REBECCA MARKHAM-JONES, MA, PGCE (CANTAB), MRES

In 2014, I was drawn back to my first love, Classics, and retrained as a teacher after 18 years working for big corporates in marketing. I returned to Cambridge, where I had been fortunate enough to study under Prof. Mary Beard as an undergraduate, and as part of the PGCE, had the privilege of shadowing teachers at top academic establishments The Perse and Hills Road Sixth Form College. Since qualifying, I have worked for ten years in leading independent schools in York and Godalming, latterly as Head of Classics, helping mixed ability students from ages 11-18 achieve their very best at GCSE, A-Level and IB (International Baccalaureate). I specialise in exam preparation in Latin, Greek and Classical Civilisation at all levels. Tutoring has come as a natural extension from this, especially in subjects such as Latin and Greek, where classes can often be smaller and sometimes one to one. 

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I bring a unique blend of experience and expertise. I am a classically trained linguist (gaining a 1st in the optional Greek Prose Composition paper whilst at Cambridge) who helps students reach the top grades in Latin and Greek languages. I combine this with a genuine interest and acquired expertise in helping students of all abilities achieve their potential in the broader area of Classical Civilisation study.

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SAMPLE RESULTS 

A-Level*

Latin: 85% Grade A*/A  (Prose Literature and Unseen Verse)

Greek: 100% Grade A* (Unseen Verse)

Classical Civilisation: 80-100% Grade A*A (World of the Hero, Imperial Image, Politics of the Late Republic)

GCSE

Latin: 80% Grade 9-7

Greek: 80% Grade 9-7

(GCSE students were taught Greek from scratch in lessons combined with Latin ('Gratin') over 2 years). 

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*A-Level results are for the specific papers I have taught as part of a small teaching team.

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EXAMINATION EXPERTISE

As an Examiner in Latin for OCR I understand what examiners expect from candidates.

My analysis of examination requirements to achieve the top grade at A-Level Latin has provided valuable insight for students and teachers, and now forms part of INSET training for departments up and down the country. 

I have gained unique insight into the new GCSE specifications as an editorial reviewer for the new GCSE Classical Civilisation text book for Bloomsbury Publishing.

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TEACHING EXPERTISE

I maintain an active interest in pedagogy and research and have published two articles on A-Level teaching strategies for Classical Civilisation. My reviews of new teaching materials such as Cullen & Taylor's 'Latin to GCSE' have also been published in the Journal of Classical Teaching (JCT).

I have spoken at conferences for the Classical Association Teaching Board on how to teach secondary sources as part of the new A-Level and have been asked to contribute to a new book on teaching Classical Civilisation.

I have tutored A-Level Greek at the prestigious JACT Greek Summer School at Bryanston.

I have taught gifted and talented students from the maintained sector as part of the York ISSP Masterclasses.

In addition to leading Classics, I am Assistant Head, Teaching & Learning Director at my current school, and have been responsible for all Oxbridge applications, Academic Extension, and Academic Scholars.

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INSPIRING LIFE-LONG LEARNING

I recently studied part-time and online for a Master of Research in Classics and Ancient History at the University of Roehampton, London, passing with Distinction. 

I am also a licensed LTA Tennis Coach and hold a Diploma in Wines and Spirits.

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