Olivia J
I am a Professional Oppidan Mentor and trained teacher with a love for all things art and music related.
Education
Stellenbosch University - Bachelor of Arts in Humanities English & Psychology (majors), Philosophy (minor) University of Cape Town - Post Graduate Certificate in Education (Foundation Phase)
Bio
I am a vibrant, fun South African (everyone calls me 'Livvy') with a passion for the education and care of young people. I have a wide range of skills and experience, specifically involving Early Years, 11+, SEN, English up to Year 10, Humanities, and Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 (including STEM subjects). Since 2019, I have gained experience working in both a pastoral and academic capacity with children of all ages, as well as Nursery Years up to Year 10. Incorporating warmth, humour, compassion and fun into my sessions is key!
After earning my PGCE in Foundation Phase from the University of Cape Town in 2019, I embarked on a journey in the UK, starting as a supply teacher and SEN support. This role provided me with diverse teaching experiences across various environments and age groups.
Alongside teaching, I honed my skills as a childcare specialist, collaborating with families to enhance effective communication with their children. As a full-time class teacher in London from 2021 to 2023, I taught Years 1-3, led Mathematics in Year 2, and headed the Junior Performing Arts Club. I love infusing visual arts, performing arts, and humor into my lessons and mentoring sessions, creating a vibrant and engaging learning atmosphere for my young learners.
Approach
I believe that children learn and evolve in an environment to a greater degree if they are happy - and that is what I aim to achieve with each young person I encounter. I pride myself in consistently striving to provide a safe, happy and warm space for children to grow and develop, whilst maintaining necessary boundaries to promote healthy and effective learning and relationships.
I enjoy incorporating some humour into my teaching and mentoring as I am a firm believer that one should laugh at least 24 times a day - it's good for us! Additionally, I intend on meeting all my mentee's needs to my best ability, both supporting and extending them appropriately - no child is the same, thus I curate each session for that specific mentee.
What parents say
"Livvy has developed a wonderful relationship with my daughter over the past three years. She displays wonderful empathy and works in ways to bring out both the confidence and strengths of the children she works with." - Parent of Y5 student, December 2023