Lilian (second left) and Sohrab (right)
‘We have strict criteria for hiring our specialist tutors. Naturally, they need to be exceptional at maths: everyone has to pass a tough test – PHD students have failed it – before we train them in the unique Mathnasium method. But equally important, all our teachers must have a passion for maths and be able to communicate that to the students.’
Sohrab Khan, Centre Director of Mathnasium, is clearly a man who loves teaching his subject. While we’re chatting, families are popping in and out of the maths-only learning centre on the High Road and his enthusiasm and warm welcome shines through. Even more surprising, for a maths-phobe like me, the children seem genuinely pleased to be there!
Devised by Larry Martinek, a US school teacher, the Mathnasium approach has been transforming how students learn maths for over a decade (there are now nearly 1000 centres worldwide). ‘We teach children from Year 1 to GCSE,’ explains Sohrab, who works closely with Lilian Ling, the owner of the Chiswick centre. ‘All new students take a customised assessment and that enables us to determine their exact level of knowledge and devise a detailed personal learning plan for them.
‘All teaching sessions are one-on-one, they last an hour – we don’t set homework – and the tutors are always on hand to check progress and ensure that information is understood and retained. The lessons are arranged to suit the student during our opening hours and we can help with school homework. Also, as the exam season for 7+ and 11+ is nearing, children can benefit from attending Mathnasium sessions more frequently to help boost their confidence.’
Sohrab is convinced that every child can succeed with Mathnasium. ‘We offer a way of learning that is easily adapted to each individual.’ And should encouragement be needed, there is a reward for achievement policy with incentives ranging from slime and toys to an iPhone. ‘Of course, getting the iPhone takes hard work and outstanding results,’ smiles Sohrab.
Mathnasium of Chiswick
261 Chiswick High Road,
Chiswick, W4 4PU
+442079932234
[email protected]
https://www.mathnasium.co.uk/chiswick
