Helena

I have extensive experience teaching from KS3 through to university level. I have prepared students for Common Entrance and 13+ examinations for a range of independent schools, including Stowe School, Westminster, Eton, Oundle, Queen’s Gate, Downe House, and JAGS. I have also supported students in securing university places at institutions such as Edinburgh, York, and Exeter. I am well-versed in all major exam boards and syllabuses for GCSE and A Level examinations.

Below is a snapshot of my recent experience:

Key Stage 3 English (Home Education, SEN)

I homeschooled this student for a year following difficulties in a prep school environment where his SEN needs had not been fully recognised, leading to low confidence and disengagement. I focused on rebuilding his self-esteem and making lessons dynamic and engaging. I also channelled his enthusiasm for sharks and Sea Shepherd into his writing (a new area for me), which helped re-engage him. His English improved significantly, and he gained entry to a London SEN specialist school.

13+ English and History

I tutored this student over a year in preparation for 13+ English and History. As a native Russian speaker, she needed support with vocabulary, syntax, and essay writing, alongside literary analysis. We also worked through past papers and used memory techniques for History. She developed strong confidence and secured a place at St Mary’s Ascot.

13+ English and Interview Preparation

I tutored this student (Glendower Prep) for over two years in preparation for 13+ entrance. A very able student, I challenged him with more advanced material and encouraged independent, creative thinking in his essays. I also supported him with interview preparation, helping him to respond naturally and confidently. He went on to secure a place at Eton.

13+ Common Entrance English

I tutored this student (Beaudesert Park School) in English, where he had been struggling and was near the bottom of his class. Through targeted support in comprehension and essay writing, alongside confidence-building, he improved from a grade C to an A. He gained entry to Stowe School and was awarded a school prize for improvement in English Literature.

IGCSE History (Edexcel)

I homeschooled this student after his move from the USA, covering the full Edexcel IGCSE History syllabus within one year. This was an intensive programme, including topics such as the Cold War and Weimar Germany, alongside exam technique. He achieved a grade 9, including full marks on his source paper.

GCSE English Language and Literature (AQA)

I homeschooled this student over two years in preparation for GCSE English Language and Literature. She struggled with perfectionism and anxiety, so I focused on building confidence and developing exam strategies, particularly timed writing. This helped her avoid overthinking and work more efficiently. She achieved grade 9s in both subjects.

A Level History of Art

I supported this student (Francis Holland) with A Level History of Art for two years. Although very able, she lacked confidence in essay writing and certain areas of the syllabus, particularly architectural history. We worked closely on structuring arguments and analysing material. She achieved an A grade and secured a place at UCL to study History of Art.

Undergraduate History of Art

I supported this student (University of Edinburgh) during his first year, where he was taking History of Art alongside Engineering. Due to largely online teaching during COVID, he had fallen behind and struggled applying knowledge. Together we built structured revision materials and focused on key topics such as the Scottish Enlightenment. He improved from a 2:2 to a 2:1.

Undergraduate History of Art (Dissertation Support)

I supported this student (University of Manchester) with her History of Art dissertation in her final year, focusing on planning, research, and structuring a 10,000-word project. She was particularly interested in Impressionist and Modern art but needed guidance in shaping her ideas. She achieved a First Class degree and has since gone on to work in the fashion industry.

History of Art Course Teaching and Lecturing

I designed and delivered a six-week online course for the Victoria and Albert Museum’s Learning Academy on Marie Antoinette. The course attracted over 150 students (from a range of ages from 17 to 86) and received excellent feedback, achieving a 100% satisfaction rate. I have since been invited to deliver further courses for the museum’s Learning Academy and will be teaching a course on Rococo Art in the spring of 2027.

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