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Leicester Welcomes the Return of Electric Shadows Chinese Film Festival

Electric Shadows: Leicester Chinese Film Festival is set to make its return from 24 to 30 November, organised by the School of Creative Industries and Culture (CIC) and the newly launched Faculty of Arts, Technology and Culture (TAC) at DMU. Screenings and activities will be hosted at both Phoenix Cinema and Art Centre and Showcase Cinema de Lux.

Now a regular feature of the university’s cultural calendar, the festival is jointly coordinated by the Cultural Management Subject group and the Confucius Institute, drawing on shared expertise to celebrate Chinese cinema.

This year’s festival will begin on the evening of Monday 24 November with the UK Premiere of “Shore of Life” (2025). The programme will expand beyond film screenings to include cultural showcases, live performances, creative workshops and industry briefings, offering visitors a rich and varied experience.

Speaking about the festival’s spirit, Professor Yi Zhang, Co-Director of the Confucius Institute, remarked: “The Chinese film festival is like a luminous window into China’s soul. Each film is a vivid brushstroke on a moving canvas, allowing audiences to travel through history, culture, and emotion, and to experience the warmth and depth of Chinese stories through the universal art of cinema.”

Reflecting on the festival’s evolution, Dr Hiu Man Chan, Co-Founder of Electric Shadows and Senior Lecturer in Creative Industries at DMU, commented: “Electric Shadows is a relatively new addition to many well-known festivals in the city of Leicester. It is a true adventure to work with different partners each year to nurture its growth, at the same time exploring a space for conversation via a shared passion in the cinema. I am determined to keep it going the best I can.”

This year’s programme line-up includes:

The Shore of Life (2025, Opening Film & UK Premiere), Showcase

The Shadow’s Edge (2025), Showcase

Black Dog (2024), Showcase

Ping Pong (2012), Phoenix

The Grandmaster, Phoenix

Chinese craft workshop + Ne Zha 2 (2025), Phoenix

Industry Briefing, Phoenix

Panda Plan (2024, Closing Film), Phoenix

Now in its fourth edition, this year’s momentum has attracted one of Asia’s most established multinational financial enterprises. 

Hantec Group, founded in 1990, is committed to delivering a wide spectrum of global services, covering finance, information technology, creative culture, art collection, public utilities, advertising, and marketing.

The Group has obtained 12 internationally recognised financial regulatory licences, including those issued by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

The festival continues to offer internship opportunities for students from Arts and Festival Management BA and Cultural Events Management MSc. This year, 13 students from Leicester College were also part of the organising team on the opening night.

Global Revelation Seminar Recognised as Platform for ‘Religious Harmony’… “Such Free and Warm Interaction”

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  • Third Global Invitation Revelation Seminar reaches biggest attendance in its history
  • Faith leaders agree universally: “Revelation is a power that brings peace”
  • Worship, discussion and shared learning over four days deepen “understanding and harmony”

Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony (Chairman Lee Man Hee), announced on the 5th that the 3rd Global Invitation Revelation Seminar successfully wrapped up after four days and three nights of activities starting on 30 October.

The seminar functions as a global exchange initiative focused on promoting interreligious peace through examining the prophecies and fulfilment described in the Book of Revelation. Since its launch on 1 February 2024, the event has expanded each term, drawing increasing numbers of nations and religious representatives and becoming a recognised “platform for dialogue among world religious leaders.”

“Let us uphold the values of ‘truth and peace’ as religious leaders,” said Chairman Lee Man Hee. “This was my first time experiencing such free and warm interaction. I felt true peace in the truth.” These remarks, shared by an attending religious leader, illustrate the atmosphere of openness that has distinguished this year’s seminar.

This third seminar, held under the theme “The Path of Understanding Led by Scripture, the Path of Peace Walked by Religions Together”, welcomed more than 1000 attendees, including 440 religious leaders from 59 countries—its largest and most diverse audience yet.

Highlighting the potential of Revelation to facilitate interfaith cooperation, the seminar concluded on 1 November at the Goseong Peace Training Centre, where more than 440 religious leaders joined together to proclaim “unity.”

Participants consistently expressed that the “truth” taught by Shincheonji Church holds significant influence.

