About Dr Allen
I have a joint honours degree in English and Classics, and also a PhD in English.
As a private tutor, I have taught English language and literature to pupils at school, college and university students. I also help pupils with UCAS Personal Statements.
I primarily tutor GCSE, AS/A Level and IB English. I have a thorough knowledge of the current set texts, and am able to work within the criteria set by most of the exam boards. I also teach undergraduate and graduate academic writing - essays and dissertations.
I offer online and home (yours) tuition weekdays and most weekends.
My teaching approach is never to make assumptions about my students, at any point that we are working together. I am constantly adapting to their needs, making the necessary changes as we go along, according to what is required at any given time. One-to-one tutoring is an opportunity to tailor teaching to the needs and nature of the learner; a scheme of work for each student is designed and then subsequently modified, as needs advance.
At the core of achievement in English is developing a certain lack of fear about oftentimes complex material for the learner. Once I have helped build this confidence, it is a natural progression to teach the pupil a disciplined, rigorous and practical response to their work. I frame the study of English as an academic subject in order to expand student understanding in line with the relevant syllabus. This solid, structured learning lifts the student to be able to respond to the demands of assessments – homework, essays, exams, and re-sits.
My intention is to teach each individual pupil the right attitude and tools to enable them to distinguish themselves to their highest level.
I obtained a BA in English and Classics (joint honours) at Keele University. I went on to write a PhD on the American novelist Henry James at Royal Holloway, London University. My experience as both a lecturer and private tutor began during those PhD years. I was also an exam marker for various undergraduate English courses for London University. Another role I had was to be part of the entrance and interview process for the English department at Royal Holloway.
Please do get in touch to ask questions, to arrange an initial consultation, or to find out availability.
07967 030199