El

My experience with special educational needs

With over thirty years of experience as an English teacher, tutor and ALNCo, I have worked extensively with students with a wide range of additional learning needs, including ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and Asperger’s syndrome. My practice is grounded in equity, high expectations, and the importance of personalised support to ensure all learners can access the curriculum, build independence, and thrive. I adapt lessons, so they make sense to each individual learner’s needs, and I help learners feel safe, confident, capable, and supported. I have extensive experience adapting lessons and using strategies like structured literacy, assistive technology, visual timetables, and sensory breaks to help every student access learning in a way that works for them. Furthermore, having been a Head of Pastoral Care and a Safeguarding Specialist further enhances my ability to coach effectively, supporting not just academic progress but also emotional wellbeing and resilience.

A bit about me

I am passionate about supporting students, and I take pride in helping students overcome barriers, build confidence, and achieve success whilst bringing warmth, empathy, and a sense of calm to every session. My commitment to inclusive education is deeply personal as well as professional—supporting students is at the heart of my work; creating a positive, understanding environment where students feel motivated, and supported, and where strong communication with families is central to progress, believing that both students and parents must feel heard and supported. I care about helping students succeed in a safe, structured space where learning feels manageable and positive. Knowing how important it is to feel understood and comfortable, I take time to get to know each student, how they learn best, and what helps them feel comfortable, stay focused and remain motivated. I help students believe in themselves, become more independent and take pride in what they achieve.

My teaching philosophy

My approach is rooted in compassion, structure, and high expectations enabling students to make real progress while feeling encouraged each step of the way. With a friendly and structured approach, I personalise each lesson to meet individual needs, using clear explanations, helpful strategies, assistive technology, and differentiated resources. For neurodiverse students, I use visual timetables, consistent routines, and sensory breaks to support self-regulation and reduce anxiety. I focus on building confidence, independence, and academic skills through engaging and supportive teaching, always aiming to help students feel empowered. I want students to enjoy learning, feel proud of their progress, and grow in confidence. My extensive experience in all areas of pastoral care also plays a key role in my coaching, allowing me to support the whole learner, not just academically, but emotionally and socially, helping them to feel safe, understood, and ready to succeed

Schedule

Tutoring specialisation

I’m providing tutoring sessions for students with these educational needs: