Durham Special Needs Tutors and Durham Special Needs Tuition

Personal Description:
I am a well humoured, and easy going teacher with a keen interest in Design, Technology, Engineering and SEN, who likes to keep up to date with the latest trends in many aspects of design from Jewellery to Furniture. I have a bachelors degree in Silversmithing and Metalwork and am currently working towards a masters degree in Education.

I'm also a lived experience neurodiversity advocate.

Teaching Experience:
I have just completed my 12 full time year in teaching mainstream secondary school Design, Technology and Engineering. I've worked with pupils from KS2-KS5 in my subject specialism in a range of different schools including a specialist SEMH provision, and sixth form college but predominantly mainstream secondary schools.

I worked as an Assistant SENCo for four years and have experience of delivery specialist interventions, including toe-by-toe, IDL and IEP's as well as acting as a keyworker to support pupils with emotional and behaviour support, when they are finding it hard to communicate their needs with others.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a pupil focused tutor who believes that a variety of short, varied activities keeps students focused, productive and able to learn more effectively. My experience with SEN students has made me patient and believe that the key to successful tutoring is being well resourced. I undertake a limited amount of tutees in order to ensure increased availability for my tutees and to ensure that I am focused on the individuals I tutor and their needs. Above all I believe the students need constant positive reinforcement to increase motivation, self belief and therefore success.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Highly qualified and experienced international language teacher who specialises in teaching Spanish, Ukrainian, Russian and English as Foreign/Additional Languages. I am approachable and confident to teach languages from early years to higher university levels. I build positive teaching-learning relationships with students from different age groups, diverse social backgrounds and varied degrees of linguistic ability. I tutor in Norwich area as well as provide online e-learning experiences. I am available to tutor weekdays, Saturdays and evenings throughout holidays as well as term time.

Teaching Experience:
Over 25 years of experience. I have worked in both mainstream and private schools tutoring one-to-one, small groups and full classes with students of different abilities in both secondary and primary school levels. I have also taught SEN students in groups and individually. I provided lessons of English and Spanish as Foreign Languages to organizations in South America and Ukraine.

SPANISH

I offer training in Spanish at different linguistic levels - from basic to most complicated grammar (university level) with plenty of conversational practice. Spanish is my natural language. I worked as a "Spanish into English" translator/interpreter for the Dep. of Science in South America and as a teacher in Extremadura in Spain. My knowledge of Spanish-Speaking culture will enrich our lessons in a way that you will be able to learn the most important shades of meanings as well as Spanish colloquial expressions. This would allow you to feel confident in Castellano and to avoid uncomfortable situations, while travelling to Spanish speaking countries.

SEN, SYNTHETIC PHONICS for READING and WRITING; ENGLISH as a FOREIGN LANGUAGE, RUSSIAN AND UKRAINIAN (native ability)

I also provide tuition in areas such as: Reading and Writing in English -Summer Holiday Practice, synthetic phonics (children 4+); Grammar, Conversation, Exam Preparation in English, Russian and Ukrainian as Foreign Languages.
I am an official Synthetic Phonics Trainer for Ukraine. I have run numerous language clubs in England and coordinated my own language school in Ukraine. I can help your child to significantly improve his reading and writing skills in English, using varied Phonics Schemes in a fun way. I teach blending and segmenting, reading practice, tricky words, dictations, reading for meaning, guided reading. I will assess your child according to the latest assessment criteria.

Summer Holiday Phonics help is available both in small groups and individually.


Trained at Kiev Linguistic University, Ukraine; Open University, Anglia Ruskin University, England; Javeriana University, Colombia - South America; Honours Degree in Linguistics; DELE Diploma of Spanish, Diploma in Teaching of Spanish as a Foreign Language and translation. CRB checked. References are available upon request.

