Kira Phoenix

Experience

ARTS

I have helped many art students who are applying for the next stage of their studies, which has included Personal Statement support, portfolio preparation and writing portfolio supporting text. Students have gone on to study at Central St. Martins, Slade, London College of Communication, London College of Fashion, Oxford Brooks, Goldsmiths, CalArts USA and Parsons to name a few.

ENGLISH

Age range: 11+ - A-levels

- English Language – Analysing Fiction & Non-Fiction, comparing texts, writing skills, Spelling, Punctuation, Grammar & Spoken Language.

- English Literature – Shakespeare text, Post 1914 Prose/Drama, 19th Century Prose & Poetry.

SEN/D NEEDS

Age range: 11+ - Masters Level

DYSLEXIA, DYSCALCULIA AND DYSPRAXIA (DYS)

Dyslexia (DYSL)

Dyscalculia (DYSC)

Dyspraxia (DYSP)

Dysgraphia (DYSG)

Specific Learning Difficulties (SPLD)

Speech & Language Difficulties (SP&LD)

AUTISTIC SPECTRUM (AUT)

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)

Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Autististic Spectrum Disorders (ASD )

Aspergers Syndrome (ASP)

EMOTIONAL AND BEHAVIOURAL DISORDER (EBD)

Behavioural, Emotional and Social Difficulties (BESD, EBSD, and SEBD)

GENERAL LEARNING DIFFICULTIES (GLD)

General Learning Difficulties (GLD)

Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD)

Learning Difficulties (LD)

Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD)

Severe and Complex Learning Difficulties (SCLD)

EXAM PREP

Age range: 11+ - Masters Level

- Reviewing Previous Papers

- Revision skills

MENTORING

My approach to tutoring is a holistic one. I make sure we cover all areas of study by following the school’s curriculum and make sure to include the student's individual interests outside of their studies. This helps build confidence and allows the students individual voice to grow.

HOMESCHOOLING

I have worked, and am currently part of, several homeschooling programmes. I usually focus on the Art and English when working with students who are in the homeschooling programme. My main aims when working with homeschooling students is to encourage enthusiasm within their selected subject/s and build their confidence.

OTHER

I was a mentor and tutor at The Recovery Centre for over 10 years and had the opportunity to teach whilst artist in resident at Edinburgh College of Art between 2017-2018.

Biography

I was born in Hong Kong and lived in Singapore till the age of 13. I started boarding school in the UK when I was 10 due to needing additional support for my dyslexia. In 2006 I went on to study at Central St Martins and graduated with honours. Between 2013-2015 I studied at The Royal College of Art in the Glass and Ceramics department, and received a distinction for my dissertation.

Personal Approach

I have been working as a Tutor and Mentor since 2009. During this time I have had the pleasure to work with students from various backgrounds, ages and needs. My approach to mentoring any student is a holistic one. Each students learns in their own way and I like to work with the student to find the best way for them to learn. The Initial Session is the perfect time to discuss what the students goals are, what they would like to achieve and what areas they feel could use further support. This then allows me to develop a bespoke lesson plans for the student. I make sure we cover all areas of study required by following the school’s curriculum, and make sure to include the student's individual interests so they stay engaged with the session.

I have also been able to work with several SEN and EAL students. Being dyslexic myself I am able to understand and provide the additional support that a student who is SEN will need, from taking breaks or talking through any issues that have arisen till the student is feeling more at ease. Each student has surpassed their own expectations of what they could achieve, with some students going from receiving Cs and Ds to As and Bs. I really enjoying being able to help other dyslexics, or any learning difference, find their own way to learn and gain confidence.

What I do when I am not tutoring

I am an artist and enjoying spending time in my new studio (where I also run some of my unperson sessions from). I am also a science fiction and fantasy fan, and have gone to a couple of Comic-Cons.

Testimonials

''Kira has helped my daughter gain confidence, improve in her reading and feel less anxious when doing her maths homework'' (Mother of 13 year old dyslexic student)

''Kira has been very patient with my son. He needed a tutor who was able to keep my him calm, and Kira was that tutor'' (Mother of 11 year old SEN student)

''Kira has helped me write my research paper. She had a clear plan and has helped me complete a project that I am not only proud of, but have learnt a lot from.'' (Mature student)

''I was really struggling with my course work and Kira helped me get my ideas down on paper, and I have now been accepted to study at CAL State in the USA.''

Kira found a way inspire my child who struggles a lot at school. She is creative, knowledgeable and know how built a working, respectful relationship with with a teen. I highly recommend Kira, 5 stars. - T

Kira is very kind and empathetic. She helped me out in many occasions during my PhD. Couldn't recommend anyone better than her. - Diego

Kira is meticulous in all actions of her life and conversely into tutoring! As a winner in many disciplines in her life for sue she can produce great new Artists - photographers, sculptors you name it! - John

We are so pleased to have found Kira. My 15 year old daughter has ADHD and the main school system had her confidence in tatters. She has said that she really appreciates the patience and respect Kira shows her. Kira seems adept at building a supportive relationship, whilst bolstering My daughter’s belief in her own abilities. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her. - Mel

Kira found a way inspire my child who struggles a lot at school. She is creative, knowledgeable and know how built a working, respectful relationship with with a teen. I highly recommend Kira. - Lina

Kira is the perfect mix of compassion and drive. I know that after spending time with her anyone will be given new tools to overcome challenges and will have been met on their level. It is very easy to recommend Kira to anyone. - Arron

Kira has fantastic energy and creativity and I know her through her amazing glass art work. Being a fellow dyslexic I know how important it is to be taught by someone who really knows what it is like, the struggles involved and how to make learning fun for those that have it. - Richard

Kira is incredibly talented, dedicated, reliable, hard working and meticulously organised. Her enthusiasm is infectious. I would recommend her in a heartbeat. - Hannah

Not only is Kira an incredible tutor and teacher, her warm aura, patient temperament and kind approach to all she does is something that truly sets her apart. I have known Kira for many years, and none of the above attributes have ever faltered. I trust she will not only accurately support students in their learning, but also be a massive encouragement in their growth all round. - Abi

Kira is an incredibly insightful tutor. Her resources that she has used during session have been ones that I have come back too again and again. She’s always happy to offer advice and her energy in her teaching is always fun. It’s really enjoyable spending time and learning from and with Kira and I always look forward to it! Highly recommend! - Lawrence