Joanne Hammond

Hello, I’m Joanne, a Chemistry graduate with experience teaching and tutoring secondary Science.
I hold a BSc (Hons) in Chemistry, an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Science and an enhanced DBS certificate.
I gained classroom experience as a salaried trainee secondary science teacher, delivering Biology, Chemistry and Physics across KS3 and KS4. My responsibilities included curriculum planning, lesson delivery, assessment and adapting teaching for different abilities and learning needs. I also delivered targeted GCSE Chemistry tutoring, helping students address knowledge gaps, develop their exam technique and become more confident in the subject.
Since March 2024, I have been home-educating my two secondary-aged children in Maths, English and Science. This involves creating individualised learning programmes, selecting appropriate resources and monitoring academic progress.
I offer online tuition in KS3 Science, GCSE Combined Science and GCSE Chemistry. Lessons follow the relevant KS3 curriculum or GCSE exam-board specification. I support students across the major GCSE exam boards and tailor the content, terminology and exam practice to the specification followed by each learner.
Before tuition begins, I establish the student’s current level, areas of difficulty and intended outcomes. This allows me to identify knowledge gaps, sequence learning appropriately and develop a focused programme of study.
A typical lesson begins with retrieval practice or a short diagnostic assessment to check prior knowledge and identify misconceptions. I then introduce or revisit the chosen topic through explicit instruction, clear modelling and worked examples.
New material is scaffolded into manageable stages before the student moves into guided and independent practice. Students apply their understanding through targeted questions, worksheets and relevant exam-board resources.
GCSE lessons also focus on interpreting command words, using subject-specific vocabulary and applying mark schemes to improve the accuracy and structure of exam responses. I use visual representations, presentations, videos, scientific models and real-life contexts to make abstract concepts more accessible.
Targeted questioning and formative assessment are used throughout each session to check understanding and address misconceptions. I adapt the level of explanation, support and challenge according to the student’s progress.
I understand that some students lack confidence or feel overwhelmed by Science. Lessons are therefore delivered patiently and without judgement, encouraging students to ask questions, explain their reasoning and learn from mistakes.
Lessons conclude with a short review or exit question to consolidate learning and identify the next steps. Optional independent practice can be provided between sessions. I monitor progress over time and can provide parents with constructive updates about progress and areas requiring further development.
Online lessons are delivered through Microsoft Teams, with digital resources shared to support learning and independent practice.
My aim is to provide a structured, inclusive and supportive learning environment in which students can strengthen their scientific understanding, develop effective exam skills and become increasingly confident and independent learners.