Phil Nelkin - Computer Science & Physics Tutor | Teacher Mentor | Support for Schools phil@nelkin.com | +44 7947644617

Computer Science & Physics Tutor

Mentoring Support for Schools

After graduating in Applied Physics, my first job was with the advanced research lab at Rolls Royce, Derby. There were many opportunities to use my Physics and it was fantastic to work for one of the most iconic British companies but, interaction with people was limited and I decided, after a year, to undertake a PGCE and enter the world of teaching.

30 years on, I have been on a Senior Leadership Team, a Director of IT, and taught Physics and Computer Science in five schools.  After my first 9 years of teaching, I spent nearly 5 years in industry with RM PLC, Deloitte Consulting and Dan Computers before returned to education.

Over three decades, the tectonic shifts in technology have been huge. In addition to my established Physics teaching, I added IT and Computer Science as additional strings to my digital bow. Seeing the evolution from coding to IT and back to coding has given me an interesting historical perspective on the ideas and technologies within the current syllabuses.

In terms of Computer Science, I've developed my coding experience to include Python, vb.net, Java and C#. And as a teacher of IT, in the old days, I really enjoyed integrating a Computer Science curriculum with creative tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Flash (Animate) and Fireworks. My students really enjoyed graphic and web design and many of them found themselves in the digital marketing arena where some of these skills were a great start! Many of my A-Level Computer Science students continued to study the subject at degree level and have either entered the tech world or, in some cases, finance. Many of my Physics students have pursued careers in Engineering or Physics.

From October, 2021 I became freelance. I tutor students in Physics and Computer Science and also support a number of schools, including the wonderful British School of Brussels and an old school of mine, Queen's College, by mentoring teachers and supporting students.

If you think I can help you in any way, please get in touch!