Meet The Team at ‘The Community Schools’
At The Community Schools, we believe that great tutoring starts with great teachers. That’s why we’re proud to work with a team of 50+ experienced, qualified teachers, most with more than 15 years’ classroom experience.
Our tutors bring a wealth of subject knowledge, teaching expertise and enthusiasm to every session. Just as importantly, they understand that every child is different. They take the time to build confidence, identify gaps and adapt their teaching to help each student make meaningful progress.
Our tutors bring a wealth of subject knowledge, teaching expertise and enthusiasm to every session. Just as importantly, they understand that every child is different. They take the time to build confidence, identify gaps and adapt their teaching to help each student make meaningful progress.
Experienced teachers. Personalised support. Helping every child achieve their potential.
Principal Claire Meadows-Smith
Ginny Turner
Qualifications: BSc Hons (2:1), PGCE with Distinction
Experience: 36 years
I've taught all three sciences to GCSE level and A-level Physics. My broad expertise allows me to support students in achieving their best, whether they're aiming for high grades or building a solid foundation in science.
Subjects: GCSE Biology, Chemistry, Physics, A-level Physics
Graham McArthur
Qualifications: BA(Hons) with QTS, NPQH (Headship Qualification)
Experience: 38 years
Having taught across primary, middle, and secondary schools, I've seen it all! My mission is to make learning enjoyable and effective, giving every student the tools they need to succeed.
Subjects: KS2 Maths, English, Science, KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths Foundation
Guy Heaton
Qualifications: MA Mod and Contemp Literature Brighton 2008 English and Communication 2.1 Brighton PGCE Secondary English Brighton
Experience: 24 years
I love teaching English. I have 18 years experience teaching English Language and Literature at GCSE and A level in a successful secondary school. I have also tutored small groups and individuals for much of that time. It is a privilege to work one to one with people.
Subjects: GCSE English Language, GCSE English Literature, A Level English Literature
Harsha Duvvasi
Qualifications: BSc Pharmacy, MSc Biosciences, PGCE, NPQ Middle Leadership
Experience: 10 years
I'm passionate about fostering a love for science in students, tailoring lessons to suit individual learning styles. My dynamic teaching approach ensures students feel supported and empowered to succeed.
Subjects: GCSE Chemistry, Physics, A-level Chemistry & Physics
Hayley Coull
Qualifications: BSc(Hons) Quantity Surveying, SCITT Qualified Teacher Status
Experience: 8 years
After a career in construction, I transitioned to teaching and found my true calling. I love making maths accessible and ensuring every student feels capable and confident.
Subjects: SEN English & Maths, KS2 English & Maths, KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths
Helen Robinson
Qualifications: BA Management Systems, GTP Maths, Diploma in Teaching
Experience: 15 years
Maths is a subject I love to teach, and seeing students transform from reluctant learners to confident problem-solvers is my biggest reward. Together, we'll tackle every challenge and celebrate every success!
Subjects: GCSE Maths & Further Maths, A-level Maths & Further Maths, AS-level Core Maths
Iona Gooch
Qualifications: PGCE in Secondary English 2021, BA in English Literature (University of Exeter) 2019
Experience: 5 years
I have taught in mixed state schools in Cornwall, before moving to Suffolk and working in a co-ed Independent School in Essex. What I love best is seeing students achieve their best and to feel confident in their skills and abilities.
Subjects: English Language GCSE, English Literature GCSE, English Literature A-Level
Jacqueline Pope
Qualifications: BA English Literature
Experience: 8 years
Teaching English is what truly inspires me, whether I'm supporting GCSE students or leading A-level discussions. I've also enjoyed pastoral roles, ensuring students are nurtured both academically and emotionally.
Subjects: KS3 English, GCSE English Language & Literature, A-level English Language
James Dugdale
Qualifications: BSc Hons Maths & Computer Science Birmingham university, PGCE Maths teaching UEA
Experience: 16 years
I love teaching Maths, particularly algebra and pure maths, especially at A Level. I have worked at the same school for 16 years and have been in charge of coordinating A Level Maths within my department.
Subjects: Maths - Key Stage 3, GCSE and A Level, Further Maths - GCSE and A Level
Josefina Lavolpe
Qualifications: DELF (French), MA International HR Management, CELTA, PGCE Modern Languages
Experience: 5 years
I bring a global perspective to my language lessons, having taught in various countries. Whether it's French, Spanish, or Italian, I love helping students connect through language and culture.
Subjects: KS3 English, KS3 French & Spanish, GCSE Spanish & Italian, A-level Italian & Spanish
Josh Fox
Qualifications: BSc(Hons) Audio Technology, PGCE Secondary Science, MEd Educational Leadership
Experience: 25 years
Physics has been a driving force in my teaching, and I've honed my skills instructing GCSE and A-level students in both state and private schools. I specialise in online tutoring, blending technology with education to make learning dynamic and accessible.
