A lifelong love of words, and twenty-five years of teaching them.
Having always loved learning, words, stories and how language works, I was drawn to a career teaching English and English Literature.
I have taught across state and independent, mixed, all-boys and all-girls schools, where my lessons were consistently rated outstanding. As Second in English and a Master Teacher, I wrote schemes of work for Key Stage 3, I/GCSE and A Level, and for fifteen years I set and marked entrance papers at The Harrodian and Roedean.
Since becoming a freelance tutor I have prepared students for entrance exams at Eton, Winchester, St Paul’s, Charterhouse, Cheltenham Ladies’ College and many more. Tutoring lets me focus on what I love: real progress, at the pace of each child.
I work hard to empower the student so that they can be their absolute best when it matters. Their success is my success.Tara Whiteson
Qualifications & experience
A full record, for parents who like to see the detail.
Teaching
Qualifications
From natural high-flyers to those who need a gentler start
Aiming for the top grades
Students targeting grade 9 / A* and places at highly selective schools.
International & EAL students
Many students from Europe, China and Hong Kong, adapting to the UK system.
Learners with SEND
Experience with dyslexia, ADHD, mutism and students on the autistic spectrum.
Home-educated students
Structured courses to I/GCSE for families educating at home.
What families say
“I couldn’t have asked for a better English tutor for my GCSE preparation. Tara was very kind, patient and always found the right ways in order to help me build real confidence going into my exams.”
“Thanks to her dedication and excellent teaching, my daughter’s understanding and confidence in English have improved significantly.”
“Tara is completely brilliant in every way. She has transformed my son’s attitude to English Literature. A gem.”
“Tara has been extraordinary! For someone who was struggling with English Language A level, Tara has given me the confidence and skills to develop and become successful.”
“Ben is in year 10 and had been struggling with English… Tara is the only tutor he’s had for anything that he doesn’t complain about having to do the sessions with! She has really helped rebuild his confidence.”
“Tara is an outstanding professional who gives incredible care and diligence to the work that she does.”