Results-Focused English Grinds | LC & JC | Structured Exam & Course Prep | Literary Analysis | Written Expression | First-Class Qualifications.

Learn more about Matthew

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

  My interest in English developed early on, largely because I was always drawn to stories — how people express ideas, how language shapes meaning, and how literature continues to influence the present. At school, I enjoyed the subject as discussion mattered and helped in creating the right answers.
  
  My interest in private tutoring grew naturally from teaching. I realised that one-to-one work allows for a depth of conversation and personalisation that isn’t always possible in a classroom. Tutoring gives me the chance to focus on confidence, and help students really understand what they’re doing.

• 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 English and what I enjoy most is helping students see this subject as connected to real life. I love working on writing — especially helping students develop their own voice, improve clarity, and build confidence in essays. I also enjoy unpacking literature and showing students that texts aren’t there to “catch them out” but to be explored and questioned.
  
  I’m less interested in rote learning and more focused on helping students understand how arguments are constructed — skills that transfer well beyond exams.

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

  Yes — I had a teacher who treated us like thinkers rather than passive learners. They asked challenging questions and encouraged debate. What stayed with me was the respect they showed students and the belief that we were capable of more than we realised. That approach has shaped how I teach and tutor to this day.

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

  A good tutor needs patience, clarity, and empathy. It’s essential to listen carefully and adapt explanations to the student in front of you, rather than delivering a one-size-fits-all approach. Trust matters too — students need to feel safe making mistakes. Finally, good organisation and honesty are key: clear goals, realistic expectations, and consistent feedback make all the difference.

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

  I once worked with a Leaving Certificate student who was convinced they should move levels in English. This student was aiming for high marks in all subjects and felt that the time needed to achieve a high grade in English wasn't feasible. I knew this student had the ability and told them that I would be there to support them on their journey. I made the workload in the subject one the student could carry and gave them clear guidance on how to approach the papers. I instructed them on how to answer questions to best unlock marks. In the end the student attained a H1 in higher level and I was delighted that they had not moved. This mark meant that the student was one of a handful of students in the country that gained the highest number of H1s. When I met the student, I congratulated them and told them that the examiners must have liked what they did in the exam. I was a little caught off guard when they answered me saying, ' No Sir, they liked what you did'.

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

  Like many students, I found academic writing challenging at times — especially learning how to structure arguments clearly. That experience has been valuable as a teacher and tutor because I understand how frustrating it can be when you know what you want to say but can’t quite express it. It’s also why I place such emphasis on breaking skills into manageable steps.

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

  My main passion is teaching itself — particularly helping students grow in confidence. Within my subject, I’m especially interested in communication: how ideas are formed, shaped, and expressed. Outside education, I enjoy sport and staying active, which I think helps bring balance and energy to my work.

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

  I combine strong subject knowledge with extensive teaching experience and a calm, supportive approach. I’ve worked with a wide range of learners in different systems and contexts, which has taught me how to adapt quickly and meet students where they are. Most importantly, I genuinely care about students’ progress — not only just in terms of grades, but in confidence, independence, and understanding.