Laura Spencer
Knowle,Solihull
Summary
A dedicated and qualified educator with expertise in teaching English Language and Literature across KS3, KS4, and KS5, with the added ability of being able to teach History.
Demonstrates professionalism and respect in all aspects of practice, with a proven ability to deliver challenging and engaging lessons that promote literacy across the curriculum. Skilled in using diagnostic assessment procedures to inform teaching strategies, consistently maintaining high expectations for all learners. Committed to fostering academic excellence through innovative teaching methods tailored to diverse student needs.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
6042
6042
years of post-secondary education
Work history
English Lead Practitioner
Lyndon School
Solihull, West Midlands
09.2018 - Current
- Led curriculum development initiatives to enhance teaching methodologies, curriculum design, and student engagement across all key stages.
- Appointed Head of English for two academic years (maternity cover).
- Secured senior leadership secondment to develop and enhance whole-school teaching and learning strategies.
- Consistently achieved outstanding Year 11 English Language and Literature outcomes.
- Delivered regular whole-school CPD on INSET days and after school, focusing on teaching and learning, pedagogy, and literacy.
- Designed and implemented the Academic Advancement Programme to improve outcomes for high-ability learners through a challenge-for-all approach.
- Acted as annual mentor for English trainees and Early Career Teachers (ECTs).
- Mentored junior staff through collaborative teaching, professional development workshops, and sustained coaching in effective teaching strategies and best practice.
- Developed, reviewed, and implemented assessment strategies and frameworks aligned with national standards to evaluate progress and inform instruction.
- Collaborated with colleagues to analyse student performance data and inform instructional decision-making.
- Coordinated interdisciplinary projects to enrich learning experiences and promote cross-curricular collaboration.
- Promoted a culture of high expectations and continuous improvement within the English department.
- Engaged with parents and the wider community to support literacy initiatives and programmes.
Team Leader for English Literature AQA
AQA
Solihull, West Midlands
01.2016 - 08.2020
- Assessed English Literature examination responses in line with established marking criteria, ensuring accurate grade allocation and strict adherence to examination regulations.
- Collaborated with examiner teams to standardise marking, maintain consistency, and uphold assessment quality and integrity.
- Trained and supported new examiners in evaluation methods and best practice.
- Contributed to quality assurance processes to maintain high marking standards.
- Produced detailed examiner reports analysing overall candidate performance trends.
- Demonstrated strong organisational skills by managing multiple examinations concurrently.
English Teacher
Whitley Academy
Coventry, West Midlands
09.2015 - 08.2018
- Completed School Direct teacher training programme and Early Career Teacher (ECT) year.
- Secured a TLR to design and implement a new KS3 tutor programme.
- Planned and delivered engaging lessons that enhanced student learning.
- Fostered a positive, inclusive classroom environment promoting participation and collaboration.
- Assessed and monitored progress through regular feedback and targeted support.
- Acted as a trainee mentor.
- Developed effective revision strategies that improved examination outcomes.
- Maintained high behaviour standards to ensure an optimal learning environment.
- Supported the planning and delivery of whole-school events to strengthen school culture and cohesion.
- Supervised and participated in extracurricular and school activities to enhance student and community engagement.
- Provided targeted support for underachieving students, leading to significant grade improvements.
- Collaborated with colleagues on curriculum development to ensure consistency across year groups.
- Adapted teaching approaches to meet individual student needs and promote academic progress.
- Communicated regularly with parents to support progress tracking.
- Engaged in ongoing professional development to remain up to date with educational practice.
Higher Level Teaching Assistant
Alderbrook School
Solihull, West Midlands
09.2014 - 08.2015
- Facilitated structured group discussions to strengthen understanding of English Language and Literature.
- Supported effective classroom management through consistent behaviour strategies.
- Collaborated with teachers to create inclusive learning environments for all learners.
- Delivered targeted intervention sessions to develop students' English reading and writing skills.
- Provided focused support for key SEN students to enable progress in the English classroom.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Joint Honours English and History
Loughborough University
Solihull September 2011 - 08.2014
Bachelor of Arts - Joint Honours English and History
Loughborough University
Loughborough September 2011 - 08.2014
A-Levels -
Solihull School
Solihull September 2009 - 08.2011
Skills
- Professionalism and respect in all aspects of practice
- Use of diagnostic assessment procedures to inform teaching
- Promotion of literacy across the curriculum
- Excellent teaching of English Language and Literature
- Qualified to teach KS3, KS4, and KS5 English and History
- Consistently high expectations of all learners
- Delivery of challenging and engaging lessons
Affiliations
- I enjoy going to the gym and travelling, both of which reflect my commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and broadening my cultural awareness. I value staying active and engaged, and I am always keen to take on new experiences and challenges.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
English Lead Practitioner
Lyndon School
09.2018 - Current
Team Leader for English Literature AQA
AQA
01.2016 - 08.2020
English Teacher
Whitley Academy
09.2015 - 08.2018
Higher Level Teaching Assistant
Alderbrook School
09.2014 - 08.2015
Bachelor of Arts - Joint Honours English and History
Loughborough University
September 2011 - 08.2014
Bachelor of Arts - Joint Honours English and History
Loughborough University
September 2011 - 08.2014
A-Levels -
Solihull School
September 2009 - 08.2011