Nicola R

I’m a qualified teacher and Forest School Leader with over 12 years’ experience supporting children and young people with SEND across EYFS to Post-16.  I’ve worked in both mainstream and specialist settings, supporting learners with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, SEMH, PDA, and Down’s Syndrome. I hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and have led curriculum development in Art & Design, life skills, and Outdoor Learning.

Traditional classrooms don’t work for every child—and I have seen first hand how outdoor learning can unlock confidence, curiosity, and joy. I specialise in holistic, pupil-led learning that follows a child’s interests to spark motivation and growth. Whether we’re exploring rhythm-based learning, gardening, or storytelling, I create safe, engaging spaces where children feel seen, heard, and empowered. I offer bespoke tutoring that blends creativity, nature, and therapeutic teaching strategies—ideal for children who need something a little different to thrive.

If you’re looking for a tutor who truly understands SEND, builds trust quickly, and celebrates your child’s individuality, I’d love to support your journey. 

How I Teach Students with Unique Needs

I tailor every session to the individual, drawing on a toolkit of strategies to support communication, emotional regulation, and engagement. For learners with PDA, I use low-demand, interest-led activities that offer choice and autonomy. For children with Autism or SEMH, I create predictable, sensory-aware environments and use visual supports, rhythm-based routines, and gentle transitions. I’m confident supporting non-verbal communication, sensory processing differences, and behaviour that challenges, always with empathy and respect.

How I Teach Maths

I make maths meaningful by embedding it into real-life, hands-on activities—measuring ingredients in cooking, counting natural objects, or budgeting for a pretend shop. I use visual aids, tactile resources, and rhythm to support memory and sequencing. For children who find maths overwhelming, I break tasks into achievable steps and celebrate every success.

How I Teach English

I use storytelling, role play, and creative writing to help children connect with language. For reluctant readers or writers, I offer alternatives like drawing, dictation, or building stories with props. I focus on phonics, comprehension, and vocabulary through multi-sensory methods and always follow the child’s interests to spark engagement. I am a proficient Makaton signer and I use a Total Communication approach, always providing visuals and props, using signs or music if appropriate, to support understanding. I have lots of experience supporting communication using and programming electronic communication devices, PECS and signs and symbols. 

How I Help Students Communicate

I support all forms of communication—spoken, signed, visual, and behavioural. I use tools like visual timetables, emotion cards, and AAC where needed. I model respectful, responsive communication and help children build confidence expressing themselves in their own way.

How I Help Students Engage with Learning

Engagement starts with connection. I take time to build rapport and understand what lights a child up. I follow their interests—whether it’s dinosaurs, gardening, or music—and weave learning into those passions. I offer movement breaks, outdoor sessions, and flexible pacing to keep learning accessible and joyful.

How I Make Lessons Fun

Fun is central to everything I do. I use games, nature-based activities, art, and storytelling to make learning feel like play. I celebrate effort, creativity, and curiosity, and I’m not afraid to be silly or spontaneous if it helps a child feel safe and excited to learn.

How I Help Students with Focus, Attention & Emotional Regulation

I use rhythm, routine, and sensory tools to support focus and calm. I offer quiet spaces, movement breaks, and co-regulation strategies like breathing exercises and grounding games. I help children recognise their emotions and develop tools to manage them, always with patience and encouragement.

I’m a qualified teacher and Forest School Leader with over 12 years’ experience supporting children and young people with SEND across EYFS to Post-16.  I’ve worked in both mainstream and specialist settings, supporting learners with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, SEMH, PDA, and Down’s Syndrome. I hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and have led curriculum development in Art & Design, life skills, and Outdoor Learning.

Traditional classrooms don’t work for every child—and I have seen first hand how outdoor learning can unlock confidence, curiosity, and joy. I specialise in holistic, pupil-led learning that follows a child’s interests to spark motivation and growth. Whether we’re exploring rhythm-based learning, gardening, or storytelling, I create safe, engaging spaces where children feel seen, heard, and empowered. I offer bespoke tutoring that blends creativity, nature, and therapeutic teaching strategies—ideal for children who need something a little different to thrive.

If you’re looking for a tutor who truly understands SEND, builds trust quickly, and celebrates your child’s individuality, I’d love to support your journey. 

How I Teach Students with Unique Needs

I tailor every session to the individual, drawing on a toolkit of strategies to support communication, emotional regulation, and engagement. For learners with PDA, I use low-demand, interest-led activities that offer choice and autonomy. For children with Autism or SEMH, I create predictable, sensory-aware environments and use visual supports, rhythm-based routines, and gentle transitions. I’m confident supporting non-verbal communication, sensory processing differences, and behaviour that challenges, always with empathy and respect.

How I Teach Maths

I make maths meaningful by embedding it into real-life, hands-on activities—measuring ingredients in cooking, counting natural objects, or budgeting for a pretend shop. I use visual aids, tactile resources, and rhythm to support memory and sequencing. For children who find maths overwhelming, I break tasks into achievable steps and celebrate every success.

How I Teach English

I use storytelling, role play, and creative writing to help children connect with language. For reluctant readers or writers, I offer alternatives like drawing, dictation, or building stories with props. I focus on phonics, comprehension, and vocabulary through multi-sensory methods and always follow the child’s interests to spark engagement. I am a proficient Makaton signer and I use a Total Communication approach, always providing visuals and props, using signs or music if appropriate, to support understanding. I have lots of experience supporting communication using and programming electronic communication devices, PECS and signs and symbols. 

How I Help Students Communicate

I support all forms of communication—spoken, signed, visual, and behavioural. I use tools like visual timetables, emotion cards, and AAC where needed. I model respectful, responsive communication and help children build confidence expressing themselves in their own way.

How I Help Students Engage with Learning

Engagement starts with connection. I take time to build rapport and understand what lights a child up. I follow their interests—whether it’s dinosaurs, gardening, or music—and weave learning into those passions. I offer movement breaks, outdoor sessions, and flexible pacing to keep learning accessible and joyful.

How I Make Lessons Fun

Fun is central to everything I do. I use games, nature-based activities, art, and storytelling to make learning feel like play. I celebrate effort, creativity, and curiosity, and I’m not afraid to be silly or spontaneous if it helps a child feel safe and excited to learn.

How I Help Students with Focus, Attention & Emotional Regulation

I use rhythm, routine, and sensory tools to support focus and calm. I offer quiet spaces, movement breaks, and co-regulation strategies like breathing exercises and grounding games. I help children recognise their emotions and develop tools to manage them, always with patience and encouragement.