Tutoring Approach:
I adopt a flexible approach to teaching, depending on what the student hopes to achieve. I have always got on well with my students and try to make my lessons fun, friendly and as motivating as possible, involving techniques such as interactive communicative situations, games, quizzes, songs, reading and writing comprehensions, cultural enrichment, essay writing skills, etc. Before the course, I assess the students' needs and their levels; explain the scheme of work and discuss with parents their child's progress. Group lessons can be agreed at a cheaper price.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an avid musician and educationalist, with a passion for sharing my interests in music and learning with children and young adults. As a parent and trained Teacher, I can see from different perspectives the different aspects of learning in life, and am keen to foster a love of learning whenever I am involved with a child or young person. I am also a qualified Music Therapist, and run my own music therapy service which you are welcome to enquire about.

Teaching Experience:
I have 7 years experience working in a Special Needs school working across the 11-19 age range primarily, with much crossover into Primary and Early Years. When my children were at nursery I worked closely with the team to develop their behaviour management and early communication skills, giving me a different range of experiences to call upon. I have also taught private music lessons with great client satisfaction for almost 20 years.

Tutoring Approach:
I am experienced in adapting my approach to delivery depending on context, having worked in classrooms, with learner orchestras, and in 1:1 settings. Fun and enjoyment should be central to a successful learning experience, and I try to ensure a relaxed approach in sessions facilitates this.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Thank you for looking at my profile.

I want to see young people thrive within the learning environment and achieve the best of their ability.

In my previous school I was subject leader for drama. Writing the schemes of work for key stage 3 and 4 (GCSE). Leading the department, monitoring progess, scaffolding learning and applying independent learning plans for students to ensure that they reach their full potential.

The recent class that I taught for GCSE achieved 70% 3 levels of progress and over and 30% 2 levels of progress, beyond the national average.

I believe the key to learning and retaining information is for the student to believe in themselves and their knowledge.

PGCE Secondary Drama

QTS

Teaching Experience:
I have a great amount of experience within the educational system. I have worked with a variety of students. Special needs students in both primary and secondary school settings. I have done a vast amount of work with pupils with self-esteem issues and challenging behaviour. In addition, working with gifted and talented students.

I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching key stage 3 and GCSE English. I understand the challenges of this subject and how students may need extra support to excel.

I have taught Drama to both GCSE and A-level students, I have supported students through course work and controlled assessment.

I have worked in various schools in Sheffield and Birmingham.

I am currently teaching in a Sheffield secondary school.

I have worked with primary school children, building confidence and challenging behaviour. In addition literacy ( children with dyslexia).

Tutoring Approach:
To work with the student on identifying the areas in which their are struggling to reach their full potential and why. Whether it is because they are struggling to understand or they lack in confidence in the particular subject. I would then work with the student to build the gaps in their knowledge and build confidence through interactive and individual learning. A combination of both styles of learning secures knowledge and the belief that the student has the knowledge.

The students progression will be monitored through continual assessment.

The student will also be a part of self-assessment to recognise their own needs and development.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Currently I work on many Department for Education projects striving to improve the quality of education across the UK, particularly in the area of mental health and effective teaching. I also work as an education consultant delivering training internationally to students and teachers alike.

I am a supportive and encouraging tutor, with many years experience as a qualified teacher and many more as a private tutor on a 1:1/small group level. I am educated to Masters Level in Health Psychology and Education, so I am certainly no stranger to education myself!

In my "spare" time, I am studying for a PhD in Psychological Medicine at Kings College London.

I have worked with young children starting out on their education journey through to Bachelor and Masters Level University degrees.

Teaching Experience:
I have worked with young children starting out on their education journey through to Bachelor and Masters Level University students.

Whilst my subject specialism is Psychology, I have taught across a range of subjects with enthusiasm, which ensures that I have an excellent track record of students gaining exam results which exceed their minimum target grades, with many meeting their aspirational target grades.

I have taught in a range of education settings which include: primary and secondary schools, Pupil Referral Units, Further and Higher Education. This includes working with individuals of all abilities and backgrounds, including having experience in working with individuals who may have special educational needs or have English as a second language.

