Tessa

I am passionate about English, reading and writing. As a former journalist, I now enjoy working with teenagers to help equip them with the necessary literacy and study skills to make progress in school and in life.
I work as an English teacher at an academically selective independent secondary school, so I keep up to date with trends and current issues affecting education and young people. I have worked in both the maintained and independent sectors, teaching boys and girls. As a parent who has had children in secondary school and at university, I can empathise with (and offer support in preparing for) the challenges that young people face when preparing for assessments and examinations.
I am available most weekends during term-time, and during some weekdays after school, as well as some weekend daytimes and evenings in the school holidays, when I have more flexibility.

Tutoring Experience

I have been teaching since 2002, and have worked with teenagers in the state and independent education sectors. I have taught English Language, English Literature and A Level Creative Writing from Year 7 up to Year 13 (including GCSEs, IGCSEs and A Levels, with various different exam boards). I also teach study/revision skills and have prepared pupils for a range of senior school entrance exams (including scholarship papers for some of the most academically selective settings) in English; I have also helped with study and revision skills and interview preparation. I provide support with preparing UCAS Personal Statements as well as application and interview advice. (I have 19 years of experience of preparing pupils for university applications through UCAS.)
I have run tutoring, coaching and mentoring programmes for pupils and teachers, as well as delivering teacher training.
I have a Masters Degree in Education; I am a
Mental Health First Aider and Trainer.

Tutoring Approach

Having liaised with the parent initially and met the individual tutee for a first lesson, I identify the tutoring goals and prepare a personalised, flexible learning programme. I adopt an individualised approach, using specially designed, personalised resources which will engage the student, and help him or her to apply what they are learning and to become more confident with ideas, planning and writing skills.
Having been a form tutor for many years for groups from Year 7 to Sixth Form, I have experience of the issues that teenagers may face with their educational journeys, so I am also mindful of the need to be flexible and supportive with suggested practices and approaches.