Joanna

I have been teaching for 20 years and have taught students from 6 years old through to adults. I have worked extensively in the UK (including Higher Education), and at an international school in Spain. I am also a GCSE English Language examiner.

I have a first class honours degree in English and Politics from the University of York - I love English and I want you to love it too! I am passionate about enabling everyone to reach their potential. I specialise in KS3; GCSE/IGCSE English Language and Literature; adults who are returning to education after a break; academic skills for Higher Education; and students who are learning English as a second language (including preparation for the IELTS exam).

Tutoring Experience

I have been tutoring online (in addition to my classroom teaching), since 2016. I have a PGCE and I became CELTA qualified, graded Outstanding in all areas, in 2014. I also have an Understanding Dyslexia qualification from London South Bank University. This is a particular area of interest to me and I have taught many dyslexic students who have successfully achieved their qualifications. I teach a wide range of exam syllabuses which include: AQA, Cambridge, Edexcel, WJEC and OCR.

2021-22 GCSE student feedback examples from AQA English Lit & Lang, Y11 students. Each student received 1 hour's weekly Zoom tuition for 1 academic year (references available):

'Before Joanna started helping me with my English I was set to fail my English GCSEs, but with her help she helped me become more confident in myself and my abilities with English. She is a lovely, kind, funny person and her teaching methods definitely helped me to get passes in both English literature and language. I honestly couldn’t be more grateful for help and her patience in getting me through some very tough months.'

‘I finished bottom of my English class at the end of year 10 and Joanna helped me turn things around by moving up 6 entire grades and surpassing most of the other students in my class. Joanna's friendly, knowledgeable approach to tuition has really helped me this year and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her to anyone.’

'Before Joanna I lacked confidence in my English abilities and I was predicted a grade 6. However, Joanna really turned things around for me and I received two 8s in my English GCSEs. I would strongly recommend Joanna as she helped me to feel exceptionally prepared for my exams and I looked forward to her sessions every week.'

I have taught KS3 and KS4 at an international school in Spain, and prior to this I taught English GCSE and Functional Skills English at colleges in London and the North of England for 5 years. I also have 2 years experience working at the University of York as a Student Support and Advice Coordinator giving specialist advice on Student Finance and academic progression, as well as coordinating university-wide projects for under-represented students.

Prior to this, I spent over 10 years at a college in London teaching a wide range of content (study skills, communication skills, academic skills, English, maths, ICT and ESOL) across a range of courses which included: PGCEs, Foundation Degrees, Access courses, and BTECs.

Tutoring Approach

I really enjoy what I do and I aim to build confidence and study skills, alongside qualifications. I always assess a student's skills and identify areas of strength, as well as key areas for development.

I can offer tuition sessions of one, two or three hours on a regular basis.

Intensive lessons during the holidays or exam revision is also possible, on request. I can deliver a bespoke course if you would like; please be aware the price is dependent on what you require.

If you would like a quicker response, please let me know:

1. the education stage you are enquiring about i.e. Year 10
2. the exam board you are studying (if relevant)
3. why you are interested in arranging English tutoring
4. how often you would like lessons
5. when you are available