Catch up with all our news
Summer News, 2008
Two new "arms" now in place
Step Ahead means Business - which is the corporate "arm" of STEP AHEAD and STEP AHEAD TOGETHER - which offers individual tuition within small groups - are now functional and can be read about in their own sections by clicking on the navigation to the left.
Literacy
Considerable emphasis is being placed on the hugely important area of literacy and we trust that readers are keeping updated on "George's Diary" on this web-site.
Pupil of the week awards 
Congratulations: Cameron Laird (Limekilns); Kimberley Wemyss (Crossford); Ben Sneddon (Cairneyhill); Charlie Dineen (Saline); Michael Williamson (Dunfermline); Ishani Krishnan (Edinburgh); Cameron Farquhar (Limekilns); Ryan Muldoon (Grangemouth); Ameer Ali (Edinburgh); Amy Brown (Dunfermline); Anna Aitken (Dunfermline); Ryan Vohra (Edinburgh); Niall Piggot (Limekilns); Emma Doherty (Rosyth); Rebecca Williamson (Dunfermline) and Jack Muldoon (Grangemouth)
New tutors
In recent weeks, we have welcomed: Linda Duncan (Primary); Helen Lacey (Business Man., Accounts and Admin); Robert Milton (Maths and Physics); Laura Nelson (Primary, Art and Design, Biology) and Christine Sumstine (Primary and English).
April/May 2008
Exciting Developments in 2008
Much planning is underway as STEP AHEAD intends to develop in a number of directions throughout this year. A new "arm" - STEP AHEAD TOGETHER" - will shortly be introduced - with details appearing on this web-site after a number of meetings have been concluded involving our Management Team with key tutoring staff.
SQA National exams are very important to many of our clients and we believe that our tutors have prepared candidates well.
We wish all tutees the best in their endeavours.
We hope that readers of our site continue to enjoy George's entries in his "Diary" which keeps us up to date with weekly news.
Pupil of the week awards
Congratulations: Douglas Walker (Edinburgh); Sam Pope (Dalgety Bay); Ailish McKenna (Limekilns); Owen Prentice (Saline); Tom Wilson (Penicuik); Fraser Mutch (Crossford); Ross Philp (Dunfermline); Liam Jukes (Dalgety Bay); Luke Prentice (Saline); Grant McDonald (Dalgety Bay); Agnes Thomson (Musselburgh); Sam Hogg (Crossford); Jill McGregor (Linlithgow); Alistair Davis (Dalgety Bay); John Cuthbertson (Saline); Kieran Highway (East Craigs) and Pauline Graham (Livingston).
New tutors
Over the past few months we have welcomed: Val Bonser (Primary); Elizabeth Cochrane (Primary); Jennifer Farrar (English and Media); Gail Fotheringham (Primary); Scott Georgeson (Biology, Chemistry and Physics); James Hardie (English); Alana Kent (Primary); Julie McCormack (English and Geography); Diana Murdoch (English, French, German, History and Primary); Tania Ostolaza (Spanish); Dr Brett Patterson (Computing, IT, Maths and Physics); Rachel Robertson (Geography and Primary); Victoria Ross (Maths and Primary); Gareth Surgey (Tech Studies); Janet Thomas (Biology, CDT, Chemistry, Graph Comm and Maths) and Heather Young (English).
January/February 2008
Excellent results are again emerging of STEP AHEAD tutees who have been accepted for independent school places in Edinburgh, Fife and Perthshire.
Equally fine prelim results are being reported at Standard, Intermediate, Higher and Advanced Higher levels.
We hope that readers of our site are enjoying George's entries, some not without controversy, into his Diary which keeps us up to date with weekly news.
Pupil of the week awards
Congratulations: Charlynne Richards (Dalgety Bay); Tom Smith (Edinburgh); Claire Macdonald (Dalgety Bay); Amy Pope (Dalgety Bay); Ian Shepherd (Perth); Ross Inglis (Crossford); Ryan Learmonth (Inverkeithing); Jo Brand (Musselburgh); Grant Hughes (Falkirk).
New tutors
We have welcomed: Dr John Davidson (Engineering, Maths and Physics); Dylan Evans (Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics); David Lumsden (Graphic Communication); Fionnuala McGlinchey (Primary); Dr Colin Mitchell (Biology and Chemistry).
Merry Christmas, 2007, and a Happy New Year, 2008
STEP AHEAD wishes all our clients and tutors the very best for an enjoyable and happy festive period.
It has been a busy and eventful year with some outstanding successes. As our expansion continues, we would like to thank all of you for your support and encouragement, and for the positive comments which you have made, both in writing and orally, about the quality we offer and about our new web-site. In conjunction with our graphic designers 39steps, we shall be looking to add features to our web-site, and we would encourage tutors, parents and youngsters to offer ideas and suggestions.
New tutors
Into Winter and we welcome Louise Cannon (Primary) and Kelly Anne Plenderleith (English, Maths, Modern Studies, Politics and Sociology)
Pupil of the week awards
As our expansion continues, these awards will be even more widespread geographically speaking, as more tutors are mindful to join in and present their recommendations.
