 A tiny creature with enormous courage. A pet who spots danger. An animal whose kindness changes someone’s day.
Who will be the hero of your child’s story? Our Heroic Animals writing competition is open to children in Years 1–6, wherever they live. You don’t need to attend Mrs Osh Tutors classes to enter, and everything can be done by email. A competition inspired by the children Recently, I’ve been asking my students for ideas about making their time with me the best it can be. Among the suggestions, one request came through loud and clear: more competitions! So, we’re starting with a writing challenge that gives children plenty of room for imagination, curiosity and a little animal magic. What can children write? Write a story, poem or true-life account about an animal hero. It could feature your own pet, my pet, Tiger, an unexpected little creature or a real animal who did something extraordinary. Bravery doesn’t have to mean a dramatic rescue. Helping a friend, warning someone or refusing to give up can be heroic too. There are two categories:
What can children win? The winner in each age category will receive an animal LEGO set! A little help getting started Download this illustrated writing guide and explore it with your child. It includes ideas, planning prompts, writing tips and some encouragement from Tiger. There are also two lovely book recommendations:
How to enter Email your child’s entry to [email protected] by 11.59 pm on Saturday 31 October 2026. A typed entry, document or clear photograph is fine. Please include:
Please do not put your child’s name, school year, school name or contact details on the entry itself. One entry per child. The ideas and words must be their own. Adults may type or write down exactly what younger children dictate, but should not rewrite their work. AI-generated entries are not permitted. Families choose the winners On 1 November, I’ll share a view-only folder containing numbered, anonymous entries. Each entering household can email me one ballot, ranking up to three different entries in each category. Please don’t vote for your own children’s entries. First choices receive three points, second choices two and third choices one. Choose writing that makes you feel, smile or want to keep reading! Voting closes at 11.59 pm on Saturday 7 November. The entry with the highest total in each category wins; I’ll decide any ties. Winners will be announced on Sunday 8 November 2026. Invite another young storyteller Please share the competition with friends and family who have children in Years 1–6. Everyone is welcome, whether they live near Buckhurst Hill or further afield. I can’t wait to meet your children’s animal heroes! Pawsitively yours, Melissa Mrs Osh Tutors
0 Comments
 "Melissa is an incredible tutor with a well earned reputation in our area. We had tried several tutors and classes before deciding to commit to Mrs Osh Tutors and haven’t looked back. :)"
via Google reviews
 Melissa supported my son with his 11+ preparation for the creative writing component - an area in which he lacked confidence. From the beginning, she had such a natural way of engaging with him and making the sessions enjoyable - I was honestly blown away by how she was able to transform his writing in only a matter of sessions! She helped him use language in ways he simply hadn't thought himself capable of before, while really building his confidence in the process.
Melissa has been incredibly encouraging and generous with her support, and it was always clear how invested she was in helping my son do his best. If you're looking for a brilliant, patient, and passionate teacher who is also a genuinely lovely person, then she is definitely the one! via Google Reviews Does your child confidently complete calculations but become stuck as soon as those calculations appear inside a word problem?
Bar models can help. By turning the information into a simple visual representation, they allow children to see how the numbers are connected - and work out whether they need to add, subtract, multiply or divide. In my new video, I demonstrate useful bar models for each year group from Year 2 to Year 6. The examples progress from finding the difference through to multiplication, fractions, ratio and an 11+ algebraic age problem. The video is designed for parents, teachers, teaching assistants and tutors. You don’t need any special equipment: simply grab a pen and paper and follow along! Watch the video below to discover how this straightforward technique can make challenging word problems feel much more manageable. See the full video here. For more practical English, maths and 11+ support, subscribe to the Mrs Osh Tutors YouTube channel.  Looking for one quick activity that practises maths, reading, spelling and vocabulary all at once? Download my free Superhero Ten! printable puzzle. Children begin by reading and remembering a short superhero rhyme featuring all the number bonds to ten. They then use the poem to solve the accompanying crossword, searching carefully for information, following clues and checking that their answers fit. Why is this little puzzle so useful? Although it is designed to feel like a quick, enjoyable challenge, children are practising an impressive range of skills:
Download the free Superhero Ten printable puzzle here. A first look at Mission: Comprehension Junior This puzzle is taken from my new book, Mission: Comprehension Junior, which will be published later this year. Created especially for children in Years 2 to 4, the new book uses short, accessible texts and engaging puzzles to help younger readers develop strong comprehension habits without making reading practice feel like a worksheet. It follows the popular puzzle-based approach used in my original Mission: Comprehension – Learn Through Puzzles. Children read a carefully chosen text before using what they have understood to complete a crossword or another enjoyable challenge. The puzzle provides a real reason to reread, check details and think carefully about vocabulary. Keep an eye out for more news about Mission: Comprehension Junior very soon! Looking for more enjoyable maths practice? You can find more practical maths demonstrations, ideas and learning videos on the Mrs Osh Tutors YouTube channel. Please subscribe so you do not miss the next one. If times tables are the next challenge in your house, take a look at my Times Tables Programme. It breaks multiplication facts into manageable steps and combines short daily practice with puzzles, games and varied activities—helping children build confidence, fluency and lasting recall.  Reverse percentage questions can be tricky because you are working backwards. Instead of finding the reduced price, you are given the price after a discount and must calculate what the item originally cost. These questions appear regularly in 11+ entrance examinations, so it is important that children understand the method rather than relying on guesswork. Watch the step-by-step lesson In this short video, I work through the first two questions from my reverse percentages practice sheet. I demonstrate how to:
Download the free practice sheet Once your child has watched the demonstration, they can practise the method independently using my downloadable sheet. It contains 10 questions on calculating the original amount after a percentage discount. The questions become progressively more challenging, and all answers are included for easy checking. A useful approach is to complete the first two questions alongside the video before attempting the remaining questions independently. For more 11+ maths lessons, practical teaching ideas and downloadable learning resources, follow Mrs Osh Tutors on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube at @MrsOshTutors. 
