Qualified English Teacher, Examiner & UK Boarding School Transition Specialist | GCSE, A Level & Common Entrance Preparation

Find out more about Delaney

• 1. When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  I have always loved reading. My sister used to hide my books during our summer holidays so I would spend time with her instead of reading. That love continued to grow as I studied literature in both secondary school and university. I then became an English teacher to share my love, and it felt natural to become a tutor to help people feel confident in the subject I love.

• 2. Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  English literature was my first love, but I've become very fond of teaching English language now, as well. One thing I love about the subject is that there is no real right or wrong answer, it's all about how you argue your point. The ambiguity of that excites me. I really love studying novels and poetry, but I'll admit that I find Shakespeare difficult too! It makes more patience, but Shakespeare is really fun to read once you get to grips with it.

• 3. Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  My secondary school English teacher was my biggest inspiration. She was so cool! I wasn't very good at English back then, but she helped me so much and I wouldn't be the teacher I am today without her!

• 4. What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  I think to be a good tutor you need to be patient and kind. It's usually a one-to-one situation and that can be intimidating if you don't feel safe in the environment. My goal is to always make you feel like you can try out ideas without being worried if they sound silly or wrong. I think a good tutor is also someone who can make difficult things seem simple and clear.

• 5. Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  This isn't one particular story, but some of my fondest memories of teaching and tutoring English are seeing the 'light-bulb' moment with students. I had a student once who categorically HATED reading. That was the first thing he said to me. After a few sessions in the library, I remember the first time he seemed interested in a book and then a few sessions later when he was upset we had to stop and go to the next lesson. Moments like that make it all worth it!

• 6. What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still face in your subject?

  English as a subject suffers from the unfortunate focus on exams. GCSE and A-Levels are important, for sure, but I hope in my sessions I can help you prepare for those requirements while also developing an interest and enjoyment of stories and texts.

• 7. Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  Reading is probably my particular passion. I wish I could read faster so I could read more books! There are so many books and stories out there that I could spend the rest of my life reading and still not learn everything.

• 8. What makes you a Superprof?

  I think I'm a Superprof because I genuinely care about my students, their well-being, and their progress. I am always willing to work with you to help you achieve your goals!