Qualified English Language Tutor with experience in IELTS and TOEIC preparation. Experience in the I.T. and Retail industries with global companies.

Find out more about Kevin

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

  My journey to becoming an English Language Tutor was a long one. I previously worked in the Information Technology sector but decided that I wanted to change careers. Initially, I studied Psychology and I became aware that I wanted to help people in some way. When Covid began, I decided to switch to studying the English language as I have always been an avid reader and very interested in communication. I've been a private tutor for nearly two years now and have met some great people along the way.

• 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'm an English Language Tutor. I enjoy discussing such topics as sports, music, exercise, travel, and reading with my students but I have discussed a huge amount of additional topics as well. The variety of my discussions and the different people that I meet are a highlight for me as a Tutor.

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

  Unfortunately, none of my teachers were very inspiring. I think I am motivated to be a good teacher because of this. I try to make classes interesting and I ensure that my students are provided with an encouraging and productive environment in which they can thrive.

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

  I think that you need to be patient and kind to be a good tutor. You need to encourage the students and a sense of humour is also important. I'm currently learning Turkish and I think this really helps me to understand the difficulties that my students may be facing when they are learning a new language.

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

  Many of my students speak negatively when they are speaking about their English skills and knowledge. They say things such as " My English is terrible" or "I can't speak English very well." Often, when I speak to them, I realise that these statements are not true. Many students speak quite well but just need some help from a good Tutor to clean up their mistakes. I encourage students to speak more positively about themselves. If they follow this advice, then their confidence grows.

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

  I'm lucky in that I enjoy tutoring and any challenges that I face don't tend to be very serious. Occasionally a student will frustrate me with their attitude. Sometimes I have to ask a student if they are feeling alright and often they will tell me why they are feeling unmotivated. It often has nothing to do with my lessons and it may be that the student is going through a difficult time at work or at home. Once I become aware of their reasons, I can understand them better and the situation usually improves.

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

  I have a passion for teaching people and helping people in general. I also am passionate about music, exercise, and football. I have managed football teams on a voluntary basis and really enjoyed helping the players to improve their knowledge and skills.

• What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions :-P) ?

  I'm a Superprof because I love tutoring and making a difference in people's lives. I enjoy meeting new people and helping them on their English language journey. I'm looking forward to meeting many more people on Superprof!