Private Tutor / Neurodiversity Specialist
London and international
Arzoo Arif
I wanted to thank you again for the gentle approach, the knowledge and practical tips that you shared with my son. Arzoo, you have been absolutely fantastic and I have been really impressed by how you managed to engage with him, especially with his creative writing. It has really provided that little extra help that made all the difference. His end of the year report was excellent and I am sure he benefited from all your guidance.
— Rachel, happy parent
What makes a great tutor?
A tutor who listens to the students they work with and who is able to explain things clearly by simplifying and breaking things down e.g. focusing on one step at a time and mastering that before moving on to the next stage. A compassionate human being who is also positive and praises students also makes a great tutor.
What are you trying to encourage and cultivate in your students?
I attempt to build confidence in my students; the belief that they can achieve and succeed if they consistently put in the work. I also try to promote resilience: for example, if they are not currently doing well, I encourage them to keep going and not give up. Also, not to compare themselves to other children.
Apart from teaching, what are your own extra-curricular interests?
I am very passionate about wellness. I enjoy learning about all the ways that we can improve our wellbeing through practices such as meditation, positive mindset, exercise, diet and nutrition.
What makes Commons Education tutors different?
Commons tutoring is not just focused on passing an exam. That is important, but we also take into account the wellbeing of a child. It is more of a holistic approach. Each child’s happiness is paramount.
Who or what inspires you?
Individuals who manage to thrive and succeed in overcoming their challenges. How people manage to thrive in adversity – the activist Katie Piper for instance, who was attacked by her ex-boyfriend and now advocates for young women.
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Arzoo Arif was a teacher in various London secondary schools for about fifteen years, specialising in humanities and A Level psychology, which is her main academic background. She studied psychology for her undergraduate degree, later completed a PGCE in education and has also completed a master’s in applied positive psychology. This latter course included a significant element of coaching, which Arzoo tries to incorporate into her work as a tutor, especially when supporting neurodivergent children or those with with specific learning difficulties.
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BSc (Hons) Psychology
MSc in Applied Positive Psychology and Coaching
PGCE – Institute of Education, London