I'm a full-time, high-level English tutor with over 15 years of experience across schools, universities, and private education. I hold a PhD in English Literature from the University of Cambridge, where I also taught and supervised undergraduate students. I'm a qualified secondary English teacher (QTS) and an examiner for a major UK exam board. I deliver over 1,600 hours of private tuition annually, working with students across the UK and internationally. My work spans individual and group teaching through various tutoring platforms and direct client referrals, including schools, agencies and long-term private families.
I specialise in GCSE / IGCSE English, 13+ entrance exam preparation, Oxbridge English applications, and essay writing at university level. I’ve helped students move from Grades 3–4 to secure 6s and 7s, and supported high-achievers aiming for 8–9 and full marks. Many of my clients are long-term, with families returning across siblings and stages.
My approach is structured but adaptable, warm but rigorous, and always focused on building confidence, clarity and independent thinking. I work with both UK and international students, particularly those in high-performing schools aiming for top outcomes.
Qualifications and Experience:
PhD from the University of Cambridge
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Over 15 years in UK higher and secondary education
Secondary school English teacher in Cambridgeshire
Mainstream and independent school teaching experience in good and outstanding-rated schools
Teaching experience at the Universities of Cambridge, Southampton and Huddersfield
extensive SEND experience, including autistic students
Enhanced DBS certificate
Tutoring Options:
GCSE, A level, 13+, 16+, degree level tuition
University admissions and personal statements
Online Sessions: Flexible and convenient
1:1 and small groups
As a former Director of Studies in English at Newham College and a former fellow of Pembroke College, Cambridge, I also have extensive experience with the Cambridge admissions process, including candidate selection, test setting and marking, and conducting interviews. I am proficient in all forms of university teaching, including Oxbridge-style supervision, lectures, and seminars.
Research and Publications:
Widely published in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century literature
Active researcher on the Romantic period and literature and history of warfare
Testimonials:
"When we found Dr. Ildiko, we thought she might be the tutor our son needed. Now, after just a few lessons, we can't imagine anyone better for the job. She is incredibly interactive and makes the lessons fun and engaging. Her teaching methods, topic selection, and feedback are distinct and more effective than those we've experienced with other tutors. The improvement in our son's English skills in such a short time is remarkable. We feel incredibly fortunate to have Dr. Ildiko as his tutor and highly recommend her to anyone looking to improve their English!" --IlHea
"Ildiko has been a huge help and support to my daughter, in preparing for her English Literature GCSE exam. Ildiko is professional, experienced and has incredible subject knowledge, as well as knowledge of how to teach well. She is also really adaptable, friendly, and kind. Ildiko not only focused on my daughter's knowledge and understanding of a GCSE set text, but she helped my daughter developed transferable skills that are helping her with the other set texts and the English Language GCSE too. We would highly recommend Ildiko to anyone seeking to increase their knowledge, understanding and skills. A big thank you to Ildiko!" --Charlotte
"Ildiko taught me during my undergraduate years at university, it was because of her enthusiasm and engaging lessons that I kept choosing her modules all through my time at university. Ildiko goes above and beyond with her help, guidance, and support as a teacher and her feedback on work is extremely detailed and beneficial. I have also had Ildiko’s guidance as a supervisor on during my postgraduate studies and her knowledge and support has been invaluable to me during these difficult times. I would recommend Ildiko as a trustworthy and engaging tutor." -- Katie
"I was fortunate enough to have Ildiko as my supervisor for an MA project last year. She was a fantastic support and excellent advisor as I worked to complete my thesis. Always providing detailed and meaningful feedback both written and in discussion. Her questioning techniques allowed me to draw my own conclusions and progress my ideas and thinking without feeling hemmed in or forced to adopt any position except those I wished to adopted. If you seek an insightful, professional and knowledgeable tutor, I cannot recommend Ildiko highly enough." -- Lewis
"Ildiko has been such a help to me. She really takes time to go through any theories or concepts you don’t understand, as well as providing constant support and guidance throughout your tutorials. She’s extremely patient, but will also push you to achieve the results she knows you’re capable of. Tutorials are not just obtaining a better grade or mark, but really understanding and appreciating the literature you’re working with and how to construct the best argument you can. A lively person and excellent tutor, I highly recommend her guidance to anyone wishing to improve their essay writing skills." -- Rhiannon