Experienced SENDCo and Psychotherapist (BACP) - 20 years' teaching experience - Online lessons - English, Maths, Science, Mentoring, Emotion Regulation (DBT) skills

Find out more about Shabnum

• When did you develop an interest in your chosen field and in private tutoring?

  I developed an interest in education and helping others at a young age, which ultimately led me to pursue a career in teaching. During my time as a teacher, I discovered the profound impact that individualised attention can have on a student's progress and confidence. This realisation sparked my interest in private tutoring, where I could provide personalised support tailored to each student's unique needs. Over the past five years, my passion has only grown as I have witnessed the incredible strides students can make with the right guidance and encouragement.

• Tell us more about the subject you teach, the topics you like to discuss with students (and possibly those you like a little less).

  I teach a variety of subjects including English, History, Science, and Emotion Regulation skills. My passion lies in making these subjects engaging and accessible for my students.
  
  In English, I enjoy exploring literature and helping students develop their writing and comprehension skills.
  
  History fascinates me, and I love discussing key events and figures that have shaped our world, as well as helping students understand the relevance of historical contexts.
  
  In Science, I thrive on explaining complex concepts in a way that sparks curiosity and wonder, particularly in areas like biology and environmental science.
  
  Additionally, I teach emotion regulation skills, which I find incredibly rewarding, as these skills empower students to manage their emotions and improve their overall wellbeing.
  
  While I enjoy most topics, I find the administrative aspects of education less exciting. However, I recognise their importance in maintaining a structured and effective learning environment. Overall, my goal is to inspire a love for learning and personal growth in all my students.

• Did you have any role models; a teacher that inspired you?

  Yes, I have been fortunate to have several inspiring teachers throughout my educational journey, but one who truly stands out is my A Level English Literature teacher, Ms. Luck. Her incredible kindness, patience, and deep knowledge of the subject were truly remarkable. Ms. Luck had a unique ability to make literature come alive, sparking a genuine love of learning and a passion for literature in me. Her dedication to her students and her craft inspired me to pursue a career in education and later in counselling. She taught me the importance of nurturing a supportive and engaging learning environment, which I strive to replicate in my own teaching and counselling practices. Mrs. Luck's influence continues to guide me as I aim to inspire and support my students in the same way she did for me.

• What do you think are the qualities required to be a good tutor?

  A good tutor possesses the ability to nurture the whole child, going beyond academic instruction to support their overall development. This involves being genuinely interested in the student as a person, understanding their unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, a tutor helps students feel at ease, which is crucial for effective learning. Building a trusting relationship where students feel valued and respected encourages them to open up and engage more deeply with the material. Additionally, patience, empathy, and excellent communication skills are essential qualities that enable a tutor to adapt their teaching approach to meet the individual needs of each student, ultimately helping them to thrive both academically and personally.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your subject or your days at school.

  During my time as a SENDCo, I had an autistic student named Didi who struggled significantly with anger and anxiety. Initially, Didi found it challenging to manage his emotions, which often led to outbursts and heightened anxiety. Recognising his unique needs, I tailored my approach to create a safe and supportive environment for him. Through consistent use of emotion regulation techniques and personalised support, Didi gradually learned to express his feelings more constructively and manage his anxiety. One particularly memorable moment was when Didi successfully used a calming strategy we had practised, during a stressful situation. Witnessing his growth and the reduction in his anxiety was incredibly rewarding. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of individualised support and the profound impact that a compassionate, dedicated tutor can have on a student's emotional and academic journey. Moments like these drive my passion for teaching and tutoring, knowing that I can make a meaningful difference in my students' lives.

• What were the difficulties or challenges you faced or still facing in your subject?

  Teaching multiple subjects, including English, History, Science, and emotion regulation skills, presents its own set of challenges. One of the primary difficulties is adapting my teaching methods to accommodate the diverse learning styles and needs of my students, especially those with special educational needs such as autism or ADHD. Balancing the academic requirements with the emotional and psychological support necessary for my students' wellbeing can be demanding. Additionally, keeping up with the latest educational practices and integrating them into my lessons requires continuous professional development. Another challenge is managing the administrative aspects, such as documentation and communication with parents and colleagues, which can be time-consuming but essential for effective collaboration. Despite these challenges, my commitment to providing individualised support and fostering a positive learning environment drives me to continuously improve and adapt my approach to meet my students' needs effectively.

• Do you have a particular passion? Is it teaching in general or an element of the subject or something completely different?

  My particular passion lies in the holistic development of my students, integrating both academic and emotional growth. Teaching subjects like English, History, and Science is incredibly fulfilling, but what truly drives me is the opportunity to nurture the whole child. I am passionate about helping students develop not only intellectually but also emotionally, equipping them with skills like emotion regulation and resilience. This dual focus ensures that they are well-prepared to face life's challenges both inside and outside the classroom. Ultimately, my greatest passion is seeing my students thrive and grow into well-rounded individuals.

• What makes you a Superprof (besides answering these interview questions :-P) ?

  What makes me a Superprof is my unique blend of skills and experience that combine educational expertise, special needs background, and counselling training. This diverse skill set allows me to provide comprehensive and individualised support to my students. My experience as a SENDCo and a qualified counsellor enables me to understand and address the unique challenges faced by students with anxiety, other mental health concerns, and neurodivergence. I am adept at creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment that fosters both academic and emotional growth. By integrating evidence-based psychotherapeutic techniques with tailored educational strategies, I ensure that my students receive the holistic support they need to thrive. This unique combination of skills and my commitment to each student's wellbeing and success truly set me apart as a Superprof.