Why in-person works better for some students
For primary-age children, sitting at a screen for an hour is harder to sustain than working face-to-face. In-person sessions allow Serena or Kevin to see immediately whether a child is confused, distracted or disengaged — and to respond physically by pointing at a piece of work, writing an example next to the student's attempt, or simply adjusting the pace and energy of the session. This real-time reading of a child is harder to do accurately through a screen.
Subjects that benefit most from in-person sessions
- Primary maths — using physical materials to demonstrate number concepts for younger pupils
- Science — working through diagrams, graphs and structured answers on paper
- English writing — annotating and editing written work directly on the page
- 11+ preparation — timed paper practice with an invigilator-like structure
- Any subject where a student's handwriting and working-out process needs to improve
Areas covered for in-person sessions
The Teaching Success base is in Smethwick (B67). In-person sessions are most practical for families in Smethwick, Cape Hill, Bearwood, Oldbury and West Bromwich. For areas slightly further out — Harborne, Edgbaston, Quinton — online sessions are usually the better fit, though in-person can sometimes be arranged depending on schedules and location.
What to expect in an in-person session
Sessions run for 60 minutes. Students should bring their school exercise books, any recent assessment papers or homework, and a list of topics they have been covering in school. Kevin or Serena will also have prepared a session plan based on the agreed focus for that week. Parents are welcome to stay or to use the time elsewhere — both arrangements work fine.
Next step
Call 07909 274901 or book a free trial lesson. Kevin or Serena can confirm in-person availability for your preferred day and time, and let you know what to bring to the first session.