English Language and Literature GCSE, A-Level, IB taught by a full-time private tutor with 10+ yrs experience

Find out more about Hazal

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

  It was almost pre-written that I would study something to do with literature, for I was always exposed to dinner-table talks where the works of Beckett, Beauvoir, or Dostoyevsky would adorn the conversation. Further, my parents' social circle comprised poets, journalists, activists, and intellectuals, so I grew up amidst heated political debates and enjoyment of exploring ideas through reading and writing. Therefore, it was inevitable that I would study literature and pursue the perpetual craving I was conditioned to harbour.
  
  During my BA studies, I focused on exploring and developing my narrative voice without a specific plan for the future. However, in my third year in 2011, family friends and relatives began requesting English lessons for their primary school aged children and those taking GCSEs. After graduating in the summer of 2012, I accepted my first job as an English teacher at a private school, while continuing to tutor on the side.
  
  As my client network expanded over the years, I gained more independence and experience, ultimately leading me to transition into a full-time private tutor. My vocation as a private tutor flourished, and I embraced this new path wholeheartedly.

• Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  With a decade of experience in the realm of education, I have had the privilege of guiding students across a wide spectrum of academic stages, from primary school through to university and beyond. My expertise encompasses 7+ to 16+ entrance and scholarship exams, as well as interview preparation, with my students securing placements at leading schools across London and England.
  
  Although my primary focus lies in English, I am also well-versed in teaching humanities subjects such as Art History and Philosophy, preparing students for GCSE, A-Level, and IB examinations. Having read Comparative Literature and Philosophy at the postgraduate level, I offer support for university entrance exams like LNAT and ELAT and assist degree-level students with research and dissertation writing.
  
  My research interests gravitate towards stream of consciousness narratives, nonlinearity, and the utilisation of oral literature as a form of resistance. I am particularly intrigued by themes of mental imprisonment, identity, and displacement. Engaging with literature intertwined with philosophical thought, I am passionate about discussing the works of authors such as Woolf, Nietzsche, Kafka, Beckett, and Adorno. By sharing my enthusiasm for these subjects with my students, I aim to inspire curiosity and a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of human experience.

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

  Several teachers have left an indelible mark on my intellectual development over the course of my academic journey. Firstly, my English tutor during primary school laid the foundation. Later, at university, I encountered a professor who skilfully unveiled the intricate worlds of Dante and Blake, while another captivated me with their academic pursuits centred around luminaries such as Virginia Woolf, Eleanor Marx, and Sylvia Plath.

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

  As a seasoned tutor, I believe several qualities are essential for success in this role. Firstly, a deep understanding of the subject matter and the ability to adapt to different curricula and exam requirements is crucial. This expertise allows tutors to provide tailored instruction that caters to each student’s unique needs.
  
  Secondly, patience and empathy are vital for creating a supportive learning environment. A good tutor must be able to gauge a student’s comprehension level and adjust their teaching style accordingly, ensuring that the student feels comfortable asking questions and expressing any concerns.
  
  Communication skills are also of paramount importance, as a tutor must be able to convey complex concepts in a clear and accessible manner. By breaking down complex ideas into digestible components, a tutor can facilitate a more profound understanding of the subject matter.
  
  Furthermore, a good tutor should be genuinely passionate about teaching and dedicated to their students’ success. This enthusiasm is infectious and helps inspire students to remain engaged and motivated throughout the learning process.
  
  Lastly, a successful tutor should continuously refine their teaching methodologies, staying informed of the latest educational trends and incorporating innovative techniques to ensure their students receive the best possible preparation for their exams and future academic endeavours.

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

  During a particularly trying period in my personal life, my teachers offered a listening ear and sage advice, demonstrating genuine concern for my well-being. This act of compassion and mentorship had a profound effect on me, fostering a sense of resilience and perseverance that I would carry with me throughout my academic and professional pursuits.
  
  This valuable anecdote from my school days serves as a testament to the transformative power of dedicated teachers, who not only shape our intellectual growth but also provide guidance and support during life's inevitable challenges.

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

  Throughout my tenure as an English tutor, I have encountered various challenges that have contributed to my growth as an educator. One of the most significant difficulties lies in catering to the diverse learning styles and unique needs of each student. Ensuring that my teaching methodologies resonate with every individual requires a great deal of adaptability, patience, and keen observation.
  
  Another challenge I have faced is navigating the constantly evolving curricula and examination requirements, particularly as educational institutions refine their expectations and assessment criteria. Staying up-to-date with these changes necessitates continuous professional development, dedication, and a willingness to modify my approach as needed.
  
  Additionally, fostering a supportive learning environment that encourages students to take risks and engage in open dialogue can be challenging, particularly when working with students who may have experienced academic setbacks or a lack of confidence in their abilities. Cultivating an atmosphere of trust and reassurance is crucial in helping students overcome these barriers and unlock their full potential.
  
  Despite these challenges, I remain committed to honing my craft as an educator, embracing the learning opportunities that arise from these difficulties, and striving to provide my students with the best possible educational experience.

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

  My passion for education, literature, and the humanities is complemented by my enthusiasm for working as a translator. This additional facet of my professional life allows me to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps, facilitating the exchange of ideas and fostering a greater understanding between diverse groups of people.
  
  The art of translation not only demands linguistic proficiency but also requires a deep appreciation for the nuances, subtleties, and cultural contexts embedded within the source material. This challenge excites me, as it enables me to draw upon my knowledge of literature and the humanities to accurately convey the author's intentions and evoke the desired emotions in the target audience.
  
  In my teaching practice, my experience as a translator enriches the learning experience for my students. By sharing insights into the translation process and the complexities of cross-cultural communication, I encourage them to approach texts from different perspectives and consider the multifaceted layers of meaning at play.

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

  I bring a wealth of expertise, empathy, and passion to my teaching, which enables me to cater effectively to each student's unique needs. I strive to create an open and supportive learning environment, fostering strong rapport and igniting students' curiosity. Acting as a mentor, I provide emotional support alongside academic guidance, and my commitment to lifelong learning ensures the most up-to-date and effective teaching methods. The tangible results my students achieve, such as securing places at top schools and improved exam performance, are a testament to my success as a tutor.