During my time in secondary education I progressed from being a student who would often get the lowest results in the class to achieving A* grades in all my subjects and some of the highest results in my year group. While some of this progression could be attributed to becoming more dedicated and working longer hours - I believe that the main reason for my success was my improved understanding of learning techniques as well as the examination system.

In my opinion, while for every student optimal learning techniques may vary - there is one tried and tested method for academic success. This method is so straightforward and easily adaptable that often I find that after a reasonable period of tutoring, my students no longer need me. Rather than just explaining content, my aim is to help my students discover their optimal learning techniques so that in the future they are able to self study without a costly tutor.

A typical physics lesson will initially consist of me drawing/writing on an A4 pieces of paper (or online whiteboard if the lesson is online). I do this while simultaneously explaining the content. The reason for drawing is that physics at GCSE and especially at A-level is incredibly conceptual. I find that students often find it much easier to grasp these concepts when there is a visual aid. After this portion of the lesson is over, I will provide hand selected topic specific exam questions. Together, the student and I can attempt these questions. This is arguably the most important part of the lesson - as without being able to apply concepts to exam questions, no matter how good your understanding of the content is, you won’t be able to achieve top grades. I then set homework which can be submitted to me electronically (by taking pictures and sending them to me) so that I can have it marked by the next lesson.