About Wording
The Wording Mission
I was once asked how I would teach the basic principles of English Language/Literature in a way that would support and enrich the lives of learners who each have complex additional needs, not just through their time in academia (and through formalised exams) but further into adulthood. How do we teach, not just to meet targets but to improve quality of life - both after the classes and as they are taking place. Is there a way to make learning a joyful experience and a source of inspiration and enrichment - even if you have never felt comfortable in a classroom? Even when you struggle to communicate or feel heard?
This question sparked an idea that has grown into a diverse and exciting teaching programme and it was with this question in the forefront of my mind that I created Wording.
At Wording we provide a range of creative group workshops that utilise a robust knowledge of the English Language and Literature curriculum (from early years to higher education, including all functional skills syllabuses) as well as a knowledge of theatrical practices to underpin unique, inspirational lessons that span a broad range of topics and disciplines. Lessons that are designed for leaners with complex needs, that can be tailored to their specific requirements. Lessons that make people feel empowered and listened to. Lessons that can be enjoyed, nay are meant to be enjoyed.
Lessons that quite frankly, don’t feel like lessons.
Our Approach
So much of learning is about building confidence, so that students feel comfortable approaching things that they don’t know or might not find easy. Our approach to teaching is built around our
‘4 Columns of Confidence’
Confidence in yourself
Building self-esteem and the ability to reflect and learn from past experiences
We are passionate about delivering classes that primarily provide entertainment, joy and creative fulfilment. We aim to increase self- esteem and confidence for all of our students in order to help them to thrive both inside and outside of the classroom. Learners need to have the confidence to believe in their ability to learn and develop - and this is something that needs to be built and nurtured.
Confidence to take part (and make mistakes!)
Building resilience and intellectual curiosity
In our classes we celebrate making mistakes - because we can’t be afraid of getting things wrong if we really want to learn something new. We believe that it's essential to provide a space where resilience in the face of challenges is more lauded than instant success. That is where the magic really is - in the ability to keep working on something even if you don’t get it at first.
Confidence to take up space
Building confidence in the place we hold in our wider community
All of our classes have a firm focus on improving communication skills, building confidence and providing students with practical tools that will make their everyday a bit better. Even work with a more academic focus will be designed to support and enrich the lives of students - with a firm focus on transferrable daily skills that they can use to engage more successfully as part of the local community. No more hiding away!
Confidence to build relationships
Building community and peer support within and across the classes
Our approach to teaching is warm, joyful and empathetic. We always strive to create a deep sense of community within the classes as this can provide crucial support for learners.
Meet Caroline
I am a warm, approachable and friendly, multi-disciplinary SEND specialist - who has years of experience teaching in the arts and providing targeted English support for a range of charitable organisations and local providers. I am passionate about accessibility in education and have always strived to provide support and guidance that is specific, inclusive and mindful of each unique individual. I am also a comedy writer and performer who utilises much of my creative practice (inc music, movement, games) in all of my teaching - ensuring that my classes are always dynamic, engaging and generally a lot of fun.
I aim to support and enrich the lives of learners, creating positive, meaningful change for people with complex additional needs. I am always looking for measurable ways to improve quality of life - building self-esteem, creating community, improving communication and comprehension skills and developing confidence in and out of the classroom.
I strive to empower people, creating engaged citizens who feel confident within their communities and have the tools and guidance to enable them to 'take up space’ and ‘be heard’.