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HiReader

A parent of one of my students last year put it perfectly:

This is something I see time and time again. The students who make the biggest progress aren’t just the ones who attend lessons—it’s those who take the time to consolidate what they’ve learned between sessions.

Why Homework Matters

Homework isn’t about adding pressure—it’s about building independence. It encourages students to revisit their notes, check their understanding, and ensure they have everything they need (including a copy of the play or novel at home). It also highlights gaps—perhaps a student realises their class notes are too brief or that they don’t fully understand a key concept. This self-awareness is crucial for success in English.

I’ve noticed that some of my current students are reluctant to complete the essays we begin in class. And I understand why—writing can feel overwhelming, especially when there’s so much else to juggle. But regular practice is key. Without it, structuring an argument, selecting evidence, and writing under timed conditions will always feel difficult. The more they practise, the more natural it becomes—and the less stressful the exams will feel.

Flexibility When It's Needed

That said, I also recognise that sometimes students face pressures that make homework unrealistic. If a student is currently overwhelmed, I won’t add to that burden. In those cases, I don’t set homework—but I do make sure we complete structured writing in class, and that every student has a clear framework to follow. That way, when they are ready to work between lessons, writing won’t feel like a daunting task.

The aim is always progress, not pressure. Homework is there to support—not to overwhelm. If your teen is finding it difficult, let’s discuss how we can adapt things so they still benefit from regular practice and feedback.

Real Results

Right now, mock GCSE English results are coming out, and I can already see the difference homework and regular writing practice make. One of my students recently went from a grade 4 to a grade 6 in just a couple of months! His commitment to completing homework and using feedback has completely transformed his writing.

I also received this message from another parent this week:

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This is exactly what I want for all my students—to feel more confident, to see real improvements, and to walk into their exams knowing they’re prepared.

If you’d like to discuss how I can support your child with structured homework and feedback, just let me know

All the best,
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Verity

p.s.

Gear Up for GCSE English: Master Exams and Essays

This group lesson, with just FOUR students is going to be super-focused on helping your child to approach GCSE English Language and Literature with confidence. It will offer:

• Strategies to tackle each exam question as efficiently and successfully as possible.
• Clear explanations of what each paper requires
• Mock exam walk throughs
• Intensive essay writing preparation on key texts

It is tailored to students studying under the AQA or Edexcel exam boards, all of whom will be studying the same texts: Macbeth, An Inspector Calls, Jekyll and Hyde and /or A Christmas Carol...not forgetting, also, The Power and Conflict poetry.

The cost of each lesson will be just £35.00 per student, per week.

But, because I know that students don't get enough opportunity for timed exam practice in schools, or enough feedback, I am also offering:

Timed GCSE English exam paper questions, set and marked every two weeks.

Detailed exam feedback can be transformational. If your child acts on it, it can make the difference between one grade and the next. If you'd like to take advantage of this offer, the cost of each lesson will be £50.00.

If you'd like to enrol your year 11 child into my Gear up for GCSE group lessons in January, just get in touch. Please note, it will be on a Wednesday evening at 8pm.​

But don't wait too long. There are only THREE spaces left, and when they are gone, I am completely full for 2025.