Tutoring & Academic Services

David smiling in dress clothes, vest and tie surrounded by scientific equipment
David in elaborate peacock costume with iridescent plumage at outdoor Brisbane PRIDE festival
David in inflatable T-rex dinosaur costume standing in their office workspace

If you or your child needs help with homework, assignments, exam preparation, or just a confidence and motivation boost at school, I can help!

As I was a student with disabilities myself, I have a great deal of empathy, compassion and understanding for my students.

Company logo illustration of tree with brain-shaped leaves titled "Compassion, Empathy & Insight DW Tutoring"

Benefits of Private Tutoring

Two pelicans standing next to each other. The one on the right is preening the other.

Individual Attention

The classroom environment in schools and academia can occasionally cause students to fall through the cracks.

Private tutoring allows you or your child to be the sole focus.

This enables alternative teaching practices to give students the time and attention they need to succeed.

However, small group sessions can be organised on request.

Group of piglets in straw, some pink, some brown and some white

Safety & Easy Access

I was awarded a Blue Card via the Queensland government’s Working with Children check.

The Blue Card system is much more than a police check. It also continuously tracks disciplinary actions, allegations, and other information.

Tutoring can occur in the student’s home, library, or cafe!

I am always happy to accommodate whatever best supports the student's needs.

Life Long Learning

I am passionate about empowering you and your children with the skills they need to embark on a lifelong learning journey!

How do we achieve this?


By nurturing analytical thinking through fun and positive methods, they will blossom into independent thinkers who will excel in whatever career they pursue.

As Maimonides said: “Teach thy tongue to say ‘I do not know,’ and thou shalt progress.”

Meet the Founder

David Wakeham

A person in a striped shirt asks David about his genome sequencing poster. David, wearing a top hat and spotted shirt, stands by a light purple poster featuring phylogenetic trees and various scientific diagrams.

David, a multiply disabled and neurodivergent educator, is deeply committed to inclusive education. Their unique blend of qualifications, including a PhD (ABD) in veterinary sciences and bioinformatics and their pursuit of a Master of Education in learning difficulties, enables them to create accessible learning environments that cater to diverse needs.

Their approach blends scientific rigour with creative teaching methods. They support neurodiverse and disabled students from the foundation to the postgraduate level. Drawing on their interests in science, the arts, and literature, they foster an engaging educational experience that encourages lifelong curiosity.

Collage top David playing with rambunctious tiger cubs; below kissing a young elephant goodnight; performing surgery in Indonesia

Here’s what satisfied clients have shared about their experiences.

  • “He is really helpful and professional.”

  • “David is a fantastic tutor, taking the time to bond with my son, and incorporating lots of fun activity’s to encourage learning. My son is engaged during his tutoring and I believe it is because of David’s ability to connect with him and make learning fun and interesting. I highly recommend David.”

  • “You are WONDERFUL and I’m so so grateful for you, and for the little Facebook comment that led us to you.”

  • “Hi again David was talking to [redacted] about what he’d learned yesterday at tutoring on the way to school this morning and it was so nice to see him enthusiastic about learning again. He’s had a really tough year with a teacher that’s been a bully and caused him so much stress so this is really great for him thank you – it’s so appreciated. Cheers,”

  • ”I was most surprised at how she reacted to getting a ‘wrong’ answer. This would usually result in books being thrown or pages being torn, followed by a flat out refusal to continue with the work. feedback was very positive. She said you are the best teacher she’s ever had.”

  • “David made the practical sessions enjoyable and engaging by not only teaching but talking to students and getting to know them. This overall approach made him a very good tutor, and someone I would recommend to other students if they had the opportunity of picking a tutor.”

  • “Very approachable so asking questions was easy”

  • “His ability comparisons to draw comparisons between scientific knowledge and popular culture.” 

  • “He gave good analogies“

  • “He was mostly always readily available if we had any questions, and was always willing to help in answering them.”

  • “He tried to make the sessions interesting, and was helpful when we were confused about concepts or results.“

  • “He played music which was entertaining”

  • “He had words/phrases of the day and while they didn’t directly relate to content, it made the lesson fun. He also joked around with students a lot and didn’t take himself too seriously (except when he needed to).”

  • “This tutor made learning fun whereas other tutors I’ve had are more serious. As it was enjoyable my learning experience was a lot better.”“Was straight forward with what needed to be done most times. Laid back and didn’t make me feel pressured to know the answer right away.”

  • “Enthusiasm and analogies also making the labs engaging and funny”

  • “Was relaxed and explained what was going on in a simple way but also encouraged us to think for ourselves.”

  • “I liked that he tried to make sessions fun and it was very obvious that he enjoyed science and his field of research. He made sure he explained things to us while we were doing them so we knew what was happening in the prac. I did enjoy coming to pracs and felt like I learnt new content by attending the pracs.”

  • His teaching was really interesting and engaging.”

  • “He gives many helps in the studying, we get skills to find results in the experiment. He helped us in very lively way, making the whole class fun.”

  • “General approach with energy made me want to participate and learn”

  • “He was always there and it was very easy to approach him and ask questions.”

  • “Best tutor I have ever had”

Q & A

What do you love most about tutoring?

I love witnessing a student’s confidence blossom. Their excitement and motivation grow as they overcome challenges in subjects they once struggled with. It’s a privilege to help them discover their potential and love learning.

Why should clients choose you?

As a disabled and neurodivergent individual, I bring a unique perspective to tutoring. Having navigated adult education and university with disabilities, I deeply understand the challenges many students face. This experience, combined with my empathy, patience, and tailored teaching approach, ensures every student feels supported and empowered to succeed.

What inspired you to start your own business?

