Hayley
About Me
I graduated from Durham University in 2006 and went on to gain my PGDE from Edinburgh University. Since then, I’ve taught KS3 Science, IGCSE and IB/A-level Chemistry in the UK, China and Thailand. I’m an Edexcel A-level examiner and my IA marks are always in good agreement with the IBDP examiners’. I enjoy tutoring as it’s interesting to find out what works for individual learners and it’s rewarding to see results so quickly. Online tutoring is better than in-person tutoring in many ways; most of the visual material is online anyway, there are lots of free virtual labs and interactive quizzes, and every student has a folder of notes and model answers that is usually better organised than their school chemistry folder. Aside from online quizzes, it is also important to work on past paper questions so you are prepared for your exam, so you should expect some PPQs each lesson.
My teaching style
In short, I would describe my style as goal-focused but adaptable. I tailor my resources and questioning to suit individual learners’ needs and the demands of the course. Chemistry is the central science – there is a wide range of skills you must practice from mole calculations to organic reaction mechanisms, as well as definitions to memorise and new problems to solve. I observe all my students’ strengths, weaknesses and needs, and together we work to unlock your full potential. First, we build your understanding, practising written explanations and equations as we go (and often randomly in later lessons to keep it fresh) , then we get familiar with the full range of exam questions. You will gain confidence with every lesson, but you’ll notice that the questions become much easier when you know the whole course and we’re tying everything together with practice papers before your exams.
My past experience
I have taught in state schools in Scotland and England, and in international schools in China and Thailand. I have 13+ years’ experience with KS3 Science, GCSE triple science, and A-level and IBDP Chemistry.
My Proudest Achievements
As a teacher I see my students succeed in exams every year, and I’m always finding something to be impressed with in lessons. I often run various science fairs and science taster days (for those choosing their IGCSE subjects) and I always find it very rewarding both preparing students for their presentations and on the day to see students so engaged. I have also been able to integrate my passion for marine conservation and scuba diving into a few school programs with lessons on coral conservation.
I teach
- A-Level Re-take Tutor
- 13+ Tutors
- GCSE Re-take Tutor
- Oxbridge Interview
- TEFL
My Results and Achievements
- My students often receive level 7s in IBHL Chem
- I have completed both teaching workshops for IBDP
- Honours degree in Chem from Durham University
- PGDE from Edinburgh University
- Fully qualified and teaching for 16 years
- I'm familiar with IGCSE IB and A-level.