I teach English from 8-16 years, and also History of Art. I am a published children’s author, arts writer, interdisciplinary curator and a former magazine editor in London and Paris, taking on students (in person or online) for English (Creative & Directed Writing, English Literature, and Reading Comprehension for 11+, GCSE, IGCSE, or general improvement). I also offer History of Art classes for children (8+), A Level students, and adults, including optional museum visits, and Mindful Writing for adults. I believe that learning should also be about wellbeing.

I am offering special Summer tutoring classes in a quiet café (by special arrangement with the Richmond café), by the river in Richmond, or in Kew Gardens. I am also offering private tours of the Henry Moore "Monumental Nature" exhibition in Kew Gardens, where I lecture for Art Historical London.

Among my testimonials: "Your guidance, particularly with her writing, has made such a positive difference. You always encouraged Elaine to be imaginative and creative in her writing, and helped her develop the confidence to express her own ideas. I especially appreciated how you encouraged her to combine her knowledge and her love of music in her writing, which really helped her develop a unique style and enjoy the process more." (First Tutors, May 2026)

I am an MA graduate in History of Art (studying with Professor Martin Kemp, Emeritus Professor at Oxford and a world authority on Leonardo da Vinci), and also studied English Literature and Music as part of my degree, achieving Distinction. I am now an independent, published arts writer and exhibitions curator, working with art, architecture, design, poetry and music; and a part-time tutor, which I love doing very much. Both English and History of Art are wonderful subjects that train young people to be precise and analytical, but also visual, sensory, creative and imaginative thinkers for the future.

My experience and success as an author myself brings an original approach to English tutoring that is not formulaic. In 2005-10, I co-authored two books on China: one, a childhood memoir with recipes, “Music, Food & Love” (Little, Brown), telling the story of musicians before and during the Cultural Revolution; and the second, an award-winning children’s illustrated novel called “Little Leap Forward: A Boy in Beijing” (Barefoot Books UK & US), inspired by the childhood of musician & composer Guo Yue. It was awarded a Gold Medal by the Junior Library Guild in 2008. I was also a participating author in The Children’s Bookshow, 2009-19, giving theatre performances and workshops to children (7-12 years) all over the UK.

Both of my subjects, English and Art History, can also contribute greatly to wellbeing, and I am offering new classes in “Mindful and Creative Writing” for adults, in which you learn to observe and document in detail, with all the senses, in different settings and in small groups or individually. As a mindful process in its own right, it can be calming and healing, improving memory; or as part of the fiction-writing process, it will make you a better successful writer.

English Tutoring: In parallel with my exhibitions work and writing, I have taught Literature and Creative Writing in theatres and schools around the UK, through The Children's Bookshow from 2009-19, and with organisations including Chelsea Young Writers, from 2018. I have an author's insight reading comprehension and how to find your own voice in creative writing, using all the senses and learning the art of authentic description. Words and images are the driving force in my life. My select number of pupils always achieve their goals and a recent student as awarded a place at the most famous, top London girls school.

History of Art Tutoring: My History of Art classes range from “An Introduction to Art History” for those of any age (adapted to different ages) up to A Level. Some classes can be conducted in museums, looking at artworks in person.

I have specialised in both the Italian Renaissance and Modern & Contemporary Art, Architecture & Design, with first-hand experience of working closely with some of the leading international artists and theorists of the last 20 years. Through my magazine and curatorial work, I have lectured and hosted talk events at internationally respected museums, galleries and colleges, including the National Portrait Gallery in London, the V&A during London Design Festival, Somerset House during London Design Biennale, Royal College of Art, and Roca London & Barcelona Galleries. I bring all of this knowledge and expertise to my Art History teaching.

My approach for both English and History of Art is creative, warm and inspiring, but also precise, academic and detailed. Depending on the goals, I am happy to tailor the teaching to particular exams, or for more general knowledge and enjoyment. The mindful writing practice can encompass both subjects, and is also very healing.

In my one-to-one “Introduction to Art History” classes (8+ years), I also include elements of practical art. Testimonials are available.

I can help with the foundations of writing, including handwriting, spelling and grammar, but a certain level of writing and understanding is required in order to be creative. This is the same in any art form. Writing – like drawing – is a craft involving technical skills. I believe that everyone can learn to write creatively, with the right help.

11+ English: An hour-long class will focus alternately on Reading Comprehension (Prose and Poetry) and Writing (Creative and Factual), unless you wish to focus only on creative writing. I am also happy to offer an assessment of reading and writing first, and practice classes for 11+ interviews, if this fits into my work schedule.

GCSE & IGCSE English (all papers): An hour-long or 90 minute class, which I mostly teach in a quiet café environment (which teenage students respond well to) focuses intensively on the syllabus and practice papers, achieving levels of excellence and original creativity.

Art History: I vary my teaching of Art History in accordance with the goals. “An Introduction to Art History” for children (8-12 years) includes a brief history from ancient times, but then focusses mainly on 20th-century art, which I find children most respond to, with their own art practice too. The one-hour class (for individuals or a small group) is 30 mins looking at a visual presentation and discussion, and 30 mins on practical art, which is the right balance. Mostly, each class will focus on one artist at a time, with an accompanying pdf document to build up into a collection.

For A level Art History students, the syllabus modules will be followed, together with writing and analytical technique. This is a subject that can be approached from many different angles and encompasses a number of fascinating subjects, from history and fine art practice, to philosophy and psychology, touching on other disciplines such as science and music too. I have worked with many of the leading artists of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, and the insight I have gained is something that I share with my small number of students, to stand out and shine brightly in this wonderful subject.

For adults, the classes are mindful and bespoke, depending on your particular interests. Visits to museums, galleries and artist studios can be integrated into the class, and small groups considered.