Highly Experienced History Tutor | 5+ Years of Experience | Proven Track Record of Success | GCSE & A Level | Online

Find out more about Ehtesham

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

  My interest in teaching developed gradually, beginning during my own education. I often noticed how the right explanation at the right moment could transform a difficult topic into something clear and exciting. That fascinated me, and I wanted to be able to do the same for others. When I began teaching formally, I quickly realised that what I enjoyed most was working with students one-to-one or in small groups. Private tutoring allowed me to focus on individual learning styles, giving students the confidence to ask questions without fear of judgement. Over time, I saw how transformative this approach could be, students who once struggled began excelling, and their new-found confidence often extended beyond the classroom. It was those experiences that cemented my love for tutoring and made me pursue it alongside my professional teaching career.

• 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 specialise in Sociology and Media Studies, both at O- and A-Level.
  
  In Sociology, I particularly enjoy guiding students through the study of culture, family, and education. These topics resonate with young learners because they can immediately see how theory links to everyday life. I love it when a student makes the connection between abstract sociological theories and the real-world experiences they encounter at home, school, or in society. Those moments of recognition often lead to stimulating discussions, where students learn not just to absorb information, but to question, evaluate, and form their own arguments.
  
  In Media Studies, my passion for filmmaking brings a unique dimension to lessons. With over a decade of experience in directing, cinematography, and editing, I can share first-hand insights into how media is created and consumed. I especially enjoy discussing visual storytelling, film analysis, and the influence of media on culture and identity. These conversations are exciting because students not only learn theory but also see how it applies directly to the media they watch and use every day.
  
  What I find slightly less engaging are the heavily factual or rote-learning sections, for example, memorising too many details without context. However, I always make an effort to present these in a way that sparks curiosity, whether through case studies, debates, or examples from current events.

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

  Yes, I was very fortunate to have teachers who combined knowledge with inspiration. One history teacher in particular stood out; he had an incredible ability to make the past come alive through stories, character sketches, and passionate delivery. His lessons never felt like dry facts; they felt like journeys into another time. His teaching style showed me the power of enthusiasm, imagination, and narrative in education. That influence continues to shape my own approach today. I aim to be the kind of tutor who doesn’t just transfer information, but who sparks curiosity, encourages questions, and helps students see knowledge as something alive and meaningful.

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

  A good tutor must be more than just an expert in their subject — they must be a mentor, motivator, and guide. The key qualities, in my view, are:
  
  Patience: Every student learns at a different pace. Some grasp ideas quickly while others need repetition and varied approaches. Patience allows tutors to give each learner the time and support they deserve.
  
  Adaptability: A good tutor tailors their methods to suit the individual. What works for one student may not work for another, so flexibility is crucial.
  
  Empathy: Students often struggle not because they lack ability, but because they lack confidence. A tutor needs to understand those challenges and provide reassurance.
  
  Clarity of Communication: Knowledge is wasted if it cannot be conveyed clearly. A tutor must explain complex ideas in a way that feels simple and approachable.
  
  Consistency: Regular encouragement, structured lessons, and ongoing support build trust and help students see steady progress.
  
  These qualities, when combined, create an environment where students feel safe, motivated, and ready to learn.

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

  One of my most memorable teaching experiences came from helping a group of students prepare for a short film project. They were initially nervous, unsure of how to turn their ideas into something real. I guided them through each step, brainstorming, scripting, filming, and editing encouraging them to take ownership of their creativity while also applying theoretical concepts they had learned.
  
  When they finally screened their film, the pride on their faces was unforgettable. They not only gained technical skills but also a sense of accomplishment and teamwork. This experience reminded me of the true purpose of education: to help students discover their potential, apply their knowledge in meaningful ways, and develop confidence that extends well beyond the classroom.

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

  Sociology can sometimes feel abstract for students, as theories about society may initially seem disconnected from their daily lives. Similarly, in Media Studies, many students enjoy the creative side but struggle with critical analysis, which requires them to step back and evaluate rather than just produce. These challenges are common, but they are not insurmountable.
  
  To address them, I use a variety of techniques: connecting sociological theories to current events or personal experiences, breaking down complex ideas into simple steps, and linking creative projects with analytical frameworks. For example, when students create media content, I ask them to analyse not just how it looks, but what messages it conveys, how audiences might respond, and what theories could explain those responses. This balance of creativity and analysis helps students develop both skills and critical thinking.

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

  am passionate about visual storytelling and media creation. With more than ten years’ experience in filmmaking, from directing and cinematography to editing, I bring creativity into every lesson. I love showing students how media shapes the way we think, and how they themselves can use media to tell powerful stories.
  
  At the same time, teaching itself is a deep passion for me. There is nothing more rewarding than helping a student progress from confusion to clarity, from doubt to confidence. I enjoy not only teaching content but also building curiosity, resilience, and enthusiasm in learners. That passion drives me to go beyond the classroom and into tutoring, where I can provide focused attention and help students truly thrive.

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

  What makes me a Superprof is the unique combination of academic expertise, professional creativity, and personal dedication I bring to every lesson. I have taught across a range of academic levels, helping students prepare for exams with structured methods while also encouraging independent, critical thinking. At the same time, my professional background in media and filmmaking allows me to enrich lessons with real-world insights, examples, and skills that make learning both practical and enjoyable
  
  I am approachable and adaptable, always ready to adjust my style to fit the needs of each learner. Whether a student needs detailed exam preparation, a confidence boost in specific topics, or creative inspiration, I work to ensure they leave each session more capable and motivated than before. I believe this commitment to both academic success and personal growth is what sets me apart as a tutor.