Tutor profile - Sian

Sian has been a teacher for over 15 years working independent education and is an experienced school entrance specialist at 11+ and 13+ in the Oxfordshire area.

Sian has been schooling and coaching for ISEB Common Pre-Test, Common Entrance 13+, 11+ Grammar School entry and individual next school entry as well as tutoring to GCSE for many years. Coached successful entry of applicants this year to Eton, Marlborough College, Cheltenham College, Winchester College, Bedales, St Edwards Oxford, Radley, Abingdon, St Helen's, Headington, Oxford High, Cheltenham Ladies, Bedales, St Swithuns, Canford, Stowe and Gloucestershire Grammar Schools. She also has experience of the London day market.

Next schools interview preparation can feel daunting but with banks of questions developed over many years from different establishments, Sian is well placed to direct and practice giving a great first impression at interview to your child's next school.

When tutoring Sian believes there is a balance to be struck between promoting keeping up with curriculum content, not just catching up, but also finding those gaps and reinforcing the foundations of their understanding. Support, encouragement, application and problem-solving opportunities are vital and most successful when delivered from a trusted individual who has built a strong positive relationship with the tutee. Providing a personalised provision with a focus on a growth mindset is critical to her teaching as is the enjoyment of the subject.

For pupils who already haven’t coped with their early years and KS1 curriculum the gap can only continue to grow with incorrect answers reinforcing the negative view of their ability. This can come to light quite early in their primary education or only become apparent in KS3 when there are many years to pick back through and so much confidence lost.

Contact to discuss your child's particular needs, areas of focus and aspirations.