Petra

I had the unique opportunity to grow up in three different countries. Originally from Hungary, I moved to Germany when I was seven years old and then to the UK when I was thirteen. I graduated from the German School London, completing their Dual Qualification Programme ‘Abitur + IBDP’.

The study of IB subjects, particularly German Literature and Theory of Knowledge, provided a solid foundation for my pursuit of a joint honours degree in German and Philosophy at Oxford University. My research project, ‘Nietzsche and his Impact’, earned me a proxime accessit Gibbs Prize, and I received the FHS LIDL Prize for my Finals results.

Shortly after graduating in July 2021, I worked as a freelance reader for London Literary Scouting, writing literary reviews for newly published books in German. Realising how much I missed sharing my enthusiasm for language and literature, I decided to become an Academic Mentor at Swanlea School, where I tutored students to help them achieve their desired results in their exams and also provided support with university applications.

My tutoring philosophy is that academic achievement relies on hard work, genuine curiosity, and a high degree of self-confidence — my aim is to nurture these qualities in my students. A student is not a robot designed to sit exams, and this is reflected in my approach to teaching. In my lessons, I encourage you to explore ideas beyond the curriculum, ask plenty of questions (even — or especially — the ones you may think are “stupid”), and to get to know yourself through the subject. The study of language, literature and philosophy naturally inspires self-reflection and encourages you to think for yourself. That being said, excelling in your exams is equally important, so the goal of my lessons is to strike a balance between fostering your independence as a thinker and methodically preparing you for exams, ensuring you approach them with confidence.

Outside of tutoring, I enjoy running, creative writing, and playing the piano. I am currently working on a poetry collection and writing about the intersection of mental health and philosophy.