Hello! 

Experience:
I am a qualified primary school teacher from England, UK. I have experience of teaching Maths, English, Science, and foundation subjects to children aged 4-11 years old. 

Qualifications: 
MA Inclusive Education
PGCE Primary Education 
BA (Hons) Education Studies 
A-Level Maths, Chemistry, and Biology

ACE- I am an ACE Outschool educator. This means I have completed extra training regarding learner agency, creating a community, and facilitating learner expertise. 

I am a lifelong learner and will always continue to learn. 

Science Knowledge: 
I also studied a Biology degree for two years. During my teacher training, I specialised in teaching science to children aged 4-11. I also have experience of tutoring older children in science. 

Dyslexia Expertise: 
During my Education degree, I studied specific learning difficulties and dyslexia in detail. I wrote my dissertation about the emotional consequences of dyslexia. Working with dyslexic children continues to be one of my passions alongside science teaching. I have an MA in Inclusive Education. The focus of my Masters dissertation was teacher knowledge of dyslexia and what teachers understand about how dyslexia may affect children outside of their literacy learning. I am also dyslexic myself. 

Although I teach mainly science, all classes are literacy classes. I talk to children about the spelling, pronunciation, and etymology of new words. Most of my classes end with a word search of the key words from the class. I adapt to the level of the children in the class. 

Interests:
My main interests are kickboxing, baking, reading, drawing, science, and animals. I teach kickboxing to children age 5-14 in person. I am currently a purple stripe belt in kickboxing!

Ethos:
Above all I love learning new things and I love to see children enjoying learning and finding a passion for something. I believe that teaching and learning should be fun. Learning is a collaborative process that includes the teacher and the learners. I have as much to learn from the children as they do from me. The children should be at the centre of their learning experience and be able to learn in their own way. I endeavour to meet each learner where they are and go at their own pace. I hope to see your children soon in Outschool so that we can learn together. 

I can't wait to learn with you soon :)

Mrs Melissa Whitebourne (She/her)