Meet Your Tutor
Experienced, qualified, and passionate about learning
Hello! I'm Heather Ward
I'm passionate about making learning an enjoyable and rewarding journey. With almost 20 years of classroom experience in education and a genuine desire for helping students discover their potential, I founded Polaris Tutoring to provide personalised, engaging online tutoring that is safe, fun and engaging while building both academic skills and lifelong confidence in learning.
đ Qualifications
- Degree: BA(Hons) English and History
- Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Primary Education
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- NPQ in Leading Teachers
- Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Level 5 240 Hours - Including Business English
- Master of Arts (MA) in Education
đŧ Experience
- Almost 20 years of mainstream classroom teaching experience in primary and middle schools focussing on KS2 and KS3
- I have held positions as a Senior Teacher as Subject Leader and Key Stage Leader
- Notable positions are Head of Key Stage 2, Head of English, Head of Humanities and SENCO
- Successfully increased SAT Scores at two schools
- Trusted marker for many years of both SATs and GCSE Exams
- Specialist in inclusive teaching methods including Neuro-Divergent students and a wide range of Special Educational Needs Pupils
- Several years Tutoring experience with Functional Skills, GCSE and A-Level students
đĄ Teaching Philosophy
I believe that every student has the potential to excel when learning is made accessible, engaging, and relevant to their lives. My approach is centered on building confidence, encouraging curiosity and creating a safe space where mistakes are seen as valuable learning opportunities. I specialise in working with KS2 and KS3 students during these crucial formative years, helping them develop strong foundations and a genuine passion for learning that will serve them throughout their education and beyond.
đ Professional Memberships
- Registered with the Teaching Regulation Agency
- Member of The Tutors' Association
- Member of The National Association of Teaching English
- Member of The Chartered College of Teaching
- Enhanced DBS Check (Certificate available upon request)
My Story
My journey in education began when I realised the profound impact a great teacher can have. During my own school years, I struggled with some subjects until a passionate tutor helped me see it differently. That experience inspired me to become an educator myself. After almost 20 years in mainstream education, I founded Polaris Tutoring to work more closely with individual students and families, providing the personalised attention that helps every learner thrive. I particularly love working with KS2 and KS3 students as these are such important years for building confidence and establishing positive learning habits. Outside of tutoring, I enjoy writing and travelling, and I bring that same enthusiasm and dedication to every session."