Tutoring Biology - Ruth Brett

GCSE and A Level Biology Teaching Qualifications and Experience

Studying Biology at GCSE and A Level allows students to understand the living world around us and within us. It offers insights into the fundamental processes that sustain life, from the cellular level to complex ecosystems. By exploring topics such as genetics, evolution, and human physiology, students gain a deeper appreciation of how life functions and adapts. Biology not only satisfies curiosity about our own bodies and the natural world but also equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills that are valuable in various careers and everyday life.

The problem with Biology for many people is not the subject, people love the subject but the problem is that there is so much content to learn and the mark schemes are so specific that even when people know the right answer, they miss out on marks because they cannot explain it in the right way. That is where I come in. I can help you break down the content to help you remember it and understand how to jump through the hoops to gain maximum marks and achieve the best outcomes.   

My experience as Head of Biology for over 10 Years at Alleyn’s school, one of the most prestigious private schools in London, and as a teacher for 17 years means that I am uniquely placed to help support students reach their potential through their GCSEs and A levels. When students achieve the highest grades, it allows them to secure their places at top universities including Oxford and Cambridge, and I have helped hundreds of students to gain access to these during my time in the classroom.  My knowledge of the nuances of the various exam board specifications is so deep having examined for GCSE and A level AQA as well as taught A level AQA, OCR and Edexcel.

My Degree in Neuroscience from the University of Nottingham has meant that I am aware how different brains develop and most importantly, the cognitive science behind how we learn, retain and recall the complex knowledge needed to achieve the top grades in examinations.  I not only understand the importance of adapting my support depending on different students’ needs, but my tutoring style teaches students the metacognition they need to understand how to better revise themselves in the future.

I have decided to focus more on tutoring to allow more flexibility in my work and to be able to spend more time with my two young children and support my husband who is Headteacher at one of the best state schools in London.