Subjects: GCSE Physics, A-level Physics
Karen Whittingham
Qualifications: Joint Honours degree in Law & French, Solicitors' Final Examination, Post Graduate Certificate in Education
Experience: 15 years
After university, I taught English in Madrid before qualifying as a UK solicitor, practising law for 17 years. In 2010, I transitioned into education, qualifying to teach French and Spanish whilst establishing an A Level Law department. I've been teaching both Law and languages ever since, and mark for exam boards in both subjects. My legal career allows me to bring real-world context to A Level Law, making complex concepts relatable. I'm passionate about language learning as a life skill and, above all, love building students' confidence to help them flourish.
Subjects: Law – AS and A level, French and Spanish – GCSE
Katesha Harrison
Qualifications: B.Ed (Hons) Science
Experience: 12 years
Science is all about curiosity! My goal is to make it engaging and accessible by using strategies tailored to each student. I create a nurturing environment to help students gain confidence and achieve success.
Subjects: GCSE Physics
Kathryn Gerry
Qualifications: B.Sc Chemistry, PGCE Secondary Education
Experience: 22 years
Science is fascinating because it explains how the world works! I love helping students understand complex concepts and celebrating their 'lightbulb moments' when everything clicks.
Subjects: GCSE Chemistry, A-level Chemistry
Lindsey Palmer
Qualifications: BSc Mathematics PGCE Mathematics
Experience: 14 years
I've always enjoyed Mathematics and love teaching students of all abilities. Tutoring students is such a great way to tailor learning to individuals and help young people make progress. I love helping students gain confidence with Maths and giving them the boost they need to understand the subject better.
Subjects: KS3 Maths and KS4
Mark Gibbons
Qualifications: Bachelor of Commerce Master of Science QTS through Southampton University
Experience: 26 years
I started off life as an Economist in Zimbabwe and moved to the UK in 2001, where I became a teacher in the Independent sector in 2003. Initially I taught Business, Economics and IT and in 2010 I became a Headmaster. In 2020, I returned to the classroom to teach Business and Economics
Subjects: Business Studies GCSE and A Level Economics GCSE
Matt Sims
Qualifications: BSc Hons Mathematics PGCE
Experience: 18 years
I started teaching after a career in IT. I have had experience teaching in state secondary schools as a classroom teacher and as the Head of Mathematics, and as a Head Teacher of the high school in an Independent Montessori school. I am enthusiastic about mathematics and teaching others about it. However, I also understand how the subject can be daunting and try to help students feel more confident about the subject.
Subjects: Maths KS3, GCSE and A level Further Maths GCSE
Melissa Weston
Qualifications: BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science, University of Sheffield – 2:1; Master’s Degree in Education – Merit
Experience: 5 years
Having taught English as a foreign language for a year in China and enjoying it so much, I decided to become a teacher of Science. I have taught in secondary schools as well as sixth form colleges locally. I’ve always had a love of helping others learn and succeed and would love to help your child with their endeavour.
Subjects: GCSE Science – Triple and Combined; A Level Biology; A Level Environmental Studies (AQA); A Level Human Biology (AQA)
Michelle Marie Jarrett
Qualifications: BA(Hons) Contemporary European Studies, PGCE Secondary Education, MA Education
Experience: 22 years
With experience across a range of educational settings, I specialise in helping students achieve their potential in languages. It's a joy to see them thrive academically and develop a love for learning.
Subjects: GCSE French & Spanish, A-level Spanish
Nicola Manning
Qualifications: B.Sc(Hons) Cell and ImmunoBiology, PGCE
Experience: 34 years
As a practicing teacher with decades of experience, I specialise in A-level Biology. My goal is to help students understand the content, master exam techniques, and develop a genuine love for the subject. I have won a Silver National Teaching Award in recognition of outstanding practise and commitment.
Subjects: A-level Biology
Prefer searching by subject? We’ve got it covered!
