Hi Reader

As the end of term approaches, I want to pause and celebrate the remarkable progress so many of my students have made. Several Year 11s have already completed their mocks, and I am thrilled to share that many have jumped one or even two grades since September. It has been a term of transformation.

One message I received encapsulates the spirit of this progress beautifully.

Louis, who has worked with me for over two years, achieved a Grade 8 in English Language and a Grade 7 in English Literature. His family wrote:

“Louis is extremely pleased with these results and strongly attributes your support in helping him to achieve them. As a family, we would like to say thank you for your continued support and belief in Louis, and for helping him to hone his skills and increase his confidence.”

Louis has worked consistently and conscientiously, and his results reflect that dedication. I could not be more proud of him.

Alongside Louis’ achievements, here are some of the standout moments from the term:

Chloe

Chloe has taken an enormous step forward. She has always had rich, perceptive ideas, but found it challenging to get them onto the page. This term she has begun writing full, coherent paragraphs with clarity and purpose. This breakthrough has required courage, resilience and trust in the process, and it marks a real turning point for her confidence.

Isla

Isla has shown impressive independence. Her annotations for An Inspector Calls are thoughtful and precise, and she now links character, context and Priestley’s purpose with genuine insight. She has filled key knowledge gaps and is writing with a new level of control.

Kiyan

Kiyan’s analytical thinking continues to deepen. His interpretations of Macbeth are mature and nuanced, and he is now shaping those ideas into organised, exam-ready responses. His progress this term has been excellent.

William

William joined me recently and has made a strong start with unseen poetry. He is already reading more actively, identifying the speaker’s viewpoint and tracing how tone develops across the poem. His confidence is building quickly, and he is beginning to write more purposeful, focused responses.

Nini

Nini, one of my international students, has made enormous strides in vocabulary, grammar and expressive confidence. She approaches English with curiosity and determination, and it has been lovely to see her grow more fluent and assured in her written work. Her progress this term has been noticed not only in lessons but in her wider schoolwork too.

These successes are the result of patience, effort and perseverance at a time of year when students are often tired and stretched. I see their resilience every week, and I am truly proud of each and every one of them.

🎭 A Masterclass for Those Preparing for Shakespeare in January

Many schools will examine Macbeth in the January mocks, and this is an area where students often feel unsure. For anyone who would benefit from a structured, confidence-building boost, I am running a Master Macbeth Essays in 2 Hours session at the start of the new term. It is a calm, supportive way to refresh key skills before the mock season begins.

Details are here if you would like them:

£35.00 Master Macbeth Essays in 2 hours For AQA GCSE & Edexcel GCSE literature: Sunday 4th Jan 17.30-19.35 Does your teen struggle to turn their Macbeth... Read more Get it now!

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🎄 A Festive Sign-Off

As we head into the Christmas break, I hope you and your families can rest, breathe and enjoy some well-earned time together. Thank you for your continued trust in my teaching and for raising children who are thoughtful, resilient and a joy to work with.

Warmest wishes for a peaceful and restorative holiday season,
​Verity