We have pleasure to announce the following winners: Amy Brown (Dunfermline), Graham Dodds (Kirkcaldy), Kieran Harper (Rosyth), Kieran Highway (East Craigs), Ishani Krishnan (Edinburgh), Duncan Purves (Edinburgh), Robbie Travers (Edinburgh), Ryan Vohra (Edinburgh), Michael Williamson (Dunfermline), Rebecca Williamson (Dunfermline)
Special Mentions
Tutors have informed us that the following tutees are worthy of special recognition:
Primary; Guy Berry, Jack Geddes, Grant MacDonald, Amy Pope. Secondary; Gregor Campbell, Chris Crookston, Lindsay Morlock, Sophie Moran, Fraser Mutch
November 2007
Our first web-site has existed and served us well for the past five years. However, now as 2007 nears its end, our newly branded web-site appears!
Through the expertise of the exciting young graphic design company, 39steps, we trust that we have provided our readers with a highly accessible and easy-to-use site, which continues to answer all your questions and is packed full of news and comments. We shall add more and more features over the months ahead.
New tutors
During the past few weeks we have registered: Valerie Bonser (Primary); Marianne Burns (English, Maths, Music and Primary); Malcolm Dick (English, Maths and Electronics); Henry He (Accounts, Economics and Statistics); Forbes Maginnis (English, Geography and Modern Studies); Pat Stuart (Primary and Lower Secondary); Emma Watson (Primary) and Jacqueline Wilson (Biology).
Pupil of the week awards
Since September, these have been awarded to: Louisa Gallanders (Limekilns); Sam Hogg (Crossford); Ben Sneddon (Cairneyhill); Craig Learmonth (Inverkeithing); Ryan Vohra (Edinburgh); Cameron Swanson (Crossford); Alistair Davis (Dalgety Bay); Charlie Dineen (Saline) and Emma Doherty (Rosyth).
Revamping of our website
Shortly this web-site will disappear forever - to be replaced by a new one!! In line with our re-branding, we shall soon have a new look web-site: still containing all the information and news which have been warmly welcomed and appreciated by many of our clients and tutors. The first person to email us, commenting on our new look, will win a prize: so keep your eyes open!!
Our new logo
We have designed and chosen the logo below, which, as from October 2007, will represent our Company:
Our new poster
Fliers and posters as below have been produced and are being widely circulated, especially in Edinburgh City: Click here to view the new poster
Latest developments
After consultation with our tutors' Working Group, clients and parents, we have agreed on our new logo, and, in September 2007, have instructed our graphic designers to prepare all stationery and materials with the logo appearing.
A major advertising campaign is underway as we expand our services throughout East Central Scotland. More news will be published in due course and our logo will appear - on our website and elsewhere.
The number of passes, but particularly top marks, in national exams have increased yet again this year, and we would like to congratulate all involved. We are very proud of the wonderful work done by tutors, but want to highlight the effort and commitment made by many of our clients.
STEP AHEAD's attention to detail, to building self esteem, and to our study planning have made an appreciable difference to so many pupils over the past few years. We recognise and acknowledge the faith which parents place in us and are delighted that results have justified our approach.
New tutors
Welcome to: Nicola Greig (Primary and Lower Sec), Arlene Harden ( Primary and Lower Sec), Kirsten Norrie (English and Art) and James Towill (Biology).
Pupil of the week awards
Have been presented to: Iain Fleming (Limekilns), Cameron Farquhar (Limekilns), Noel Taylor (Dunfermline), Liam Jukes (Dalgety Bay), Grant MacDonald (Dalgety Bay), Cameron Laird (Limekilns) and Jack Geddes (Rumbling Bridge).
Superb examination results 2007
Early indications are that STEP AHEAD clients have surpassed all expectations again this year! As we wait to hear from some clients and tutors, we are collating results and are being told of many outstanding grades - at all levels and across a wide geographical spread.
Further info will be posted in due course.
Summer 2007
Expansion plans are in full swing: please refer to our BLOG and our Home page. With the rain teeming down at Wimbledon, the British Summer is also in full swing, and whilst some of our clients (and tutors) are enjoying a well-earned break, many are, or soon will be, taking advantage of the school holidays to continue their regular tuition. Sessions are moved in to the day during the holidays when minds are fresher and much important work does get done.
SPECIAL MENTION
Our Blog has allowed us to keep readers updated on a number of achievements, and a particular piece of news has just come in which encapsulates all that STEP AHEAD stands for: the story of Peter Walker's achievements are outlined in this week's Blog.
Pupil of the week awards
Congratulations to: Chris Crookston (Crossford), Fraser Mutch (Crossford), Adam Coats (Dalgety Bay), Amy Pope (Dalgety Bay), Ross Hughes (Falkirk), Owen Prentice (Saline), Sam Pope (Dalgety Bay), Ibrahim Ibrahim (Glenrothes), Grant Hughes (Falkirk) and Ryan Learmonth (Inverkeithing).
