Olivia May

Details

My background

Hello, my name is Olivia. To start with educational achievement would be sensible given the circumstances. Therefore, I have two degrees, a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of Birmingham and a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography and Economics, from the University of York. I completed ten IGCSEs/GCSEs, five AS level qualifications, and carried three of the five to A2 level. Specifically, Geography, Economics, and English.
While my academic background is strong, I involve myself with other activities from sports, particularly hockey, cricket, tennis, and lacrosse, to music where I play the flute to Grade 7. I enjoy adventurous activities such as mountain walking and have climbed Mount Snowdon, Mount Etna, and Ben Nevis to name but a few.
My style of teaching is heavily dependent on the student I work with because I recognise every student is different. As such, the first activity I assign is a short, 20 question quiz to gauge the student's learning style. However, my lessons provide different activities, based on learning styles, to stimulate brain activity and maintain concentration for the lesson's entirety. It is necessary to add, I base my lessons upon the student's curriculum (tailored to the exact exam board if the student is completing a particular qualification).
Moving on to personal qualities, I am a highly independent, driven individual who wants the best outcome for the student. Being in education for 20 years, I understand the struggle and irritation learning can foster. However, my approach is diverse and engaging. This, combined with my patience and determination provides the student with the best possible setting to achieve.

Experience

My experience working with and teaching students is vast. To highlight a few of my favourite experiences, I would include being a mentor for fifteen teenagers (aged 15-17) on the National Citizen Service. This government initiative is a four-week program where two weeks are residential, and the other two are based in the local community. I had to be engaged 24/7 to bring a group of strangers together, ensure they were fulfilling the learning outcomes for each day while having fun. This was both rewarding and tiring, as I am sure you can imagine.
I mentioned previously, I enjoy sports. Therefore my role as Advanced Physical Education Leader enabled me to teach students between the ages of 5 and 18 sports skills that they would not have learnt if I had not volunteered for the role. Additionally, I have been a counsellor for the past six years. This experience has enhanced my empathy and respect for students. Through this role, I have come into contact with many students who experience an array of different problems, from organisational issues to friendship problems or learning difficulties.
All of the experiences listed have impacted my learning style and personality. I would say I have developed greater empathy, understanding, and respect for students. However, I am also aware of when to draw the line, recognising that discipline may, at times, be necessary.

Qualifications

University of Birmingham: MA Politics - Distinction
University of York: BSc Geography and Economics - 2:1
A-Levels: English (A), Economics and Geography
AS-Levels: English, Critical Thinking, Economics, French, Geography
10 IGCSEs/GCSEs Grades A*-B, including English Language (A), English Literature (A) and Maths (A)

AQA Baccalaureate including Extended Project Qualification
OCR Level 2 Certificate in IT User Skills (Word, Presentations, Excel, improving productivity, imaging software)

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