This has been in a variety of subjects which include: Entrance Exams, English, Maths, Science, Health, Psychology and Humanities, among others.

I have taught extensively online as well as in person.

I am fortunate enough to be an Examiner of KS2, GCSE and A-Level providing me with a detailed insight into a range of exam boards.

Tutoring Approach:
I am a friendly and supportive tutor who can be relied upon to provide the best quality lessons. I like to incorporate humour and fun, tailoring my lessons to the needs and interests of the students I am delivering to.

For higher level tutees such as those at university. I integrate academic skills whilst supporting then with the planning and implementation of assignments, dissertations, exam preparation and more.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I finished my postgraduate study at the University of Birmingham in Dec 2018. I had stayed in UK for more than a year. I really love UK. The time when I was living in UK left me a great and impressive memory.

Now I have returned to China, I would like to keep contact with British people, and continue tutoring online. There are 7 or 8 hours time difference between UK and China. Therefore, someone who are interested in learning Chinese/Mandarin, or want to know the culture of China, or want to improve your Maths, please leave me a message. I will do my best to be a good tutor and also a good international friend of you.

In particular, for those who are interested in tutoring English, we can tutor each other for free.

Teaching Experience:
I was a volunteer teacher when I was an undergraduate student in China. It was in a countryside school of Hunan province. I went there with my schoolmates in a summer holiday. I taught students mathematics and introduced interesting things in the university to them. Although time passed fast, we had wonderful time together. Importantly, children and teenagers learned something from me, which is unforgettable in their life and is meaningful to me as well.

I had an experience of tutoring two junior school students for Maths of IGCSE when I was in UK. It lasted over two months. During that time I helped them make big progresses in their studies. I also gain friendship from their families which will last forever.

I had also tutored Mandarin for two kids in the UK after finishing IGCSE tutoring. It was easier for me to tutor language compared to Maths. I enjoyed the time when I spent with those two cute kids.

Tutoring Approach:
I would prepare for the lessons very well before tutoring.
Using an everyday language, make knowledge clear and easy to understand.
Develop student's interest step by step.
Providing good examples.
Give suggestions of study.
etc.

Subjects

Personal Description:
As a fully qualified primary school teacher with fifteen years experience in the classroom and five years as a tutor working privately and in schools, I understand that all children are different but all can be successful with an approach tailored specifically to them. I use a wide range of strategies appropriate to the individual needs of your child based on my teaching experience in every year group from Year 1 to Year 6 and leadership in core subjects at several schools rated Outstanding by OFSTED.

Teaching Experience:
With significant experience in teaching the full national curriculum to every year group in key stages 1 and 2, I can provide an enhanced learning experience for every child in all aspects of Maths and English and their application in other curriculum subjects by drawing on the very best of modern and traditional teaching methods. I also have experience working with children with a range of additional needs. These include Aspergers, Autism, Downs Syndrome, ADHD, Global Delay, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Discalculia.

Tutoring Approach:
I use quality resources to make learning accessible and meaningful, creating and adapting everything I use to ensure the learning is tailored to the learner. Interesting, engaging and constantly adapting to the needs of your child as and when they emerge I ensure learning is enjoyable but also challenging. I tutor both privately and in schools, where much of my work has been through the National Tutoring Program - enabling children to catch up from learning missed during the pandemic.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a passionate and dedicated tutor, with a wealth of experience in both tutoring and teaching in schools, after having trained as a primary school teacher. Keeping rates really affordable for communities across Slough, Windsor and Maidenhead, I tutor pupils of all ages and abilities, to ensure that they get the best learning experience possible! P.S. I only have 2 spaces available at ONLY £20 per lesson!

Teaching Experience:
I am an experienced tutor and have worked in schools and tuition centres across Slough and Maidenhead. I have also studied Teacher Training at the University of Reading and worked as the Assistant Centre Director of Bright Young Things Tuition in Maidenhead (I am also currently writing my own teaching book based on all my experiences). I currently hold tuition sessions to the home for families across Slough, Windsor and Maidenhead, under my umbrella company.

