Art Techniques
Once enrolled with NEC, students are assigned a personal tutor for each subject they are studying.
Your tutor will be there to offer support and feedback throughout the course, as well as mark assignments and, when needed, coursework. We only select tutors who have demonstrated expert knowledge in their field, with most being experienced teachers or trainers. Many of our tutors are examiners for the main awarding bodies so have experience of marking exam papers which helps them provide excellent feedback and support.
As a result, our tutors have experience with typical student needs and concerns, and are often cited by students as one of the reasons our grades are consistently higher than average. You’re free to work at your own pace – your tutor won’t chase you – but you can rest assured that your tutor will be there to answer your questions and provide expert marking of your assignments, along with carefully structured feedback to help you make the most of your course.
Meet some of our tutors:
"I've been involved in distance education for many years, and have been a practising artist all my adult life. In my own creative practice, my main interests are in drawing, illustration, printmaking, animation and painting, and also digital art. Learning to draw is the platform for a satisfying creative adventure with art: looking intensively at the work of other artists is essential to developing your own work. My knowledge of art history means I can pinpoint examples of artists to help you develop your own practice. I have a first degree in Fine Art and English and a PGCE in Art Education."
Astronomy, Chemistry, Combined Science, Maths and Physics
Jane Blunt
"I have taught for NEC since the late 1970s on maths, sciences and engineering courses and have also been a tutor for the Open University in technology. Each student has different goals and I aim to help everyone succeed. When students find themselves in difficulty with their course, I endeavour to show them clearly the way to reach the correct answer. I have a Bachelor’s degree in chemistry and engineering. I have conducted research in chemistry and engineering and have a PhD in the latter. I completed the adult teaching qualification Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector (now called Education and Training Level 3). I live in East Anglia."
Astronomy, Law, Maths and Physics
Julie Houghton
"I love learning and I love inspiring other people to learn. I’ve worked with students from primary to undergraduate level as I have taught in schools and universities. Now, I specialise in home education and distance learning, teaching people in the UK and overseas. I have a degree in physics with astrophysics and a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) in physics, science and maths, both from the University of Birmingham, and an LLM in Law from the University of Leeds. A senior examiner for several exam boards, I am also a Member of the Chartered Institute of Educational Assessors."
Astronomy and Maths
Sally Everitt
"I love maths! My aim is to pass the passion I have for my subject on to others, to support learning through flexible tuition – appreciating that each learner has different commitments, motivations and ways of learning. I have a BSc and PhD from Leeds University as well as a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education). I have taught for several years in schools (as deputy head of the maths department) and university. I am also an A Level examiner. I live in Yorkshire with my family. They as well as my garden and clarinet are my other passions."
Biology
Donal O’Donnell
"My lifelong fascination with biology has led to a varied and interesting career. I worked at the Natural History Museum on insect taxonomy and the Commonwealth Institute for Biological Control where I studied the control of insect and plant pests using natural enemies. I also worked in government fisheries laboratories in England and Ireland and for ADAS on insects in field margins. In addition to teaching for the NEC I am an associate lecturer at the Open University, mainly in ecology and evolution. Previously, I was a teaching fellow for the OU developing new courses, and subsequently a staff tutor in Cambridge and Birmingham."
Business
Linda Bonner
"I am passionate about Business, both from an academic and practical point of view. I have been since I was the MD of a Young Enterprise company when I was 17. Since then I have had many jobs in industry, have helped many charities and, more recently taught the subject. I have been in the classroom for over 10 years, but also continue to support many small and new businesses to prosper. I believe that detailed feedback and encouragement to improve in small steps is the way to achieve educational potential which is the appeal of 1 to 1 online tutoring. My qualifications include a BSc in Business Studies, MA in Organisational Behaviour, PCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education) and the graduate diplomas from several professional bodies, including the Institute of Marketing."
Business, Counselling, Creative Writing, Psychology and Sociology
Tracey Jones
"Teaching psychology, sociology, child development and creative writing for over 15 years through distance learning has given me a great deal of experiencing in supporting students. Life sometimes gets in the way of studying, so I am flexible and encourage students to think what suits them in their studying. I love what I teach and hope my students do too. Qualifications include MSocSc and Diploma in Social Science and Social Work, Postgraduate Diploma in Learning Disability Studies, Post-Graduate Certificate in Education, B.Sc. (Hons) in Psychology. A former examiner for AQA and International Baccalaureate. I also write academic textbooks and courses."
Childcare
Anne Rodgers
I have been in the early year’s sector for 37 years both as a practitioner and a trainer. I have owned my own chain of nurseries and have extensive experience of different roles within the sector. I enjoy training as it gives me an opportunity to pass on that knowledge and experience to others. I have a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and love writing about child care and education.
