Joey H

About me, my expertise, qualifications, and SEND experience

I hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a BA in Education (2:1) from Roehampton University. I trained through the Schools Direct route with Ark Schools and Goldsmiths University.

I have over ten years’ experience working with children with SEND, including autism, ADHD, SEMH, speech and language difficulties, and literacy challenges. My background includes delivering structured interventions such as NELI, Talk Boost, Lego Therapy and Colourful Semantics, alongside tailored academic support in phonics, reading, writing and maths.

This varied experience allows me to support children with a wide range of learning profiles and to adapt my approach to suit each individual child.

How I teach Students with SEND

My approach is strengths-based and child-centred. I focus on what each child can do and build from there, rather than highlighting difficulties. Establishing a trusting and calm relationship is always the starting point, as children learn best when they feel safe, understood and supported.

I use flexible strategies that allow children to feel a sense of control and choice, particularly for learners who experience anxiety or demand avoidance. Visual supports, play-based resources, clear routines and predictable structure help children feel regulated and ready to learn.

How I teach Maths

I teach maths through practical, hands-on activities that make learning meaningful and accessible. Using concrete resources and real-life examples helps children understand abstract concepts and build confidence.

Lessons are broken into short, manageable steps and may include games, movement, or creative tasks to support engagement. Linking maths to everyday life, such as shopping or cooking, helps children see its relevance and reduces anxiety.

How I teach English

My approach to English is structured, supportive and inclusive, particularly for children with dyslexia or language-based difficulties. I use visual scaffolds, modelling, sentence starters and clear structure to support reading and writing.

I take time to understand each child’s interests and use these as a foundation for writing tasks, which increases motivation and engagement. Where appropriate, I encourage alternative recording methods such as typing to reduce barriers and support independence.

How I help students communicate

I work at the child’s pace and focus on building confidence through positive, respectful interactions. I use visual prompts, modelling and repetition to support understanding and expression.

Play, storytelling and creative activities are key tools in helping children develop communication skills in a relaxed, low-pressure way. I am attentive to sensory needs and adapt the learning environment to help children feel comfortable and focused.

How I help students engage with learning

I use a play-based approach to foster curiosity, motivation and resilience. Learning is designed to be engaging and enjoyable, helping children develop confidence and a positive attitude towards education.

By making sessions interactive and responsive to the child’s interests, I support sustained engagement and encourage children to see learning as something they can succeed in.

How I make lessons fun

I believe enjoyment is central to effective learning. I use creativity, play, storytelling and movement to bring lessons to life and make learning accessible to all children. My enthusiasm for teaching helps foster curiosity and enthusiasm in my pupils, supporting both engagement and emotional wellbeing.

How I help students with focus, attention, and emotional regulation

Supporting emotional regulation is central to my tutoring approach. I establish clear routines, provide visual supports and adapt expectations to meet each child’s emotional needs.

Strategies such as movement breaks, sensory resources and clear, repeated instructions help children with attention and concentration difficulties. I work closely with families to ensure consistency and to support the child’s progress beyond tutoring sessions.