Areas I cover are Primary, Secondary and GCSE Maths, English & Science, Early Reading & Writing and I gear children with the essential skills for the 11+ exams, including Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Some children I am currently working with and am experience with have had special educational needs like dyslexia. Additionally, I have created my own Maths & English learning resource packs, which children use for Creative Writing and Maths. I also give out homework and set tasks for pupils, which I review and mark on a weekly basis. With excellent feedback from parents, I have references that I can happily present to parents looking for lessons.

Tutoring Approach:
Parents generally find that I am a very calm and pacient tutor; I like to work at the pupil's pace and provide lots of reward, especially for the younger children (like stickers and prizes). If I find that the student needs some more help outside of my paid hourly time, I give extra time, to ensure that they have learnt the skills to the highest standard possible.

I have a lesson plan ready prior to the session, but am generally flexible in my approach to the content I teach; sometimes, the lesson focuses on helping the child with their homework or reviewing a test paper from school. To ensure learning is as enjoyable and interactive as possible, I have whiteboards that children use to brainstorm ideas or sometimes, for instance, I encourage them to use coloured card to create their own writing checklists.

As I am writing my own book based on my school, teaching experiences, my tutoring skills are derived from the wealth of experience I gained from training courses and teaching within schools.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a married mother of 2 grown up children. I am passionate about education, I'm a school governor in my spare time!, but I also enjoy going to the gym and travelling.

Teaching Experience:
I am an ex primary school headteacher with 30 years experience in both the maintained and independent sectors. I am also a school governor and inspector so you can see I'm very interested in education!
I aim to make all my lessons fun and tailor them to the needs of the individual child whether they are working towards their 11+ examinations, SATs or just need that extra boost in their confidence; I have supported numerous children in all these situations.
I have also supported children with additional needs with particular experience in dyslexia, dyscalculia and ADHD.
I am fully insured and have an enhanced DBS certificate.

Tutoring Approach:
I listen to both the parents and the child and work with them to ensure that they enjoy the sessions and make progress every week. I incorporate games and practical work within my sessions. I work from my home where I have room completely set up for teaching with all my resources close at hand.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a fully qualified and GTCS registered primary teacher of over fifteen years. I have considerable experience across all ages and stages and have extensive experience working with children with additional support needs, both in a classroom setting and 1-1 tutoring. I have a proven track record in delivering excellence and in supporting learners with a range of needs.

Teaching Experience:
I have been teaching for 10 years across all stages of the primary curriculum. I have experience of working with children with a range of additional support needs in the classroom and 1-1.

Tutoring Approach:
I try to make my tutoring sessions fun and interactive, using a mixture of ICT, games while maintaining a focus on formal written methods. I have experience of tutoring both maths and language and working to support learners needs such as hearing impairments, ASD and dyslexia.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an online tutor on gender,sociology and development studies .I am very efficient and I always like seeing my students meet the expectations of their academic standards.

Teaching Experience:
I have over 10 years teaching experience both online and physical.

Tutoring Approach:
Due to covid 19,I do all my classes online and help students with report writing.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hi! My name is Jessica, and I hold a BSc (Hons) degree in Psychology from the University of Kent. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience working within the education and healthcare sectors, primarily focusing on supporting young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). My professional journey has been dedicated to enhancing the educational experiences and overall wellbeing of children and adolescents, and I hope to continue doing this through my work tutoring children and young people here.

Teaching Experience:
As a former Paediatric Speech and Language Therapy Assistant, I supported therapists in running language groups and worked directly with children 1-1 to improve their communication, comprehension, verbal and written skills.

I have also helped to support a number of family members with their Maths skills, working 1-1 to tutor their children and give dedicated space and time to work on their understanding and to help them achieve improvements.