Creative Writing
Ann Abineri
"Creative writing has excited me for as many years as I can remember. I studied Creative Writing with the Open University. I have had flash fiction and short stories published. I subscribe to many writing magazines and follow a wide range of authors online. I have always been an avid reader and book group member. I attend Cambridge and Hay Literary Festivals every year and in addition to bestselling authors, I listen to debut authors, cover designers and e-publishers who keep me up to date with information to support my learners’ development as writers."
Early Years
Kate Wake
"When my own children were young, I worked as a childminder and in a preschool, and while doing this achieved two level 3 qualifications. I enjoyed working with children and learning about how to do it more effectively, so I then did a degree with the Open University and gained my assessor qualification. Over the past fifteen years, I have taught childcare with the NEC, through the NCMA (now Pacey) and for two other local training organisations. I feel proud of being involved in raising the professional status of childcare professionals through training and qualifications."
Economics and Maths
Amy Elliott
"I have been teaching for over ten years and am privileged to say that I have loved everyday of my job. Within my teaching I build students security in their own ability, giving them a platform of confidence to make the crucial independent steps towards the very highest grades. I have a first class BA Hons in Economics and a PGCE in Secondary Mathematics. I have tutored students 1:1 both face-to-face and online for many years with great success and always receive positive feedback. I also do a lot of work with exam boards. I have recently moved to Surrey with my children."
English Language, English Literature and French
Colin Padgett
"I have been involved with education, either in a voluntary or a paid capacity, for over forty years, and I don’t seem to find it boring yet! After a Joint Honours Degree in Comparative Literature and French Language, and a Masters in European Studies, both at UEA, I have taught in comprehensives, sixth forms, adult education, evening classes and distance learning. I have also been an examiner – both marking and writing examination papers – since 1978, as well as working at regional and national levels for the NATE (National Association for the Teaching of English) and the NUT (National Union of Teachers). In my spare time I garden or write articles, poetry and stories – some published!"
English Language and English Literature
Julia Geddes
"I am lead tutor for NEC’s English courses and have written many course modules for NEC. I have a degree and MA in English Literature from the University of Leeds and am a Senior examiner and exam moderator, Head of English at a Leeds sixth form college and a schools’ adviser for English. Oxford University Press has published a variety of texts I have written for students, including Love through the Ages (2009 with Helen Ince) and More Love Through the Ages (2012, with Anna Merrick). I enjoy running, cycling and a variety of sporting activities."
English Language and English Literature
Kathryn Owen
"My academic qualifications include a BA (2:1) honours degree in English Literature and a PGCE in English at Leeds University. I have worked as an AQA examiner for the past 14 years which has provided me with a comprehensive insight into the examination requirements for A level Literature. As well as tutoring, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing the violin and piano and walking and cycling in the Yorkshire Dales."
French and Spanish
Caroline Thomson
"I have always been passionate about learning languages and I am delighted to be sharing my interest in French and Spanish. I have been a languages teacher for over 12 years. As a tutor, I like to tailor my support to the needs of each student. Learning a language should be a fun and fulfilling experience and there are many ways to learn. I have a BA Hons in languages from the University of Hull and took my PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) at the University of York. I am originally from North Yorkshire and now live in Wakefield."
History and Politics
Ben Williams
"I am a firm believer that passionate tutors who enjoy the subject can pass on their enthusiasm to their learners. My knowledge and experience as a tutor has been built up over many years within sixth form colleges, universities and within the online environment. My academic background has seen me gain a BA in Modern History and Politics, a Masters in Politics and Irish Studies and a PhD in Politics, all from Liverpool University. I am an examiner for two major exam boards and have had a significant amount of academic work published in various books and study guides."
History
Susie Evans
"I am passionate about teaching and learning about teaching. I have taught history for over 20 years in sixth form colleges and colleges of further education. My approach is guided by the need to be flexible and to tailor what students learn and how they learn it to suit the needs of each person I work with. I have an MA in International History from the London School of Economics, a BA Hons in History and a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education). I am an examiner for GCSE and A level with Edexcel."
History of Art
Caroline Osborne
As an art historian, teacher and tutor, I am committed to making art history accessible to everyone. With over 30 years teaching experience, predominantly at A-level in schools, I enjoy introducing students to the ever-expanding world of the visual arts. I aim to support every individual to reach their full potential by developing transferable skills of visual analysis, research and communication. I have a BA in Art History with English, an MA in Art History, and a PGCE in Art and Art History. I am a trustee of the charity Art History in Schools and I am based in London.
History of Art
Daniel Greaney
I have a lifelong interest in making art and the study of art history. I received an MA in Fine Art from Central St Martins, London. I also have an MA in History of Art at Birkbeck, London and a PGCE. I teach History of Art in a sixth form college and continue to produce my own art. Using my extensive knowledge of both the production and reception of art has enabled me to teach the subject to a range of learners, including both art students and those pursuing academic careers. I am an A Level examiner for Edexcel.
