My name is William Bruce, and I founded Cheltenham Tutors to offer high-quality, thoughtful academic support for children in their primary education and 11+ preparation.
I am a qualified teacher with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE, Distinction) and a Master’s degree in Inclusive Education (Distinction). I am currently undertaking doctoral research at UCL, where my work focuses on how relationships and classroom culture shape learning.
I have taught across all primary year groups from EYFS through to Year 6, with significant experience in Upper Key stage 2. I have worked in state (both primary and secondary), independent and special schools. Over the years I have supported pupils with a wide range of abilities and needs and have worked in the state, private and special education sector, as well as working with the local authority to provide educational support to students awaiting school placements. In the classroom, I have consistently helped cohorts achieve strong academic outcomes, with previous classes achieving an average of 83% combined at KS2 SATs. I also have extensive experience, and a strong track record, preparing pupils for 11+ entrance examinations, supporting children to secure places at local grammar and independent schools through calm, structured and relational teaching.
Alongside tutoring, I work as a teacher in local primary schools and serve as co-founder of Fairview Education, a small charity providing free tuition to children from lower-income families.
My interests outside of teaching are sports, outdoor adventures (including climbing, hiking and camping), reading and spending time with my family and friends.
I believe children learn best when academic rigour and relational care go together.
Preparation for academic success requires:
Strong subject knowledge
Precise exam technique
Resilience under pressure
Confidence in thinking independently
But it also requires something deeper: a learning environment where children feel safe to make mistakes, ask questions, and stretch themselves.
My sessions are structured, focused and purposeful — but never mechanical. I aim to help pupils understand why something works, not just how to answer it.
I have extensive experience supporting pupils in:
11+ entrance examinations (GL and CEM style papers)
Non-Verbal and Verbal Reasoning
KS2 Maths mastery and problem-solving
Developing reading comprehension and written clarity
I am particularly interested in helping children who are capable but lack confidence, or who need a calm, steady environment to thrive.
As a father of children myself, I understand the pressures families can feel around school transitions and entrance examinations.
My aim is not simply to prepare pupils for a test, but to strengthen their long-term academic confidence and independence.
Enhanced DBS checked
Qualified teacher status
Experienced in classroom and small-group settings
Committed to professional conduct and clear communication
If you would like to discuss whether tutoring would be suitable for your child, I would be very happy to arrange an initial conversation.