We remember it so clearly. Those months running up to exam time. But with so much support out there, our children have options to help them through the exam minefield.
By Tracy Mukherjee
It really is one of the most stressful times in our lives. I still have dreams where my Highers are looming and I realise I haven’t studied! Back when I was taking my exams it was very much a case of read, reread, buy past-papers, repeat. Different ways to revise? Not really available.
Thankfully, revision, the world of learning has evolved exponentially since the rote-learning days of the
19-hehem’s.
With extra-curricular study clubs, personal and group tutoring and a wealth of online study materials, the road to exam success is a now a more student-friendly experience. Westender spoke to Tutor Jane Stratton to talk about what’s out there to help your children succeed in their chosen field.
Where Do I Start?
Gone are the days where one size fits all. Children learn differently. Thankfully, there’s a study programme out there for your child. Jane Stratton is a Biology Tutor, Tutor Consultant, S.O.I. Certified Cognitive Learning Specialist and Family Mentor. It’s fair to say this is a tutor who knows a thing or two about what works. Jane’s learning methods are award winning, earning her a Global Recognition Award in 2024.
Jane has developed online subscription learning tools which align with the Nat 5, Higher and Advanced Higher Biology curriculum. So what benefits does such a service have over one to one tutoring? Jane says ‘Our subscription digital study programmes offer a broader range of resources, including video lessons, past paper quizzes, summary notes that cover every key area. They allow pupils to learn at their own pace and revisit materials as often as needed, which would not be possible with a set schedule of tutoring sessions.’
That being said, many parents like the idea of their child having a personalised tutoring programme, someone to pick up where they aren’t understanding, to guide them through. Jane says ‘While private tutoring offers direct support, our subscription programmes include monthly Zoom sessions. A great deal of effort has been put into the design of each course, and each video is easy to follow, notes are clear and exam skills described in detail.’
Learning Differently
These programmes sound ideal and clearly have a supported, personalised level with monthly zooms. But what about children who do not learn, do not see the world in a conventional way? How can they be supported? Jane is the only Cognitive Learning Specialist licensed to provide Structure Of Intellect (SOI) Systems assessments and programs in Europe. Structure of Intellect is a comprehensive program for individuals who are finding their place of learning, their ability to conventionally learn, challenging. Unlike more normalised educational assessment which may highlight areas of difficulty in learning, SOI is able to uncover areas where the individual may excel. From there, bespoke programmes can be developed to tap into the cognitive strengths highlighted in the assessment.
How Can I Support My Child?
Within Jane’s resources, there are also individual video tutorials on specific aspects of the Biology curriculum rather than subscriptions. And uniquely, there are webinars for parents and carers. These one hour webinars are available for parents of Nat 5/Higher learners and for parents of Additional Support Needs (ASN learners). The webinars are fantastic aids for parents and allow us to feel we CAN help. With tips on the best textbooks, what your child will face during the exams and how to best support them, these webinars are truly special.
The take away message? Support is out there. With tutors like Jane, who is passionate about supporting our young people through their academic years, our children are in safe hands. We don’t have to just wipe the tears of hopelessness, frustration, anxiety. We can proactively get the support for our kids that is readily available.
To access Jane Stratton’s resources visit –
Gifted Online
Jane’s SOI resources –
or contact Jane directly on 07507789519
For a list of qualified and registered Scottish Tutors, visit –
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