation)

● Break each topic into a clear, logical story
● Use diagrams, analogies and step-by-step explanations
● Check understanding constantly with short questions and mini-recaps

Once the core ideas click, memorising details and tackling harder questions becomes much easier.

2. Master exam technique and mark schemes

● Practise decoding command words (describe, explain, evaluate, compare, etc.)
● Learn how examiners want answers structured and which key terms they’re looking for
● Work through past-paper questions (including data/graph questions) under realistic timing
● Review answers against the mark scheme so students see exactly where marks are gained or lost

Whether a student is trying to secure a solid pass or push into top grades, my aim is the same: deep understanding, sharp exam skills and genuine confidence in Biology.