Year 8 English Mastery
Small group lessons
Six week unit
£150 per student (£25 an hour)
Course at a glance
Unit 1: 3/11/26 - 8/12/26
Persuasive Writing: speeches and letters
Students will learn the elements of rhetoric, consider how persuasion is used in everyday life, study some of the great speeches and letters in the English Language, and learn rhetorical skills that only a very few KS3 are exposed to.
This stands them in good stead not only for internal assessments and (later) GCSE exams, but also for everyday life. Understanding how persuasion is used in politics and the media is perhaps the most fundamental prerequisite of critical thinking.
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Using a range of writers, from Charles Dickens to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, students will build mental models for analysis and enrich their understanding of English literature.
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Creative writing is often labelled as difficult to teach and difficult to learn. This unit dispels that myth. Students will learn how to adopt different narrative writing styles, discern between low- and high-quality imagery, and understand the power of language to evoke vivid experiences and emotions.
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Returning to the themes of Units 1 and 2, this course equips students with the necessary knowledge to evaluate and criticise, as well as to defend and promote, different ideas. We will cover propaganda, logical fallacies and debate techniques, whilst consolidating the fundamentals of rhetoric and language analysis.
“His lessons were always engaging, thought-provoking, and enjoyable, with plenty of humour and teaching that felt tailored to us.”
Jess (2017)
PhD Candidate in Psychology, University of Oxford
Habits created in Alex’s classroom … have stayed with me ever since. Looking back, his lessons gave me skills that continue to support me throughout medical school and will remain invaluable throughout my future career as a doctor.
Mahnoor (2023)
Medical student at Anglia Ruskin University
Enquire today
1. Is the course suitable for students of different abilities?
Yes. The course welcomes students with a range of abilities, but maintains a consistently high level of academic challenge. Lessons are designed to stretch confident students whilst providing the guidance and structure needed for others to succeed. Above all, students should be curious, willing to contribute and eager to improve.
2. Is the course suitable for students who are already performing well in English?
Absolutely. The programme is particularly well suited to students who want to move beyond the standard curriculum. Through challenging texts, sophisticated vocabulary and ambitious writing techniques, students will develop the confidence and independence needed to excel in English.
3. How many students are in each class?
Classes are limited to five students. This ensures that everyone has opportunities to participate, ask questions and receive individual attention. Small groups also allow me to provide meaningful feedback during lessons and on homework, whilst encouraging lively discussion and collaboration.
4. Does the course follow the school curriculum?
The programme develops the reading, writing, analytical and communication skills essential for success in secondary-school English. Rather than simply repeating classroom content, it introduces students to challenging ideas, ambitious vocabulary and sophisticated approaches to literature and language.
5. How are lessons delivered?
Lessons take place online, with one live, interactive session per week lasting 60 minutes. Students will participate in discussion, complete practical exercises and receive direct guidance and feedback. These are interactive classes, not pre-recorded lectures.
6. Will my child receive homework and feedback?
Yes. Students will receive purposeful homework designed to consolidate and extend their learning. I will provide focused feedback to help them recognise their strengths, address areas for improvement and apply what they have learned in subsequent lessons.
7. What happens if my child misses a lesson?
If your child misses a lesson, I will provide the relevant materials and homework so they can catch up independently. Unfortunately, individual replacement sessions cannot be offered for missed group lessons.
8. Does my child need to complete every six-week unit?
No. Each unit is designed to work independently, although students will benefit from progressing through the complete programme. Every six-week block develops a particular set of skills, allowing students to build on their knowledge over time.
9. How much does the course cost, and when do I pay?
Each six-week course costs £150 (£25 per lesson). Payment is made in advance to secure your child's place. There are no additional course fees or ongoing subscription commitments.
10. How do I enrol my child?
Simply complete the enquiry form to express your interest. I'll be in touch to answer any questions, confirm availability and explain the next steps. Places are limited to five students and are secured upon receipt of payment.