Venerable Yullyeoseongwon of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, attending the seminar for the first time, shared, “I believe the reason Shincheonji continues to grow and flourish is the power of its teachings. This was a time that confirmed that these teachings are a path beyond religious boundaries towards the unity of humanity.”

Leaders from a wide array of traditions—including Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, Confucianism and more—studied the prophecies and fulfilment of Revelation side by side, identifying scriptural similarities and shared messages of peace.

Praise for the event also continued from clergy of various religions. Mohammed Usman, an Islamic leader from Eswatini, commented, “Shincheonji Church has a perfect curriculum that delivers peace and truth.”

The enthusiasm of participants was evident in the concluding World Religious Leaders Revelation Quiz Competition, where 317 leaders from 60 countries took part and 154 achieved perfect scores. Among those who completed the full seven-week curriculum and assessments, including the Global Seminar, a total of 125 individuals—42 domestic and 83 international—were formally appointed as Honorary Bible Teachers.

In addition to the Revelation lectures, this seminar also featured:

  • A united prayer meeting for “global peace”
  • “The Way to Heaven” (Bible OX Quiz)
  • “Time Travel into the Bible”, a theatrical programme experiencing the heart of the biblical shepherd
  • A “Round Table” promoting peace culture

Religious leaders said they cried, laughed and shared deep empathy and harmony through these exchanges.

One Buddhist head monk said, “They are doing things unimaginable in Buddhism. Seeing a monk in robes teaching the Bible and Shincheonji members discussing Buddhism was eye opening. I learned so much.”

A Presbyterian pastor commented, “Through cultural exchange, we shared understanding and values of faith across religions, and I see hope that we can become one.”

At the closing ceremony of the seminar held on 1 November at the Goseong Peace Training Centre, participants also shared peace initiatives that emerged in their home countries after attending the 2nd seminar.

Venerable Sok Bunthuen, Director of the Department of Higher Buddhist Education under Cambodia’s Ministry of Cult and Religion, explained that he continued interreligious exchange by holding an invited Revelation lecture at a Buddhist temple in Cambodia. Last year, 110 religious leaders participated; this year, the event grew into a large gathering with 850 attendees, including religious and community leaders.

Venerable Sok Bunthuen added, “At this event, 215 people signed the Religious Peace Pledge and committed to continued participation in future exchange programmes. It was a historic moment where religious and social leaders chose practical peace.”

Based on these achievements, he plans to host a “Religious Peace Education Camp” in January next year to further expand peace cooperation.

All religious leaders participating in the 3rd seminar read a resolution pledging, “We will fulfil the mission of delivering peace and truth and guide humanity on the path of salvation,” reaffirming their commitment to peace in action.

A Shincheonji Church official stated, “This seminar confirmed that the Bible is not the scripture of a single religion but contains universal truth for humanity. It served as an opportunity to understand each other’s faiths through the Word and restore the religious mission of peace and harmony.”

Chairman Lee Man hee emphasised, “We must reflect on the past, when criticism distanced us from God’s will, and be reborn as spiritual leaders who uphold the original values of spreading truth and achieving peace. Through dialogue and communication, let us achieve peace – the hope of God and our own hope.”

Meanwhile, the first seminar held in February 2024 drew more than 80 religious leaders from 10 faith groups across 28 countries, including Korea. The second seminar last year was completed by over 270 religious leaders from 57 countries.

BridgeHead Strengthens North American Leadership with Appointment of Tony Fossile

BridgeHead Software has revealed that Tony Fossile has been appointed Senior Director of Sales, North America, adding further depth in Clinical and Enterprise Imaging as the company accelerates the rollout of its HealthStore® Clinical Data Repository.

Tony brings over two decades of achievement in healthcare technology sales, demonstrating a long-standing track record of leadership and commercial success. His appointment underlines BridgeHead’s commitment to advancing its Clinical Data Management offering throughout the United States and beyond. In this role, he will focus on growing HealthStore®’s market presence, nurturing key partnerships, and delivering measurable value to healthcare customers across the region.

His professional experience spans Clinical Informatics, Enterprise Imaging with a particular emphasis on Radiology and Cardiology, healthcare IT, medical devices, and Cybersecurity. Tony’s extensive knowledge of the opportunities and complexities within healthcare data environments makes him an ideal fit for BridgeHead and its customer base.

