There is no typical formula for a lesson, as each student is an individual and works at their own pace, with different interests and a variety of strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, each lesson is personalised in the way it is structured and delivered, as well as using suitable games, resources created and manipulatives if possible. I use a range of multi-sensory strategies to encourage independent learning, alongside supporting students to identify individual learning styles and strengths.

SpLD tutors provide specialist study skills tuition and support for students diagnosed with Specific Learning Differences (SpLD), which may include Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Dyscalculia, in addition to other possible neurodiversity, such as Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC).

We are qualified to interpret Dyslexia or Educational Psychologist reports and understand how it will affect a student’s learning and therefore suitable ways to teach them. We understand a lot of the challenges SpLD students face and have many strategies to lessen or overcome these barriers.

With every new student I do an information questionnaire aimed to put them at ease, find out about their likes/dislikes, things they find difficult and what they want to work on. From this I can get an idea of what to work on and how I could theme it to engage them. I also do a check in each term with current students, as well as a quick, “hello, how are you?” at the start of every lesson. I believe I have a good rapport with all my students, which allows them to speak honestly about how they are doing, what they understand (or don’t) and what they have completed. This is vital communication to build a trusting relationship with mutual respect, which is a springboard for tackling barriers to learning and improving confidence, to effect real change.

At the end of every lesson, I give a de-brief to parents about what we covered in the lesson and how the student coped with the work. Also, my plans to build on that (if appropriate).

How might my child show progress?

· Interest in learning – more engaged in class or able to do homework

· Reading/spelling/handwriting/maths improvement

· Confidence/self-esteem grows

· Improved writing skills

· Improved understanding

· Better at revision

· Happier in school

· Achievement in tests

· Increased vocabulary

More metacognition (awareness of how they think and learn)

Please call with as much notice as possible. I require a notification 24 hours in advance to cancel sessions without charge.

If the lesson cannot be rescheduled it will be postponed until the following week.

I can support students with GCSE's in any subject (except languages), BTEC assignments , A-level English and Music, as well as general study skills in any area. Usually dyslexia students are looking for help with English (including SPaG, comprehension, handwriting and reading) and Maths.

At University level, I can read through assignments for understanding, SPaG and structure.

Vocally, I teach singing in any style (excluding opera), for fun, for school/college or for graded exams. I can also help with vocal coaching for performance.

I work with students closely to understand the subject matter, what they want or have to achieve and where they need assistance. This helps ensure they: develop a strong foundation in the subject, build good study habits, work on time management and organisational skills, or get ahead in the subject. I will work with the student to develop a programme that works best to fit their needs and learning style. For exam subjects, we also work on exam technique specific to the board and subject they are studying to ensure maximum confidence and achievement.

A specific structured SpLD programme for phonics, spelling and reading may be offered with young students that can attend regularly, or if recommended by their diagnostic reports.

At my home in Podsmead, Gloucester. I have a large teaching room off the main house and access to the garden for outdoor work in warmer weather. This creates a quiet, familiar place for us to work in, where I have space to prepare or set out activities and access all my resources.

I can create bespoke courses of study on the subject/s you want to cover based on themes of their choice. Often a different approach, a change of scene and a regular organised time to work can work wonders for increasing confidence, learning and productivity of your home-schooled child.