Patient, Knowledgeable and Committed Cambridge Tutor (English+Latin).

Howard M.

I was born in the north of England but spent a lot of my adult life in the south of England. I hold a Master’s Degree and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education from Cambridge University, UK and a Master’s Degree from London University. I have taught in the UK, Australia and now teach at a charter school in DC.

Having taught Latin, Ancient Greek and English (and done some tutoring) and been Faculty Head in a wide range of outstanding, supportive and rewarding schools both in Britain and Australia over 27 years, I have long held the following belief that there are three absolutely crucial qualities to being a great tutor/teacher. Firstly and crucially, a successful tutor/teacher builds strong, personal relationships with their students. If you get that right, then the student will more likely complete homework assignments, set goals and improve their general study skills and organizational strategies! Secondly, a successful tutor/teacher listens and communicates early and often with parents and teachers. Get that right and the student will more likely participate in class or in the tutorial and engage better with school and his/her learning! Thirdly (but just as important) successful tutors have specific content expertise. A truly successful tutor can make learning real, relevant and rigorous. If the tutor strives to get that right, then definitely the student’s academic achievement will soar!

Over the years I have taught in all kinds of schools, all size of classes, lots of informal lessons/ 'drop-in' refresher classes at recess, lunchtime or after school - and done some tutoring. I always strive to make lessons appropriately rigorous, challenging enough, but not so tough that students get frustrated and stop trying. All my colleagues and friends tell me that I am a very patient person with a really good sense of humor; those are essential qualities for a good tutor to have!

I have taught English language and literature in Grades 7 through 9. I am thorough, full of good ideas and always keen to discuss an