Across his career, Tony has consistently driven expansion and exceeded performance expectations while serving in senior roles at Philips Healthcare, Symantec, Orpheus Medical, Digisonics Inc., McKesson Medical Imaging, and Agfa/Heartlab. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Bio-Medical Engineering from Temple University, equipping him with a strong technical grounding that complements his commercial expertise.

“Tony’s appointment marks an exciting next step for BridgeHead in the North American market,” said Jim Beagle, President and CEO at BridgeHead Software. “His depth of experience, leadership, and customer-centric approach perfectly align with our mission to help healthcare organizations unlock the full potential of their data. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the team.”

Sharing his enthusiasm for the role, Tony Fossile commented: “BridgeHead has built a strong reputation as a trusted partner in clinical data management. I’m excited to join a team that shares my passion for helping healthcare organizations to harness their data to improve care delivery and operational performance. I look forward to building on the company’s strong foundation and driving continued success.”

To learn more about BridgeHead Software and its technologies, please visit www.bridgeheadsoftware.com.

Quality coffee as a talent magnet: The new workplace competitive edge

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Walk into any London office and you can usually tell a lot from the coffee area. Some places have a kettle that’s seen better days and a jar of instant that nobody admits to buying. Others have gone a different direction, choosing proper machines and fresh beans. The atmosphere shifts the moment you taste the difference.

Why coffee now plays a quiet role in hiring

People pick up on small things without even trying. Someone steps in after a packed train ride, grabs a cup that actually tastes good, pauses for a second, and feels the day shift into gear. A short exchange at the machine with someone nearby might feel like nothing, yet those little moments build a sense of ease. They shape how someone feels about showing up each day.

First impressions that stick with new starters

A new recruit steps through the door with fresh eyes. Before they learn the systems or get a feel for the team, they notice the break space. A good bean-to-cup machine suggests care. It hints that the company wants people to feel comfortable, not just productive. That small signal shapes their early sense of the place far more than most companies realise.

Better breaks, smoother teamwork

Short, informal moments around the coffee area help people get to know each other. Someone waits for their drink, someone else joins them, and a small chat turns into a better working relationship down the line. When the coffee is good, people linger. When it isn’t, they disappear to the nearest café, and those easy moments never happen.

Less frustration, more focus

Offices often struggle with old machines that clog, leak, or produce drinks nobody wants. When this happens, someone ends up playing technician, someone else orders emergency supplies, and a simple part of the day becomes a nuisance. A proper setup removes that background noise so staff can stay focused on their actual work rather than fixing the coffee situation again.

Where companies like Cuco Coffee fit in

Many London workplaces now turn to companies like Cuco Coffee to take the whole coffee setup off their plate. They install quality bean-to-cup office coffee machines that grind fresh beans for every drink, keeping the taste steady right through the week. Someone from their team calls in each week, checks the machine over, and refills whatever’s running low. The setup gets on with its job quietly in the background, leaving everyone else free to focus on their own day.

Why coffee has become a hiring advantage

It wouldn’t make sense to say people choose a job because of the coffee alone, but it does shape how they feel about the place. In a city where employers constantly compete for strong candidates, these tiny touches stand out more than expected. A steady supply of quality coffee brings a lift to the room, keeps people in the building, and shows that the company takes everyday comfort seriously. New and long-standing staff both sense that.

A small investment with a bigger impact

Quality coffee is a simple change that can improve the day without fanfare. It shows thought, it supports the team, and it helps create the kind of space people want to return to each morning. For many London employers, that’s becoming a quiet advantage. One that helps them stand out long before the next job ad is written.

If you’re curious about how a simple, well-run coffee setup can lift the mood of a busy office, you’ll find more details at CucoCoffee.co.uk.

Kubicle Warns Global Businesses of Urgent Need to Strengthen AI Skills

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Kubicle, recognised internationally for its B2B training in data, technology and AI, has cautioned companies worldwide that immediate action is needed to improve workforce AI literacy. The organisation reports that many firms are falling behind due to employees lacking even basic proficiency in tools such as Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.

