37387163
My name is Fiona,
I have been teaching English for over 20 years. In that time I have seen many, many students grow and flourish under my guidance. I have taught in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire in a variety of highly academic and more socially challenging schools. For over 10 of my 20 years in the profession I held a senior position as Head of English in two schools. I have overseen many changes to the Scottish Curriculum including 5-14; National Qualifications; Higher Still; and now ACfE. But, what I am certain of, is that pupils' needs and desires stay the same - to do well in English and to enjoy what they are learning. To me, this is one of the most important and enjoyable parts of my job and is one reason why I have since given up my managerial role and gone back to focusing on the dynamics of the classroom environment.
On a more selfish note, my new part time teaching position will also allow me to follow my dream of becoming a writer. I recently gained a Masters in Creative Writing from Glasgow University and am already half way through my first novel! By design, I knew my teaching career could also benefit from these new writing skills - particularly in light of the new Writing folio for Higher English and the emphasis now put on creative writing lower down the school for ACfE.
If that wasn't enough to keep me going - I also have two wonderful children who are both reaching that secondary school phase themselves. This gives me a further insight into the stresses and joys of teenage life and what it takes to be successful academically these days.
My hobbies include swimming, cycling and dog walking/running. I am obviously an avid reader of adult and teenage fiction and non-fiction; and can class myself as a bit of a film buff who loves teaching media as well as literature in school.
I have been tutoring on and off for a number of years and have always enjoyed the one-to-one approach. I find the more personal teaching a rewarding experience where I feel the highs of success when every one of my students attains their excellent exam results. I look forward to hearing from any future new students soon!
