The half-term break has flown by and we can’t thank our incredible tutees enough for making the most of every opportunity that we put on for them. Whether you joined us for webinars, group sessions, or one-to-one tuition, the energy and enthusiasm you brought to your learning was inspiring. We’re incredibly proud of how much progress has been made—and we hope you also took our advice about resting and recharging!
Final Half-Term Webinar – English Language Paper 2
The last webinar of this Half-Term is happening on Sunday 23rd February (6.30pm - 7.30pm). This session will focus on AQA English Language Paper 2—the perfect last-minute preparation for those sitting a second round of mock exams after half-term. If you haven’t signed up yet, now’s your chance.
Key Stage 3: Getting 'GCSE Ready'
Our Year 9 tutees are beginning to look ahead to GCSEs, and we’ve started with AQA Power & Conflict Poetry and An Inspector Calls—two huge components of English Literature Paper 2.
Top Tip: Poetry isn’t just about words—it’s about meaning. We encourage our students to consider the poet’s purpose and how context influences their writing. When looking at Power & Conflict poems, ask yourself:
✔️ What message is the poet trying to convey?
✔️ How does historical context shape the poem’s meaning?
✔️ What emotions does the poem create, and why?
Key Stage 4 (GCSE): Breaking It Down
Year 10 – Mastering English Language Paper 1
Over this past week, we introduced AQA English Language Paper 1, focusing on questions 1-3. Question 3 (structure analysis) can often trip students up, but here’s a key piece of advice:
🔹 Look for patterns – Does the focus shift suddenly? Does the setting create tension?
🔹 Think about time – Does the narrative jump between past and present?
🔹 Ask ‘why?’ – Why does the writer withhold information or delay key details?
Example Answer (Question 3 – Structural Analysis):
At the beginning of the extract, the focus is on the peaceful village setting. However, as the text progresses, the writer gradually shifts focus to the approaching storm, creating a growing sense of unease. This structural technique mirrors the tension felt by the characters, leading to a dramatic climax in the final lines.
Year 11 – Poetry & Exam Prep
This week, our students explored Extract from The Prelude by William Wordsworth, which beautifully captures the power of nature and personal transformation.
🔹 Key Theme: Conflict between man and nature—the awe-inspiring force of nature humbles the speaker.
🔹 Comparison: A great poem to compare this with is Storm on the Island by Seamus Heaney, which also presents nature as overwhelming and dominant.
Key Insight: Both poets show how nature shapes human experience, but while Wordsworth presents nature as a source of spiritual reflection, Heaney highlights its destructive force.
Our Year 11 group sessions also focused on An Inspector Calls and poetry exam technique. Some of the responses produced were truly impressive, setting students up well for exam-style responses in their upcoming mocks.
Key Stage 5 (A Level): Tackling Child Language Development
Approaching Child Language Development in AQA A-Level English Language requires a clear strategy.
Top Tip: Use the PEA method (Point, Evidence, Analysis) to structure responses effectively:
✔️ Point: Vygotsky’s theory suggests that children learn language through social interaction.
✔️ Evidence: A study found that children raised in highly communicative households developed a wider vocabulary earlier.
✔️ Analysis: This supports the idea that language acquisition is socially driven, rather than purely cognitive.
How Memory Works: What The Science Tells Us
Understanding how memory works can enhance revision techniques! Unlike animals, humans rely on semantic memory (long-term knowledge storage) rather than just instinct. Research suggests that techniques like spaced repetition and active recall are the best ways to retain new information.
✔️ Spaced Repetition: Instead of cramming, revisit topics at increasing intervals to strengthen retention.
✔️ Active Recall: Test yourself by writing down everything you remember, rather than passively re-reading.
Key Takeaway: The more you actively engage with information, the stronger the memory becomes.
Home Learning Space – It's Almost Ready
Our brand-new home learning space will be ready for tuition sessions in March 2025! As we mentioned previously, we’re creating an environment that’s perfect for focused learning, and we can’t wait to welcome more tutees into the space.
Tip of the Week: Avoid Revision Fatigue
🔹 Use the 50/10 rule: Study for 50 minutes, then take a 10-minute break.
🔹 Switch subjects frequently: Prevent burnout by rotating topics every two study blocks.
🔹 Mix active & passive learning: Combine reading notes with writing practice essays to keep things fresh.
Science says: Changing tasks frequently and allowing for short rest periods increases concentration levels and reduces cognitive fatigue!
CV & Interview Mastery Course
Our CV & Interview Mastery Course is now open for sign-ups!
📌 Session 1: CV Perfection & Interview Prep
- Learn how to craft a standout CV tailored for college, university, or part-time jobs.
- Master interview prep techniques & confidence-building strategies.
📌 Session 2: Full Mock Interview & Feedback
- Experience a formal mock interview and receive detailed feedback to improve.
- Walk away with an action plan for success!
Funny Flashback: Jemma’s Memory Mishap!
Jemma’s GCSE revision once led to a slight… disaster. Determined to memorise key Of Mice and Men quotes, she stuck them all over her bedroom walls—doors, wardrobe, even the bathroom mirror. The problem? She forgot to take them down before having friends over. Cue raised eyebrows as her visitors read "tell me about the rabbits, George" on the toilet seat.
Lesson learned? Creative revision is great—but maybe keep it subtle!
Life Outside the Books
Half-term was packed with tutoring, but we still made time for family, food, and laughs. Bradley saw Harry Hill live (and is still laughing), while Arlo charmed every tutee he came across when making brief appearances at the end of our group sessions. We also ate far too much—but hey, fuel for all the learning! It’s back to full throttle this week 🚀
Remember to stay focused and to stay BA….Tuition!
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