I have over 15 years’ experience in education which has included teaching in both mainstream and special schools and as a Specialist Advisory Teacher for Specific Learning Difficulties for the local authority.
My approach to tutoring is personalised and adaptable, tailored to meet the unique needs and learning styles of each student. Whether it’s boosting confidence in reading, writing, and spelling, having hands on science lessons, or making maths learning fun. I strive to create a supportive and engaging learning environment where my students can thrive.
I believe that education goes beyond simply imparting knowledge; it’s about empowering students to become independent thinkers and lifelong learners. Through patience, encouragement, and dedication, I aim to instil not only a deeper understanding of the material but also a love for learning itself.
My specialist experience of working with students with SEN to develop trusting and meaningful relationships: Developing a trusting and meaningful relationship with a student is very important to me. I approach all interactions with empathy, actively listening to their thoughts and concerns, and understanding their unique strengths and challenges, whilst at the same time remaining positive and friendly. By celebrating their achievements and providing encouragement, I aim to create a safe and nurturing space where they feel valued and motivated.
My skills and experience teaching young people with Autism: I have worked with autistic students both in mainstream and special schools. I understand the importance of fully understanding the student and adapting my teaching to their individual needs and interests. I give clear instructions on how the lesson will be and what the objectives are. I support all instructions with visual aids, adapt my use of vocabulary and scaffold support to enable the task to be completed successfully thus increasing motivation.
My experience teaching young people with Anxiety: I have worked with many students with anxiety; anxiety so severe that it prevents them from attending school. I have many strategies that I use to support students including identifying triggers; validating and empathising their concerns; refocusing unhelpful thinking e.g., catastrophising; building overall confidence; deep breathing and mindfulness.
My experience of teaching students with ADHD: When teaching students with ADHD I know how important it is to have movement breaks and for the lesson to be engaging and exciting. I support teaching with learning aids and regular progress updates. If appropriate, I use the zones of regulation to support the student to manage their emotions.
My skills and experience teaching young people with working memory difficulties: When working with students with working memory challenges I teach them strategies to support memory. These include multi-sensory approaches, chunking information, making notes and using technology.
My experience of teaching young people with Sensory and/or Auditory processing needs: As a specialist dyslexia teacher I have lots of experience of working with students with sensory and auditory processing challenges. I ensure that I understand the student’s unique needs and adapt my teaching and the teaching environment to meet their needs.
My experience of teaching students with SEMH and mental health needs: This is an area I have vast experience in from working with students who have been hospital inpatients for mental health needs to students who are unable to attend school due to high levels of anxiety. Before learning can happen, I ensure that I create a safe and supportive learning environment. I am familiar with collaborating with CAMHS and PALMS to ensure that both health and educational needs are met. I pride myself on the success I have had with students and believe this is attributed to the positive way I teach. I build trusting relationships and together we develop a ‘can do’ attitude. Through positive reinforcement, constructive feedback, and targeted praise, I help students develop a growth mindset and overcome challenges with resilience.
My experience working with young people to boost their confidence and self-esteem: Establishing a trusting relationship with a student links closely with boosting their self-esteem and confidence. When teaching I give ongoing support and encouragement with specific and meaningful praise. I create a supportive and engaging learning environment where my students can thrive and feel the exhilaration of success which in turn helps them grow in confidence.
My specialist experience providing engaging sessions to provide a love of learning: Most students love learning once they feel that they are good at it and it’s fun. I share my own love of learning, and this can be contagious. I ensure my lessons are fast paced, fun, with just the right amount of challenge.
My skills and experience supporting students to develop their independence: I spend time getting to know a student so that I can provide tailored opportunities to enable them to become an independent learner. I encourage, and fully support, self-assessment, goal setting and reflection.
