Skill Builders

Year 9-10 English

Our Skill Builders program for Year 9 and Year 10 students builds on the foundational English skills developed in earlier years. Through exposure to complex texts, diverse literary forms, and advanced writing tasks, students learn to interpret themes, evaluate arguments, and articular sophisticated insights. Designed as a crucial bridge to Year 11, this tailored program ensures students are confident and well-equipped with the skills needed for success in senior English.
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Program Highlights

Advanced Reading Comprehension
Students engage with complex texts across various genres, developing skills in analysing themes, character development, and authorial techniques as required by the NESA syllabus.
Comparative Study
Introducing students to comparative analysis, this component helps them evaluate and contrast themes, contexts, and perspectives across different texts, fostering critical thinking skills essential for senior studies.
Module Studies
Aligned with NESA's module-based learning, students delve into focused areas of study, such as exploring representations of identity, culture, and values in literature, enhancing their analytical and interpretive skills.
Essay Writing Mastery
Building on foundational skills, students learn to structure sophisticated arguments, develop strong thesis statements, and integrate textual evidence effectively, preparing for high-level assessments.
Exam Preparation and Time Management
Preparing for senior exams, students practice timed responses, study techniques, and strategic planning, equipping them to handle exam pressures with confidence.

What's Included?

One-on-One Weekly Session
Comprehensive Resources
Individual Tutor Support and Feedback
Weekly Writing Tasks and Quizzes
Our tutors combine experience, insight, and personalised support to help you achieve your academic goals.
Fiona
Fiona, our Principal Tutor at GSA, has over 6 years of English tutoring experience and a proven track record of helping students achieve full mark essays and Band 6 HSC results. As the top student in her cohort (99.50 ATAR), Fiona brings both expertise and a passion for teaching, inspiring students to reach their full potential. Her tailored approach pushes students to excel, building their confidence and skills in English. Dedicated and results-driven, Fiona is committed to helping each student succeed, making her an invaluable mentor and guide.
Aden
Aden, a Physiotherapy student at UNSW, brings a relatable and inspiring perspective to mastering English. His passion lies in helping students unlock their full potential, combining academic growth with a newfound appreciation for the subject. Aden’s teaching style is all about building confidence, sharpening skills, and making English not just a subject to master but one to enjoy. With a supportive and professional approach, Aden creates a positive, engaging learning environment where students feel empowered to achieve their goals.
Namo
Namo is a second-year student at UNSW, pursuing a dual degree in Actuarial Studies and Finance. His journey with English has been one of transformation. Initially struggling with essay writing and lacking confidence, Namo’s determination and support from skilled tutors helped him turn a challenge into his strength. Over time, English became more than just a subject—it became a passion he prioritised. Drawing from his own experiences, Namo is now committed to helping others build confidence, master the subject, and discover their own love for English.

