I‘ve built a library of articles for parents and students alike, designed to help you prepare for different stages of school life, like 11+, KS3 and KS4, how to get ready for exams (based on my experience as an AQA Examiner), alongside resources to help with key GCSE texts including An Inspector Calls, Macbeth and Lord of the Flies. And take a look at some of the book reviews I’ve written, too!
Articles
Book Review: Crater Lake by Jennifer Killick (Why KS3 Students Will Love This Creepy, Funny Read)
Like creepy stories with a sense of humour? Crater Lake is a spooky, funny, fast-paced adventure that KS3 students will love. Think Goosebumps meets school trip gone wrong…here’s why it’s worth a read.
Understanding Dyslexia: Supporting Your Child Through Secondary School
Dyslexia affects how students process written language, but with the right support, they can thrive at secondary school. This blog shares practical tips for parents and shows how one-to-one English tuition can build confidence, boost skills, and help dyslexic learners shine.
Book Review: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (Why KS3 Students Will Love It)
If you’re in Years 7–9 and love stories that are exciting, dramatic and packed with big ideas, The Hunger Games is a must-read. This review explains what it’s about, why it works so well for KS3 readers, and how it can inspire your English skills.
Boost Your KS3 English Skills Before September: Top Tips for Reading and Writing
Looking to boost reading and writing skills before September? This quick guide shares practical tips for KS3 students who want to stay sharp over summer and start the new school year with confidence. Ideal for parents and students alike.
Your Child’s Starting Year 11: How to Help Them Get Ahead in GCSE English
Is your child about to start Year 11? This practical guide for parents explains how to support them with GCSE English over summer, from quote revision to essay practice, to help them feel confident and prepared for the year ahead.
What to Expect in KS3 English: A Parent’s Guide to Years 7–9
Wondering what your child will cover in KS3 English? This simple guide breaks down the key skills, texts and assessments from Years 7–9, with practical tips on how to support learning at home: written by a former Head of English and GCSE examiner.
Moving into Year 10? How to Get Ready for GCSE English
Starting Year 10? Here’s how to get GCSE English ready over the summer without the stress. From set texts to writing practice, this guide shares easy ways to build confidence and start the year feeling prepared.
Book Review: Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes (Why KS3 Students Should Read This Powerful Story)
Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes is a powerful, thought-provoking story that tackles racism, injustice and courage in a way that KS3 students can connect with. This review explores why it’s such an important read for Years 7–9 and how it builds empathy, understanding and discussion.
Supporting Students with ADHD in English: How One-to-One Tutoring Can Help Build Focus and Confidence
Students with ADHD often find classroom English lessons frustrating, but one-to-one tutoring can offer the structure, flexibility and encouragement they need to thrive. This blog explores how tailored support can help build skills, confidence and focus.
Starting Year 11? Here’s How to Get Ready for Your Final GCSE English Year
Starting Year 11? This guide breaks down what to expect in your final GCSE English year and offers practical summer tips to boost confidence before September. Perfect for students who want to stay one step ahead without the stress.
The Theme of Socialism in Animal Farm: What It Means for Your GCSE English Exam
Studying Animal Farm for GCSE English? This guide explores the theme of socialism, how Orwell presents it through the rebellion and the pigs’ betrayal, and how to write about it in your exam.
The Descent into Savagery in Lord of the Flies: What You Need to Know for GCSE English
Studying Lord of the Flies for GCSE English? This clear guide explains the theme of savagery, how it develops through the novel, and what you need to know for your exam.
Who Is Macbeth? An Easy Guide to His Character (and Why He Matters for Your GCSE)
Struggling to understand Macbeth for GCSE? This student-friendly guide breaks down who he is, how he changes, and what examiners are really looking for when it comes to Shakespeare’s most ambitious character.
Book Review: Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer (Why KS3 Students Shouldn’t Miss This Clever, Action-Packed Adventure)
Looking for a clever, fast-paced adventure to hook KS3 readers? Artemis Fowl is packed with action, wit and a brilliant anti-hero at the centre of a magical tech-fuelled world. Here’s why it’s a top pick for Years 7–9.
Understanding Lord of the Flies for Your English GCSE: What You Need to Know
If you’re preparing for your English GCSE, there’s a good chance “Lord of the Flies” by William Golding is on your reading list.
It’s not the easiest novel to get through, I know, but getting to grips with it can give you a real advantage when it comes to exam time.
Why Established Experts Yield Better Student Outcomes Than Unqualified Tutors
As parents, we all want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their education, but in the realm of private tutoring, not all options are created equal…
Smoothing Your Child's Transition from Primary to Secondary School: The Role of Private English Tutoring
I'd like to talk about a significant milestone in your child's education: the transition from primary to secondary school. I've seen firsthand how this change can be both exciting and daunting. English tutoring can play an essential role in setting your child up for a successful secondary school career.
Breaking Down Lady Macbeth: A GCSE Guide to Understanding One of Shakespeare's Most Complex Characters
Students! Let’s dig deep into the enigmatic character of Lady Macbeth. We're dissecting a 20-line extract that packs a punch in revealing her deepest desires and fears…
How Personalised Learning Can Improve Your Child's GCSE Results
Today, I'd like to chat about a topic near and dear to my heart: personalised learning versus the standard school curriculum, especially when it comes to GCSE English…
Top Tips to Ace Your English Language GCSE: A Guide by English Results
Preparing for your English Language GCSE can be a daunting task, but fear not. Sophie from English Results is here to lend you 26+ years of expertise.