Tutoring Approach:
My tutoring approach is deeply rooted in empathy, patience, and a personalised understanding of each student's unique needs. Here are the core principles that guide my tutoring methodology:

1. Individualised Learning Plans: Recognising that every student learns differently, I create tailored learning plans that cater to their specific strengths and areas for improvement. This personalised approach ensures that each student receives the support they need to thrive academically.

2. Building Strong Relationships: My background in relationship management and communication with key stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and educational institutions, has equipped me with the skills to build strong, trusting relationships with my students and their families. I believe that a supportive and collaborative environment is essential for effective learning.

3. Interactive and Engaging Lessons: I strive to make my lessons as engaging and interactive as possible. Using a variety of teaching tools and techniques, I aim to keep students motivated and excited about learning. Whether it's through hands-on activities, visual aids, or real-world examples, I ensure that my lessons are both educational and enjoyable.

4. Focus on Wellbeing: Understanding the importance of mental health and wellbeing, I incorporate strategies that promote a positive mindset and emotional resilience. My experience working with Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) allows me to support students not just academically, but holistically.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am a compassionate and dedicated individual with a strong drive to support and empower young people, especially those facing educational challenges. My personality is warm, patient, and approachable, which helps me build rapport and trust with children and young adults alike. I pride myself on my creativity, always thinking outside the box to make learning engaging and relevant. I am flexible, proactive, and committed to going the extra mile to help my learners reach their full potential.

In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities like gardening and caring for animals. I also love exploring creative pursuits such as cooking and crafting, which I often incorporate into my teaching to make learning practical and hands-on. Additionally, I have a passion for classic games like Upwords, Cribbage, and Sudoku, which challenge my mind and help me relax. Spending quality time with my family and my pets brings me great joy, and I find fulfilment in making a positive impact in my community.

Teaching Experience:
I approach my role with a high degree of flexibility and adaptability, understanding that each child or client has unique needs, preferences, and circumstances that can change over time. In working with young people, especially those with additional needs, I have found that being responsive and adaptable is key to creating a supportive and effective learning environment.

I tailor my approach to each individual, adjusting my teaching and mentoring methods based on their strengths, challenges, and moods. For example, with children who may become overwhelmed or anxious, I am prepared to adjust the pace or format of activities and introduce calming or sensory-friendly strategies. When working with children who have ADHD or other attention challenges, I incorporate active breaks or hands-on tasks to keep them engaged and focused.

In addition to adapting to the needs of the child, I also remain flexible with parents and clients, accommodating scheduling changes or shifts in focus as needed to best support the child's overall development. My ability to adapt has proven essential in supporting each young person as they progress, ensuring they have the stability, encouragement, and responsiveness they need to succeed.

Overall, my flexibility allows me to meet each child and client where they are, creating a responsive and personalized approach that promotes both comfort and growth.

I have extensive experience working with children who have a range of Special Educational Needs (SEN), including Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), ADHD, dyslexia, Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) challenges, and other complex needs. My approach is grounded in patience, empathy, and adaptability, allowing me to connect with each child in a way that respects their individual learning style and pace.

With children on the autism spectrum, I focus on creating a predictable and supportive environment that reduces anxiety and enhances engagement. I use visual aids, structured routines, and sensory-friendly strategies to help them feel comfortable and supported. For those with ADHD, I incorporate short, engaging tasks and active breaks to aid focus and reduce frustration. My goal is to make learning feel dynamic and manageable, fostering a sense of accomplishment and motivation.

When working with students with dyslexia, I employ multi-sensory approaches and tailored resources that help them process information more effectively, with a focus on building confidence in reading and writing. For children with SEMH needs, I prioritize creating a safe space where they feel heard, validated, and supported in managing their emotions. I incorporate therapeutic activities and life skills training to help them develop resilience, self-regulation, and positive coping strategies.

Throughout my work with SEN children, I adapt my teaching and mentoring approaches to meet each child's specific requirements, helping them build not only academic skills but also essential life skills. I am passionate about supporting these young people to reach their full potential, whatever their starting point or challenges.