What our students and parents say

Working with Aden enhanced my english grades at school significantly. In class Aden is well approached towards making me fully understand something I don't know, he also works very hard out of class while editing my work and giving me feedback over text. I think that Aden is a suitable tutor for everyone that needs to further improve their studies towards english. My english grades at school improved dramatically after taking his lessons as he helps me with my preparations for my assessment tasks during well scheduled lessons.
Max W. (Year 9 student)
When I initially started, my marks were around the C–D range. However, after a few years with Fiona, I am now consistently in the B–A range. Not only have I noticed an improvement in my English, but my writing in other subjects has also significantly improved, allowing me to construct more cohesive and understandable sentences.
Toby W. (Year 12 Standard student)
Fiona has guided me with expert knowledge of the overall skills of writing which helped me improve my overall marks in the subject. I would definitely recommend taking this tutoring service as it provides detailed information for what you may be learning.
Cyrus C. (Year 10 student)
Fiona has been super helpful in building my confidence in English essay writing since I started earlier this year. It has been really useful to have some guidance when preparing for assessments, and I have already seen improvements in my grades. Highly recommend Fiona for English tutoring!!
Gabriella S. (Year 12 Advanced student)
Gold Standard Academy has been extremely beneficial for my skills in English. Starting year 12, my English grades had started to drop and I was feeling as if I was falling behind, and so I decided to join the Academy in term 2. Upon joining, I quickly started to become more confident in my writing, and had begun to see an improvement in my grades. Fiona has been instrumental in my progress, and she is an amazing tutor who is sincere in her work. Gold Standard Academy has definitely helped me enjoy English more and I highly recommend it if you are considering tutoring for English.
Ivanka T. (Year 12 Advanced student)
I used to not be very confident With English but ever since I've joined, it's been such a great experience and I feel much more confident such as PEEL paragraphs and much more.
Selina C. (Year 7 student)
Working with Miss Fiona has been incredibly beneficial, and she's also been a fantastic support system. I've seen a significant improvement in my English abilities thanks to her guidance. It's been invaluable to have someone with such a strong understanding of the HSC English curriculum to help me navigate the course, especially knowing I have her support. I feel much more confident and prepared as a result of our sessions.
Ayesha M. (Year 12 EXT1 student)
GSA is the most organised english tutoring centre in Sydney, Fiona is the best and most understanding. Fiona also assists with school assesments and homework.
Nixon N. (Year 10 student)
Fiona really helped me develop a better understanding in writing my short answer and essay analysis, i honestly would've struggled a lot if it was not for her help.
Anjali R. (Year 12 Standard student)
I was failing English and super confused with how to analyse texts and the simple structures of essays. Through Fiona’s help English changed from the subject I struggled with the most to the subject I was most confident in and actually looked forward to studying!
Imogen W. (2023 graduate)
My two children have each been students for a few years. The value that Fiona has provided to them, helping them with their English across many subjects, has been exceptional. Fiona is very organized, well across the various curriculum grades and supportive. Highly recommended.
Lesley D. (Parent)
Under Gold Standard Academy guidance, I improved my English writing skills dramatically! I love how they are able to tailor to each student's needs. Forever grateful :)
Lewis R. (2022 graduate)
Gold Standard Academy played a significant role in my English Advanced studies during my senior year of high school. With Fiona’s expert guidance and support, I was able to achieve my full potential and excel in my exams. I highly recommend their tutoring services to any high school student looking to succeed!
Annabelle M. (2023 graduate)

Subjects We Teach

Language Starters
English Year 7-8
Our Language Starters program for Year 7 and 8 students focuses on building essential English skills that prepare them for academic success.
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Critical Thinkers
English Year 11
Our Critical Thinkers program for Year 11 prepares students for the advanced challenges of senior English.
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Text Masters
English Year 12
Our Text Masters program for Year 12 is designed to equip students with the expertise needed to excel in their HSC English studies.
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FAQs

What age groups or year levels do you tutor?

We provide specialised English tutoring for students in Years 7 to 12, helping them build strong foundational skills, master the NSW English syllabus, and excel in HSC English.

Are your lessons aligned with the NSW syllabus?

Yes, all our lessons are carefully aligned with the NSW English syllabus. ensuring students are fully prepared for school assessments, exams, and HSC English requirements.

How do you personalise tutoring to meet individual student needs?

We start with an Introductory Lesson to assess each student’s strengths, weaknesses, and learning style. Our English tutors then design personalised lesson plans aligned with the NSW English syllabus to ensure targeted learning.

Do you offer one-on-one or group tutoring sessions?

All our classes are one-on-one. This allows us to accommodate different learning preferences, ensuring each student receives the attention and support they need.

Can you help with specific assessments, exams, or assignments?

Absolutely. Our tutors are experienced in guiding students through preparing for specific assessments, exams and assignments, providing targeted feedback and strategies to help them succeed.

Do you provide resources and practice materials?

Yes, we provide weekly content, comprehensive resources, including practice materials, worksheets, and model responses, to help students consolidate their learning and practice independently.

How long is each tutoring session, and how often should a student attend?

Typically, each session is 90 minutes. Our termly courses are at least once a week, but the frequency can be tailored based on their needs and academic goals.

Do you offer online tutoring options?

Yes, we offer both in-person and online tutoring to accommodate different preferences and ensure flexibility in learning.

Do you offer trial lessons for new students?

Yes, we offer new students an Introductory Lesson with no obligation to continue. This allows new students to experience our teaching approach, meet their tutor, and decide if our personalised English tutoring is the right fit for their learning needs.

How can we contact you?

You can contact us either through our email at tutor@goldstandardacademy.com or call us at 0481 336 988

Unlock your full potential with expert, personalised tutoring in HSC English. At GSA, we specialise in building skills, confidence, and success for students across NSW. Achieve excellence with our tailored programs and proven results.
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0481 336 988
tutor@goldstandardacademy.com
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