Most of us reach for counters when a child is first learning to count - but then put them away far too soon. In fact, the same simple resource can help children understand everything from number bonds and multiplication to fractions, ratio, probability and even algebra. The key is knowing how to move beyond simply counting objects and use counters to make mathematical relationships visible. In my new video, I demonstrate 15 practical ways to use coloured counters across Years 1–6. I’ve also created a free downloadable guide containing every activity, complete with questions to ask, teaching points and ideas for extending children’s thinking. Whether you’re a teacher, tutor, parent or home educator, all you need is a handful of counters—and you may be surprised by just how much maths you can unlock. "Excellent tutoring- we have used Mrs Osh to support our son for 18 months to prepare towards the 11+ exams and she has always been a kind and gentle guiding presence. We have been lucky to have her!" via Google Reviews  "We couldn't recommend her more highly. She makes learning fun and engaging, genuinely cares about how our child feels about learning as well as their progress, and is incredibly dedicated and supportive." via Google Reviews  "Mrs Osh has really helped build my son’s confidence. She is very good in recognising a child’s need and work on it. Reports after every lesson really help in understanding what was done during the lesson and what's required after. Very happy with Mrs Osh Tutors." via Google Reviews  "Melissa has been an excellent tutor for my child. She is patient, encouraging, and creates a positive learning environment that helps build both confidence and understanding. Her lessons are well planned and tailored to my child’s needs, making learning enjoyable and effective.
Since working with Melissa, I have seen noticeable improvements in my child’s knowledge, confidence, and attitude toward learning. She communicates clearly, is reliable, and genuinely cares about her students’ progress and success. I highly recommend Melissa to any parent looking for a dedicated and professional tutor who makes a real difference." A Portase, June 2026, received via Tutorbird
I know we’re not supposed to have favourites… but there’s something about this book that feels especially special. Maybe it’s the vibrant cover colours (chosen by my son — and I absolutely love them!), or maybe it’s some of the creative activities inside that I’m particularly proud of. Either way, this one has my heart. Here’s a little peek at a few of the pages so you can see what’s in store! Scroll through the gallery and discover what Supercharge is all about. As always, you can find it on Amazon.  To my knowledge, there are very few opportunities locally for children to develop these kinds of future-focused thinking and communication skills — yet I believe they are becoming every bit as important as strong maths and English foundations. Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving & Presentation Skills Wednesdays, 6–7pm Alongside developing core English and maths skills in meaningful, real-world contexts, this class focuses on the wider thinking and communication skills that underpin success across all areas of learning — and beyond school. What is critical thinking? Critical thinking is the ability to question ideas, think independently, evaluate information, solve problems creatively and communicate clearly. It helps children become reflective learners who can explain, justify and develop their thinking with confidence. What sort of activities will children do? Activities are practical, collaborative and project-based. For example, children might:
Absolutely — but in a highly purposeful and engaging way. Children naturally practise reading, writing, reasoning, vocabulary, speaking, listening, planning, finance, data handling and problem-solving through meaningful projects and discussion. What will my child gain from this? Children will develop:
These are skills that support success not just in school, but in later life too. Who is the class for? The class is designed for KS2 children and is suitable for a wide range of learners — particularly children who are curious, creative, thoughtful, hesitant speakers who need confidence-building, or academically able children who would benefit from more open-ended challenge and discussion. Is it academic or creative? Both. The class combines academic thinking with creativity, discussion and collaboration. Children are encouraged to think deeply, ask questions and develop ideas — not simply search for a single 'right' answer. Why are these skills important now? As AI and technology continue to change the world, the most valuable skills are increasingly human ones: communication, adaptability, creativity, critical thinking and confident decision-making. These are the skills many children do not get enough opportunity to practise explicitly in traditional classroom settings. Please feel free to message me if you would like more information or would like to reserve a place.  There are some exciting updates coming to Mrs Osh Tutors from June — including a new venue, more flexible learning options, and a brand new class focused on critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
New Venue (from 1st June) After four years of growing from a home setting — and in recognition of the parking challenges many families have navigated — we are moving to a new dedicated venue. From 1st June, all term-time sessions will take place at: Bedford House Community Association 4 Westbury Road IG9 5NW This move will allow for:
