Holiday Courses

• 1.5 hr hour online lessons

• Max 5 students

• £35 per 1.5 hr lesson

Why Glowfly for ISEB pretest and 11+ and 13+ Prep?

The 11+, 13+, and ISEB Pre-Test aren’t just exams. They’re a system – and you need someone who knows it inside out.

Most tutors teach the curriculum. Lisa teaches the child.

With deep expertise across the UK Maths and English curriculum from Year 4 to Year 9, Lisa doesn’t just cover the syllabus – she extends it, stretching students to the highest level so that nothing in the exam room catches them off guard.

And she knows these tests inside out – every aspect. The ISEB Pre-Test. Any 11+ or 13+ exam format for any school. The digital formats and the paper ones. The differences between them, the similarities, and – crucially – exactly how to move a score.

This isn’t generic tutoring. It’s specialist preparation, from someone who has guided families through every stage of this process – and knows what it actually takes to succeed.

• July 27th
  Session 1 9am (BST) 11+/ISEB Style English Grammar and Punctuation: Sentence types, Tenses, Punctuation, Parts of speech, Clauses and conjunctions Test specific style of application practice
  Session 2 July 27th 12pm  (BST)11+/ISEB Style Verbal Reasoning: Word construction, Letter & Word Manipulation, Word Meaning and Vocabulary, Relationship and Logic Test specific style of application practice
• July 28th
  Session 1 9am (BST) 11+/ISEB Style 11+ Maths –  Number & Place Value: Place Value, Ordering and Comparing, Rounding, Negative Numbers, Powers and Roots,  Factors, Multiples and Primes,  BIDMAS – order of operation, divisibility rules.  Test specific style of application practice
  Session 2 11:30 am (BST)  11+/ISEB Style 11+ Maths –  Fractions: Recognising and writing fractions · Equivalence, comparison, ordering fractions · Adding, subtracting, Multiplying and Dividing fractions · Fractions of quantities · Problem solving involving fractions. Test specific style of application practice

• July 29th
  Session 1 9am (BST) 11+/ISEB Style Decimals: Place value in decimals · Comparing, ordering and rounding decimals · Adding, subtracting, Multiplying and Dividing decimals · Converting between fractions and decimals. Multi-step problem solving · Real-world contexts. Test specific style of application practice
  Session 2 11:30am (BST) 11+/ISEB Style Percentages: Core concepts, key calculations, increase and decrease, Equivalence (FDP), Reverse %, expressing a % as a quantity of another, word problems Test specific style of application practice
• July 30th
  11+/ISEB Pre-test Style NVR Techniques Day!
  Session 1: 9am (BST) Session 1 2D Pattern Recognition
  Session 2: 11:30 (BST) Session 2 NVR 2D Manipulation
  Session 3: 2:30pm (BST) Session 3 NVR Spatial Reasoning
• August 10th
  CAT4 Day!
  Session 1 9am (BST) CAT4 Quantitative Reasoning Battery: Number Analogies and Series
  Session 2 11:30am CAT4 Spatial Ability Battery Figure Analysis and Recognition session
  Session 3 2:30pm CAT4 Verbal Reasoning Battery – Verbal Classification and Analogies Test specific style of application practice
• August 11th
  Session 1 9am (BST) 11+/ ISEB Pre-test style –  Geometry Area and perimeter of 2D shapes, Properties of 2D and 3D shapes, Angles
  Session 2 11:30 am (BST) 11+/ISEB Pretest style Ratio and Proportion: Simplifying and sharing, direct proportion, inverse proportion, unitary method, recipe word problems, converting to fractions and percentages, advanced applications
• August 12th
  11+/ISEB Pre-test Style NVR Techniques Day!
  Session 1 9am (BST) Session 1 2D Pattern Recognition
  Session 2 11:30 (BST) Session 2 NVR 2D Manipulation
  Session 3 2:30pm (BST) Session 3 NVR Spatial Reasoning
• August 13th
  11+ and 13+ English Paper Tests
  Session 1 9am (BST) 11+ and 13+ Stage 2 Creative Writing for Paper Tests
  Session 2 1pm (BST) 11+ and 13+ Stage 2 Written Comprehension for Paper Tests
• August 14th
  11+ Maths – Algebra Skills for Digital and Paper Tests
  Session 1 9am Algebra 1:  Foundation Concepts – Variables and unknowns, terms and expressions, function machines, balancing equations (missing numbers),  number sequences, formulae – substitution, simple algebraic representation, pre-algebra (working backwards), word problems
  Session 2 11:30am – Algebra 2: Advanced algebra Skills – High Stakes Paper Tests
  The language of algebra (terms, variables, constants, expressions, etc), simple formulae, substitution, notation – forming expressions, forming equations, solving simple equations, solving equations with two variables, brackets in algebra, dealing with fractions and indices

