Year 8 English is all about stretching skills and building confidence - without the pressure of exams. This post explores what students learn in Year 8 and offers simple, realistic ways parents can help their child with Year 8 English by practising simple reading, writing, grammar and speaking and listening skills at home.

Not sure how to support your child with Year 9 English? This guide explains what to expect this year, how English builds toward GCSEs, and what skills your child will be developing in reading, writing, speaking and analysis. You’ll also find practical tips for parents and easy ways to build confidence at home -whether your child loves English or finds it a challenge.

Romeo and Juliet is perhaps Shakespeare’s most famous play...or at least the one most people have heard of. It’s a classic love story, although calling it "just a love story" feels a bit oversimplified. It’s also about family feuds, fate, teenage rebellion and the chaos that happens when you mix impulsive decisions with deep emotions. Quite relatable, really, even though it’s more than 400 years old.

This guide will help you prepare effectively for your GCSE English Literature exam by clearly explaining the plot, themes and Shakespeare’s language, along with practical and engaging revision strategies.

This guide will help you to prepare for your GCSE English Literature exam on "Macbeth" by explaining exactly what you need to know about the plot, themes and language of this play and suggesting practical revision strategies.

Charles Dickens' timeless novella, "A Christmas Carol," is not just a classic, festive tale but a profound exploration of human nature.

Paper 2 is all about "Writers' viewpoints and perspectives." You’ll be working with two non-fiction texts.

Figurative language is a powerful tool that goes beyond the literal meaning of words and adds richness and depth to language.

This list of top textbooks for AQA GCSE English Language revision have all been used by myself and my students and are highly recommended.

I'm a private tutor (and former secondary school English teacher) with over 20 years' experience of teaching English to kids aged 9 - 16.

"The Beginner's Guide to English Tuition" explains what private tuition involves, how children can benefit and how to get started.