Tutoring Approach:
I believe that building and maintaining effective working relationships is essential for creating a supportive and collaborative environment, whether with colleagues, children, clients, or parents.

In my work, I prioritise open communication, empathy, and mutual respect. With colleagues, I strive to be a reliable team player who values others' insights and expertise. I actively contribute to shared goals and offer support whenever needed, recognizing that each team member brings unique skills and perspectives. Collaboration allows us to create a more cohesive approach to supporting children, especially those with complex needs, where consistency is key.

When working with children, I focus on building trust and rapport by being approachable, patient, and respectful of each child's unique personality and needs. I create a safe space where they feel valued and supported, which helps them engage more openly and confidently. This foundation of trust not only enhances learning but also fosters their emotional growth.

With clients, I aim to establish strong professional relationships grounded in transparency and reliability. I communicate openly about goals, challenges, and progress to ensure we are aligned in supporting the child's development. This includes sharing insights and receiving feedback, so we can work together toward meaningful outcomes.

For relationships with parents, I recognize the importance of collaboration and trust. I am open and communicative, keeping them informed of their child's progress and any challenges, while also being receptive to their input and concerns. This partnership allows us to work as a team, ensuring the child's needs are met both at home and during sessions.

In all my interactions, I am committed to fostering positive relationships that promote collaboration, growth, and well-being for the children and families I support.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Primary teacher - Redbridge, 26 years; very experienced


I am an extremely skilled and dedicated teacher with nearly 30 years of classroom teaching experience, within the London Borough of Redbridge. I hold a degree in psychology, followed by a Postgraduate qualification in Education (PGCE), specialising in English. As a result, I achieved my QTS (Qualified Teaching Status).

Alongside my teaching career, I have consistently tutored children on a one-to-one basis, including home educated learners. I have worked with children across a wide range of abilities , helping them to grow in confidence, develop strong academic skills and achieve success in their learning journey. I feel that if a child needs help, the primary school years are the best time to begin developing the right foundations...

I truly believe that every child matters. Supporting children to grow academically and emotionally has been incredibly rewarding and I remain most grateful for my career in education.

Teaching Experience:
I have a wealth of knowledge with the KS1&2 curriculum and have extensive experience preparing children for year 6 SATs. In addition, I have worked as a KS2 examiner, to mark SATs papers, giving me valuable insight into assessment expectations and standards.

I have strong experience supporting children with SEND and neurodivergent learners. I understand the importance of adapting teaching approaches to ensure every child feels engaged and capable of succeeding.

I help children in building confidence, exam techniques and independent learning skills to help them succeed academically.

I provide personalised support for primary-aged children, including:

SATs preparation

Phonics Screening preparation

Year 5 and year 6 booster classes

7+ and 11+ preparation

Year 4 pupils Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)

English/ maths intervention

Homework tasks- 'concrete', 'pictorial' and 'abstract' resources.

Home education assistance on specific days.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to teaching is centred around creating a positive, supportive and inclusive learning environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to succeed. I believe that all children learn differently, so I adapt my teaching methods to suit each child's abilities and learning style.

I aim to make lessons engaging, interactive and enjoyable. I place great importance on developing strong relationships with both pupils and parents. Good communication and teamwork between home and school are essential in helping children make the best possible progress. I also understand the pressures of family life and always try to be flexible, approachable and supportive.

Above all, I teach with kindness, patience, encouragement and always strive to make a meaningful and lasting difference in every child's learning journey...

Subjects

Personal Description:
I am an experienced teacher and lecturer with over 25 years of experience teaching computer science, data science, and mathematics across schools and multiple UK universities.

I hold a PhD in Computer Science and have supported students at GCSE, A-level, and undergraduate level, including learners with SEN and diverse learning needs. My teaching style is patient, structured, and encouraging, with a strong focus on building confidence and understanding.

I break complex topics into clear, manageable steps and adapt my approach to suit each student's learning style. I am passionate about helping students develop problem-solving skills, independence, and a genuine interest in technology and data.