English A – Literature

Three Sessions: 13, 17 and 20 August, pm
(suggested time 14.00 – 15.00 UK time, but there could be some flexibility)

Session 1: Roadmap

1. Stepping Up: Transition from Key Stage 4 to IB Diploma Programme.
2. Holistic vision of English in IBDP: ethos, Learner Profile, Learner Portfolio
3. Overview of English A Literature: Paper 1, Paper 2, Individual Oral, HL Essay; Extended Essay in English

Session 2: Preparation for Assessment 1

1. Paper 1 Guided Analysis – skills for tackling an unseen text; understanding Assessment Criteria

Session 3: Preparation for Assessment 2

1. Paper 2 Comparative Essay, tackling the question, understanding Assessment Criteria
2. Guidance on Individual Oral – global issues, choices of texts, structure, understanding Assessment Criteria

Doug brings exceptional depth and breadth to his teaching of History and Politics. A UK-qualified educator with a BA (Hons) in History and a PGCE in Secondary History, he has spent over 15 years teaching GCSE and A Level across both the state and private sectors, earning recognition as an Advanced Skills Teacher and BT Secondary Teacher of the Year for the Northeast. He has held senior leadership roles throughout his career, previously as Head of History and currently as Head of Politics, and actively shapes the subject at a national level as a current Edexcel Examiner for A Level Politics. Students on this summer course will benefit not only from Doug’s academic expertise but from the insight of someone who knows exactly how the very highest marks are awarded.

Edexcel A Level Politics

Masterclass for consolidation and exam technique

• 17 August 11am (BST) Paper One UK Politics
  Content review and exam masterclass
• 18 August 11am (BST) Paper Two UK Government
  Content review and exam masterclass
• 19 August 11am (BST) Core ideologies
  Review of ideologies and a bridge to Year 13

A UK educated teacher of Biology and Dr of Palaeobiology, Federica has taught IB for 18 years and is currently responsible for overseeing the IB programme in her current school. She is an examiner for Bio HL Paper 2 and Biology IA Two.

Preparation for DP1, starting and being ahead.

• Content – Basic Science skills (especially good for those that did not do GCSEs), basic research skills, what is Theory of Knowledge, how to cite and reference, carrying out research and an intro to CAS.
• When – 20th August 9am and 1pm  (BST)
• Audience – students starting DP1 in September

The DP science IA criteria unpacked

• Content – what an examiner sees when reading an internal written by an unknown student
• When – 21st August 9am and 1pm BST
• Audience – ALL DP students preparing the final drafts of their science IAs

Artificial Intelligence and Academic Integrity: A Moderator’s Perspective

With AI tools now embedded in student life, the line between legitimate use and academic misconduct has become genuinely unclear — and the consequences of crossing it are serious. This session, led by Federica in her capacity as an IB examiner and moderator, cuts through the confusion.

Rather than a set of rules to memorise, this is an honest conversation about how submitted work is actually read, what flags concern an examiner, and where the boundaries of acceptable AI use currently sit in the IB Diploma Programme. Students leave with a clear, practical understanding of how to protect their own academic integrity — in their IAs, their Extended Essay, and beyond.

• When – 21st August
• Audience – DP1 and DP2 students
• Duration – 1 hour
• Price – £35

Algebra Bootcamp: Bridging GCSE to A-Level Maths

Aimed at GCSE students who’ve chosen to study A-Level Maths in September but feel their algebra needs shoring up before they start. Five 90-minute lessons covering the core algebraic skills A-Level assumes are already secure, each with worked examples, practice questions, and an exam-style mixed set.

