Science teacher, with a specialism in KS4 and KS5 Physics

Hi, I’m Alanna – a passionate and experienced Physics teacher based in Dover, Kent. I love making science engaging and accessible, and I’m especially driven to encourage more young women into STEM fields. Over the years, I’ve taught across a range of schools and year groups, led departments, redesigned curricula, and supported students of all abilities to achieve their best.

I have worked as Head of Physics and 2i/c Science at Dover Grammar School for Boys, where I led on curriculum for KS3–KS5, manage assessments, and act as the school’s Radiation Protection Supervisor. Before this, I was Lead Teacher of Physics at Barton Court Grammar School and taught for four years at Chatham and Clarendon Grammar. My teaching career started in West Sussex, and I moved back to Kent to be closer to family.

I hold a Distinction in my MSc in Professional Practice (Teaching and Learning), where I focused my dissertation on the reasons behind low female uptake in A-Level Physics. I used appreciative inquiry methods in real school settings to explore how we can shift that narrative.

Alongside classroom teaching, I’ve really enjoyed working as a private tutor. Since returning to Kent, I’ve supported two brilliant students. One was a Year 6 preparing for scholarship exams at Junior Kings—together, we worked on his exam technique in Science and Maths, and he did amazingly well. The other was a Year 11 girl who lacked confidence at first, but after focusing on revision strategies and content she struggled with, she went on to earn grade 9s in all three sciences. That was a proud moment.

I also tutored three students back in Brighton (2016–2017). One was a Year 8 girl who went from dreading Maths to looking forward to Saturday sessions with me! Another was preparing for the Brighton College entrance exam and needed help managing pressure; we cracked that together and he got in. The third was a Year 11 aiming for a key GCSE grade—boosting her confidence and understanding helped her make great progress.

I’m all about helping young people see their potential and feel capable in subjects they might find intimidating. Whether in the classroom or one-on-one, I bring energy, patience, and a genuine love of teaching to every session.