Group Classes Most group classes will remain at their current times, although a small number will shift by up to 30 minutes. The updated timetable can be viewed here, so please do check this carefully. With the move to a dedicated venue — and the improved space and flexibility it provides — group sessions will be £30 per hour. All current students will automatically be moved into their existing classes at the new venue (including any adjusted times), ensuring a smooth transition with no risk of losing a place. There are now spaces available across all group classes, so families who have previously been waiting for a place — or who would like to add an additional session — are very welcome to book. Individual Learning Groups A new option is also being introduced: Individual Learning Groups. These are small, structured sessions where each child works on their own personalised learning plan — similar to 1:1 tuition, but within a small group setting. Each programme is created and overseen by me as the principal teacher, with sessions supported by an experienced assistant. Groups are kept small (maximum of 6 children), with a ratio of 1 adult to every 3 children. In practice, this approach works extremely well. Children are able to build independence and confidence while working alongside others, while still receiving individual teaching, support and guidance when needed. Sessions can be booked flexibly week by week, making it easy to:
New Class: Critical Thinking, Problem Solving & Presentation Skills (Years 4–6) A brand new class is launching on Wednesdays, 6–7pm. Preparing children for the future means going beyond academics. Success will depend not just on what they know, but how they think. With AI transforming the world around us, this course focuses on developing the skills that matter most — critical thinking, problem-solving and clear, confident communication. In sessions, children will tackle open-ended challenges, debate ideas, present their thinking, and learn how to explain and justify their reasoning clearly. A Note on Teaching & Support All sessions will continue to be led by me. The new space simply allows this to happen even more effectively. Sessions are supported by experienced assistants, ensuring a calm, well-structured environment while maintaining strong individual attention. All adults are DBS checked. Booking & Enquiries If you would like to secure a space, add an additional session, or try one of the new options, bookings can be made via Tutorbird. For any questions about the move or the new structure, please feel free to get in touch.
 Get your children into crosswords with this entry level puzzle. Level up their English along the way - and when the game is over, check your answers! Download and print it here.
Crossword puzzles are an often overlooked yet powerful tool for learning. Crosswords go far beyond vocabulary building; they offer many cognitive and academic benefits:
Discover my range of workbooks packed with crosswords and other great puzzles for learning here.  In today's fast-paced world, nurturing children's learning patterns is crucial to their development and success. Backed by cognitive science, here are eight transformative learning habits that set children apart:
1. Embracing challenges The strongest learners are not those who find everything easy but those who tackle challenges head-on. When children embrace challenges, they build real confidence by overcoming difficulties. Books like Mission and Supercharge foster this by providing structured and open-ended challenges. 2. Understanding, not memorising True learning is about understanding concepts, not just memorising processes. By focusing on why things work, children develop a deeper grasp of knowledge. Mission and Supercharge enhance this understanding by building strong foundations in reading and vocabulary while connecting skills across various subjects. 3. Accepting uncertainty Children who are comfortable with uncertainty are often more creative. The Mission and Supercharge books encourage this mindset by presenting unexpected challenges and open-ended tasks, nurturing creativity from the start. 4. Curiosity over passivity Curiosity drives learning. Encouraging children to ask questions like "Why?", "What if?", and "Is there another way?" leads to deeper learning. Mission and Supercharge cultivate curiosity by incorporating exploration and justification into learning. 5. Learning with purpose Learning should be purposeful and problem-solving oriented. Instead of just practising for tests, children should apply their skills to real-world problems. Mission and Supercharge help children develop core skills and then use those skills in complex scenarios. 6. Resilient mindset Mistakes are an essential part of the learning process. Strong learners see errors as opportunities to improve. Mission and Supercharge foster resilience by providing low-pressure practice and encouraging refinement and iteration. 7. Connected thinking Subjects should not be isolated. Children who connect ideas across disciplines - such as reading, math, and creativity - develop a more holistic understanding. Mission and Supercharge strengthen core skills and link them to broader thinking, helping children see the bigger picture. 8. Genuine understanding Aim for understanding, not just performance. While quick answers may fade, deep understanding endures. Mission and Supercharge build lasting knowledge and turn it into confident thinking. These learning habits are the building blocks for children who not only excel academically but also think critically and creatively. By building these habits, we prepare children for a lifetime of learning and growth.  If times tables practice in your house looks like sighing, guessing and giving up… you’re not alone. The problem isn’t times tables – nor your child! It’s the way we’re asking them to learn.
