I'm Niena McFarlane, founder of Upgrade Tuitions. I’ve spent my career helping students unlock their full potential in Mathematics. With over 18 years of teaching experience, I specialize in preparing students for academic success—particularly in achieving top results in their GCSE exams, where I’ve maintained a 98.
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12 customer reviews
Ruby Melinda Novas Mendez
My Review of Miss McFarlane – An Amazing Math Teacher
I can honestly say that Miss McFarlane made a huge difference in my GCSE journey, especially when it came to math.
When I first started in her class, I was working at the foundation level, and I honestly didn’t think I’d be able to make it to the higher level. But thanks to Miss McFarlane’s dedication and incredible teaching, I not only moved up to the higher level but also achieved a grade I’m really proud of.
One of the things I appreciated most about her teaching was that I never had to ask for help – she was always so in tune with her students. Whenever I started struggling, even with something small, she noticed immediately and was there to explain things in a way I could understand. It was clear she was always paying attention, and she never let anyone fall behind.
Beyond being an amazing teacher, Miss McFarlane made her lessons so much fun! She had this goofy, fun personality that made every lesson enjoyable. I actually looked forward to math class, which, honestly, is something I never thought I’d say! She’d tell funny jokes, keep the mood light, and always made sure we were having a good time while learning. Her cheerfulness was contagious, and she always brightened the classroom with her positive energy.
But what stood out the most was how much she believed in us. She encouraged each of us to do better and reminded us that we were capable of more than we thought. Her faith in us gave me the confidence I needed to push myself harder.
In terms of teaching, Miss McFarlane is top-notch. She knows how to break down complex topics and make them accessible. Her explanations were always clear, and I never left a lesson confused. She had this amazing ability to make even the trickiest parts of math feel simple, and I honestly think that’s why I improved so much.
I’m really grateful for everything Miss McFarlane did for me, and I can’t thank her enough for helping me reach my full potential in math. She’s truly one of the best teachers I’ve ever had! ❤️
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Arianna
My tuition lessons were absolutely amazing, it helped build my confidence in maths and even though it was online, it always felt as if it was face-to-face.
Marc
I don’t really want to leave this review because now everyone will know how fabulous Niena is and she won’t have time for my son’s tutoring- yes it’s a selfish thought. So I’m going to stop thinking about myself and let you know why she is fab. She engages with my son, she gently gets him to think and react and when he does he is amazed that he has the answer. This then builds his confidence. He now pushes himself in the lesson and she is able to challenge him a bit more if it is needed. I’ll tell you something, I never thought I would hear from his mouth when I asked about his lesson - he said it was good!! My legs buckled! I couldn’t believe it, so yes we are continuing with his lessons. I’m expecting him to get a 9 at GCSE next year!!! Three grades up from where we are now. I know we are on the right track- money well spent! More...
Grace
Miss McFarlane has made such a meaningful impact in my maths journey. At first, I was a little unsure, since our lessons are online;
but from the very first session, she made me feel like she’d known me for ages. She always welcomes me with a warm smile and takes a genuine interest in my hobbies. She has a great memory too, so she doesn't forget the little things I’ve shared.
Her ability to teach is truly special. Sometimes, she can tell just from the tone of my voice whether I’ve understood something or not, and she’s always happy to go over anything as many times as I need. She gives kind, encouraging feedback and carefully tailors each lesson to focus on the topics I struggle with, while also challenging me with higher-level papers to help me grow.
Even though our lessons are online, she somehow makes them feel just as comfortable and engaging as if we were in the same room; which isn’t something I usually experience in other online lessons. When I do well, she always lets me know how proud she is of me. She is so supportive, and her encouraging words really motivate me and help me get through the lesson, especially when I get tired.
Her teaching is incredibly thoughtful; she never sets work she doesn’t believe I’m ready for, and that trust has helped boost my confidence. I'm so grateful to have her as my teacher. In short, she has truly helped and is continuing to help me upgrade in my maths journey.
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Karena
Ms. McFarlane is truly an exceptional maths teacher. Her ability to break down complex concepts into understandable segments is remarkable. She has a talent for explaining things in a way that just clicks, making even the most challenging topics accessible. Beyond her teaching skills, she has a knack for making you feel confident in your abilities, creating a supportive learning environment where every student feels empowered to succeed. More...
Michaela Watt
Ms. McFarlane is truly an exceptional maths teacher. Her ability to break down complex concepts into understandable segments is remarkable. She has a talent for explaining things in a way that just clicks, making even the most challenging topics accessible. Her patience and dedication create a supportive learning environment where every student feels empowered to succeed. More...
Tamara
Such fantastic well tailored and structured lessons. My son was able to engage well throughout his entire session and plenty of work. He was also give homework which was tracked and monitored to ensure he retain his learning overtime. My son was able to achieve his pass and move on to do the course he wanted to do at sixth form. Mrs Mcfarlane is wonderful teacher and I would mostly definitely return if I ever require a tutor again. More...
Danielle Henry
It’s been an absolute pleasure working with upgrade tuitions. My son is doing so much better in his math classes. Classes are engaging and everyone has to participate. Glad I found upgrade tuition.
Latara Reid
Miss, You are truly embedded in my heart. You are such a gentle soul. You have really helped me spiritually and physically and mentally throughout school and I am so blessed to have encountered your teaching. You are a great role model, a great teacher and a great person to look up to. I wish you nothing but the best and prosperity. I hope that you get all the support you need and I will be rooting for you! More...
Aliyah
Miss McFarlane, I just have to say you were genuinely one of the best teachers l've ever had!
Maths was never just another subject with you;
you made it fun, engaging, and something ! actually looked forward to. Your energy and kindness created such a positive environment where | felt comfortable asking questions and learning without fear. Even when things felt difficult, you always had a way of breaking them down and making them seem manageable.
During my GCSEs, you didn't just teach me maths
—you gave me the confidence to believe in myself, and that made such a huge difference.
You always encouraged me, pushed me to do my best, and never let me doubt my own abilities. I honestly don't think I would have had the same experience without you, and for that, I'll always be grateful.
Anyone who gets to be taught by you is incredibly lucky because they're not just getting an amazing maths tutor, they're getting someone who truly cares, who brings so much passion into everything she does, and who makes learning a joy. Wishing you all the success you deserve it!
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Natasha Isiwele
AMAZING! Such a loving and kind environment and pushes you to do better. I would 1000% recommend to any child/parent. 10/10 :)
Anthony
My child has benefitted so much from Upgrade Tuitions. I am extremely pleased with the progress he is making. All lessons are clear and designed in a way which pushes him to excel. Anyone who decides to work with Upgrade Tuitions will not regret it. More...
SECONDARY MATHS TUITIONS YEAR 7 - 11