My name is Katy and I am 35 years old. Cumbrian-born and bred, I moved away to Stirling University to read English Studies, gaining a 2:2 after four years of studying. I have had a passion for English since I was small; I have been writing creative stories since I knew how to hold a pen! I have a love of words and learning and I've always wanted to try and make a difference for those who struggle to experience that passion.

After graduating in 2010, I worked for an education company in Glasgow for vulnerable 15-18 years old who struggled in mainstream education. Our job was to educate them and help prepare them for the workplace, with the intention of getting them into regular/permanent employment. I worked as a classroom assistant, and I occasionally delivered lessons and marked work. I was praised by the learners for my polite and friendly style, which they appreciated.

I eventually moved to the North East, where I undertook various supply work in schools and nurseries across the county. Working in various education centres helped me experience many different teaching styles and methods, which have helped shape my own teaching style.

One of these jobs was working with children with special needs; I undertook my Level 3 Classroom Assistant Course at a special needs school and have worked with many children with autism and dyslexia. I have also taken part in an OFSTED inspection, and yes, it is as scary as people say!

I made the decision in 2018 to start my own tutoring business, and I haven't looked back! I am fortunate to have many opportunities, including working in a 1:1 setting in a local school supporting students with their GCSES. It's been the best four and a half years of my professional career, and I am very lucky that I have met some wonderful people! There are always more wonderful people to meet and help too!

My teaching style is very relaxed; I want to make the classroom environment a happy and enjoyable place. I want my students to try and get as much out of our lessons as they can, as well as enjoying it! We always go at the student's pace; that is important.

Some students do not thrive in a classroom environment; they hate reading out loud, for example, but will happily read in my classroom as they are so relaxed and know there is no pressure. I want my students to speak up if they're unsure, or question if they disagree.

I want them to realise that English doesn't have to be boring! My quirky style is my USP, and I find it allows me to get excellent results from my students.

I have several qualifications, including:

• BA (Hons) English Studies
• Level 2 and 3 Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools (classroom assistant)
• Level 4 PTLLS (Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector) (teaching adults)
• Level 5 CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English Language to Adults) - ESL (English as a Second Language)
• Level 2 Counselling Course
• Makaton Training Course
• Visual Awareness Training Course
• Autism Awareness Training Course
• Level 1 and 2 BTEC (IT) Course
• Mental Health Training