Welcome to the Thorogood English blog — your resource for IGCSE English, A-Level English, and 11+ preparation tips from a teacher with twenty-six years in the classroom.
I’m Jacqueline Thorogood. I spent years marking Cambridge IGCSE papers, which means I’ve seen exactly what earns full marks — and exactly what doesn’t. This blog is where I share that insider knowledge with students and parents.
What You’ll Find Here
Each week I publish practical exam guidance across five areas:
- IGCSE English Language & Literature — essay technique, Paper 1 strategy, unseen poetry, directed writing
- A-Level English — linguistic frameworks, coursework tips, getting from Good to Outstanding
- 11+ Preparation — comprehension, creative writing, how to prepare without burning out
- Writing Skills — techniques that work at every level
- Tutoring Advice — how to choose the right tutor, what to look for in a class
Opening January 2027
Small group online classes open in January 2027. If you’d like to secure a place before registration opens, join the waiting list here. Spaces are limited — I keep groups small so every student gets proper attention.
In the meantime, explore the blog. There’s a lot here — use the categories below to find exactly what you need.