The alert follows Kubicle’s latest research into AI and data preparedness, which exposed significant skill shortages at a time when demand for digitally capable workers is at an all-time high. Below, we outline Kubicle’s findings on current AI knowledge gaps and identify the main factors contributing to the problem.

The International Race for AI and Data Proficiency

Through their research of Google search interest in data and AI literacy related terms like ‘chatgpt training’, ‘ai courses’ and ‘how to improve data literacy’ across the western countries with the highest English-speaking populations, and comparing the results to each country’s population, Kubicle can reveal that the most upskill-eager country is…

Rank  | Country  | Score
1  | Ireland  | 1.14 
2  | Australia  | 0.91 
3  | United Kingdom  | 0.78 
4  | United States  | 0.29 
5  | Netherlands  | 0.28 
6  | Germany  | 0.23 
7  | Canada  | 0.17 
8  | Spain  | 0.11 
9  | Sweden  | 0.10 
10  | France  | 0.09  

When asked about the results, Mark Henderson, Chief Executive Officer of Kubicle, said: “The findings highlight where the global workforce is most actively future proofing their skills. Ireland’s leading position reflects a national focus on digital readiness, while countries like Australia, the UK and the US continue to drive enterprise adoption of AI and analytics.” 

What IT Skills are Learners Looking to Excel In? 

By assessing subject completion data across their broad range of courses, Kubicle can reveal that the following subjects have been the most in demand between 2020-2025:

When asked about their skills shortage data, Mark said: “Our own data shows that many organisations are lacking essential digital competencies, particularly across core tools such as Excel, PowerPoint and Word. These are not niche skills; they form the foundation of effective digital communication and analysis. At the same time, we’re seeing a notable surge in demand for training in emerging areas like AI Fundamentals, signalling that businesses are actively seeking to build future-ready capabilities. Closing the gap in baseline IT proficiency must be a priority if organisations are to fully capitalise on new technologies and maintain competitive advantage.”  

Elsewhere, by comparing their Fastest Growing Subjects (2020–2022 vs 2023–2025), Kubicle can reveal:  

  • A 960% growth in the uptake of AI Fundamentals.
  • A 124% growth in Data Literacy.
  • A 27% uptake in their Power BI subject, Microsoft’s interactive data visualisation software.  

Mark says that these results further back up the international eagerness for AI and data learning.

How the Data Was Gathered

Kubicle gathered information for this insightful release by assessing their own course subject completions and the World Population Review. Kubicle also researched which English-speaking countries ranked highest for IT subject interest, including Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States, while the terms included ‘excel courses’, ‘chatgpt training’ and ‘how to improve data literacy’. 

Nimish Patel Joins Coots & Boots to Head Up New Forensic Investigations Unit

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Experienced insolvency specialist strengthens the firm’s restructuring and investigative services with more than three decades of expertise.

Coots & Boots has confirmed the arrival of Nimish Patel as Head of Forensic Investigations, leading a new dedicated unit within the RE10 sub-brand to support the firm’s expanding restructuring practice.

A licensed insolvency practitioner with 35-plus years in the industry, Nimish brings a wealth of expertise in forensic accounting, asset recovery, corporate investigations and cross-border restructuring. He joins with his long-standing team, substantially enhancing the firm’s ability to undertake complex investigative assignments.

Nimish began his professional journey at Grant Thornton before moving to Ernst & Young, where he played key roles in major cases including the administrations of Olympia & York (Canary Wharf) and the British & Commonwealth group. In 1998, he co-founded RE10, becoming widely recognised for his deep forensic understanding and his strong focus on protecting and enhancing stakeholder value.

His career includes leading investigations into suspected fraud, misfeasance, undisclosed asset structures and shadow directorship arrangements across both domestic and international jurisdictions. His portfolio covers litigation support, financial statement reviews, director conduct evaluations and preparing evidence for regulatory and criminal processes.

Across sectors such as property, retail, manufacturing and financial services, Nimish has consistently delivered effective outcomes through strategic restructuring, fraud detection and recovery-focused methodologies. His style is rooted in practicality, commercial awareness and strong regulatory alignment.

