Traditional teaching methods work well for some students. But for children with SEND, standard classroom approaches often miss the mark entirely. Over three decades, we’ve learned that the right tutor—someone who genuinely understands a child’s specific learning profile—makes all the difference between struggle and success.
Our SEN case studies
Different minds face different challenges. We’ve seen the frustration when traditional methods fail—and the breakthrough when the right support clicks. Read how our tutors have helped students with diverse SEN needs thrive academically and personally.
Student Success Stories
Who we support
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Autism spectrum disorder
From social communication challenges to sensory sensitivities, we provide specialist support for autistic learners. Our tutors understand how autistic minds work and build on pattern recognition, systematic thinking, and deep focus.
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ADHD & ADD
Supporting students with executive function challenges, attention regulation, and hyperactivity. We use active learning methods, leverage hyperfocus, and teach practical organisational systems that work for ADHD brains.
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Dyslexia
Multi-sensory structured literacy approaches for students with reading, writing, and spelling difficulties. Our dyslexia-specialist tutors use phonics-based methods, visual aids, and assistive technology to build confident readers and writers.
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Dyscalculia
Visual, concrete approaches to mathematical concepts for students who struggle with number sense, calculation, and mathematical reasoning. We make abstract concepts tangible through manipulatives and real-world applications.
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Dyspraxia (DCD)
Support for students with coordination difficulties affecting handwriting, organisation, and processing speed. We provide adapted teaching methods, extra processing time, and strategies that work around motor challenges.
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Speech & language difficulties
Tutors experienced working alongside speech and language therapists to support students with expressive or receptive language challenges, supporting both academic content and communication development.
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Mental health & anxiety
Specialist support for students whose learning is affected by anxiety, depression, OCD, or other mental health challenges. Creating safe, calm environments where academic progress can happen alongside emotional wellbeing.
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School exclusion & behavioural challenges
Supporting students who’ve been excluded or at risk of exclusion. We provide structure, clear boundaries, and engaging teaching that addresses underlying learning needs often masked by behaviour.
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Education & healthcare plans (EHCP)
Expert guidance through EHCP applications, annual reviews, and tribunal processes. We help families secure appropriate provision and challenge inadequate support.
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Complex & multiple needs
Many students have overlapping conditions—dyslexia with ADHD, autism with anxiety, multiple learning differences combined. We match tutors experienced in layered challenges who can adapt holistically.
Our Services
Tailored support where it matters most
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One-to-one tuition
Subject-specialist tutors trained in SEND pedagogy across all subjects and levels. Multi-sensory, differentiated teaching methods adapted to each student's learning profile. From primary to A-Level, delivered in-person or online.
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Homeschooling programmes
Complete homeschooling provision for families seeking alternatives to mainstream schooling. Flexible, SEND-adapted curricula delivered around your child's needs. Ideal for students who struggle in traditional classroom environments.
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Executive function coaching
Practical support for organisation, time management, planning, and task initiation. Explicitly teaching the skills that don't come naturally to many SEND students—without shame or frustration.
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EHCP & SEND consultancy
Expert guidance through EHCP applications, annual reviews, and tribunal processes. School selection advice for SEND-friendly environments. Challenging inadequate provision and securing appropriate support.
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Examination support & access arrangements
Access arrangements applications, exam technique adapted to specific needs, and mock examinations in supportive environments. Ensuring students can demonstrate their knowledge fairly. GCSEs, A-Levels, 11+, 13+, and entrance exams.
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Educational psychology assessments
Access to qualified educational psychologists for comprehensive assessments, diagnostic reports, and ongoing consultation. Supporting formal diagnoses, EHCP applications, and understanding your child's learning profile.
Why families choose Lionheart
Specialists with real SEN expertise
Our tutors are not generalists. They include former SENCOs, specialist teachers, educational psychologists, and trained practitioners in dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and SpLD support. Every tutor is vetted for their ability to work calmly, patiently, and intelligently with complex learning needs — not just for subject knowledge.
Teaching built around the individual
No two profiles are alike. We tailor every programme to the student’s cognitive profile, emotional needs, and preferred way of learning. That may mean structured routines, sensory-aware environments, executive function coaching, or academic stretch — whatever helps the child learn with confidence.
Support that grows as needs evolve
SEN journeys change. A child may move from crisis to stability, from stability to extension, from primary needs to exam preparation. Our team stays with families through each stage, ensuring continuity, consistency, and a single point of contact who truly understands the child.
Testimonials
“After exclusion from two schools, we were rather dejected and didn't have much hope. The homeschooling tutor our son worked with saw past the behaviour to the unmet learning needs. Your consultancy has also helped us shortlist two schools which we are delighted to be visiting next week.”
Parent of Year 5 student, Pimlico
Frequently asked questions
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How do you match tutors to children with SEND?
We consider the specific learning difference, communication style, sensory needs, and personality. A child with dyslexia who’s visual needs different support than one with dyscalculia who struggles with number sense. We interview families extensively about what’s worked before, what hasn’t, and what accommodations your child needs to thrive.
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Are all your tutors DBS checked and qualified?
Yes. Every tutor undergoes Enhanced DBS checks, qualification verification, and reference checks. Many hold SpLD qualifications, teaching certifications (QTS), or SENCO experience. We select for both credentials and genuine understanding—someone who recognises that behaviour often signals unmet learning needs.
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Can you support complex or multiple SEND needs?
Absolutely. Many of our students have overlapping conditions—dyslexia with ADHD, autism with anxiety, multiple learning differences combined. We match tutors experienced in layered challenges who can adapt holistically rather than addressing each need in isolation.
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What if my child has had negative experiences with tutors before?
This is common. Previous tutors may have lacked SEND training or misunderstood your child’s needs. The difference is specialist matching—when a tutor genuinely understands your child’s learning profile and has the training to adapt appropriately, tutoring becomes supportive rather than stressful.
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How do you work with schools and SENCOs?
We complement school provision, not replace it. With parental permission, we communicate with SENCOs to ensure consistent approaches. Many families use us to provide additional support that schools can’t resource, or to bridge gaps during EHCP processes or school transitions.
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Can tutoring help with EHCP applications and appeals?
Yes. Our educational consultants provide expert guidance through EHCP applications, annual reviews, and tribunal processes. We help families articulate needs clearly, gather supporting evidence, and challenge inadequate provision. Many families work with us for both tutoring and EHCP support simultaneously.
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Do you provide online or in-person tutoring?
Both. Some SEND students focus better in their own controlled environment online. Others need in-person connection and hands-on resources. Many alternate based on the day’s energy levels or specific lesson content. We prioritise what works for each student.