Rachael

I am a degree-educated tutor (BA English Literature). In the past I had a career in the book publishing industry where I honed my skills in writing and communication. Since having my family I have juggled home life with being self-employed as a gardener but I have retained my love of language and literature and channelled this into coaching my own 3 children through GCSEs and beyond.

More recently, I have been tutoring GCSE English for The Access Project - a charity that enables under-resourced young people to gain places at top universities. I love building skills and confidence in learners. I am passionate about my subject and hope to inspire students to feel the same. I work hard at identifying areas for improvement, instilling wider subject knowledge and encouraging a growth mindset.

Students nearing exams will benefit from my focussed approach on the skills and techniques required to manage their time and gain marks in their GCSEs. It`s worth noting that improved skills in answering English Language questions will also lead to improvements in other written exams.

For younger students (KS3 upwards) I am able to spend the time needed to embed good habits in reading and writing. Examiners are keen to reward marks for perceptive analysis and reader response and this is something I focus on in detail with all my students.

Availability: I am reasonably flexible during the weekdays so please enquire and I will do my best to accommodate.

I am happy for students to come to my home for their sessions. This often works well for learners who struggle to maintain focus in their own home environment. We learn in my conservatory which is bright and quiet and comfortable.

Willing to travel: Home Only

Experience: Over the last two and a half years I have tutored with The Access Project - a charity that supports young people from under-resourced backgrounds. I work with students from year 10 through to their GCSEs. Week by week I base my sessions around a specific exam paper question, looking at the skills required to achieve the higher level grades.

Additionally I am a volunteer for Hampshire Learning in Libraries. I assist in classes for adults who have English as an Additional Language. We target oral, reading and written skills - all essential for today`s communication requirements in education, employment and social settings.

DBS Check: Yes