Business Studies & Economics:
- Mark Gibbons: GCSE Business Studies and Economics A Level Business Studies
- Penny Dawn Quintero-Hunt: GCSE Business Studies & Economics, A-level Business Studies & Economics
Computer Science & ICT:
- Chris Wrathall: KS3 & KS4: Computer Science, ICT
- Dan Pipe: GCSE Computer Science, A-level Computer Science
Drama:
- Rachael Keeble: GCSE Drama, KS3 English, GCSE English Language & Literature
Dyslexia Support:
Christina Joannides: KS2 Maths and English, Level 5 qualified Dyslexia teacher
English & English Literature:
- Charlotte Alexander: KS3 French, German, GCSE French, German, A-level French & German
- Chrisina Joannides: KS2 Maths and English, Level 5 qualified Dyslexia teacher
- Chris Wrathall: KS3 & KS4: English Language
- Elly Ambridge: KS3 English, GCSE English Language & Literature
- Graham McArthur: KS2 Maths, KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths Foundation, KS2 English, KS3 Science
- Guy Heaton: GCSE English Language, GCSE English Literature, A-level English Literature
- Hayley Coul: SEN English & Maths, KS2 English & Maths, KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths
- Iona Gooch: KS3 English Language and Literature, KS4 English Language and Literature, A Level English Literature
- Jacqueline Pope: KS3 English, GCSE English Language & Literature, A-level English Language
- Josefina Lavolpe: KS3 English, KS3 French, Spanish, GCSE Spanish & Italian, A-level Italian & Spanish
- Olivia Sherman: GCSE English Language & Literature, AS English Language & Literature
- Rachael Keeble: KS3 English, GCSE English Language & Literature, GCSE Drama
- Ross Grainger: KS3 English Language and Literature, KS4 English Language and Literature, A Level English Literature
- Sarah Coker: KS2 Maths and English
- Steph Atkins: KS2 English, KS3 English, GCSE English Language & Literature
- Tom Decent: KS2 English, KS3 English, GCSE English Language & Literature, GCSE Maths
- Wendy Evans: KS2 English, KS2 Maths
French, Spanish, Italian & German (Modern Foreign Languages):
- Charlotte Alexander: KS3 French, German, GCSE French, German, A-level French & German
- Chris Wrathall: KS5 (A level): French, German, Italian
- Josefina Lavolpe: KS3 English, KS3 French, Spanish, GCSE Spanish & Italian, A-level Italian & Spanish
- Karen Whittingham: GCSE French, GCSE Spanish, A Level Law
- Michelle Marie Jarrett: GCSE French & Spanish, A-level Spanish
History:
- Daniel Connor: GCSE History, A-level History
Maths:
- Anna Keating-Fedders: KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths
- Billy Adamson: GCSE Maths, Further Maths, A-level Maths, A-level Further Maths
- Chidi Juwe: KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths, GCSE Science, A-level Biology
- Chrisina Joannides: KS2 Maths and English, Level 5 qualified Dyslexia teacher
- Chris Simpson: GCSE Maths, Chemistry & Physics, A-level Maths
- Claire Meadows-Smith: GCSE Maths, Further Maths, AS & A-level Maths
- Dave Brewster: GCSE Maths, A-level Maths
- David Harvey: GCSE Maths, Further Maths, Statistics
- Freddie Ridley-Hughes: GCSE Maths, Further Maths, AS Maths
- Gavin Reynolds: KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths
- Gil Turner: KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths, GCSE Further Maths
- Graham McArthur: KS2 Maths, KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths Foundation, KS2 English, KS3 Science
- Hayley Coul: SEN English & Maths, KS2 English & Maths, KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths
- Helen Robinson: GCSE Maths, Further Maths, A-level Maths & Further Maths, AS-level Core Maths
- James Dugdale: Maths Key Stage 3, GCSE and A Level; Further Maths – GCSE and A Level
- Lindsey Palmer: KS3 Maths and GCSE Maths
- Matt Sims: KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths, A Level Maths, GCSE Further Maths
- Meadows-Smith: KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths
- Sally Wooldridge: KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths
- Sarah Coker: KS2 Maths and English
- Sarah Fisher: GCSE Maths, Statistics, Further Maths, A-level Maths
- Tom Decent: KS2 Maths, KS3 Maths, GCSE Maths, GCSE English Language & Literature
- Wendy Evans: KS2 Maths, KS2 English
Psychology:
- Christie Pope: GCSE Psychology, A Level Psychology
- Samuel Royall: GCSE Psychology, A-level Psychology, KS3 Maths, GCSE Science
Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Combined)
- Chidi Juwe: GCSE Science, A-level Biology, KS3 Maths
- Chris Simpson: GCSE Maths, Chemistry & Physics, A-level Maths
- Dan Kemp: KS3 Science, GCSE Biology, Chemistry, Physics, A-level Biology & Physics
- David Fowkes: A-level Chemistry
- Finn Baxter: GCSE Biology, Chemistry, Physics, A-level Biology & Chemistry
- Ginny Turner: GCSE Biology, Chemistry, Physics, A-level Physics
- Gordon Leathers: KS2 & KS3 Science, KS2 & KS3 Maths
- Graham McArthur: KS2 Maths, KS3 Science
- Harsha Duvvasi: GCSE Chemistry, Physics, A-level Chemistry & Physics
- Josh Fox: GCSE Physics, A-level Physics
- Katesha Harrison: GCSE Physics
- Kathryn Gerry: GCSE Chemistry, A-level Chemistry
- Melissa Weston: GCSE Science – Triple and Combined, A-level Biology, A-level Environmental Studies (AQA), A-level Human Biology (AQA)
- Nicola Manning: A-level Biology
- Robyn Booth: KS3 Science, GCSE Combined & Triple Science, A-level Biology, BTEC Applied Science