Isobel

Experience

• Primary English and Maths (Key Stages 1 & 2)

• 7+ English & Maths and prep school entrance exams

• 8+ English & Maths and prep school entrance exams

• 11+ English & Maths and public school entrance exams, including pre-tests

The skills learned through being an Early Years (EYFS), KS1 and KS2 class teacher have influenced my tutoring, enabling me to instil a growth mindset in the children no matter what their background or ability. I have been tutoring since I graduated from university in 2016. I have provided tuition to students working towards 7+, 8+ and 11+ entrance exams. I also help with interview preparations and have successfully helped students gain places at top London schools such as Brighton and Alleyns. I have also worked alongside Occupational Therapists to deliver required Neurodevelopmental and Sensory Integration approaches to another tutee, and reinforced the Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 curriculums to others. I have found tutoring highly rewarding and have particularly enjoyed being able to support the children one-to-one, watching their confidence flourish.

I completed a Primary PGCE in 2019 and then went on to teach KS2 at Thomas's Clapham. My PGCE provided me with exceptional pedagogical training and has given me the privilege of learning from experts in a range of curriculum fields. Specialising in the Early Years (EYFS) and KS1 for my PGCE has given me the tools to teach early reading and phonics to students. I also enjoy implementing modern thinking and innovations to help children get to grips with numeracy through play. Focusing on this age group has enabled me to gain an in-depth knowledge of the foundation blocks for learning being used across the curriculum. These skills can be transferred to students of all ages.

From 2019-2022 I was a Year 3 class teacher, teaching English, Maths, Science, History, Geography and RE. I successfully prepared students for assessments. I have considerable experience with dyslexic and SEN pupils and have liaised with Speech and Language Therapists and SEN support teachers to provide a suite of support to those in need. I fully understand the importance of the relationship between teacher and parent on the educational outcome of each student. I have also been involved in the 4+ and 7+ interview and assessment days for students joining Thomas’s.

Biography

I grew up in The New Forest in Hampshire. I went to Thomas’s Battersea, Walhampton and then Canford School (A levels: Biology, Geography, Spanish and French AS Level). I went on to read Geography at Newcastle University graduating with a First-class degree in 2016.

Moving straight to London, I started my career in teaching at Thomas's Clapham. I started as a Teaching Assistant for two years before pursuing a PGCE at Kingston University (through Wandsworth SCITT). As a qualified teacher, I returned to Thomas's Clapham as a KS2 teacher. I have tutored alongside my teaching career for six years. Through this experience I have witnessed the significant impact of one-on-one tuition, igniting my interest in pursuing a full-time tutoring career.

Personal Approach

I aim to create an atmosphere of active participation and strong student engagement in my sessions, building positive relationships to get the best out of my students. I am knowledgeable, patient, approachable and dedicated.

Education inspires children to follow their ambition and realise their potential. It should be a fun and interactive process that gives lasting confidence to people. I have experienced the highest standards both within the schools I have taught in and from those who taught me. As such, I hope to bring a motivating energy to my lessons and encourage my students to have an inquisitive mindset from a young age.

What I do when I am not tutoring

I am a keen sportswoman and can often be found on the tennis court, hockey pitch, or in the country, horse riding. I also love cooking and baking.

Towards the end of 2020, I setup my own small business selling fabric resistance bands. Founding Perky Booty has further developed my skills as a person, not only in confidence but also in online brand communication, interpersonal skills and networking.

Testimonials

''He was very positive after the session, which is so good to see.'' (Mother of 10 year old)