Toby Smith
English Tutor at Lancaster University | Literature, Writing, Reading, Debate




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Toby Smith
Bachelors degree
/ 55 min
Your english tutor - Toby
Hi there! My name is Toby, and I am an experienced, TEFL certified teacher, of both English and Spanish, from the UK. I have over 3 years of experience teaching students of all ages to become the best linguists they can be. If you are looking for a professor to push you in your studies, to tailor the learning experience to you, and provide you with skills that will help you in the real world, not just boring textbook exercises and vocab tests, then look no further! My specialities range from accent coaching, to test prep strategies, to business english, ensuring that each student has a comprehensive grounding that allows them to master English or Spanish to the highest level. Whether you are a beginner, or an experienced speaker looking to refine your English or Spanish skills, I am here to help you succeed. Let’s embark on this language journey together and unlock your full potential in English or Spanish.
Meet Toby
Toby graduated from Lancaster University


English tutor specialities
Speaking fluency
Cultural immersion
Real world application
Writing assistance
Accent coaching
Listening skill
AI modules
Summary
Podcast
Quiz
Learnings
Flashcard
Spotlight
Zero Risk Guaranteed
15-days refund
Free tutor swap
No cancel fee
1-yr validity
24/7 support
Learner types for english class
ADHD
ASD
Home schooled
English for beginners
English for kids
English for adults
Anxiety or Stress Disorders
English classes quick guide
My teaching methodology is unique in that I incorporate the latest and most up to date teaching strategies within my curriculum. I have eliminated the outdated and actively damaging practises of learning by rote and standardised class structures from my approach, as these have been proven to not only slow learning progress, but also weaken a students adaptability in the target language. As such I employ an approach of fully immersive classes, in which 90-95% of the content is taught in and around the target language, only using translations when absolutely necessary to ensure student understanding. I create a personalised and tailored curriculum for each student, using an initial aptitude test and my own insights in the first few sessions to target the weaknesses within their fluency, and to actively improve the areas that will support the purpose of their learning. With over 100 successful students taught, and over 5000 hours of classes under my belt, I have a proven track record in my style and my ability to accelerate a student’s learning by making lessons engaging and personalised.
Toby - also teaches
English Listening
English Literature
English Speaking
English Vocabulary
English Writing
English

English concepts taught by Toby
The Student and Tutor worked on fundamental singing techniques, including maintaining an open throat, using diaphragm support for high notes, and understanding different vocal registers. They discussed the importance of hearing music and practicing vocal slides while beginning to learn the song "Ain't No Sunshine." The Student was assigned practice for the song's first verse and a vocal warm-up exercise involving sliding through their entire vocal range.
The Voice as an External Instrument (Staircase Analogy)
Full Range Vocal Slide Warm-up
Avoiding Vocal Tension for High Notes
Diaphragmatic Breathing for Volume Control
Healthy Larynx Position and Open Throat
Understanding Vocal Registers (Zones)
The Student and Tutor worked on vocal techniques, primarily focusing on the art of riffing in singing, using "The Thrill Is Gone" as a key example. They also practiced breath control strategies for faster pieces, specifically with the song "Wouldn't You Like." The Student was assigned to extensively practice riffing in "The Thrill Is Gone" for the upcoming week.
The Central Note Principle in Riffing
Understanding Riffing Fundamentals
Complementary Notes and Resolution in Riffing
Strategic Breathing for Dynamic Performance
Cultivating Riffing Creativity through Practice
The Student and Tutor engaged in a singing lesson focusing on vocal warm-ups, breath control, and voice placement. They practiced specific exercises to improve pitching and falsetto transitions, then analyzed the song "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran to address breath control and projection. The Student was assigned to practice phrasing and breath support for "Perfect," with a plan to work on projection with "Stupid Song" in the next session.
Strategic Breath Control in Songs
Unlocking Dynamic Projection and Vocal Power
Navigating Vocal Register Transitions
Core Support: Diaphragmatic Breathing & Posture
Vocal Health: Pre-Singing Nutrition
Student and Tutor focused on preparing for an upcoming musical audition, analyzing the song "Don't Be the Bunny" from "Urinetown." They practiced speak-singing techniques and characterization, using "Friends on the Other Side" as a reference. The Tutor recommended an additional lesson next week to further refine the audition piece, ensuring the Student has the best possible preparation.
Seamless Speak-Singing Transition
Consistent Character Embodiment
Strategic Audition Preparation
Attacking Notes with Intent & Power
Overcoming Performance Inhibition
Student and Tutor had an introductory singing session where the student discussed their musical preferences and goals. The Tutor assessed the student's vocal range and identified strengths, such as falsetto access and natural vibrato, along with areas for development, particularly vocal transitions. They selected three initial songs for practice and discussed the structure of future lessons and practice recommendations.
Structured Lessons & Effective Practice
Natural Vibrato & Neutral Voice Tone
Vocal Transition Challenges: The 'Wobble'
Initial Vocal Range & Type
The Four Voice Parts
Perceived vs. Actual Voice Sound
The Student and Tutor engaged in a singing lesson focusing on vocal warm-ups and a new song, "Love Will Find a Way" by Lionel Richie. They practiced the song with and without music, analyzing its rhythmic complexities and emotional delivery. Homework was assigned to practice the song using backing tracks and acapella, with specific guidance on vocal energy and maintaining pitch in high registers.
Embracing Your Unique Voice
Mastering Vocal Attack and Dynamic Energy
Advanced Pitching and Seamless Register Transitions
Enhancing Performance through A Cappella Practice
Strategic Octave and Energy Shaping for Song Impact
Teaching tools used by english tutor
Grammar practice
Writing prompts
Interactive quizzes
Game based learning tools
Translation tools
Engaging english lessons
Pets are welcomed
Note taking
Chat for quick help
Mobile joining
Open Q&A

English tutors on Wiingy are vetted for quality
Every tutor is interviewed and selected for subject expertise and teaching skill.
