Emma H

My Passion & How I Inspire

I am a strong believer in encouraging independent and autonomous learners in preparation for further learning, whether at University or in the real world. Research has affirmed that autonomous learning methods produce higher achieving students, not only within the classroom, but beyond. I aim to provide students with the skills they need to approach literature and language at any level, ensuring that tutees have the tools they need to unlock texts and analyse language. This practice is profoundly valuable. Rather than simply ‘spoon-feeding’ students with answers, I equip them with the skills and devices necessary to formulate understanding and answers for themselves. Developing such practices ensures these skills can be extended to all manner of literature and writing. I use a variety of language games to improve literacy and writing skills, as well as using prompt-questions to encourage autonomous thinking. When teaching literature I work hard to develop contextual understanding whilst working hard to develop inference techniques to enhance the student’s ability to interpret further meaning.

As well as encouraging independent learners, I also believe that lessons should be made culturally relevant for young people. Where appropriate, I try to draw on student’s existing funds of knowledge and cultural interests to make lessons engaging for individuals. In schools, education cannot be personalised to exactly meet an individual’s needs and interests. However, private tutoring caters perfectly for this and I am to create personally tailored lessons that students will find relevant and appealing.

Being a Newly Qualified Teacher, I have a sound knowledge of the major exam boards and the assessment criteria for students aged 11+ to 18. I am therefore extremely sensible of the hoops through which pupils need to jump to achieve high grades and have considerable experience teaching to particular assessments. I am able to tutor students for the purpose of reaching high levels of achievement and perhaps encouraging engagement with English beyond the curriculum if this is desired for University interviews.

In summary, I have a lively and enthusiastic approach to tutoring. I always aim to produce interesting and enjoyable lessons whilst ensuring that all academics needs are met.