History of Art
Diane Todd
I have been teaching for 35 years and my extensive experience has been in comprehensive schools, grammar schools and, more recently, sixth form college. I have been subject leader for three different subjects during my career – History, Psychology and History of Art. My biggest passion has always been for Art History and I believe that it has links with many other subject areas. I have always taught with great enthusiasm and an understanding of the needs of individual students. I studied for a degree in History and History of Art at Emmanuel College, Cambridge and gained my PGCE in the Birmingham area. I also have a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design.
History of Art
Helen Shaw
"My teaching philosophy is grounded in self-reflection, creativity and flexibility. I believe that as a tutor my role is to encourage students to explore art, embrace new ideas, and foster critical and independent thinking. My teaching experience is broad and diverse, ranging from KS3 - KS5, to undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as continuing education programmes. I am an Art Historian with expertise in twentieth century ceramics. I completed my BA, MA and PhD in History of Art at the University of York. I also completed my PGCE in Secondary Education (Religion & Philosophy) at York St John University."
History of Art
Kate Fisher
Kate began teaching in 2009 after spending the previous six years working in London's contemporary art scene where she worked for Frieze Art Fair and White Cube. Her first teaching job was a maternity cover at St Paul's Girls' School where she fell in love with teaching History of Art and quickly went off to do a PGCE at the IoE to get formally enrolled. She returned to St Paul's Girls' School and then onto Cheltenham Ladies' College where she was Head of History of Art.
Kate has a Masters in History of Art from the Courtauld Institute and a first class BA degree in History of Art from Manchester University. As well as authoring the NEC History of Art course, she is currently an author and examiner for the IB World Art and Cultures course and also an examiner for Edexcel. She has experience in tutoring within a school environment but also tutors students privately for university entry and up to Masters level courses.
Management
Sarah Pamphilion
"I am passionate about the value of learning and dedicated to the profession having worked in education for over 27 years both as a tutor, assessor and manager of vocational training. I understand the challenges of distance learning, having been a distance learner myself, and know the value of good quality, responsive and flexible tutor support and encouragement. Now as a freelance contractor, I work with a number of awarding bodies, colleges and training providers to develop learning resources to enable learners to meet their qualification goals and longer-term career aims."
Maths
Allie Summerton
"I have taught Maths for many years in a college of further education and more recently by distance learning. As a teacher the greatest reward for me is helping a student develop confidence and the same enjoyment in subject as me. My approach to teaching has always been to treat each student as an individual with unique needs, and I always try to give whatever support they require. I have a BSc in Maths from the Open University (so I know firsthand the pros and cons of distance learning) and a PGCE."
Maths
Stefania Mattei
"I love being a Maths tutor, working with students of all abilities on a one-to-one basis to help them achieve their dreams. My goal as a teacher is to remove the barriers that often prevent students enjoy this beautiful subject, and to give them the confidence to understand and to make progress. I graduated in Mathematics in Italy, worked in the City, then qualified as a teacher with the OU and taught GCSE and A level Maths for 9 years. I now work full time as a private tutor and I am an examiner for Edexcel and AQA."
Philosophy and Religious Studies
Amanda Forshaw
"Learning should be a rewarding experience for its own sake. I love ideas and think that the most valuable thing about education is the joy of gaining knowledge. The most rewarding thing about tutoring and teaching is helping students to find their own reward in learning. I have been teaching for 18 years. I am a head of faculty, an A Level examiner and write NEC course materials for A Level Philosophy and A Level Religious Studies. I am never happier than when I am in a classroom or working 1:1 with learners of all ages."
Playwork
Felicity Holland
"I qualified as a primary school teacher many years ago. When my own children were young, I registered as a childminder, combining this with running play schemes and teaching childcare practitioners. I still believe working with children is the best and one of the most important jobs there is. A child’s early experiences have an impact on the whole of their life and it is up to us to make sure these experiences are positive. Just as every child is different, so is every NEC student and I try to meet all your individual needs. I want you to succeed by gaining the qualification you are aiming for and by becoming a more reflective practitioner."
Politics and Sociology
Mike Homfray
"I have taught in a range of higher educational establishments on a part time basis, and am experienced in teaching at a range of levels from access courses through to masters degrees. I am a longstanding examiner with AQA and CIE, on AS and A level sociology courses. Having been involved in online education from an early stage, I am committed to the delivery of online distance learning, and the importance of supporting learners as they progress through the course materials. I have a BA (Hons) in Social Administration from Lancaster, and a MA gained with distinction and a PhD from Liverpool University."
Psychology
Amanda White
"I have a degree in psychology from Lancaster University and am a qualified teacher, an examiner for AQA and a moderator for the International Baccalaureate. I have worked as head of department in a large comprehensive and have also taught psychology to adult learners in further education colleges and for the Open University. I enjoy the challenge of tutoring NEC’s keen and motivated students through distance learning and using technology to help them learn. My interests are wide-ranging and include walking, history and European travel. My son and daughter are both grown up and studying at the same university."
