I‘ve built a library of articles for parents and students alike, designed to help you prepare for different stages of school life, like 11+, KS3 and KS4, how to get ready for exams (based on my experience as an AQA Examiner), alongside resources to help with key GCSE texts including An Inspector Calls, Macbeth and Lord of the Flies. And take a look at some of the book reviews I’ve written, too!
Articles
Supporting Students from Hong Kong with English Language and Literature
Since setting up English Results, I’ve supported many students from Hong Kong adjusting to the UK curriculum. From tackling Shakespeare and poetry for the first time to mastering writing style and vocabulary, my tutoring bridges the gap between systems and helps students thrive in GCSE English.
How to Achieve a Grade 8/9 in GCSE English Language: Advanced Skills, Exam Technique and Expert Tips
Grade 8/9 in English Language isn’t about writing more, it’s about writing better. This blog shares the expert skills, tips and exam strategies you’ll need to hit the top bands with confidence.
Why Year 7 Is the Right Time to Start English Tutoring
Starting tutoring in Year 7 can transform your child’s confidence. Discover why early English support builds the skills and foundations needed for GCSE success.
How to Achieve a Grade 4/5 in GCSE English Language: Skills, Mindset and Practical Tips
GCSE English Language can feel daunting, but securing a Grade 4 or 5 is possible with the right support. This blog offers expert advice on skills, mindset, and exam techniques that make all the difference.
Helping SEND Students Manage Exam Anxiety and Build Confidence
Exam stress affects many students, but for those with Dyslexia, ADHD or Autism, it can feel overwhelming. Discover how tailored tutoring helps SEND learners feel calmer, more prepared, and confident.
Home Schooling and English: Expert KS3 & GCSE Tutoring to Fill the Gaps
Home schooling offers flexibility, but English can be tricky to manage. With 30 years’ teaching experience and senior examiner insight, I provide expert KS3 & GCSE tutoring for home educated students, filling gaps and building exam confidence.
Why My Experience as an English Teacher and Examiner Matters for Your Child’s Tutoring
With so many English tutors out there, how do you know who’s right for your child? Sophie Birchenall combines 20+ years in the classroom with Senior Examiner insight, giving students the skills, confidence and exam strategies that make the difference. Read more here…
Macbeth: How Does Shakespeare Present Ambition and its Capacity for Corruption?
Shakespeare’s Macbeth explores the dark consequences of unchecked ambition, showing how the desire for power can destroy individuals and upset the natural order.
Animal Farm – How Does Orwell Present the Character of Snowball?
Analysing Snowball in Animal Farm? This blog explores key quotes and Orwell’s intent, showing how one-to-one tutoring can help sharpen your GCSE English essays.
Jekyll and Hyde: How Does Stevenson Present the Character of Dr Jekyll?
Dr Jekyll is one of the most complex characters in Jekyll and Hyde, and Stevenson uses him to explore the duality of human nature, Victorian morality and the danger of repression. This post looks at how to write about him effectively for your GCSE English Literature exam.
An Inspector Calls – How Does Priestley Present the Character of Sheila?
Struggling to revise An Inspector Calls? This breakdown of Sheila’s character explores her development, key quotes and Priestley’s message, with tips on how one-to-one tutoring can help sharpen your GCSE essay skills.
Back to School: How to Boost Your Child’s English Skills Before Term Starts
The summer holidays are a great chance to give your child a boost before school starts again. From reading challenges to grammar refreshers, here are five simple ways to help build confidence and get ready for the new term, written by a former Head of English and GCSE examiner.
5 English Tutoring Strategies That Work Brilliantly for Students with ADHD
Students with ADHD can thrive in English with the right teaching approach. This blog shares five practical strategies that make one-to-one tutoring more effective, enjoyable and empowering for energetic, imaginative learners.
Understanding Dyslexia: Supporting Your Child Through Secondary School
Dyslexia affects how students process written language, but with the right support, they can thrive at secondary school. This blog shares practical tips for parents and shows how one-to-one English tuition can build confidence, boost skills, and help dyslexic learners shine.
Supporting Students with ADHD in English: How One-to-One Tutoring Can Help Build Focus and Confidence
Students with ADHD often find classroom English lessons frustrating, but one-to-one tutoring can offer the structure, flexibility and encouragement they need to thrive. This blog explores how tailored support can help build skills, confidence and focus.
Starting Year 11? Here’s How to Get Ready for Your Final GCSE English Year
Starting Year 11? This guide breaks down what to expect in your final GCSE English year and offers practical summer tips to boost confidence before September. Perfect for students who want to stay one step ahead without the stress.
Why Established Experts Yield Better Student Outcomes Than Unqualified Tutors
As parents, we all want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their education, but in the realm of private tutoring, not all options are created equal…
How Personalised Learning Can Improve Your Child's GCSE Results
Today, I'd like to chat about a topic near and dear to my heart: personalised learning versus the standard school curriculum, especially when it comes to GCSE English…