Libby S.

I have recently retired as a Teaching and Learning coach; helping other teachers improve their teaching. I taught A level Biology at an academic 6th form college for over 20 years. I was the Curriculum Manager for Biology for 15 years, and I developed resources to ensure my students were successful and our college's Biology results were in the top 25% nationally. I have been an A level Biology examiner for a number of years. At the college, I was also the Extended Project Co-ordinator, leading a team of supervisors to guide our students to achieve outstanding results. I have been a personal tutor for over 25 years as well; supporting hundreds of students with their University applications, including those applying to Medicine, Veterinary Science and Oxbridge. Prior to working at the college, I taught GCSE science at a 11-16 comprehensive school for 4 years. I also worked as a research scientist for 5 years; genetically engineering plants to produce a bio-degradable plastic.

I am a naturally friendly and helpful teacher, and an enthusiastic Biologist. I enjoy working 121 with students; supporting them with the Biological aspects they are struggling with. I develop students' understanding, step by step, often by building up diagrams, so they can visualise a process. I try to give hints, so students are able to work out something for themselves, and I find those "the penny has dropped" moments, very rewarding. I am not a natural mathematician, so I have a good understanding of why students can find exam question calculations difficult, and so I can provide simple steps and strategies to build a student's mathematical confidence. I often use analogies, mnemonics and stories to help students to remember the vast A level Biology content. I also give hints and tips on how to approach exam questions, so students can build confidence in their exam technique.