Patrick Flynn - Private Tutor in Northwest London
I am a Cambridge University graduate who graduated with a First Class BA & MSci in Natural Sciences, working as a tutor while I train to become a therapist. I achieved 6 A* A-levels, came 7th of 610 in 1st year Natural Sciences, then was ranked top of the year in my chosen specialty of Materials Science in 2nd year. Realising that the process of learning and development mattered more to me than the content itself, I pivoted away from a career in science to one of teaching and ultimately therapy.
I have 5+ years experience with students aged 4-21, including SEN, in a range of subjects including Math, Physics, Materials Science, English, EFL, entrance exams and even swimming. In my tutoring I specialise in confidence, motivation and exam mindset preparation, and I prioritise deep conceptual understanding over rote memorisation. My lively style is engaging and fosters good relationships with students.
As a training therapist I use my skills to assess the individual needs of every student to create a style and learning plan that works best for them.
Subjects I Teach
- Chemistry
- Entrance Exams
- Mathematics
- Oxbridge Interviews
- Physics
My Education & Qualifications
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University of Cambridge, 2015 – 2016
Materials Science (MSci): 2:1 -
University of Cambridge, 2012 – 2015
Natural Sciences (Physical) (BA): 1st -
School: St Bernard's Catholic Grammar School
Grammar school in Slough 6 A* A-levels in Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Latin and General Studies National Champion of Mock Trial Court Reporter Competition
My Tutoring & Teaching Experience
My start in teaching came when I was 13, when I began volunteering with a charity teaching children with learning difficulties how to swim. I loved the process of meeting children where they were, whatever their ability, working out exactly what their needs were and communicating in just the right way for them to see improvements in themselves. Over 5 years I honed my style as a coach, found more work, got qualified, and worked with ages 4-21 with and without learning difficulties. As I moved into A-level and beyond, I began to apply those skills to help students academically as well, from SEN literacy support to Cambridge admission and university tutoring.
I have tutored maths, physics and chemistry up to A-level, including classroom Year 9 chemistry, English as SEN literacy support and as a foreign language, and entrance exams including 11+, 13+, 16+, common entrance and Oxbridge interviews. I have taught many students from countries such as China and Japan, working with language skills, not just technical content.
My Approach to Tutoring
My style is heavily influenced by my coaching background. I put students in the driver seat, helping them get a sense of what it's like to do the subject, not just listen to it, and so gain a deeper understanding. I'm skills based, and I like to guide students through a problem with successive questions rather than just feed them information. I simplify topics to match a student's current ability. My lessons are very active. My lively, enthusiastic style is engaging and fosters good relationships with students.
Importantly, using my specialist skills as I train to be a therapist, I assess the individual needs of every student to create a highly personalised learning experience. Emotions are very welcome in my teaching space. I'm particularly good with the emotional processes behind confidence, motivation and exam mindset, developing the internal skills and feedback I used to achieve my top level results. My favourite thing is seeing that moment when a student's eyes light up when they finally get something or they feel enthusiastic about a subject.
With my diverse teaching background and personal therapy skills, I have developed an ability to be completely flexible. I take the student that's in front of me and work out a way to realise their maximum potential. When working with students who are struggling more, I get creative when developing ways to engage with the subject, and I help explore any issues surrounding stress or self esteem that might be lying in the way of achieving their best.
Fun Facts About Me
I am a keen violinist (Grade 8 level), with extensive experience in Cambridge’s classical and musical theatre orchestras. Since graduating I’ve played with London Musical Theatre Orchestra, Pico Players (London) and Brooklyn Conservatory Community Orchestra (New York). I love all sorts of music and drama, regularly attending concerts and shows when possible.
I was a swimmer growing up, reaching Age Group National level. I love Olympic sports, and my style of learning and coaching is heavily influenced by my athletic background.
Outside of hobbies, my main interest is psychology and emotional health. I am a thorough diarist, and I think about how our emotional lives express themselves in society. I love thinking about politics, public speaking, even TV and fashion through that lens. Another big interest is logic puzzles, with which I am weirdly obsessed!
My Client Testimonials
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GCSE Combined Science
"Our daughter was predicted a grade 5 and a grade 6 (double science), and went on to achieve two grade 8s. Our son was predicted two grade 5s and he achieved a grade 7 and a grade 8 in the final exam. There is no doubt at all that Patrick’s excellent teaching contributed to both sets of results." -
Common Entrance
"Patrick is a highly gifted and motivating tutor. He is extremely patient, he knows exactly what needs to be done and sets about doing it in an engaging and fun way. Both our children have benefited enormously from their lessons with him. We would strongly recommend him to anyone looking for a tutor." -
GCSE Maths & Physics
"Our son thoroughly enjoyed his lessons. He’s back to his old self already, going on about physics this, and maths that. I wish you could see him, the glint has returned to his eyes. Our son looks relaxed, confident. Where were you two years ago?!"
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Otherwise, you can read about our tutor selection criteria, or read about Wentworth Education's philosophy and approach in a letter to parents from Dr Katherine Wiles, our Founder. You can also see more tutor profiles on our tutors listing page, where you can filter by subject.
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