I graduated from Birmingham University in 1991 with an upper second in Modern and Medieval History. I also have a law degree equivalent and a PGCE. I've been a history teacher since 1997 having retrained following a brief career as a lawyer; this gives me considerable experience particularly since I have at various times, taught students from age 10 all the way up to 18 although the main focus in the past decade has been GCSE's and A levels. I am currently living in Belize with my career diplomat wife which puts me 6 hours behind the UK, handily placed to give lessons during the evening in the UK.

I have a proven record of supporting students and colleagues to achieve stated goals and am an adaptable, intelligent and empathetic communicator. My most recent teaching experience was at St Helen’s, Northwood ( ) where I was a History Teacher and Head of Houses. I was part of a highly successful team at this leading girl’s independent school in London with a principal focus on GCSE and A Levels. Previously I was at North Bridge House Senior School ( ) where I was Head of History Department and Head of Year 10. I led a successful department with history being the most popular option subject chosen for GCSE with consistently good value-added results. I was also responsible for careers and work experience.

Throughout my career I have also tutored when asked by parents and friends and been an examination marker for Pearson (most recently June 2023).

An initial meeting can establish what you want to achieve and how we can make progress together from exam preparation and practice questions, deep background and contextual knowledge or learning for the sheer joy of it – it's up to you.

A typical lesson might have me introduce the topic which is nearly always accompanied by finding out what you, the student already know; people learn better when they are able to pin new knowledge onto old. We will then discuss the topic in greater depth. Once established we might look at where the learning fits in a wider context and what questions or issues arise. For example, if relating to an exam syllabus we will look at the types of questions that are typically asked and what methods might be used to answer effectively. There might be a task set that can be carried out after the lesson as well as resources and links to resources that allow the student to deepen their learning in their own time and at their own speed. The next session would begin with any feedback on tasks carried out by the learner.

My job is to work with you to establish what you want, to pitch my teaching at the right level, break down any barriers to learning and ensure progress.