FAQs

Charlie with his Writer of the Week medallion
Here's Charlie from Burgess Hill, achieving 'Writer of the Week'!

1. Is tutoring right for my child?

Whether your child loves creating stories or struggles to know where to begin, a writing tutor can help them develop their ideas, strengthen their skills and grow in confidence.

Tutoring shouldn't feel like school. It should be a fun way to boost your child's writing skills, with games and activities that put them at the heart of the lesson.

2. How do you support children with dyslexia, ADHD and other additional needs?

Although I'm not a specialist dyslexia tutor, I have experience working with children with ADHD, dyslexia and other additional needs, both as a tutor and as an SEN teaching assistant, and I've also completed training with the Bristol Dyslexia Centre.

Every child learns differently, so we'll find what works best for them. Your child might prefer to use a laptop, tablet or voice recorder to capture their ideas, for example, and that's perfectly fine!

I also use visuals - like pictures and videos - along with a "Now and Next" timetable to help them stay on track.

Most importantly, we'll be up and moving, adding lots of physical games and activities into the lesson when they work best for your child. Children often tell me it's much more fun than sitting still for a whole hour!

3. What will my child learn?

They'll learn how to bring their ideas to life - planning, structuring, and editing their writing in a way that makes it exciting and meaningful. 

Once they're buzzing with creativity and eager to write, I'll guide them through their grammar and spelling to ensure their words really shine.

4. Do you tutor reading too?

Absolutely! I love to help children become confident readers, as my best writers are usually bookworms too! Books are a brilliant way to build vocabulary, spark ideas, and learn what great writing looks like.

Tell Me More...

1. What ages do you teach?

I specialise in helping children aged 8-12, and now also work with teenagers aged 13-16 through the brand-new StoryCraft for Teens. If your child loves writing, no matter their age, I'm always happy to have a chat and see how I can help!

2. Will you travel to our home?

I'd love to! If you're within my tutoring area (Steyning, Shoreham, and Burgess Hill), I'll come over to you. If you're further afield, we can still have a fantastic session online.

3. How much does a lesson cost?  

Lessons are £35 per hour, and here's exactly what's included:

  • 1:1 tutoring in the comfort of your home or online.
  • Fun, personalised lessons tailored to your child's needs and interests.
  • A degree in English and Education, plus eight years' experience as a school TA and tutor.

All travel within my tutoring area is included, with no hidden fees - just engaging, confidence-boosting lessons designed to help your child become a brilliant writer!

4. Can we have a trial lesson first? 

Of course! I offer a free 20-minute taster lesson so we can be sure I'm the right tutor for your child.

I'll create a mix of fun writing activities just for them, giving you a glimpse of what a full lesson will look like. 

There's no pressure to book, but if it feels like the right fit, I'd love to support your child on their writing journey!


Got a burning question? You don't need to raise your hand - just pop me a message to
rcannell@tutanota.com, and I'll get back to you as soon as I can!