Your tutor: DR ILDIKO CSENGEI
I'm a full-time, high-level English tutor with over 15 years of experience across schools, universities, and private education. I hold a PhD in English Literature from the University of Cambridge, where I also taught and supervised undergraduate students. I'm a qualified secondary English teacher (QTS) and an examiner for a major UK exam board. I deliver over 1,600 hours of private tuition annually, working with students across the UK and internationally. My work spans individual and group teaching through various tutoring platforms and direct client referrals, including schools, agencies and long-term private families.
I specialise in GCSE / IGCSE English, 11+, 13+ entrance exam preparation, Oxbridge English applications, and essay writing at university level. I’ve helped students move from Grades 3–4 to secure 6s and 7s, and supported high-achievers aiming for 8–9 and full marks. Many of my clients are long-term, with families returning across siblings and stages.
My approach is structured but adaptable, warm but rigorous, and always focused on building confidence, clarity and independent thinking. I work with both UK and international students, particularly those in high-performing schools aiming for top outcomes.
Qualifications and Experience:
PhD from the University of Cambridge
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Over 15 years in UK higher and secondary education
Secondary school English teacher in Cambridgeshire
Mainstream and independent school teaching experience in good and outstanding-rated schools
Teaching experience at the Universities of Cambridge, Southampton and Huddersfield
extensive SEND experience, including autistic students
Enhanced DBS certificate
Tutoring Options:
GCSE, A level, 11+, 13+, 16+, degree level tuition
Oxbridge prep and personal statements
Online Sessions: Flexible and convenient
1:1 and small groups
As a former Director of Studies in English at Newham College and a former fellow of Pembroke College, Cambridge, I also have extensive experience with the Cambridge admissions process, including candidate selection, test setting and marking, and conducting interviews. I am proficient in all forms of university teaching, including Oxbridge-style supervision, lectures, and seminars.
Research and Publications:
Widely published in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century literature
Active researcher on the Romantic period and literature and history of warfare
Testimonials
“Dear Ildiko,
Thank you for the progress you have made with my daughter. She finds the lessons with you very effective, and her grade has already improved after just a few lessons.
It has been a particularly positive experience, as you have been able to adapt to her learning needs and provide support accordingly.” — Shimrit
“We feel incredibly fortunate to have found such an excellent English tutor. Her teaching style is both supportive and engaging, creating a comfortable environment that encourages learning and growth. Lessons are always well-prepared, thoughtfully structured, and tailored to the student's specific needs.
One of her greatest strengths is the detailed feedback she provides after each session. She takes the time to highlight areas of progress while offering clear, constructive suggestions for improvement. This approach has significantly boosted our child's confidence and motivation.
We are truly blessed to have such a dedicated and skilled tutor guiding our child’s learning journey. Highly recommended.” — Saumya
“Ildiko was excellent during our sessions. She was both supportive and knowledgeable about all aspects of the admissions process. Throughout our sessions, she adapted the focus to target areas of weakness, as well as giving personal recommendations and reading lists to prepare me for my interview. Her feedback allowed me to adapt and grow as a student, especially with analysing challenging texts and being able to really understand the texts and form logical arguments. I ended up receiving an offer from Cambridge to study English and I couldn't be more pleased. Thank you so much!” — Jake
“Absolutely delighted with how our son was tutored through structured lessons, homework, and revision to successfully achieve a 9 in English Language and an 8 in English Literature - an improvement of 2 grades in less than 6 months! We were informed on his progress after each lesson and communication every step of the way being excellent. An amazing tutor who made a tangible difference. Thank you! “— David
Contact me
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