About me
Hello, I’m Emily
I’m Emily Costello, a qualified primary school teacher based in Tilehurst, Reading. I tutor children one-to-one, alongside my teaching.
- Qualified primary teacher
- 5 years’ classroom experience
- Fully DBS checked
- KS1 specialist
My teaching background
I’ve been teaching in primary schools for five years, and I’m still in the classroom now. Key Stage 1 (Years 1 and 2) is my specialism. That’s the stage where children learn to read through phonics, start writing independently and build their first real understanding of number. I’ve also taught in Key Stage 2, so I’m comfortable supporting children right up to the end of primary school.
I’ve worked with many children who speak English as an additional language, including children who had only recently arrived in the UK. I know how much courage it takes to learn in a new language. I also know how quickly children can grow in confidence with the right support.
How I teach
- I start by finding out where your child is. Before we try to move forward, I want to understand what they can already do and where things are getting stuck.
- Small steps, lots of encouragement. Children learn best when they feel safe to make mistakes. My lessons are calm, friendly and pitched at the right level.
- Linked to what happens at school. I teach in a way that fits with what your child is learning in class, so tutoring supports school rather than confusing it.
- Keeping you in the loop. I’ll let you know how things are going and suggest simple ways you can help at home, if you’d like them.
Being honest about tutoring
Every child is different, and I won’t promise particular results. What I can promise is a patient, experienced teacher who will get to know your child, work hard to help them, and tell you honestly how they’re getting on.
Keeping your child safe
I’m fully DBS checked. As a teacher, safeguarding is part of my everyday training and work, and I bring the same care and professional standards to tutoring. Before lessons start, we’ll agree together how and where they’ll happen, so you’re comfortable with everything. I’m always happy to answer any questions.
I’d love to hear about your child
Send me a message about your child and what you’d like help with. We’ll have a quick chat, with no commitment, and you can decide from there.