My experience with special educational needs
I have worked 1-1 and in classroom settings since 2020 with students who have autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, speech & language needs, SEMH needs, PDA, rejection sensitivity, cerebral palsy, Louis-Bar syndrome, physical disabilities & global developmental delay. Notably, I have supported students 1-1 both in-person & online between the ages of 6-18 long-term over months and years with dyslexia, ADHD, autism, PDA, rejection sensitivity, Louis-Bar Syndrome, physical disabilities, global developmental delay & SEMH needs. I also am a Project Lead (Youth Worker), running programmes for the NHS & St John Ambulance; I support groups of students -many with SEND- aged 14-18 to learn & practice life/transferable skills (presenting, research, active listening, building an argument, compassion & empathy in healthcare settings, mental health awareness, debating, pitching an idea, team-work, leadership etc.) & to build their confidence to pursue their aspiration to work in healthcare.
A bit about me
Empathetic, creative, dedicated & with vast full-time 1-1 tutoring experience for multiple charities & private clients over the last 5 years. Through empathetic, positive, energised, strength-based, tailored teaching & mentoring online, one of my students achieved a Grade 6 & 7 in English Language & Literature this summer after 2 months of intensive tutoring sessions on exam technique in the lead up to his exams. (This student had struggled to reach the GCSE pass mark throughout year 10 & 11 in his school environment.) With another student aged 6, through imaginative play, devising dance choreographies to her favourite songs, drawing and painting storyboards & adding text we together re-paved her relationship to accessing learning through music, storytelling & art. (I arrived to work with this student with high-level autism, ADHD, PDA & rejection sensitivity after she found she could not develop working relationships with a series of prior tutors & her school could not support her.)
My teaching philosophy
My priority is always learning about the student I am working with. What do they love to do? What are they curious about? What are the dreams they have or that are blossoming? I work from the interests, curiosities & strengths of my students to design sessions starting from a place of safety & comfort. I facilitate a learning space where trying is exciting, having a go is the aim & is celebrated, & using our strengths to help us learn & improve at the things we find harder or are new to us. Neurologically, we all learn more deeply, with joy & for the long-term when the environment in which we learn is safe & supportive. I find & employ strategies to help the student feel safe, express themselves, & support them to learn the next skills they need & want. These strategies & tools range from breathing techniques, speech-to-text aids, visual aids of lesson routines, breaking down tasks step-by-step & more. - Please feel very encouraged to book a free 20-minute call with me.
Schedule
Time zone:
Tutoring specialisation
I’m providing tutoring sessions for students with these educational needs:
Subjects Provided
Primary
Secondary
GCSE Foundational level
GCSE Higher level
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE Foundational level
GCSE Higher level
A-Level
University
Coaching specialisation
Specialisation
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Teaching qualifications
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Training in Supporting Learners with Dyscalculia
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Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) Training (General)
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ADHD Specific Training (e.g., ADHD Foundation, Advanced ADHD courses)
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Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Training/Qualification
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Advanced Behaviour Management/Support Strategies Training
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Youth Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)
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Trauma-Informed Practice Training
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Specific Short Courses on SEND topics
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CPD Training from SEND Department in Supporting Learners with Autism
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CPD Training from SEND Department in Supporting Learners with ADHD
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CPD Training from SEND Department in Supporting Learners with PDA
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CPD Training from SEND Department in Supporting Learners with SEMH
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CPD Training from SEND Department in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
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CELTA - Cambridge English Language Teaching Award - Grade A
Reviews
3 reviews
Lianne Whyte
August 14, 2026
Martha built a wonderful rapport with my AuDHD son. She was able to calmly guide him through sensory overloads and regulate his mood for learning. I loved her individual teaching approach that centred my child’s learning style. Our situation was complex but Martha was able to persevere and reach my son where many others failed. My sons learning thrived under Martha’s teaching and as a family we are so grateful.
Julie Naldrett
August 19, 2026
Martha was an excellent english tutor to my foster daughter who has a dyslexia diagnosis. She was able to adapt her teaching style to maximise the impact of the sessions. She taught both face to face and online sessions. She was always bright and cheerful and a pleasure to have around. My daughter had a good relationship with Martha and I was able to liaise with her on an on going basis.
Anni Flaherty
August 15, 2026
Martha works with my grandson Jodi and he previously struggled with school. Now he is a changed young man, he looks forward to each lesson and is looking forward to restarting in September. Martha has made learning interesting and fun for him and he has come on leaps and bounds. I cannot thank Martha enough for her help, support and kindness, she is an asset and a great tutor.
