Our Team
The stresses of the 11+ can take its toll on children and parents, and that is why wellbeing is at the core of what we do. We aim to instil a sense of security in our pupils so that they can take risks and apply new skills, as well as develop the resilience and self-confidence they need to perform well in tests, in the classroom and in life.
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The additional work and pressure of preparing for this monumental test at such a young age can feel heavy on small shoulders, so we feel it's important to have empathetic and supportive teachers, who can ensure children are excellently prepared for the challenge.
Imogen Bancroft
BA (Hons), MSc, PGCE, QTS
Founder
In schools across Watford and London, I have primarily worked with Year 5 and Year 6 pupils, giving me a deep understanding of this age group, the Key Stage 2 curriculum, and the challenges associated with the transition to secondary school. For ten years, I have also tutored individuals and small groups for the South West Herts Schools Consortium examinations. Cedar Tree Tuition is now in its fourth year, having supported numerous children and their families in securing their preferred school placements.
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My vision for Cedar Tree Tuition is to offer a unique service that provides comprehensive support, both academically and emotionally, to children as they navigate this important stage of their education.
Jackie Cox
BA (Hons), QTS, NPQH
Year 4 Teacher
I am a qualified teacher with over 25 years’ experience in education, including 12 years as Headteacher of an inner-London infant school from 2004 to 2016. I continue to be involved in school leadership as a Foundation Governor at a local primary school, where I serve as Link Governor for Safeguarding and Religious Education and sit on the Standards, Resources, and Pay Committees, as well as contributing to Headteacher Performance Management.
In addition, I am a Trustee and active member of the school’s Parents & Friends Association. I also work as a tutor, supporting children one-to-one and in small groups, including 11+ preparation for Cedar Tree. I really enjoy working with the children, helping them build confidence, develop their skills, and approach learning with curiosity and enthusiasm.
Bhavisha Soma
PGCE, QTS, MEd, PhD​
Year 4 Teacher
I have over 15 years’ experience teaching and leading across Reception to Year 6 in both mainstream and SEND settings. I currently teach in a Watford school, giving me a strong, up-to-date understanding of the local education landscape. Alongside this, I offer personalised tuition for primary and secondary-aged children, as well as support for adults with education and life skills. I combine academic knowledge with practical strategies to enable every learner to thrive.
My tutoring is focused on both academic attainment and building self-assurance. The approach I take is flexible and tailored to each learner, helping them prepare for important milestones such as the 11+, SATs, Phonics Screening, and the Multiplication Tables Check. I also specialise in supporting children with SEND and those with English as an Additional Language. I am passionate about helping every learner grow in confidence and independence, providing them with a platform to achieve their goals, both in the classroom and beyond.
Sarwat Siddiqui
BA (Hons), QTS, CELTA, PG Dip.
With over 20 years’ experience as a primary school teacher and private tutor, I have helped many pupils successfully prepare for the 11+ examinations, including those for South West Herts, South Bucks, Slough and other selective schools across Greater London. My approach is carefully tailored to each child, ensuring they feel both supported and challenged as they work towards their goals with confidence.
I have taught in both state and independent schools and worked as an Assessment Associate for organisations such as Pearson and the NFER. I teach the full range of 11+ subjects, with particular expertise in English and literacy, and work with pupils from KS1 through to GCSE. I am also passionate about widening access to education and currently support an 11+ charity helping disadvantaged pupils gain places at grammar and independent schools.
Shyamala Amarnath
BA (Hons), BTEC TA Level 2, ELKLAN
Teaching Assistant
As a teaching assistant with over 16 years of experience in Watford schools, I bring significant experience and a solid educational background to Cedar Tree Tuition. I hold a BA in Literature and a BTEC Level 2 in Teaching, and I'm committed to creating supportive learning environments and adapting my teaching methods to suit the needs of each child. My focus is on providing effective support and guidance to ensure all pupils at Cedar Tree Tuition can achieve their potential.