Heather Clemans

MSc Psychology
BA (Hons) [French/German]
PGCE (Post-Graduate Certificate in Education)
Certificate in Teaching English to Adults
Former IELTS examiner
Continuous professional development
Counselling courses at beginner and intermediate levels
1 S-Level, 3 A-Levels
8 O-Levels (inc. English & Maths)

I am a qualified teacher of Modern Foreign Languages with an Honours degree in French with German from Durham University and a PGCE (Post-Graduate Certificate of Education) from Cambridge University. I have lived in both France and Germany, where I laid down good conversational levels on top of sound academic knowledge of the languages.

I recently returned to university (Plymouth) as a definitely mature student to attain an MSc Psychology - with Merit.

I see a teacher as a facilitator and motivator. Students find me good at understanding the root of difficulties and at explaining things, patiently and with flexibility of approach. Teaching material depends on the student`s individual requirements. Basics can be taught and require the student`s application to learn them, but the learning `comes alive` when students try out and `manipulate` the particular features of the subject for themselves, whether it`s through written exercises or spoken exchange.
And for this, they need, as we all do, their confidence built up through clear and reinforced explanation, encouragement and praise.

I enjoy getting along with different people - and all ages are welcome! - and, more specifically, seeing students overcome stumbling blocks and `get it`. In other words: a `can do` environment.

I tutor at different times of the week. I tutor from home or, according to distance and the nature of the work, undertake some travel.

Just currently, my preference is to offer `quick boost` or shorter term tuition.

Trained firstly in Modern Foreign Languages, I have also taught EFL (English as a Foreign Language) - or ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) - in the UK and abroad.
I am familiar with state and independent schools, having taught French and German in both, up to and including A-Level.
I have kept up with more recent curricular and syllabus changes in a range of subject areas while seeing my children through school and onward to university, including preparation for some highly competitive higher education and career destinations. Latterly, in studying Psychology, which I now add to my tutoring `portfolio`, I have followed in two of my children`s footsteps! We discuss Psychology A LOT!

Certified in EFL, I have taught in a wide range of well-reputed language schools and in the FE and Adult Learning sectors. My varied experience includes preparation for most of the recognised exams and Academic as well as Business English.
I have been an IELTS examiner and conducted and assessed City & Guild exams.

I also offer French and German courses to adult learners who wish to make some preparation for work assignments or holidays, or to boost their general interest.
I have taught languages to staff and apprentices in businesses.
I have completed a 10-module foundation course (supported by Torquay Boys` Grammar School) in French for primary school children.

I offer tuition in Psychology up to GCSE.

Please note, I can also ably and empathetically assist with Basic (English) Skills and Adult Literacy.