Estella

My experience with special educational needs

I'm a dedicated and passionate educator with over 10 years experience working across mainstream, specialist, and outreach settings. I specialise in supporting students with a range of SEN/SEMH needs including: Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, D/deaf learners, APD, GDD, PDA, FASD, and OCD. I have extensive experience supporting learners, and their families, who are disengaged from education and are struggling to have their needs met in or are unable to access a traditional classroom setting. All of my learners have successfully re-engaged with their education and developed their self-confidence, positivity and motivation towards their learning as well as the vital ability to self-advocate. I’m confident supporting learners online through platforms like Zoom, Teams, and Google Classroom. I create bespoke lesson resources, behaviour plans, and pastoral support materials for each individual student all tailored to their needs, goals and interests.

A bit about me

Hello, I’m Estella - a qualified and experienced teacher with a deep passion for inclusive education. I became deaf during my school years, and navigating the education system with that sudden change in a large, mainstream school was incredibly tough. The experience shaped who I am as an educator, as I know first-hand the obstacles that come from your needs not being understood or supported, and it is also why I always endeavour to create a safe, supportive space for every student I work with. Outside of teaching, I love learning languages, travelling, cooking, watching football, swimming, and getting lost in a great film. I strive to bring creativity, calm, and a sense of humour to everything I do.

My teaching philosophy

My teaching approach is strongly grounded in empathy, patience, and a nurturing mindset. I adapt each session to suit the learner’s unique strengths and challenges, creating a reassuring, encouraging space where they feel free and comfortable to engage and progress. My goal is always to build trust, boost confidence, and make learning feel meaningful and accessible. I focus on connecting all learning to each student’s interests and real-life goals, aligning it with achievable steps toward all types/levels of qualifications, career/vocational pathways, or greater independence and life skills.

Schedule

Tutoring specialisation

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