An enthusiastic nurse with extensive experience in teaching and mentoring individuals studying at BTEC up to MSc level.

Find out more about Ivone

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

  I studied BTEC Health and Social Care from level 1 as I had recently immigrated to the UK. I had other career interests and so nursing was never my first career option. However, I still pursued it and at times I believed that I made the wrong choice. Until I actually started going to clinical rotations and cared for others. Moreover, I realised that nursing is so flexible and that you can create your own path. There is no need to enjoy all aspects of nursing or to follow a traditional route. Hence, I chose private tutoring because it enables me continue to be up to date with recent literature and explore/understand other fields without formal compromise. Overall, I can be a better and safer nurse.

• 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 mostly discuss anything that has to do with any sort of nursing. From critiquing research to clinical cases. I like to discuss anything that is acute (apart from neurology) and I absolutely dread anything that is related to rehabilitation. Hence, I work in ICU :3

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

  I had an excellent tutor which I connected with during my BTEC years. She was very detailed with her work but had such a laid-back approach - if not everyone but 99% passed her modules with flying colours. What made it better was that she was truly understanding and non-judgemental. She always advocated for students and was one key people who influenced me to do what is best for myself, regardless of circumstances.

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

  Being a good tutor is not only about having excellent knowledge. You must be able to connect and understand your students. Doing so will enable a better tutor-student relationship. Such entails being very patient and empathetic. In the end, it will encourage students to be better and be kinder to others in their practice.

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

  Whenever facing any issue, instead of allowing this to drive me: I ask myself something very simple: "stressing, for who?". That question always pushes me to re-set and determine what actually is important. Also, gives me a push to have a more relaxed and strategical approach with life. Always, remember that you cannot retrieve time you take to feel stressed. If you feel like you need to go on a holiday and you got an essay due in 1 week, go. Read on your plane or on the way to the hotel. Life is simple, we just complicate it way too often. However, I remember that my knowledge is what keeps people away from death, so be smart but do not cut corners.

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

  At times, I observe that nurses don't support each other enough. We need to understand that an attitude or advice can change someone's' future. So, all we need to be is compassionate and not harsh. Around 90% of patient safety issues can be avoided with better professional relationships.

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

  I like teaching in general; however, my true passion is Astronomy and anything that has to do with penguins. My passion for astronomy I developed in year 7, never studied it as a Bsc because I did not and still do not like distance calculations. Would I venture if there is a role that does not require me to think about calculations? Absolutely. Would I venture if someone sent me to treat and care for penguins? Absolutely!

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

  Having a very relaxed but straightforward approach. Besides, you can always call if you need a word of advice, it harms no one to be heard when in need. Does this mean a 2 am call? Yes, if it is urgent and I am available just let it all out or ring the SAMARITANS (dial 116 123).