Teaching Experience:
PGCert Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, Manchester Metropolitan University (2017). PhD Computer Science, University of Warwick (2010). MSc Internet Engineering and Web Technologies, University of Greenwich (2007).

Tutoring Approach:
I teach computer science by cutting out the fluff and getting straight to the point:

We learn by actually doing the work. Staring at slides or memorising textbook definitions won't make you a better developer or security analyst. Instead, every lesson is completely tailored to where you are right now-whether you're aiming for top grades in your GCSEs or A-Levels, fixing a broken Python script for a university module, or trying to land your first tech job.

Our sessions are interactive and keyboard-first. We write and debug Python code together in real-time, work through practical security scenarios to see how vulnerabilities function under the hood, and tackle real software projects. If you're studying for exams, we dissect past papers and mark schemes until you know exactly how to secure top marks. If you're job hunting, we focus on building a strong GitHub portfolio, polishing your CV, and running through realistic technical interview prep.

Whether you're a school student struggling with algorithms, a university student navigating advanced software engineering, or a career switcher needing job-ready skills, I keep the pace fast, relaxed, and practical. Drop me a message with what you're working on, and let's set up a first session to get you building.

Subjects

Personal Description:
I have been teaching for over two decades. I hold a BA (Hons), a post graduate certificate in European humanities, a PGCE in teaching, a master's degree in linguistics in education and NPQH. I also hold a level 5 Tefl qualification.
When I am not teaching or tutoring, I enjoy using creative processes to enhance well-being and I enjoy spending time with animals - mainly cats!
I am a life-long learner and am always trying to learn new things, be that a new craft or a quick dabble in Latin!

Teaching Experience:
I have taught -full time - for over two decades. I have taught young children who are beginning their learning journey, through to those preparing for, and entering, secondary school. I have extensive experience in preparing children, both academically and emotionally, to sit statutory tests. I believe in developing resilience through enabling children to understand the meta-cognition involved in the learning process.
I am experienced in teaching all curriculum areas and I have an excellent knowledge of engaging and exciting children's literature. This knowledge can be used to enhance the teaching of basic, foundational skills, particularly in English.

Tutoring Approach:
I always begin where my pupils are and track back to see where the learning gaps may be. I find that taking a pupil-led approach to this can support the identification of, not only gaps in learning but also areas where confidence is not so strong.
I will always move at the pupil's pace and introduce new concepts when the foundational understanding is secure. I encourage pupils to take academic risks and I emphasize that, sometimes, the 'wrong' answer is a step to reaching the right one!

Subjects

Personal Description:
Hello, my name is Lucy- I am a specialist SEND tutor and I am particularly passionate about guiding young people, who have been or are disengaged by school, through their maths and English GCSEs to help them achieve a grade 4 on their first attempt. However, I also support young people at KS1/2/3.

One of my strengths is flexibility and adapting my approach to each individual young person. My sessions can be very different depending on who I am working with, but the common starting point is always building a trusting relationship. I spend time getting to know the young person as an individual - their interests, strengths, communication style, motivations and what helps them to feel safe and comfortable. Some young people are ready to quickly embark on 'traditional' learning, while others may need a little longer to build the trust.

As a parent, I understand the challenges young people face in their learning and that school, for many, is not an easy environment for learning and embedding skills, particularly if a young person has difficulty with processing and working memory. My own son has had these difficulties so I very much come at it from an angle of lived experience which can be hugely helpful for the families I support.

Teaching Experience:
I have many years experience working as an EYFS, KS1, KS2 teacher in London and Oxfordshire and more recently a SEND teacher in a special school teaching young people up to the age of 16. I have also taught French and bilingual students (up to the age of 17) at the British Council in Paris and have taught in the American elementary school system.