“Appointing Nimish is a major step forward for our firm,” said Duncan Coutts, a Partner at Coots & Boots. “His background in forensic work and cross-border recovery aligns perfectly with the kind of complex assignments we’re seeing in today’s market. He and his team will add significant value to our clients.”

Nimish added: “I’m delighted to be joining Coots & Boots to establish the forensic investigations division. With growing regulatory scrutiny and the rise in financially distressed businesses, the need for independent, skilled investigation work is critical. Combining our team’s forensic expertise with Coots & Boots’ advisory strength creates a compelling offering for clients facing serious financial and legal challenges.”

Unsung and Ascertia Sign Strategic Partnership to Enhance Digital Trust and PKI Managed Service Capabilities

Unsung Limited, recognised as the UK’s leading provider of PKI-focused consultancy and managed services, has confirmed a new strategic partnership with Ascertia, a global authority in digital signing and PKI technologies.

The partnership unites Ascertia’s robust, scalable digital signing and PKI solutions with Unsung’s long-standing expertise in designing and maintaining secure cryptographic infrastructure. The combined offering will support organisations across both the private and public sectors in building resilient, future-proof digital trust frameworks supported by fully managed PKI services.

Darren Davies, CEO of Unsung Ltd, commented: “Together, we can deliver robust, scalable and future-ready digital trust services that meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s challenges. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to digital trust excellence and provides clients with the flexibility and assurance they need as they evolve their security posture.”

Through this alignment, organisations will gain access to a complete lifecycle service, including PKI architecture design, implementation, governance and ongoing management. Flexible operating options will allow customers to choose between fully managed, co-managed or internally supported service models.

Key advantages of the partnership include:

  • Smooth integration of standards-based PKI and signing systems aligned with policy requirements
  • Specialist PKI consultancy covering governance, Zero Trust strategies and preparation for post-quantum security
  • Reliable PKI managed services providing certificate automation and improved operational resilience
  • Compliance with leading standards and frameworks including eIDAS, ISO27001, NIST, GDPR and Cyber Essentials+

Backed by a global service capability and a team of more than 20 security-cleared PKI professionals, Unsung has a proven track record delivering digital trust solutions across government, defence and other highly regulated environments.

Alpha Capital Group Rolls Out Advanced Mobile Trading App for Retail Prop Traders

Alpha Capital Group, a prominent name in the retail proprietary trading sector, has launched its new mobile trading app, positioning itself among the first firms in the industry to offer traders a dedicated app-based experience.

The launch is another significant step forward for the company, which continues to invest heavily in tools and infrastructure designed to help its global customer base become successful traders.

Built to simplify and enhance the trading journey, the Alpha Capital app gives users streamlined access to essential data and analytics. Its suite of features offers traders the ability to monitor their development, analyse performance and work strategically towards improving their results.

With comprehensive tracking tools, real-time account metrics, and consolidated performance data all in one place, the app is one of the most advanced mobile solutions currently available to prop traders. It also includes the capability for traders to request performance fees directly through the app.

Earlier this year, the business introduced Alpha Prime, a traditional proprietary trading firm headquartered in London. Alpha Prime offers direct access to global markets for traders who have demonstrated strong discipline, a refined trading strategy and the ability to consistently manage risk.

Designed to help traders perform at an institutional level, Alpha Prime delivers structured support and substantial resources, serving as the next step for high-performing traders rising through Alpha Capital and Alpha Futures.

Founded in 2021 by UK finance professionals and young entrepreneurs George Kohler (Managing Director) and Andrew Blaylock (Director), Alpha Capital Group has transformed from a start-up into one of the fastest-growing businesses in its field.

George Kohler, Managing Director of Alpha Capital Group, said: “The Alpha Capital mobile app is another big milestone for us as we continue to advance our tech stack focused around improving our customer journey and experience to benefit our traders. Having the ability to track your assessment progress, trading stats, trades and market conditions all within the ease of a mobile app will make life so much easier for our customers.

“This is still just the beginning for us – unlike most other prop trading platforms, we want our customers to succeed, and we have a pathway through Alpha Prime for those that do succeed to move to another level and potentially carve out a career in trading. That’s why we invest so heavily in building technology in-house and providing the best tools and resources on the market that can give our customers as much chance as possible of succeeding.”

