Dr Parikh - PhD qualified tutor with 20 years of solid experience, providing 1:1 Online tuition, Examiner and University Lecturer I am friendly and patient. I have taught students from year 5 till GCS

Find out more about Dr Parikh

• When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  I discovered my love for mathematics during my engineering studies, where problem-solving and logical thinking were essential. This passion grew stronger during my MSc and PhD, where I worked with advanced mathematical modelling and data analysis. While doing my PhD, I began helping fellow students, and I realised how much I enjoyed teaching. Since 2004, I’ve been tutoring students of all ages, and it has become my lifelong passion.

• Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  I mainly teach mathematics and physics, from GCSE up to university level. My favourite topics are algebra, calculus, mechanics, and problem-solving — especially when I can show how they connect to real-life situations. I enjoy lessons where students ask “why” and not just “how.” Repetitive exam drills are less exciting, but I still make sure to approach them in a way that helps students see progress and build confidence.

• Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  Yes! During my time at the University of Sheffield and Oxford Brookes, I had professors who made complex concepts feel simple. Their patience and encouragement inspired me, and I try to bring the same qualities into my own teaching.

• What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  A good tutor should be patient, understanding, and able to explain ideas in different ways. Strong subject knowledge is important, but so is enthusiasm and communication. A tutor should motivate students to believe in themselves and find joy in learning. Creativity and problem-solving skills are also key — since every student learns differently, the tutor has to find the right path for each one.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  During my PhD, I had to analyse very complex scientific data. At first, it felt impossible, but I broke the big problem into smaller steps, and slowly it became manageable. I often share this story with students to show that no problem is too big — if you take it step by step, you can solve it.

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still face in your subject?

  One big challenge is that many students find mathematics abstract and disconnected from daily life. My job as a tutor is to make it meaningful and engaging, by showing how maths links to careers, technology, and real-world situations. Personally, during my studies, I found learning advanced software and programming tough at first. Overcoming those challenges taught me perseverance, and that’s something I pass on to my students.

• Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  My greatest passion is teaching and sharing knowledge. I love the moment when a student suddenly understands something they once found impossible. Beyond maths, I’m passionate about inspiring students to think about their future careers. As a STEM ambassador, I enjoy showing how education can open doors and helping students gain confidence in planning their paths.

• What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions :-P)?

  I believe it’s my dedication, experience, and ability to adapt to every student. With over 16 years of teaching GCSE, A-levels, IB, university, and professional exams, I’ve supported learners from many different backgrounds. I focus on building both knowledge and confidence. I’ve even been recognised as one of the top private tutors in Oxford. Most importantly, I genuinely care about my students’ success and always go the extra mile to help them achieve their goals.