I am an experienced A Level Sociology tutor, former Head of Sociology and AQA examiner. I also have a PhD in Sociology.

Teaching Experience

I taught Sociology for many years in secondary and grammar schools, and now specialise in helping students improve their subject knowledge, essay writing and exam performance.

Tutoring Approach

My tuition is focused, supportive and carefully tailored to the individual student. I work with each student to identify the areas they feel need attention and then guide them in developing the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. I have extensive experience of helping students prepare for exams and many have gone on to achieve A and A* grades.

I also have considerable experience working with students with additional educational needs, including dyslexia, ADHD and autism. My approach is patient, clear and structured. I aim to make difficult material feel manageable, while giving students practical methods they can use confidently in essays and exams.

The structure and content of lessons will depend upon the student’s needs and the purpose of the tuition. For students preparing for A Level exams, lessons are more closely focused on the exam specification, assessment objectives, mark schemes and the kind of writing needed for high level answers. The aim is not just to improve subject knowledge, but to help students understand how to use that knowledge effectively in exam conditions.

Where a student needs broader support, I may spend more time building confidence and securing the core knowledge of the course. Some students need help understanding sociological theories; others need more practice applying those theories to particular topics or exam questions. I adapt the work accordingly.

I also work with undergraduate students, particularly those who need help with essay planning, dissertation structure or academic writing. My own academic background includes a PhD in Sociology, so I am comfortable supporting students at a more advanced level.

Qualifications

PGCE Sociology

PGCE · University of London · 2006

PhD Sociology

Doctorate · Open University · 2005

MA Cultural Studies

Masters · Lancaster University · 1994

BA (Hons) Sociology

Bachelors · University of Kent · 1992

Reviews (11)

First Tutors

Karen is great with boys, patient and provides a structured program. Definitely recommend.

First Tutors

Karen has been extremely helpful with our daughter who is currently studying A Level sociology . She is patient and understanding to her needs . She also understands her difficulties in processing as she is autistic and accommodates the lesson accordingly. So far she is achieving above where she was before , our daughter is happy with the progress she is making . Karen is also flexible with the sessions and accommodating when we need to change at the last minute . I would definitely recommend her to others .

First Tutors

Karen is a fantastic tutor. She helped my son through his A level sociology and he did great in a subject he was struggling with before. She was patient, kind and gave a lot of extra help whenever needed. I would definitely recommend her.

First Tutors

Karen has been tutoring my son Milo in Sociology A-level for a year now, I have been incredibly impressed, she has as much passion for Milo to do well as I do as a parent! She is professional, reliable and engages well with Milo. Milo has had his school teacher leave mid A-level, and Karen has identified gaps in his learning and is still working hard with Milo on filling these. I would thoroughly recommend Karen as a tutor to anyone. Philippa

First Tutors

I am very pleased with Karen's tutoring. My son's confidence in the subject has improved. From the start he has said he understands Karen's teaching method.

First Tutors

Karen is very positive in her approach to the study of Sociology and professional in her areas of expertise. She provided guidance and direction with additional resources where appropriate. Claire has had benefit from her sessions with Karen and appreciated the support. We would recommend Karen.

First Tutors

My daughter has really benefited from Karen's approach. She had been struggling with managing her second year degree essays and Karen has helped her to think through what she wants to say. Her style is very positive and as a result my daughter is re-motivated and the quality of her work had improved.

First Tutors

Karen was an excellent tutor always on hand even on email to give me all the help I needed with my studies. With her help I achieved the results that I was hoping for. I would definately recommend Karen to any future students needing that little extra help.

First Tutors

Enthusiastic tutor who knows her subject very well. Gave our son a lot of support and information over a short period of time and also the confidence to hopefully fulfil his potential. Would definitely recommend to anyone.

First Tutors

Great session with concentrated feedback on exactly waht was needed.

Tutor Profile

Karen

Karen

Teaching Experience

Tutoring Approach

Qualifications

PGCE Sociology

PhD Sociology

MA Cultural Studies

BA (Hons) Sociology

Reviews (11)