Proposed schedule (10:00–11:30 daily):

Monday 24th August – Lesson 1: Algebraic Manipulation Foundations (simplifying, laws of indices, expanding and factorising)

Tuesday 25th August – Lesson 2: Equations and Inequalities (linear and quadratic equations, completing the square, inequalities)

Wednesday 26th August – Lesson 3: Simultaneous Equations and Surds (linear-quadratic simultaneous equations, surd simplification and rationalising)

Thursday 27th August – Lesson 4: Algebraic Fractions and Functions (operations on algebraic fractions, function notation, composite/inverse functions)

Friday 28th August – Lesson 5: Graphs, Gradients and Bridging to A-Level (straight lines, quadratic/cubic graphs, gradient as rate of change, mixed diagnostic)

Biological Molecules

This scheme of learning is designed to introduce and consolidate the key concepts within the Biological Molecules topic of the AQA A Level Biology specification. Students will develop a secure understanding of the structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, enzymes, nucleic acids, ATP, water and inorganic ions. Each lesson will combine the teaching of biological content with application activities and A Level examination questions to develop the analytical, mathematical and extended-writing skills required for success at A Level.

Lesson 1: Carbohydrates
28^th July 5:30pm – 7pm BTS

Specification Content

• Monosaccharides
• Disaccharides
• Polysaccharides
• Glycosidic bonds
• Condensation and hydrolysis reactions
• Structure and function of carbohydrates

Learning Objectives

• Describe the structure of monosaccharides, disaccharides and polysaccharides.
• Explain the formation and breakdown of glycosidic bonds.
• Compare starch, glycogen and cellulose.

Lesson 2: Lipids
30^th July 5:30pm – 7pm BTS

Specification Content

• Triglycerides
• Glycerol and fatty acids
• Ester bonds
• Saturated and unsaturated lipids
• Functions of lipids

Learning Objectives

• Describe the structure of triglycerides.
• Explain the formation of ester bonds.
• Compare saturated and unsaturated fatty acids.
• Explain the biological importance of lipids.

Lesson 3: Proteins and Enzymes
4^th  August 5:30pm – 7pm BTS

Specification Content

• Amino acids
• Peptide bonds
• Protein structure
• Enzyme action
• Factors affecting enzyme activity

Learning Objectives

• Describe the structure of amino acids.
• Explain peptide bond formation.
• Describe primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary protein structures.
• Explain factors affecting enzyme activity.

Lesson 4: Nucleic Acids and ATP
6^th  August 5:30pm – 7pm BTS

Specification Content

• Structure of nucleotides
• DNA
• RNA
• ATP structure and function

Learning Objectives

• Describe the structure of nucleotides.
• Compare DNA and RNA.
• Explain the role of ATP as the universal energy source.

Lesson 5: Water, Inorganic Ions
11^th  August 5:30pm – 7pm BTS

Specification Content

• Properties of water
• Biological significance of water

Learning Objectives

• Explain the biological importance of water.
• Describe the polarity of water.
• Apply knowledge from across the Biological Molecules topic.

AQA GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy – Homeostasis and Response

This series of lessons will provide focused revision of one of the more challenging units within the AQA GCSE Combined Science (Biology) specification: Homeostasis and Response. Students will consolidate their understanding of key biological concepts while developing the examination skills required for success at GCSE. Each lesson will incorporate retrieval practice, GCSE-style exam questions, and explicit teaching of exam technique, enabling students to improve their ability to apply scientific knowledge, analyse data, and construct high-quality responses. The overall aim is to build both subject knowledge and confidence in tackling examination questions on this demanding topic area.

Lesson 1: Homeostasis and the Nervous System
28^th July 3:00pm – 4:30pm BTS

Specification Content

• Homeostasis
• Coordination and control
• The nervous system
• Reflex actions
• Investigating reaction time require practical

Learning Objectives

• Define homeostasis and explain its importance.
• Describe the roles of receptors, coordinators and effectors.
• Explain the reflex arc and its role in maintaining homeostasis.

