Ex-Lecturer of International Medical University (IMU), Full time Chemistry and Physics Tutor

Find out more about Kenny

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

  Since my final year of university in 2002, I started teaching small groups and working in tuition centres. I enjoyed teaching and playing with the kids, watching them grow and improve in their studies. Seeing their progress made me feel happy and fulfilled. Over time, I also gained experience teaching at a private medical university (IMU), which deepened my passion for education and one-on-one tutoring.

• 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 Chemistry and Physics, with Chemistry being my strongest subject. I’ve loved science since my SPM years — I was always curious to understand how things work and how scientific knowledge can be applied to real life. I enjoy discussing topics that involve logical thinking and problem-solving, as science often provides clear and rational explanations for the world around us.

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

  I’ve always admired teachers who truly put in effort to help their students — those who encourage, explain clearly, and stay organised. I was inspired by teachers who genuinely cared about their students’ understanding and success. Their dedication and ability to help every student do well in the subject motivated me to become that kind of teacher myself.

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

  A good tutor respects their students, understands their individual needs, and supports them in every way possible. It’s important to use the right teaching techniques, ensuring that students truly grasp the material rather than just being taught. Patience, adaptability, and clear communication are also essential qualities for helping students succeed.

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

  I once had students who struggled with their grades and couldn’t keep up with the pace of their school teachers. They were close to giving up on the subject. I adapted my teaching style to suit them — providing simple notes, using videos, encouraging them to make colourful notes, and even adding small rewards like stickers or gifts for improvement in their exams. Over time, they not only improved academically but also developed a genuine interest in the subject. Seeing them enjoy learning and gain confidence was incredibly rewarding.

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or are still facing in your subject?

  One of the challenges I sometimes face is working with students who are less motivated or who attend tuition mainly because of their parents’ encouragement. There can occasionally be a gap between the expectations of parents, students, and tutors. In addition, some students tend to cancel or reschedule lessons frequently, or attend based on their mood, which can affect learning consistency. In such cases, I focus on building trust and understanding with both the student and the parent, while encouraging better commitment and self-discipline. However, if a student shows no willingness to learn even after several attempts to motivate them, I may decide to discontinue the lessons so that my time and energy can be better spent helping students who are truly ready to improve.

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

  My passion is tutoring. I take satisfaction in guiding students to understand complex concepts, gain confidence, and achieve strong academic results. It is rewarding to see their improvement, whether in class performance, IGCSE or A Level examinations, or university admissions. With experience in the chemical industry, tertiary education at IMU, and a research background, I have explored various aspects of my field. However, I discovered that my true passion lies in teaching, as it allows me to make a meaningful impact on students’ learning and development.

• What makes you a Superprof?

  I have over 20 years of experience in tutoring, and I am very familiar with the CIE IGCSE and A Level syllabuses. My notes are simple, exam-oriented, and tailored to help students understand key concepts efficiently. I adopt an interactive teaching style, keeping lessons engaging and far from boring. I also analyse students’ homework to identify their weaknesses and guide them through effective exam techniques and answering skills. I am well-versed in exam formats and enjoy discussing challenging questions with students to deepen their understanding. Over the years, my students have consistently given me positive feedback and reviews, reflecting my commitment to helping them succeed.