About Me

Hi, I’m Keno! I’ve been working as a private tutor in English and the Social Sciences for students from ages 5-18 for five years. I began tutoring during COVID with US-based companies, teaching students one-on-one and in groups over Zoom. I have since transitioned to tutoring in-person in Tokyo and online.

I have a bachelor’s degree in History of Art from University College London and a master’s in Global Political Economy from Goldsmiths University. I also work as a freelance journalist and copywriter and have written for outlets including The Guardian and Teen Vogue and produced copy for clients including Greenpeace, SK-II, Rakuten, and Itochu.

What I Teach

I work with students of all ages, from kindergarten to high school, and I’m happy to work with adults as well. My tutoring services include:

  • General Reading & Writing Skills - Homework help, essay writing, and literacy development

  • SSAT / ISEE Tutoring - Reading and writing sections

  • SAT Tutoring - Reading and writing sections

  • AP English - Language and Literature

  • College Application Essay Assistance - Common App (US), UCAS (UK), and other application essays

  • ESOL & Speaking Practice - English as a Second Language, conversation skills, and fluency building

My Teaching Philosophy

I have experience tutoring students of all ages and English proficiency levels, from non-native learners to advanced high school students. Having attended public and private schools in the US and an international school in Japan, I understand the unique challenges students face in different academic systems. Additionally, I have professional experience writing in both American and British English, which allows me to guide students effectively in either context.

My approach to tutoring is centered on customization--every student learns differently, and I tailor my methods to meet their individual needs. While I’ve taught in structured programs with set curricula, I find that working independently allows for a more personalized and effective learning experience, especially in one-on-one settings.

The greatest joy I find in tutoring comes from making learning engaging and enjoyable. My goal is not just to help students improve their reading and writing skills but to foster a genuine love for these lifelong practices. Students who have struggled with traditional tutoring or classroom settings often tell me they enjoy my sessions the most—something I credit to my focus on making learning both meaningful and enjoyable.

I prioritize critical thinking and problem-solving in writing from an early age, encouraging students to develop their own perspectives. Whenever possible, I select reading materials and essay topics based on their interests, helping them stay engaged and invested in their work. This approach not only makes learning more enjoyable in the moment but also builds the motivation and independence they will need to sustain their intellectual curiosity over time.

Pricing

Please contact me for pricing and payment options. I offer both one-on-one and group lessons, with customized plans to suit different learning needs. For in-person sessions in Tokyo, I can travel to you (with travel expenses covered by the student). I also offer referral discounts, so if you know someone who might benefit from tutoring, please reach out!