Lesson 2: Hormones and the Endocrine System
30^th July 3:00pm – 4:30pm BTS

Specification Content

• Endocrine system
• Hormones
• Adrenaline
• Thyroxine

Learning Objectives

• Describe the endocrine system and its function.
• Compare nervous and hormonal communication.
• Explain the roles of adrenaline and thyroxine.

Lesson 3: Blood Glucose Regulation and Diabetes
4^th  August 3:00pm – 4:30pm  BTS

Specification Content

• Control of blood glucose concentration
• Insulin and glucagon
• Diabetes

Learning Objectives

• Explain how blood glucose concentration is controlled.
• Describe the roles of insulin and glucagon.
• Compare Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

Lesson 4: The menstrual cycle
6^th  August 3:00pm – 4:30pm BTS

Specification Content

• Hormonal control of reproduction

Learning Objectives

• Describe the hormonal control of the menstrual cycle.
• Describe examples of negative feedback
• Interpret data on the interaction of hormones in the menstrual cycle

Edexcel GCSE Biology

Each lesson will combine the delivery of key biological content with a strong focus on GCSE-style exam questions. Students will develop their understanding of the specification while simultaneously improving their examination technique, including interpreting command words, structuring extended responses, and applying scientific knowledge to unfamiliar contexts. This approach is designed to support a smooth transition from Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 4 and build confidence in tackling GCSE assessment requirements from the outset.

Lesson 1: Cell Structure and Function
28^th July 12:30pm – 2:00pm BTS

Specification Links

• 1 Cell structures and functions
• 2 Specialised cells
• 3 Levels of organisation

Learning Objectives

• Describe the structure of animal, plant and bacterial cells.
• Compare eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.
• Explain how cell structures are adapted to their functions.

Lesson 2: Specialised Cells and Microscopy
30^th July 12:30pm – 2:00pm BTS

Specification Links

• 2 Adaptations of specialised cells
• 4 Microscopy
• 5 Magnification calculations
• 6 Using microscopes required practical

Learning Objectives

• Explain adaptations of specialised cells.
• Use the magnification equation.
• Interpret microscope images.
• Interpret microscopes required method

Lesson 3: Enzymes
4^th  August 12:30pm – 2:00pm BTS

Specification Links

• 7–1.12 Enzymes and factors affecting activity including the required practical and calculating rates

Learning Objectives

• Describe enzyme action.
• Explain the lock-and-key theory.
• Investigate factors affecting enzyme activity.
• Enzymes required practical

Lesson 4: Diffusion, Osmosis and active transport
6^th  August 12:30pm – 2:00pm BTS

Specification Links

• 15 Diffusion
• 15 Factors affecting diffusion
• 15 Osmosis
• 15 Active transport

Learning Objectives

• Define diffusion, active transport and osmosis.
• Explain movement across membranes.
• Compare diffusion, active transport and osmosis
• Explain factors that affect the rate of transport methods

Lesson 5: Active Transport and Assessment
11^th  August 12:30pm – 2:00pm BTS

Specification Links

• 16 – 1.17 Osmosis required practical
• Apply knowledge to GCSE exam questions.

Learning Objectives

• Design a method for the osmosis required practical
• Identify the variables
• Calculate percentage change in mass
• Consolidation of the 5-week course applying biological concepts to GCSE examination questions.

GL Assessment Science

Unit Overview

This programme is designed to prepare students for GL Assessment Science examinations by developing their knowledge and understanding across Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Lessons will focus on core scientific concepts alongside the development of scientific reasoning, problem-solving, data analysis and examination skills. Students will engage with a range of GL-style questions, including multiple-choice, short-answer and application-based tasks, to build confidence and improve performance.

Lesson 1: Working Scientifically and Scientific Skills
28th July 10:00am – 11:30am BTS

Learning Objectives

• Understand how scientific investigations are designed and carried out.
• Identify independent, dependent and control variables.
• Interpret scientific data and graphical information.
• Develop strategies for answering GL-style questions.

Lesson 2: Cells and Human Biology
30th July 10:00am – 11:30am BTS

Learning Objectives

• Describe the structure and function of cells.
• Explain the organisation of living organisms.
• Understand major human organ systems.

Lesson 3: Matter and Chemical Reactions
4th August 10:00am – 11:30am BTS

Learning Objectives

• Describe the particle model.
• Explain changes of state.
• Identify evidence of chemical reactions.
• Interpret chemistry data.