Most practice relies on sitting still, repeating and hoping it sticks. But the strongest learners don’t just memorise; they learn by doing. One of the simplest ways to transform times tables practice is to get children out of their seats. Here are 12 simple movement-based games that make practice active and genuinely fun for all. And when you're child is ready to test themselves, try this timed video! 1. Answer Corners Place four possible answers in different corners of the room. Call out a question (e.g. 6 × 4). The child runs to the corner they think is correct. Example: Corners = 20, 24, 28, 32 → correct answer = 24 Make it better: Include a ‘common mistake’ answer (like 20) to challenge thinking. 2. Sprint & Solve Place question cards at one end of the room. The child runs to pick one, brings it back, and solves it aloud. Example: Card says 7 × 8 → child runs back and answers 56 Challenge: Can they get 3 correct in a row? 3. Hit the Target Stick numbers on a wall or floor. Call out a question and the child throws a beanbag at the correct answer. Example: Call: 9 × 3 → aim for 27 If they miss: They still say the answer out loud before trying again. 4. Times Table Relay Race Split into teams. Each player runs to answer one question, then tags the next person. Example: Player 1: 4 × 6 = 24 → runs back Player 2 goes next Goal: First team to complete all questions correctly wins. 5. Multiply & Move Answer a question, then perform that number as an action. Example: 3 × 4 = 12 → 12 jumps 5 × 2 = 10 → 10 claps Why it works: Links the number to physical experience. 6. Human Number Line Mark numbers on the floor (e.g. 0–50). Call out a question and the child must move to the correct answer. Example: 4 × 7 → child stands on 28 7. Dodge & Answer Throw a soft ball to the child while asking a question. They must answer before (or as) they catch it. Example: Throw → “6 × 8!” → catch + answer 48 Twist: Wrong answer = quick action (e.g. spin or squat) 8. Dice Dash Roll two dice. Multiply the numbers, then run to the correct answer card. Example: Roll 3 and 5 → run to 15 Extension: Use three dice for a bigger challenge. 9. Find the Fact Hide multiplication questions around the room. Children find one, solve it, and bring back the answer. Example: Find: 8 × 6 → return with 48 Make it competitive: How many can they solve in 5 minutes? 10. Red Light, Green Light Play as normal — but to move again after ‘red light’, the child must answer a question correctly. Example: Stopped → must answer 7 × 7 → say 49 to continue 11. Build & Run Give a multiplication. The child runs to build that number using objects (blocks, cones, etc.). Example: 4 × 5 = 20 → build a tower of 20 Nice link: Helps visualise what multiplication represents. 12. Correct or Chase Ask a question.
Why kids love it: High stakes + high energy. Why this approach works When children move, they’re not just practising, they’re learning in a way that lasts. These games:
Looking for more support with times tables? Take a look at this. "Melissa has been far more than a tutor — she has been a mentor and an inspiration for my son."1/4/2026 "Melissa has been an absolutely exceptional tutor for my son, and I truly cannot recommend her highly enough. From the very beginning it was clear that Melissa is not just a highly skilled teacher, but someone who genuinely cares about the children she works with. She has an extraordinary ability to recognise each child’s strengths, build their confidence, and gently push them to reach their full potential. Over the course of our 11+ preparation, Melissa worked with my son on English and creative writing, helping him develop strong analytical thinking, expressive writing and confidence in communicating his ideas. Her lessons are incredibly well structured but also warm, engaging and inspiring. She creates an environment where children feel safe to explore ideas, challenge themselves and enjoy learning. What impressed me most was her ability to combine academic rigour with genuine encouragement. She never teaches mechanically — instead she develops curiosity, independence and intellectual confidence, skills that go far beyond exam preparation. Perhaps most importantly, she helped my son truly believe in his own abilities. Thanks to Melissa’s guidance and support, my son passed all the highly selective 11+ exams he sat and ultimately secured a place at one of London’s most academically demanding and respected schools, something we are incredibly proud of. Melissa played a truly important role in this journey. For our family, Melissa has been far more than a tutor — she has been a mentor and an inspiration for my son. Any parent looking for outstanding 11+ preparation would be incredibly fortunate to work with Melissa. We will always be deeply grateful for everything she has done for our son." via Google reviews 
|
|||||||||||||||||