I was inspired to start DW Tutoring because I wanted to create a more flexible and inclusive learning environment. In traditional academic spaces, I was often told I was “too enthusiastic” in my teaching. However, I firmly believe that enthusiasm is contagious—it can transform even the most reluctant learners into engaged and curious students. My goal is to make learning accessible, enjoyable, and tailored to each student’s needs.

What makes DW Tutoring different from other services?

DW Tutoring specialises in working with neurodiverse and disabled students. My approach focuses on understanding each student’s unique needs and adapting teaching methods accordingly. By fostering a supportive environment, I aim to build not only academic skills but also confidence and lifelong learning habits.

Four digital illustrations of an animated puppy cooking in a kitchen. The puppy is shown reading a recipe book, mixing ingredients, putting a cake in the oven, and finally enjoying a slice of red velvet cake.
A collage of nine photos showing various guinea pigs in different settings. The guinea pigs are shown eating vegetables, being held, and relaxing in their enclosures. They display different coat colours including white, brown, and black.
A spiral notebook page showing anatomical notes about the fetlock joint, including a numbered list of bones and tendons on the left, and a corresponding anatomical diagram on the right with colour-coded structures.
Company logo illustration of tree with brain-shaped leaves titled "Compassion, Empathy & Insight DW Tutoring" tan background

How do you tailor your sessions for neurodiverse or disabled students?

I use personalised teaching strategies that align with each student’s Personality, Strengths, challenges, and interests. By breaking down complex concepts into manageable steps and incorporating creative techniques like storytelling and visual aids, I aim to make learning engaging and accessible for every student.

What qualifications do you have?

I hold a PhD in veterinary microbiology, epidemiology, and bioinformatics, along with over seven years of research experience. Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Education, specialising in teaching students with learning difficulties. This combination of academic expertise and practical experience equips me to effectively support students at all levels.

Do you offer trial sessions?

Yes! I provide a free preliminary assessment session where the student can meet me in an environment of their choice. During this session, we will discuss their background, goals, and needs to ensure we are a good match before proceeding.

What age groups or academic levels do you tutor?

I tutor students across all levels—from foundation years through postgraduate studies.

What subjects do you specialise in?
I specialise in English, literature, and STEM subjects and support HASS and general academic skills.

How do you make learning fun for your students?
I incorporate humour, analogies, storytelling, and creative techniques like poetry, dancing or games into my lessons to keep students engaged.


Do you offer group sessions?
Yes! While my focus is on one-on-one attention, small group sessions can be arranged upon request.

How do you measure progress?
Essentially, this is dependent on the client. I firmly believe that “Progress trumps Perfection,” and movement, negative or positive, is progress. Of course, I was always taught, “If you don’t measure it, you cannot monitor it,” I track progress through regular feedback discussions with students, parents, and teachers (when necessary), setting achievable goals and celebrating milestones.

What are your core values as a tutor?
Empathy, inclusivity, patience, understanding, and fostering a love of lifelong learning are at the heart of everything I do.

Our Services

  • Antique leather-bound books stacked on weathered wood surface by window

    Academic Services

    Personalised Tutoring Services

    Standard K-12 Tutoring (English, Literature, HASS, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics)

    Specialised University Tutoring (Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, Animal Health, Genetics, Statistics)

    High school Editing & Proofreading

    Small group sessions available by special request

  • Person in blue shirt working on computer with code on monitors in dark office

    Research Support

    Statistical Analysis

    Study Design Consultation

    Ethics Applications Assistance


    Academic Editing and Proofreading

    Specialist advice in animal science, veterinary microbiology, epidemiology and research

  • Close-up of interlocking blue and tan wooden puzzle pieces

    Support Services

    NDIS Services

    Peer Mentoring 

    Life Transition Planning

    Skill Development Training

    Public Transport Training

    Self-Care Support

Book Now

DW Tutoring Blog

  • A poster, "The Autistics vs. Machine Learning," incorporates images from "The Mitchells vs. the Machines" to illustrate executive function in individuals with various neurodiverse profiles, particularly those with ASD. It underscores the significance

    Neurodiversity and Executive Function

    This blog post explores how tailored support, like personalised tutoring and sensory integration, can empower neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with autism, by enhancing executive function skills.

    Read it

  • Diffusion of Responsibility

    The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza has left many feeling helpless and overwhelmed, with the UN reporting that Gaza is becoming a graveyard for children as the death toll surpasses 10,000. This situation brings to light a critical sociopsychological phenomenon known as the diffusion of responsibility.

    Read It

  • If I wasn’t a scientist, I’d have studied literature

    Discover how one person overcame personal challenges to pursue higher education and their mission to inspire others through literature and tutoring.

    Read It

  • An analysis of Sylvia Plath’s “The Arrival of the Bee Box”

    Explore a unique analysis of Sylvia Plath's The Arrival of the Bee Box, uncovering its political undertones and literary techniques beyond autobiographical readings.

    Read It

  • Critique/analysis of Sylvia Plath’s ‘Mushrooms”

    Description goes hereExplore Sylvia Plath's 'Mushrooms' poem, analysing its themes of women's rights and childbirth through masterful literary techniques and symbolism.

    Read it

  • Time, Desire, and Rhetoric: A Multifaceted Analysis of Andrew Marvell’s ‘To His Coy Mistress’

    Explore Andrew Marvell's 'To His Coy Mistress' through literary analysis, feminist critique, and LGBTQIA perspectives in this comprehensive review.

    Read it

  • Slaying Goliath: Why Toxic Positivity and Inspiration Porn Need a Reality Check

    Explore the complexities of disability experiences, the pitfalls of oversimplification, and the power of collective action in challenging institutional biases.

    Read It
Read Blog

Follow us on social

Contact Us

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!