Lesson 4: Forces, Energy and Electricity
6th  August 10:00am – 11:30am BTS

Learning Objectives

• Explain different types of forces.
• Describe energy transfers.
• Interpret simple electrical circuits.

Teresa is a UK-qualified Mathematics specialist with a BSc (Hons) in Mathematics and a PGCE in Secondary Mathematics, and twenty years’ experience at a top-tier independent school in the South West. She teaches the full range from 11+ to A Level – including Statistics and Mechanics – and brings rare insider knowledge as a marker for a leading independent school’s entrance exams. Accredited by the British Dyslexia Association and holding a Level 5 qualification in Dyscalculia and Maths Difficulties, Teresa is committed to inclusive teaching that supports every learner; she is currently completing a Level 7 qualification in the Screening, Assessment, and Support of Dyscalculia and Maths Learning Difficulties.

24th August 10am (BST) Session 1 Algebra & Functions

A strong algebra foundation is essential for success in Year 11. This session revisits and strengthens:

• simplifying and manipulating algebraic expressions
• indices, including negative and fractional powers
• expanding and factorising (including quadratics)
• solving quadratic equations

25th August 10am (BST) Session 2 Graphs: Linear, Quadratic, Cubic & Reciprocal

Students learn how to interpret, sketch, and analyse the graphs that appear frequently in IGCSE exams. We cover:

• gradients, intercepts, and equations of straight lines
• quadratic graphs: roots, turning points and symmetry
• Using graphs to solve simultaneous equations

26th August 10am (BST) Session 3 Number & Proportion

A high‑yield session focusing on the number skills that often cause marks to be lost. We cover:

• reverse percentages
• compound interest and depreciation
• ratio and proportion in multi‑step problems
• standard form
• upper and lower bounds, error intervals, and significant figures

27th August 10am (BST) Session 4 Geometry, Right Angled Trigonometry & Similarity

This session strengthens the geometry and trigonometry skills that become more demanding in Year 11. We cover:

• Pythagoras and trigonometry in 2D and 3D
• Similar Shapes
• Surface area and Volume including Scale Factors

Key Features:

• Delivered live via Zoom
• Interactive modelling using OneNote.
• Clear explanations with visual scaffolding
• Exam‑style questions woven into every session

By the end of the four sessions, students will:

• Feel more confident and prepared for Year 11
• Have strengthened the core skills needed for IGCSE success
• Start the new school year with momentum, clarity, and confidence

Helen is a UK-qualified English specialist with a BA (Hons) in English Literature and a PGCE in Secondary English Education, currently teaching across the full range from 11+ to A Level. Rated Outstanding by Ofsted, she has held curriculum leadership roles as Head of English, Leader of Literacy, and member of the Literacy Action Group. As a current AQA GCSE Examiner in English Literature and a qualified Cambridge Assessor of Speaking and Listening, Helen brings active examining experience that gives her students a genuine advantage –  she knows precisely what examiners expect at every level. Her teaching spans IGCSE and GCSE Language and Literature through to A Level English Literature, and she has a proven track record of outstanding results across the full ability range, from students who need targeted support to those pushing for the very highest grades. She is committed to continuous professional development, ensuring her practice remains current and responsive to every learner she works with.

Students about to enter Y10 September 2026

Is your child starting Year 10 in September? The jump from Year 9 to GCSE can feel sudden –  and the students who hit the ground running are almost always those who’ve had a head start. A few focused sessions with Helen over the summer can sharpen the core skills in English Language and Literature that examiners reward, build confidence before the course begins, and set the tone for two successful years ahead.

