11+ Maths, 11+ Non Verbal and Verbal, ISEB Pretest, KS2 SATs Mathematics, NAT 4, 5 and Higher Mathematics Expert. Need academic support for your child? You just hit the jackpot!!

Find out more about Deborah

• 1.) When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  My interest in education and tutoring began as early as my secondary school days. I was always the classmate others came to when they didn’t understand a topic—and I enjoyed simplifying complex ideas in a way that made people go, “Oh, now I get it!” The excitement that came with helping someone gain confidence in their abilities stuck with me. This also influenced my decision to study education in the higher institution. After teaching both in classrooms and virtually, I found one-on-one sessions allowed me to connect deeply with each student’s learning style. That connection, and the opportunity to see real growth

• 2.) Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  I teach English, Mathematics, and Science across KS1, KS2, and KS3. What I enjoy most is helping students make connections between these subjects and their everyday lives. In English, I love exploring creative writing and comprehension—especially when students realize that storytelling isn’t just about grammar, but about their voice. In Maths, I enjoy topics like fractions, ratios, and word problems because they help build logic and problem-solving skills. And in Science, topics like the human body or simple chemistry always spark curiosity.
  I always aim to make even the “less loved” topics—like punctuation rules or long division—more fun and less intimidating. I believe every topic has a way in if we approach it with the right mindset.

• 3.) Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  Yes—my mum retired as a teacher. She never made anyone feel “less than” for asking questions, and her patience created a safe environment for all students. She didn’t just teach the curriculum—she taught me how to learn. That approach has stayed with me and influences how I teach today and who I will be remembered for tomorrow.

• 4.) What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  A good tutor is patient, adaptable, and empathetic. But a great tutor goes beyond delivering content—they listen, observe, and adjust their teaching to meet the student where they are.
  You need to be organised to track progress, creative to keep lessons engaging, and encouraging to build the student’s confidence. It’s not just about getting the answers right—it’s about helping the student believe they can.

• 5.) Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  One moment I’ll never forget was during a lesson with a student who had been struggling with reading comprehension. For weeks, we’d been working on inference and drawing meaning from context. Then one day, after reading a passage, he looked up and said, “Wait—I just figured it out before you asked the question!”
  It was a breakthrough moment for him—and for me. It reminded me that progress isn’t always loud or instant. Sometimes it’s the quiet “aha” moments that change everything.

• 6.) What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still face in your subject?

  One challenge I often see, especially in Maths and Science, is math anxiety or the fear of being wrong. Many students come in already convinced that they’re “not good at it.”
  As a tutor, part of my job is unlearning that mindset with them. It’s about helping them shift from “I can’t do this” to “I don’t understand it yet.” The emotional side of learning is often overlooked, but it’s just as important as the academic part.

• 7.) Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  I am passionate about simplifying learning—turning abstract concepts into real, relatable knowledge that sticks. I believe learning should feel achievable, not overwhelming.
  Beyond teaching itself, I also enjoy developing resources, lesson plans, and personalised strategies for different learning types. My passion lies in the process: helping students go from confusion to clarity and watching their confidence grow lesson by lesson.

• 8.) What makes you a Superprof?

  My dedication to each student’s individual journey. I bring patience, structure, and a passion for lifelong learning into every lesson. I’ve taught students from all over the world—each with different needs—and I tailor my lessons to suit their pace, goals, and learning style.
  But more than that, I care. I care about the small wins, the big breakthroughs, and everything in between. I don’t just teach; I partner with students and families to build a foundation that goes beyond the classroom.