Whatever your learning needs might be, why not see if I can help? I am happy to tailor a study plan to your personal needs. Worried about the cost? Please get in touch – it may be more affordable than you think, and there are often ways that I can help you reach your goals within your financial means.
Here are some examples of the kinds of tutoring that I can provide:
University Philosophy
I am a dedicated philosophy tutor with 15 years of experience in teaching philosophy at universities, at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels (view CV). I have taught at Durham University, The University of York, The University of East Anglia, and Anglia Ruskin University.
I have designed modules, delivered lectures, marked assignments, supervised dissertations, and served on exam boards, so I know exactly what your examiners are looking for.
I can help you with
- Understanding tricky topics
- Essay writing technique
- Time management
- Dissertation planning
- Preparing for exams
- Developing and refining your own independent arguments
Philosophy and Religious Studies at School and College Level
I have worked closely with teachers and schools, organised subject conferences for schoolteachers, and created resources for use in classrooms (view CV). I have closely studied A-level and GCSE syllabuses, and have a clear idea of what is expected at this level. I have also worked as the admissions tutor for philosophy at Durham University, so I can help you to write a great university application.
I can help you with
- Understanding philosophical theories and positions
- Analysing arguments and other critical thinking skills
- Learning to write philosophy essays
- Exam preparation
- Time management
- University applications
Independent Scholars
Is philosophy something that has always interested you, but which you have never had a chance to study? Perhaps you are considering taking a career break to study philosophy and want to know if it would be right for you, or perhaps you want to think more deeply about the big questions, or employ some of the tools of critical thinking, political theory, or applied ethics for your work. Whatever your reasons, I can assure you that philosophy is an exciting and rewarding subject, and I can provide tailored tuition to help you achieve your goals. This can be through a customised course of study, or through an intensive one-off session designed to suit your needs.
Testimonials
“I was taught philosophy by Dr Liz McKinnell while she was lecturer and tutor at Durham University. Liz was an excellent lecturer, who could explain difficult philosophical ideas with clarity and simplicity, while also being able to head off any common mistakes that students are prone to making if left to their own devices. Liz was also an excellent tutor, using her outstanding philosophical ability as a teaching tool, in guiding discussions, which were excellent at drawing ideas from students, and helping them to develop their own philosophical ability and understanding. Liz is also very friendly and approachable, as lecturer and tutor, which helps students gain confidence by enabling them to begin to grapple with often difficult material in a supportive environment. Overall, Liz McKinnell is an excellent philosopher to be taught by, in virtue of being a brilliant lecturer and tutor, and, more importantly, as a really good and interesting philosopher to have the chance to engage with.”
-Chris, Ordinand at Cranmer Hall, St John’s College, Durham University from September 2021.
“I would highly recommend Liz as a tutor. She has extensive knowledge, which she always explains in a very understandable way. I found it very useful having one on one conversations with someone who is well-versed in both philosophy and exam technique. Thanks to Liz, I feel more at ease structuring and writing essays, which was exactly what I was looking for. She provides a wealth of resources, and if I ever need any more help with my degree, she will certainly be someone I will contact. She is also a lovely person!”
-BA Philosophy student, first year, 2021.