About Olivia
Hi, I’m Olivia, and I help IB students find their feet in Math and Physics, especially when a question looks nothing like the example from class. You’re welcome to bring half-finished working, a topic you’ve been putting off or a question you feel you should already know how to answer. I took the IB Certificate in Teaching and Learning because I wanted a stronger understanding of the thinking behind IB lessons and assessment. Exploring inquiry during the programme encouraged me to give students more room to test an idea, ask a question and explain a choice. I like to slow down at the moment a solution starts to feel confusing. How did we choose that equation? What does the graph actually tell us? Could we estimate the answer first? Talking through those decisions makes it easier to approach the next question independently. Some sessions will focus on rebuilding an idea; others will be about applying it under exam conditions. You’ll have plenty of time to try things yourself, and I’ll ask you to explain your thinking so we can see what’s becoming clearer. Tell me which IB Math course or Physics level you’re taking and what you’d most like help with. We can take it from there.
Tutoring experience
I’ve supported IB Math and Physics students through regular lessons, revision periods and the transition into the demands of the Diploma. Some have wanted to strengthen earlier foundations; others have understood the lesson content but found it difficult to recognise what an exam question was asking them to do. A lot of my experience has been in that space between understanding an example and being ready to solve something independently. I’ve helped students review their working, connect equations with physical situations and become more comfortable explaining a choice. My own study of Physics and Mathematics gives me a useful view of how the subjects fit together. I particularly enjoy the moment a student spots a connection we can use in both.
Reviews
Our daughter used to get upset before she had even started her math homework. Olivia breaks things into small, manageable tasks, so there is always something she feels able to tackle.
What we appreciate most, is that Olivia gives her time to think instead of stepping in straight away. She also asked us what our daughter found difficult at home, which helped the lessons feel relevant. Homework still has its moments, but she is much more willing to give things a try.
I usually understand the ideas in Physics lessons but knowing which equation to use is another story. Olivia gets me to talk through the question first and then we work out a plan. She explains where I’ve gone wrong instead of just correcting it. Definitely less time spent staring at a question wondering where to start now!