Shakira

I am currently a teacher at primary school, in Year 4 but have experience in KS1 and 2. I have worked in education for many years and also hold a degree in Special Needs, Education and Inclusion Studies. My experience has enabled me to uncover the strategies required to promote the best climate for learning. I want children to feel comfortable to make mistakes in order for us to unpick where they went wrong and find a solution. I am aware that children do not work or receive information in the same way and make it my duty to understand how best to teach and support your child in their learning according to their individual needs. It’s imperative that I listen to the children and give them a chance to have their say regarding their learning needs.

Tutoring Experience

As mentioned above, I’m currently working as student teacher at a primary school in Year 4 after several years in year 5. I have worked in many primary schools, starting as a volunteer in a nursery setting, all the way to the position of Higher Level Teaching Assistant, which allowed me to teach classes in a teacher’s absence. I have working across both KS1 and KS2 as a TA and also a one to one for children with severe visual impairments to children with cerebral palsy. In my roles I have often had to work closely with outside agencies to support not only the children’s learning but their mobility around school. Due to some of the challenges that children face, it was my duty to make learning fun and not something that these children felt they could not be a part of, especially if they were working below their age related targets.
My role as a TA involved me working in either one class or across a year group, again supporting children working below their expected target. I would often differentiate the tasks to ensure the content was the same but pitched at a level where the children could feel successful. I have also previously worked in Year 6. I was responsible for mixed ability interventions and SATS booster classes- focusing on closing any gaps that the children are facing in class. I did this a minimum of three times a week, within school hours and after school. Last year I worked across Years 1 and 2 supporting phonics groups ahead of their summer screening check and SATS prep, respectively. When teaching I like to encourage self confidence and belief in children especially when the pressure to do well in tests starts to get the better of them. It is important for children to know and feel that they are capable of achieving whatever they set their mind too and as long as they are doing their best, they will be fine. Growth mindset equals success!
With regards to tutoring experience, I have worked with children in Reception focusing on phonics and early reading up to Year 6, helping children prepare for SATS. Having worked with children with specific needs I’m have been able to tailor sessions to support them in their learning. Currently I am working with a child in Reception who is due to take the phonics screening check in the summer.

Tutoring Approach

Sessions will be tailored to suit the needs of the child. Based on my knowledge of the various styles of learning, I am happy to deliver my lessons in accordance to your child. I allow the child to move at their own pace, giving your child the chance to explore different methods and ways of coming to their answer. As mentioned before, I believe that positivity is a strong factor for success, so positive affirmations are very much part of my teaching style. I myself have a positive and cheery disposition, making the sessions a happy and comfortable environment. Praise is something I believe also boosts confidence, in addition to this, the ability to be challenged, enhancing greater knowledge.