STEP Tutor

Nicole Taylor

Nicole Taylor
(Site Creator)

Hi! My name is Nicole Taylor, and I am the creator of NextStepMaths.com. I am a Mathematics graduate from the University of Cambridge and a highly experienced online STEP tutor, with over six years of dedicated tutoring experience. In addition to my extensive teaching background, I have first-hand experience marking both STEP 2 and STEP 3, giving me a unique insight into the expectations of examiners and what it takes to achieve top marks.

Since 2019, I have had the privilege of supporting hundreds of students—both in the UK and internationally—helping them secure Oxbridge offers and excel in their STEP (Sixth Term Examination Paper) exams. My personalised approach is designed to build confidence, enhance problem-solving skills, and master the mathematical techniques needed to tackle STEP’s rigorous and challenging questions.

Preparing for STEP can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance and preparation, success is achievable. Drawing on my Cambridge education and in-depth knowledge of the STEP syllabus, I provide tailored support to help students navigate the demands of the exam, develop their mathematical intuition, and approach problems with clarity and precision.

Please see below for more information about my qualifications and how I can support you in achieving success in your STEP exams.

Nicole Taylor BA Hons (Cantab)

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My Approach to STEP Tuition

STEP (Sixth Term Examination Paper) is widely regarded as one of the most difficult admissions tests for Mathematics, and many students find the leap from A-Level to STEP content overwhelming. Often, the key to success lies in identifying the tricks and techniques required to solve specific problems—knowledge that is not always easy to come by without the guidance of a STEP tutor.

 

Having personally prepared for and sitting the STEP exams, achieving 1’s in both STEP 2 and STEP 3, as well as tutoring countless students in their STEP preparation, I have the expertise to help you succeed at every stage of your preparation. As a STEP tutor, I am dedicated to providing personalised sessions designed to match your strengths and areas for improvement—whether that involves focusing on Pure Mathematics, Statistics, Mechanics, or any combination of these.

 

My approach is centered around breaking down complex STEP questions and helping you develop the problem-solving skills necessary to tackle each challenge with confidence. In addition to mastering mathematical techniques, I also emphasise the importance of clear and logical mathematical writing, ensuring you can present your solutions in a way that secures every possible mark.

 

I tailor the program to address common hurdles students face when preparing for STEP, such as:

  • Unfamiliar content: STEP questions often cover material that students haven’t encountered in A Level Maths. As an experienced STEP tutor, I can fill in knowledge gaps, ensuring that you’re prepared for all types of questions.

  • Intimidating Mechanics and Statistics: These sections are often seen as more difficult, but with regular practice and proper guidance, they can become some of the most accessible areas of STEP. I can guide you through these topics, making them much less intimidating.

  • Spotting hidden patterns: Many STEP questions include subtle hints in the wording that can unlock solutions. As a former STEP marker, I can help you recognise these clues, making each question more approachable.

  • Choosing the right questions in the exam: With 12 questions on the STEP exam, you only need to answer 6. As a STEP tutor, I can help you develop a strategy for balancing strengths and weaknesses in the exam to maximise your performance. For more detail on this, please read my article  “How to Prepare for STEP”. 

 

To support your learning, I’ve also created a STEP Questions and Solutions Database and a STEP Questions by Topic resource.

 

My STEP tuition is conducted online via Zoom, using an interactive whiteboard to simulate a classroom environment where we can work through problems together in real time. Homework is assigned after each session, allowing you to practice and consolidate your learning. I’m also available to answer any questions you have between sessions via WhatsApp or email, ensuring that you’re never left without support.

 

Sessions are flexible, and you can book as frequently as you prefer, whether that’s once or twice a week. My personalised approach to STEP tutoring ensures that you’re continually building on what you’ve learned and making steady progress toward your goal.

 

If you’re interested in booking some STEP Tuition or would like more information, feel free to get in touch through the “Book/Enquire” button below.

When To Start STEP Tuition?

Based on my experience, the ideal time to begin STEP 2 tuition is during the summer between Year 12 and Year 13. By this stage, students will have covered enough Pure content in A Level Maths to start tackling STEP 2 questions effectively. STEP 2 is commonly required for admission to mathematics and related courses at universities such as the University of Cambridge, the University of Warwick, Imperial College London, and others.

STEP 3 tuition is best started around December or January of Year 13. By this point, students will have covered sufficient material from both A Level Maths and A Level Further Maths, making STEP 3 questions more accessible. STEP 3 is typically required, alongside STEP 2, for Mathematics at Cambridge, with a standard offer being 1,1 in both papers. As the most challenging STEP paper, it demands the most rigorous preparation.

My Testimonials

I have 100% positive feedback.  Below are just a selection of reviews I have received from former students and/or their parents. To read all my reviews, please click here.

5.0

  • Avatar Galyna Gutsulyak ★★★★★
    Nicole has been a great tutor for my son. She prepared him for Cambridge STEPS exams with … More positive outcome. I would definitely recommend. Thank you very much Nicole . You are THE BEST!
  • Avatar Abraham Greenberg ★★★★★
    Nicole is an amazing teacher! She helped me prepare for the STEP exams for imperial college. … More I had Nicole in order to help prepare for the STEP, but she also improved my confidence and understanding accross my A-Level Maths and Further Maths courses! Nicole also was able to provide support outside of lessons if I needed help with solving a problem which was incredibly useful!Thank you Nicole for everything!
  • Avatar Yaaseen Taher ★★★★★
    An amazing Maths tutor. I have received outstanding support for my personal statement, interview … More practice and the Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP). She gives good explanations and she’s clearly very intelligent in her field. STEP is too difficult for most of my teachers so it was nice to have someone that could teach it very well. I have received an offer from Cambridge University and I don’t think I would’ve done it without her. I would highly recommend.

Tuition Prices

 You may notice that my rates are higher than those of other tutors. These rates reflect my qualifications and tutoring experience, which you can read about here.

  • University Admissions Test Preparation £135/hour

    STEP, MAT, TMUA and others.

  • A Level Maths and Further Maths Tuition £135/hour

    For UK and International A Levels.

  • Interview Preparation and Mock Interviews £135/hour

    Both Oxbridge and non-Oxbridge interview preparation for Mathematics and Mathematics-related courses.

  • Personal Statement and UCAS Application Help £135/hour

    For Maths and Maths-related courses.

Is Online Tuition Right For You?

When choosing online STEP Tuition for yourself or your child, a key question is whether online tuition is the right fit. To help you decide, I’ve written an article covering how it works, the necessary equipment, and strategies for success.

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