Step Ahead is expanding
Already the largest one-to-one teacher organisation in East Central Scotland offering individual tuition in the home of a client or tutor, STEP AHEAD intends to develop its bases still further. There is more and more demand in the City of Edinburgh, and in places like Linlithgow, Falkirk, Stirling and St Andrews, and we are looking to meet fully the needs of clients in places such as these.
Tutors interested in doing more tutoring or in becoming involved, or more involved, in our organisation, are advised to contact our Director.
SPECIAL MENTION
For: Graham Dodds who has improved his work dramatically and has earned himself a Credit pass in his 3rd Year English ; Lee Priestley, a bright and able primary pupil, who has recently passed his Level D Maths; Ibrahim Ibrahim, who with his brother, not only became a finalist in Fife Council's Anne Frank Creative Writing competition, but won first prize in the 11-15yrs section for his "Who Do You Think You Are ?" essay. He was awarded a cheque for £100 and £50 worth of books for his school, Balwearie High.
Pupil of the week awards
Awards have gone to: Kieran Harper (Rosyth), Ben Sneddon (Cairneyhill), Louisa Gallanders (Limekilns), Aaron Miller (Clackmannan), Ross Philp (Dunfermline), Luke Prentice (Saline) and Ross Inglis (Crossford).
Ten years on
It is over ten years since STEP AHEAD had our first clients and we have been finding out how some of them have progressed over the past decade. A few examples are listed below :
Mark Jarvie, from Powmill, was a shy and nervous youngster when we first met but is now a successful young adult who is studying civil engineering at Edinburgh University.
Callum Milne, from Ratho, is an outstanding sportsman, playing hockey for Scotland and GB, whilst attending Telford for a Sports HND.
Caroline Orr, from Halbeath, has been to university, is returning there this year, and continues to enjoy and excel with her horses.
(Lord) John Douglas, from Dalmahoy, has left Merchiston Castle, where he balanced academic subjects with outstanding successes in the swimming pool, and is currently doing a placement, on his agricultural course, in minus temperatures in Calgary, Canada.
Scott Gibson, from Cairneyhill, is a young adult who has gained experience in several jobs, but is going back to college to study civil engineering.
The Fisher family, from Crossford, are all making their way in life. Elaine is the mother of a gorgeous two-year old, while Stephen is working locally. Richard is a student in Glasgow, while Katie is preparing for exams in senior school.
Katharine Douglas, from Dalmahoy, is in her final year at Fettes College and is considering her options for a university place.
We would be delighted to hear of, or from, any of our previous clients.
Sunny Easter holidays
For once, children and teachers on holiday are enjoying fine weather. Reports coming in from tutors suggest that many tutees, especially those who are preparing for exams, are taking advantage of the holidays to cram in day-time tutoring sessions.
Congratulations are due to the Clark brothers for their recent successful entrance test results, and to Gregor Campbell and Lindsay Morlock who are achieving "splendid" results, according to their tutor.
Pupil of the week awards
Recent awards have gone to Lee Priestley (Dunfermline), Rebecca Williamson (Dunfermline), Ryan Learmonth (Inverkeithing), Iain Fleming (Charlestown), Michael Williamson (Dunfermline), Graham Dodds (Kirkcaldy), Amy Brown (Dunfermline), Lewis Herbert (Kirkcaldy), John Chrystal (Kinross) and Connor Mitchell (Glenrothes).
New tutors
This term STEP AHEAD has welcomed John McCabe (English, French, Geography and Modern Studies), Victor Martin (Spanish) and Marius Schlemmer (Biology, Chemistry and Maths).
School places earned
It is with the greatest pleasure that we can now announce that the following pupils, in addition to Joshua Evans and Ben Gray (already recorded below), and all tutored by our Director, have successfully passed the tests, competed for and have been offered places for entry into independent schools: Lauren Coats, Adam Coats, Rhiannon Coats, George's Abousleiman, Iain Fleming, Alex Fleming and Andrew R. Angus Clark, tutored by Jackie Robertson, will also join his brother, Michael, whom our Director prepared last year.
Congratulations to Eilidh and Angus Gibson who have also just been offered places - and to their tutor, Ian Cooke.
Step ahead is a decade old
Our Director, George, officially started STEP AHEAD on 1st February 1997. Over the past ten years, it has grown in to the largest one-to-one teacher organisation offering individual tutoring in the homes of clients or tutors throughout East Central Scotland, and one of the biggest in the country. Over 380 tutors have registered during that time and we now cater for children, young people, students, young adults, indeed adults of all ages. However, it is not the size that thrills George so much - but the quality of the service - "We have outstanding teachers who really care for their tutees and, as is testified by countless satisfied parents and clients, build their self-esteem, accelerate their progress and enhance their academic results."
New tutors
We welcome Helen Alexander (Maths and Physics), Helen Ballantyne (Maths), Maureen Currie (English, French and Primary), Alison Fowler (Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics), Ian Fitzsimmons (English), Iona Macdonald (Primary), John Priest (Classical Greek, French and Latin) and Charmaine Schlemmer (Biology, Chemistry, English, Maths and Primary).