Alpha Capital Group is recognised for innovation within the trading education and simulated trading space. With titles such as Disruptor of the Year and Best Innovator from the UK Best Business Awards, a global community of over one million traders in 140 countries, a 4.6 Trustpilot score from more than 14,000 reviews and $120 million paid in performance fees, the company has firmly established itself as a leader in the sector.

More information about Alpha Capital Group can be found at alphacapitalgroup.uk or on Instagram.

More information about Alpha Prime can be found at www.alphaprimemarkets.com

TutorExtra Adds Search Filters for 650+ Exam Boards to Support Precise Tutor Matching

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TutorExtra has introduced a new feature that opens up its database of more than 650 UK exam boards and qualifications, enabling families to find tutors based on awarding bodies such as AQA, Edexcel, OCR and others.

The comprehensive list covers England’s biggest exam providers – including Pearson (Edexcel), AQA, OCR and WJEC Eduqas – as well as qualifications from SQA in Scotland and international options like the International Baccalaureate and Cambridge.

In England, Ofqual regulates the four principal GCSE and A-level boards, ensuring comparability across subjects. TutorExtra uses real tutor profile data to match students with educators who understand the precise requirements of their chosen board, from multiple-choice styles to practical assessments.

Examples include Edexcel GCSE Maths, which delivers over 500 tutor matches, or A-level Chemistry taught through OCR, where tutors offer tailored guidance for coursework and practical elements. The system also incorporates vocational and regional pathways, including BTEC and CCEA qualifications.

The update comes at a key moment for students preparing for the 2025 exam season, where entry numbers remain strong across key subjects. For families living in areas with mixed awarding-body usage – such as WJEC in Wales – these filters reduce confusion and improve compatibility between learners and tutors.

“Parents often worry about syllabus specifics, so our exam board database puts the right tutor at their fingertips,” said a TutorExtra spokesperson.

Since 2018, TutorExtra has grown into a leading UK tutoring platform, offering a commission-free marketplace that supports thousands of tutors nationwide.

Explore the exam board search tool at https://www.tutorextra.co.uk/search.

About TutorExtra

TutorExtra is a leading UK platform linking students and parents with private tutors, teachers and coaches in over 1,000 subjects. Founded in 2018 and based in Dover, it serves the entire UK with a subscription model that charges no commissions on tutor earnings, prioritising quality matches and affordability.

Media Contact:

Press Office

TutorExtra

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +44 (0)1304 279856

Real-Time Tutor Map Opens After Every Search

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TutorExtra allows users to instantly locate tutors on a real-time interactive map after entering any UK address into the platform’s search bar, whether it’s a street name, village or full postcode.

A search such as “Piano in 52, Limesdale Gardens” or “SW1A 1AA Maths tutor” produces a results list along with a “Map View” option for users wanting to see tutors visually.

Activating the map reveals precise tutor locations marked by pins, with zoom functions and clickable profiles. The UK’s postcode system, which includes roughly 1.7 million active codes according to the ONS Postcode Directory (August 2025), makes this level of accuracy important for face-to-face tuition.

The platform can interpret a range of local identifiers – from towns like Dover to smaller places such as Little Budworth – connecting users to more than 3,000 tutors nationwide. A street search in Limesdale Gardens highlights several North London tutors, with online alternatives available as needed.

This tool is especially helpful for busy parents looking for nearby options in areas where in-person tuition remains in high demand. TutorExtra’s commission-free model means more tutors choose to register, supporting a broader mix of academic and enrichment subjects.

“Searching by street or postcode and seeing tutors on a map takes the guesswork out of finding help nearby,” said a TutorExtra spokesperson.

Since 2018, TutorExtra has continued strengthening its mapping features to support efficient, location-based matching.

To try the map search, visit https://tutorextra.co.uk/search?mapset=1.

About TutorExtra

TutorExtra is a leading UK platform linking students and parents with private tutors, teachers and coaches in over 1,000 subjects. Founded in 2018 and based in Dover, it serves the entire UK with a subscription model that charges no commissions on tutor earnings, prioritising quality matches and affordability.

Media Contact:

Press Office

TutorExtra

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +44 (0)1304 279856