Frequently asked questions
General
How do I get started?
That's easy!
First, fill in the contact form with your enquiry and I will answer your questions.
If you prefer to speak over the phone, you can leave a contact number and I will call you at a conenient time.
Next, we can agree a day, time and length of the initial session which may include an informal assessment at your request. Many clients like to book a 'one off' initial session before making a block booking. Others are happy to book a 'block' straight away. This is of course, entirely up to you! Sometimes, there will be a discount for block bookings.
Payment will be made online and in advance via PayPal.
A receipt will be provided via PayPal.
Any agreed sessions will be payable in advance.
How does online work?
Students must have access to a computer and high speed internet.
During the session the student and I will use Learncube, an online platform. This enables us to talk, sketch and share resources in real-time, across devices. We can share an online whiteboard that we can both write on using either a mouse or tablet. We can share images, powerpoints or worksheets and view video clips.
Learncube is FREE.
I recommend that students use a
headset duiring tutoring. It will cut down on background noise and allow us to hear each other better. Many students are more comfortable if we just talk to each other and don't turn on our webcams. However, it's always nice to 'meet' each other and say 'hi' at the beginning of the sessions. I will try to work with whatever the student's preference is.
What subjects do you teach?
Primary
I have experience of Reception through to Y6:
Reading skills and strategies.
Spelling
Handwriting
Writing skills and strategies
Maths, including x tables and problem solving
ESL
I have been teaching ESOL face to face for the last two years and have a CELTA qualification:
Conversation
IELTS
ESOL
Business English
British Citizenship, ILR
OEC
Do you have DBS?
Yes and I am on the update system. I'm more than happy to show verification.
What qualifications do you have?
A Levels: Geography & Economics - Whitchurch High School, Cardiff
BA (Hons) Geography - Portsmouth University
PGCE - Chichester University
TEFL Certificate - Northbrook College, Worthing
CELTA - Cardiff and Vale College
Can we check your qualifications?
Of course! I will show on request.
What about Dyslexia & Dyscalcula?
I am not an 'expert'. However, I have many years experience of teaching children with these learning difficulties, including successful 1:1 sessions.
I have also collaborated with parents, educational psychologists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists to improve the quality of support in the classroom. In addition, I have attended a number of short courses on various Special Educational Needs.
Talk with me. Unless the needs are extreme, it should be possible to come up with a plan of action!
How do lessons stop?
As soon as you want to stop please e-mail or phone me. I know there are numerous reasons why people want or need to stop.
Scheduling
When can I have a lesson?
My working hours are generally from 9.30am to 7pm, Monday to Friday (GMT)
I am flexible, however, so am open for lessons up to 9pm (M, W & Th) and possibly other times online, if you are calling from a different part of the world!
When you contact me, we can discuss times along with my availability. I always honour previous commitments.
How many lessons should I have?
This is a tough question!
It really depends on: 1) Your needs and 2) Progress
An initial assessment plus block of 4 or 6 lessons is a good start.
From there we can re-evaluate.
I have taught students for various lengths of time (from 6 months to 2 years) and all have been 'right' for each.
All students 'to date' have been weekly but it might be possible to schedule a few extra if needed for an exam or test, for example.
Payment
How much do you charge?
Primary
For a one hour lesson: £30
For a 45 minute lesson: £25
For a 30 minute lesson: £20
Most children seem to concentrate better for 45 or 30 minutes compared to an hour, so that's why I've included those options. The 30 minute option would mostly be for KS1/Foundation Stage children
ESL
Business English: £35/hr
IELTS, ESOL, Citizenship: £30/hr
Conversational: £25/hr
Please contact me for information on other requirements.
How does payment work?
You can pay by Credit Card or Debit Card via PayPal.
Just click on the button!
As a principle, I only deliver lessons after the payment for each lesson has been made.
You can of course, pay for more lessons in advance.
What is your Cancellation Policy?
You may cancel the lesson up to 24 hour before it begins and you will receive a full refund of the payment made for that lesson.
If your cancellation is made less than 24 hours in advance you will be credited to reschedule at a later date. Credit must be used within 90 days.
