Assessing & tutoring
I am a dyslexia assessor and tutor with Associate Membership of the British Dyslexia Association. I prefer to work with primary-age but am happy to tutor Year 7s.
A qualified primary teacher, I have a MA in Children's Literature, a Post Graduate Certificate of Education in Coaching for Improvement, and a Post Graduate Certificate in Supporting Children with Literacy Difficulties.
In addition to using formal (published) assessments, I have developed resources to get deeper into understanding a child's specific difficulties - as well as their interests - and I prepare lessons to suit the individual child. Whatever needs I identify for a child, motivation is prioritised alongside instruction in these areas.
I keep abreast of research to ensure that my practice incorporates the current best understanding of literacy development. Strategies I use to support the development of literacy skills include, but are not limited to, phonics.
I can tutor to small groups, pairs or individuals. Fees are dependent on group size and reflect the preparation time for lessons.
Parent testimonials
After a slow start due to hearing issues we were introduced to Fiona as Sam (8 years) started year 3. Sam’s reading confidence was low, his enthusiasm lower. He struggled with sound blending and converting these blends into words.
Fiona quickly identified where Sam was struggling and worked out a programme to best help him.... and he didn’t even realise he was having extra lessons as Fiona designed the weekly sessions in such a fun, interactive and not ‘like learning’ way (even via Zoom in lockdown).
Sam’s confidence has grown massively, he reads for pleasure, he is interested in words. He has just completed his first chapter book and is very proud of himself.
Fiona’s interventions have really made the world of difference to Sam. Without hesitation we recommend Fiona.
Fiona has provided extra support to both my son Charlie (10) and my daughter Caitlyn (7). Both have challenges with their reading and writing.
Fiona worked with Charlie to help him discover an interest in reading which in turn helped his writing. He is now a confident reader and with Fiona's help, he is happy to read in front of others and get through books independently.
Fiona supported Caitlyn at a time her attitude to reading had hit an all-time low. She was frustrated at not being able to decipher words and was not enjoying any books. Fiona helped take the pressure off and gave us suggestions to help Caitlyn build her confidence and enjoyment. Fiona's sessions provide Caitlyn with an opportunity to get focused support, tailored to her specific needs, in a setting that is building her confidence to read.
We could not recommend Fiona enough, her knowledge and approach have been invaluable.
We had Megan's School Report and the teachers say they have seen so much improvement in Megan, and they have seen her confidence increasing, as she starts to believe in herself. So thank for your help each week - it really is making a difference. Her Report has made my Christmas.