Oxford University Classics Graduate tutoring Latin and Greek, Classical Civilisation and Ancient History at KS1-KS3, GCSE, A-Level, University preparation and beyond. Now accepting new students!

Learn more about Elspeth

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

  I began tutoring in 2018, working as a volunteer with local disadvantaged primary school children. This experience showed me the profound impact of supporting students in their academic journeys. My passion for Classics, History, and Literature made offering tuition in these subjects a natural fit, merging my enthusiasm for both teaching and these fields. Throughout my teaching career, I've been inspired by the amazing students I've met, continually motivated by their curiosity and determination. I think that teaching is one of the exciting career choices available, and I like to think that my enthusiasm spreads infectiously to my students!

• 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).

  I teach broadly across the humanities, with a particular enjoyment for introducing students to ancient languages. Guiding someone through learning Latin or Greek is incredibly rewarding, as these languages provide insights into the workings of modern languages like English - students often find these revelations exciting, and I love sharing that with them! I also enjoy discussing literature with students, whether ancient or modern. Currently, I am teaching Macbeth to a student preparing for her GCSEs, and exploring how the play works, and diving into its symbolism and imagery has been such a wonderful experience.

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

  I had some really wonderful Classics teachers when I was in school - they were entirely the reason I decided to study Classics at university, and they really supported me throughout my application to Oxford. I am so thankful for them and I strive to inspire my students as they inspired me.

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

  I think empathy and enthusiasm are the most important qualities in a tutor. Good teaching requires a real understanding of a student's perspective on a subject, whether it is one that they love, or need a bit more help with. Everyone struggles with understanding sometimes, and being prepared to approach that from a student's specific viewpoint is essential. Enthusiasm is, of course, just as necessary: genuine enjoyment has to be at the root of motivation, and I try to embody this in my teaching.

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

  I remember the first time I began studying Ancient Greek: I had decided to pick it up as an extra, optional subject, but I really struggled with it at first, and thought about giving it up. My incredible Classics teacher kept persuading me to just keep trying for one more term, and then one more, and then another, and suddenly I found myself sitting the GCSE! I got an A*, and realised the benefit of challenging yourself, even when something seems impossible. I ended up studying Ancient Greek at Oxford, and I'm so grateful to that teacher for pushing me and encouraging me when I was struggling.

• 6) What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still facing in your subject?

  I have definitely had my struggles with all my subjects throughout my studies: ancient languages and the humanities are not always easy, and struggling with a topic or improving marks on a type of essay can be difficult. I have learnt, from over a decade of studying and teaching these subjects, that engaging with a new perspective is often invaluable. Additionally, there are many misconceptions about Classics and the humanities being either pointless, or excessively difficult. Beliefs like this, however untrue, can really hold students back - I believe that finding a genuinely enthusiastic tutor is the best antidote to such feelings!

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

  Alongside tutoring, I am also very involved in theatre and film, writing and directing plays which I produce through a small company I have founded. I've always found that directing actors is very similar to teaching students! Both involve guiding individuals to a shared understanding of material, with empathy and enthusiasm. I have directed seven projects now, and hope to expand more into film in the future!

• 8) What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions :-P) ?

  I'd like to think that what really makes me a Superprof is the consistent high-quality feedback I get! I'm really proud of the responses I receive from all my students, both on account of the excellent results they have achieved, such as top grades in exams, and successful school and university admission, but also the enthusiasm and love of the subject that has been fostered. Some of these can be seen in my reviews on Superprof, if you'd like to check them out!