My experience with special educational needs
A teacher for 27 years I have a wealth of experience in dealing with special educational needs. While working in the mainstream classroom, I championed students with SEND, ensuring that they did not fall below their peers. While teaching GCSE Music, I supported those who struggled to complete coursework in a structured manner and to also think carefully about how to answer the exam paper under timed conditions. In more recent years, I have run an alternative provision classroom, teaching all core subjects (along with others) up to GCSE level. Students were taught in small groups or 1-2-1, and work was always differentiated to their needs and interests. Students who came through my classroom had a range of needs from SEMH to ADHD; Type 1 Diabetes to PDA.
A bit about me
Along with classroom experience, I am also the mother of 2 adopted children, so have first hand experience of neuro-divergent and attachment needs. My grandson is also in the early stages of being diagnosed with Autism/ADHD and so I know the difficulties of finding a provision that works for children with additional needs and the support that both the students and their families need.
My teaching philosophy
Relationships come first - if your child doesn't feel safe then they won't make progress. I provide an environment where making mistakes is okay and no question is a stupid one. Work/sessions will always be adapted to ensure that it is accessible for your child and I try to make learning as fun and enjoyable as possible.
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
Primary
Secondary
GCSE Foundational level
GCSE Higher level
A-Level
University
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
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Primary
Secondary
GCSE
A-Level
University
Teaching qualifications
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Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
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Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
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Qualified Teacher Learning & Skills (QTLS)
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Level 3 Award/Certificate/Diploma in Supporting Teaching & Learning (with SEN focus)
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Level 2 Certificate in Special Educational Needs & Disability
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Autism Education Trust (AET) Tier 2/3 or other advanced Autism training
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ADHD Specific Training (e.g., ADHD Foundation, Advanced ADHD courses)
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Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Awareness/Support Training
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Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) Training/Qualification
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Advanced Behaviour Management/Support Strategies Training
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Trauma-Informed Practice Training
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Record of Continuous SEND CPD
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Specific Short Courses on SEND topics
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Attachment Disorder
Reviews
5 reviews
Matthew Underwood
September 7, 2025
Sarah is a highly experienced and adaptable practitioner. Her subject knowledge across a broad range of different subject areas is outstanding. Sarah builds strong and purposeful relationships with the students she is working alongside, and this helps to build their confidence in the work they are doing.
David Griffiths
September 6, 2025
Sarah has extensive knowledge and experience of working with students across all key stages and ability levels. A particular strength of Sarah’s is working with SEND and vulnerable students; she is caring and truly invests in the individual child. Sarah goes above and beyond to support her students and I cannot recommend her highly enough.
Natalie
September 8, 2025
Sarah explains the work clearly, but if I don't understand she explains it a different way until I get it (often using some sort of prop so I can visualise it). She makes sure I know how to write English paragraphs for GCSE and takes me through it step by step. In all subjects she links things to the real world to help me fully understand.
Forrest Taylor
September 21, 2025
Sarah is amazing at breaking down complex texts and helping to understand what is being asked in questions. Her patience and understanding of different learning needs really helps to build confidence.
Nicole Taylor
September 21, 2025
Sarah is great at breaking down concepts to make it easier for kids to learn. Her passion also helps to keep the kids focussed and enjoy learning.