Bridging the Gap between KS3 and GCSE:

• Monday 20th July – 10am (BST) – An Introduction to IGCSE English Language
• Tuesday 21st July – 10am (BST) – ⁠An Introduction to GCSE English Language with focus on AQA and Edexcel exam boards
• Wednesday 22nd July – 10am (BST) – ⁠An Introduction to Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ – preparation for GCSE Literature
• Thursday 23rd July – 10am (BST) ⁠An Introduction to J.B. Priestley’s ‘An Inspector Calls’ – preparation for GCSE Literature
• Students about to start Y11 September 2026 – unhappy with Y10 mock grades?
• Monday 3rd August 10am – Y11 (BST) Reaching for an 8 or 9 in GCSE English Language – focus on AQA
• Tuesday 4th August 10am⁠ – Y11 (BST) Reaching for an 8 or 9 in GCSE English Literature – with key focus on ‘Macbeth’ and ‘An Inspector Calls’
• Wednesday 5th August 10am – ⁠Y11(BST) Reaching for an 8 or 9 at GCSE English Literature – with key focus on poetry
• Thursday 6th August 10am – ⁠Y11(BST) Reaching for an 8 or 9 at IGCSE English Literature – with a key focus on the Poetry Anthology and ‘Of Mice and Men’

• English Literature and Language teacher
• 10 years + of teaching experience.
• Literature examiner so valuable mark scheme insight
• Particular strength : helping learners who require additional support to pass

Romeo and Juliet

3rd August

Romeo and Juliet – Theme and Character

Lesson 1 – 9am–10:30am
Love and Conflict: How Shakespeare Turns Passion into Tragedy – Exploring how love and violence are intertwined throughout the play.

Lesson 2 – 10:45–12:15pm
Romeo: Impulsive Youth or Doomed Romantic? A character study of Romeo’s motivations, flaws, and emotional intensity.

Lesson 3 – 12:45–2:15
Juliet’s Journey: From Obedient Daughter to Defiant Heroine – Tracking Juliet’s development and her challenge to family and society.

Lesson 4 – 2:30–4:00
Fate vs Free Will: Who Really Controls the Tragedy. A thematic investigation into destiny, choice, and the role of the stars.

Lesson 5 – 4:15–5:45
The Power of Family and Honour: The Montagues, Capulets, and the Cost of Loyalty. Analysing how family expectations fuel conflict and shape character decisions.

An Inspector Calls Revision: Theme and Character

10th August

Lesson 1 – 9am–10:30
Responsibility on Trial: How Priestley Exposes Moral Failure – A thematic deep dive into personal vs collective responsibility, using key character moments.

Lesson 2 – 10:45–12:15
Sheila Birling: From Naïve Daughter to Social Conscience – Exploring Sheila’s transformation and how she becomes Priestley’s moral voice.

Lesson 3 – 12:45–2:15
Power, Class, and Privilege: The Birlings Under the Microscope – Analysing how class structures shape the characters’ actions and Priestley’s message.

Lesson 4 – 14:30–16:00
The Inspector as Priestley’s Voice: A Catalyst for Change, understanding the Inspector’s role, symbolism, and dramatic function.

Lesson 5 – 4:15–5:45
Gender and Expectations: How Women Are Treated in 1912 Society – A thematic look at gender roles through Eva Smith, Sheila, and Sybil.

Y6 to Y7 Summer Curriculum English Transition Course

The move from primary to secondary school is one of the most significant transitions in a child’s education – and English is where that shift is felt most sharply. The pace quickens, the texts become more challenging, and expectations around writing, analysis, and independent thinking rise considerably. This course is designed to bridge that gap, giving Year 6 students a confident, well-prepared start to secondary English before they set foot in the classroom. Working with an experienced Y7 secondary specialist, students will strengthen their reading comprehension, develop their writing skills across different forms, and begin to engage with texts in the more analytical way that secondary school demands – so that September feels like a natural next step, not a steep climb.

30th July – *Lesson 1: exploring descriptive writing*

We explore how writers create vivid descriptions using sensory language, similes, metaphors, imagery, personification and powerful adjectives and verbs. Students analyse extracts and apply these techniques to their own descriptions.

6th August – *Lesson 2: Analysing Narrative Writing Techniques*

We examine how writers structure narratives to engage readers. Including openings, hooks, character introduction, building tension and tone. Students analyse extracts and discuss how language and structure shape meaning.

13th August – *Lesson 3: language analysis and analytical responses*

We develop analytical skills by learning how to identify techniques, select quotations, explain effects and write evidence based analytical paragraphs.

20th August – *Lesson 4- Crafting Effective Description and Narrative Writing*

Students combine their skills to write an extended piece focusing on atmosphere, structure, character, vocabulary and literary techniques.