Welcome

A lot of students struggle in core subjects such as English Language and Literature due to the challenges faced by the subject teacher in covering the curriculum and addressing the range of learning styles within the class. It is therefore not uncommon to find a number of students lacking the vital higher thinking skills (i.e. analysing/evaluating) required to gain a high grade in English Language and Literature.   

Shade’s Tutoring will ensure that pupils become aware of these skills and develop them through carefully crafted activities tailored to their level, along with inbuilt opportunities to challenge themselves and progress to the next level.

Understanding the exam requirements and structure underpins success in overall performance. As an experienced examiner, Shade is able to equip pupils with vital exam techniques in addressing the assessment objectives for each question specific to the relevant exam board.

Ongoing practice of question papers and immediate feedback will ensure that pupils are well versed in the exam requirements as well as time management, thus boosting confidence and performance. 

A recent study revealed that just 10 hours of private tutoring can have a dramatic effect on grades – the survey showed that 72% of students improve their grade by between one and two number grades (so moving from a 4 to a 6 or even a 7). They also found a small percentage of students (around 12%) improved their grades by two or more number grades - meaning your child could potentially move from a level 4 to a level 7.

You must also bear in mind that since 2016 the GCSE English Language and Literature Exams have become more challenging, especially Language.  In 2019 only 13% received a grade 7-9. A lot of pupils find pre 20th century unseen extracts and texts challenging and require more practice and professional feedback - which can be difficult to achieve within a school environment. This is where tutoring becomes invaluable, as regular monitoring and feedback will foster the acquisition of key skills to read, understand and analyse a wide range of different texts and write clearly.

It all depends on the pupil but to gain maximum benefit and avoid unnecessary pressure with last minute revision, it is best to start early; at the start of year 10.

Some pupils still grapple with literacy skills in year 7 and early intervention via pressure-free tutoring can boost confidence and progress, and help ensure secondary school is an enjoyable experience with positive outcomes. This will also set them up for success in GCSE and beyond.