I'm a patient, dedicated and passionate tutor. I have also worked in professional journalism as a writer and producer, as a book editor and in human rights advocacy. I am also an experienced youth facilitator and workshop leader.
- Which subject(s) do you teach?
English (language & literature,) history and politics.
- Tell me about your qualifications.
I have a first class honours degree in Politics & International Development from SOAS, University of London. As an interdisciplinary degree this involved elements of all the subjects in which I now tutor, so I have the knowledge and experience to prepare students for higher education as well as exams and coursework.
I am also aware that because every student is unique, the ability to listen for input from both the students and parent(s)/guardians is an essential quality for educators. When I take on a new student, I am always keen to meet with the parent/guardian in advance to learn from you their needs and work in a collaborative way to ensure those needs are met.
- How much do you charge?
My standard charge is £30 - £45, depending on distance, topic and subject level. I will offer reduced price lessons for unwaged or low income students, subject to verbal consultation.
- Where do you teach?
I teach via Skype or at the student's home. Based in Walthamstow, I am happy to travel to most parts of London, including but not limited to: Camden, Greenwich, Hackney, Hammersmith, Islington, Kensington and Chelsea, Lambeth, Lewisham, Southwark, Tower Hamlets, Wandsworth, Westminster, Barking, Barnet, Ealing, Haringey, Waltham Forest and Richmond upon Thames.
- When are you available?
My availability is flexible and I am available throughout the week for tutoring as late as 8pm. I will also be available during school holidays i.e. Christmas and summer as well as half terms holidays.
- Which ages and levels do you teach?
I teach students over the age of nine and with a range of learning styles.
I can teach English, politics, history, religious studies and philosophy up to A-level.
- Which qualifications do you prepare your students for?
Key Stage 3, GCSE, A-level and BA undergraduates.
- Describe your arrangements for online tutoring.
Please discuss this with me and we can arrange video calls via Skype.
- Do you have a personal message for students?
I am passionate about teaching and working with young people and believe that if you find yourself bored in a particular class - or struggling to keep up - it's because you're not being given the support you deserve. That can be very difficult in a big class - but in private tuition, we'll have the freedom to figure out how help you flourish.
My first responsibility is to listen to you, the student - as well as your parents, guardians or teachers - and to understand your needs. We will work as a team to figure out what learning style suits you best and organise our lessons based on that.
My approach is very participatory and student-centered, and you will regularly have the chance to give feedback on what does or doesn't work for you. I will do my best to make sure that your confidence and interest in the subject rises with your grades and will be there to support you through stressful times like coursework or exams.
I also believe there is no such thing as a stupid question - we will create a safe, inspiring and engaging space where you can explore your ideas and succeed!
- What kind of experience do you have?
In addition to my university degree, I achieved straight A's in my own A-levels studying English, Politics, Religious Studies and History. As I went through my own education I often tutored younger students in English and humanities, leading study groups at university. As the eldest in my family, I began to learn the skills of teaching and mentoring at an early age. Since graduating from university I have worked with students with a range of academic abilities and learning styles, supporting them through both coursework and exam periods.
I feel confident both working with students who find the subject particularly challenging and creating an engaging environment for those with a passion for the topic and desire to move beyond the curriculum. I am also an experienced facilitator and workshop leader, having created and led workshops on a range of critical subjects and citizen journalism courses for young adults.
- Do you have an up-to-date DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service, formerly CRB) Certificate?
Yes - available on request
- Do you belong to any professional organisations?
National Union of Journalists
• 1st Class BA Politics & International Development Studies
• Experienced tutor, mentor and workshop leader
• DBS check available on request
• National Union of Journalists
“While Marienna was tutoring me through A-level politics I discovered such a passion for the subject that I'm now studying it at Southampton University. She was so supportive and really helped me to think critically for myself. As well as providing support for coursework and exam revision, she was with me every step of the way through the process of applying for university. I'll always be grateful, she helped set the course for my whole career.
“I highly recommend Marienna as an English tutor. Nathan was struggling with KS3 English when I reached out for tutoring. I was immediately impressed by her approach, by how much she listened to me as well as the dedication she showed my son. What I was able to tell her about his learning style and challenges at school became a core part of her approach as a tutor and her passion for the subject really brought it to life for him. His grades are improving - and so his his attitude!
I needed public speaking training for an inter-collegiate competition with our debating society. I loved debate but once there was an audience I'd lose my voice - sometimes literally! In just a couple of sessions Marienna was able to get at the root of that and help me overcome that fear. We did lots of body work, lots of laughing. I learned stress-management techniques I've also found really useful in job interviews since. And she came to support me on the day which meant a lot.
history lessons closeby? Here's a selection of tutor listings that you can check out.
Superprof can also suggest politics lessons to help you.
Learning isn't a problem, journalism lessons for all!
| at her home | at your home | By webcam | |
| 1 hour | £40 | £40 | £40 |