For the last two years I have been working as a 1:1 tutor for young people who are not accessing education- either on an EOTAS package or receiving alternative provision or EHE. I am highly experienced supporting young people with a wide range of special educational needs, including autism (ASC), demand avoidant profiles, ADHD, SEMH, dyslexia and associated communication, learning, sensory and emotional needs.

Tutoring Approach:
I keep sessions low demand, particularly where a young person has experienced anxiety or disengagement from education or who has a demand avoidant profile. I give the young person choice and control within a wider structure guided by me; for example they may choose the order of our learning from a selection of activities including some that are simply fun/movement.

I often use strategies such as 'body doubling' to support with a concept that a student may feel is too challenging and would otherwise not want to attempt. Also lots of modelling to give the student confidence in tackling a more challenging question or problem. Sometimes, a young people learns best doing 'their thing' while I do 'my thing'- the pressure is removed and very often the young person is intrigued enough to see what I am up to.

My experience has shown me that there is no single approach that works for all young people with SEND. I adapt my teaching to the individual, recognising their strengths and barriers to learning and I believe that this is what I am particularly good at. Throughout my teaching career my philosophy, closely linked to the Polyvagal theory has been simple 'A happy learner makes a good learner'. And this is what I aim for with every young person that I support, in every session.

Subjects

Personal Description:
Primary-Qualified Tutor | Maths, English, 11+ Prep & Dyslexia Specialist

Hello! I'm a fully qualified primary school teacher with over 30 years of classroom and tutoring experience, helping children build real confidence in maths and English.

What I teach

Maths and English for primary-aged children (KS1 and KS2), covering reading, writing, spelling, grammar, number, problem solving and reasoning
Grammar school / 11+ preparation, including verbal and non-verbal reasoning, exam technique, timed practice and mock papers
Support for children with dyslexia and other SEN

Specialist dyslexia and SEN support
I'm a dyslexia specialist and I teach using multi-sensory methods, so children learn through sight, sound, touch and movement rather than just sitting and listening. Lessons are structured, patient and paced to suit each child. Many of my pupils have been told they're "bad at" reading, spelling or maths, and I love showing them that they just learn differently, not less.

My approach
Every child is different, so I start by finding out where they are, what they enjoy and where they get stuck. Then I build a plan around them. My lessons are friendly, encouraging and well structured, and I keep parents updated on progress so you always know how your child is doing.

Why choose me?

Qualified teacher with plenty of real classroom experience
Specialist training in dyslexia and multi-sensory teaching
Proven approach to 11+ and grammar school preparation
Calm, supportive lessons that build confidence as well as skills
[Optional: DBS checked / insured / online and in-person available]

If your child needs help catching up, stretching ahead or preparing for the 11+, I'd love to help. Get in touch to arrange an initial chat.

Teaching Experience:
My experience

I have over 30 years of experience in tuition, and in that time I've helped hundreds of children grow in confidence and achieve results they didn't think were possible. I'm primary qualified, and I've spent three decades teaching maths and English, preparing children for grammar school entry, and supporting pupils with dyslexia and other learning differences.

That much experience means I know where children typically get stuck and how to explain things in a way that finally makes sense to them. I've seen every learning style, so I can quickly spot what's holding a child back and adapt my teaching to suit them. Over the years I've also refined my multi-sensory methods and my approach to 11+ preparation, so you're getting tried-and-tested techniques rather than guesswork.

Tutoring Approach:
My approach to tutoring

Every child learns differently, so I never use a one-size-fits-all approach. I begin by getting to know your child: where they feel confident, where they struggle and what they enjoy, so that lessons feel relevant and engaging from the start. From there I build a clear, step-by-step plan, breaking tricky topics into small, manageable pieces and using multi-sensory techniques (seeing, hearing, touching and moving) to help ideas stick. I keep lessons calm, encouraging and well paced, because children learn best when they feel safe to make mistakes. I celebrate every bit of progress, however small, and I keep parents regularly updated so you always know how your child is getting on and how you can support them at home. My aim is not just better marks, but a child who believes in themselves and enjoys learning.

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