Tutoring and Teaching

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WMH is pleased to be a Learning Partner with Tutors & Exams, a nationwide provider of examination and assessment facilities, conveniently with a centre in Wimbledon.  https://www.tutorsandexams.uk/our-learning-partners/wimbledon-music-hub/ (copy this link in a new browser to open)

Tutors & Exams provides examination and assessment facilities primarily aimed at private and home educated candidates. The company was established in 2014 by a former Examinations Officer and Awarding Organisation Manager with over 25 years’ experience in education administration. In the intervening years Tutors & Exams has evolved into a much valued and respected examination venue.   Click on this link for further information..https://www.tutorsandexams.uk/ (copy this link in a new browser to open)

Jo has taught A level for 30 years including OCR, Cambridge International and Cambridge Pre-U. Jo's results have been A* or A  at A level throughout her teaching career.  The most recent 3 years teaching have been 100% A* 

Jo has taught GCSE for 30 years, mainlyPearson Edexcel syllabus for GCSE but has also mentored students in AQA and IGCSE.  The results were all A* or A until the numerical system came in, and since then they have been 7-9, with the majority being A* and 9, next 8.  Composition coursework marks have always been 90% or more and Performance 95% more.  Jo has never had any marks altered for coursework compositions and performance, i.e. she always gets it spot on!

Jo has taught grade 5 Theory for 30+ years.  Lessons can be delivered face to face or online.  Jo is happy to teach earlier grades but usually finds that students can pick up theoretical skills jumping in at Grade 5 level.  She is also happy to teach Grade 6-8 Theory. The majority of Grade 5 theory results have all been distinctions a recent student scoring 73/75. 

Jo teaches private lessons in Piano and Violin.  First study Piano (LGRSM) and second study Violin with experience in teaching both of these instruments from beginner to grade 8.  All ages and standards are welcome.  The only thing that matters is that students spend enough time practising between lessons to make it worthwhile. Anyone can learn to become a decent player as long as they make the playing and practising part of their life - this means several times a week. Jo is very open-minded in her approach: from those who want to take exams to those who want to learn to play chords, either simple 4-chord songs or extended jazz-harmony. 

Jo is keen on teaching children to write their own music.  This includes song-writing, learning how to use music notation programmes such as Sibelius and Muse Scores.  Another popular aspect of composing is learning how to arrange pieces of music for groups to perform, for instance a cappella arrangements, duets and ensembles. Several of Jo's compositions have gone on to win National competitions, be awarded scholarships in music conservatoires and go on to be professional composers.  Jo has won National awards for her composition, has written hundreds of a cappella songs, hundreds of ensembles and more recently two symphonies!

Jo has a reputation for making learning fun!   Some student/parent comments: 

"Not all of us were born with the ability to compose two pieces worthy of a good mark at GCSE so it was amazing that under your watchful eye and real attention to detail, you made us all believe in ourselves. Absolutely brilliant that we had such fun on the journey and that our whole class  got A*s!"

"Without a doubt you are the teacher who has inspired me the most. I can't thank you enough for what you've done for me.  You're the reason I want to be a teacher."

“Only a few teachers stick out in the journey of education. I am sure you will be remembered by all.”

“Thoughtful, respectful teachers like her are gems, filled with passion. The hours she put in were extraordinary.”

“You are the teacher every teacher aspires to be, and to reach your standards of dedication and passion will always be my goal in this profession.”

“You are the teacher who she will talk to her grandchildren about!"

“Jo is the most talented, passionate teacher. She loves all aspects of teaching music, her dedication shines out to all. Her achievements are too many to list as are the bonds she has formed along the way. Anyone fortunate enough to have Jo as a teacher will get the best.”

“Even in the holidays, Sibelius files which we emailed to her always came back with copious notes on them with suggestions for tweaks or improvements.”

“She continually went the extra mile with all her interactions with the girls individually"

"Both of my daughters were taught by her with a wonderful combination of professionalism and inspiration. She applied the same patience and attention to the obviously talented students and the ones who were finding it more of a struggle.”

If you would like to ask any questions about tutoring in any of the above, please get in touch with Jo on wimbledonmusichub@gmail.com