KS1 is where the foundations of everything begin. Children who develop strong phonics, reading, writing and early Maths skills in Years 1 and 2 are significantly better positioned for everything that follows. NLG KS1 tutors are experienced with young learners and use an encouraging, patient approach that makes learning feel enjoyable. Whether your child needs phonics support in Year 1, help with early Maths, or preparation for Year 2 SATs, NLG matches them with the right specialist.
These are the situations parents describe when they come to NLG for KS1 support. Early gaps in phonics and Maths are very addressable when identified and supported quickly.
NLG KS1 tutors cover the full primary curriculum for Years 1 and 2. Sessions are structured in short activity blocks appropriate for young learners and adapted to each child's specific needs and pace.
The Year 1 Phonics Screening Check takes place each June and tests whether children can decode real and nonsense words using their phonics knowledge. NLG KS1 tutors work specifically on phonics decoding and blending strategies that prepare children for both the check format and genuine reading ability. A child who passes the check because they genuinely understand phonics is also a child who can read independently.
Yes, when delivered by an experienced KS1 tutor. NLG KS1 tutors adapt their approach for young learners, keeping sessions interactive, visual and engaging with short activity blocks and frequent changes of task to maintain attention.
Most Year 1 and Year 2 children adapt quickly to 1:1 online tutoring and enjoy the focused individual attention. For children who are less confident with screens, tutors can send printable resources so the session can combine on-screen and off-screen activities. Parents are always welcome to sit nearby for reassurance in the early sessions.
NLG KS1 tutors use a systematic, structured phonics approach building from Phase 1 through to Phase 6 at each child's pace. Sessions use multisensory activities including visual, auditory and movement-based elements to reinforce each phoneme.
Tutors also provide parents with practical guidance on how to reinforce phonics at home between sessions, including which decodable book levels to use, how to respond when a child is stuck on a word, and simple daily activities that build phonics knowledge naturally.
No, it is absolutely not too late. Children develop at very different rates in early phonics and what looks like a significant gap in Year 1 is very often fully addressable with the right targeted support.
NLG KS1 tutors will assess exactly which phonics phases your child has secure knowledge of and which they need to revisit. Systematic phonics support from the right starting point, delivered consistently, produces real and often surprisingly fast progress. Most parents see meaningful improvement within 6 to 8 weeks of consistent weekly sessions.
The most effective home support for phonics is regular, short reading practice with a patient adult. Ten to fifteen minutes of reading daily alongside weekly tutoring sessions produces the fastest improvement in phonics and early reading.
NLG KS1 tutors advise parents on the specific decodable book levels appropriate for their child, how to respond when they are stuck on a word, and which phonics sounds to practise between sessions. Supporting phonics at home does not require specialist knowledge, just consistency and encouragement.
All KS1 sessions are delivered online by primary specialist tutors via Zoom with interactive digital tools designed for primary age learners.
Most KS1 students are matched with a primary specialist and have their first session within a week of enquiring.
"Our son was significantly behind in phonics in Year 1. His NLG KS1 tutor was incredibly patient and made sessions feel like a game. Within 6 months he had caught up with his class peers and his confidence in school had completely transformed."
"My daughter loved her NLG KS1 sessions. Her tutor made it feel like fun rather than work. Her reading improved dramatically and she now reads independently every night. I cannot recommend the approach enough."




The questions parents ask most about KS1 tutoring at NLG.
NLG KS1 1:1 tutoring costs £38 per 40-minute session. The first lesson is just £1. Upfront blocks: 5 lessons £90, 10 lessons £160, 15 lessons £210. View full pricing.
Yes. NLG KS1 tutors keep sessions interactive, visual and engaging with short activity blocks. Most Year 1 and Year 2 children adapt quickly and enjoy the focused individual attention. Parents are always welcome to sit nearby in early sessions for reassurance.
Phonics and reading (all phases), early Maths (number bonds, addition, subtraction, shapes), early writing (letter formation, sentences, punctuation) and SPaG foundations.
Yes. The Year 1 Phonics Screening Check tests decoding of real and nonsense words. NLG KS1 tutors work specifically on phonics decoding and blending strategies that prepare children for the check format.
No, absolutely not. Children develop at very different rates in early phonics. Systematic support from the right starting point produces real progress. Most parents see meaningful improvement within 6 to 8 weeks of consistent weekly sessions.
Most parents notice improvements in confidence and engagement within the first 4 to 6 sessions. Measurable progress in phonics or Maths typically becomes visible within 6 to 8 weeks of consistent weekly sessions.
Yes. NLG KS1 tutors prepare Year 2 children for SATs content and format in an age-appropriate, confidence-building way. Visit our SATs Preparation page for more detail.
This depends on the child. Some young children find a parent's presence reassuring at the start. Others engage better independently once they feel comfortable. NLG tutors will advise on the best approach after the first session.
Yes. NLG KS1 tutors provide parents with guidance on recommended reading levels, phonics games and short daily activities. Ten to fifteen minutes of daily reading practice alongside weekly sessions produces the fastest improvement.
NLG supports learners from Early Years through to A-Level. KS1 sessions are designed for children aged 5 to 7. For younger children, visit our Early Years Tutoring page.
Yes. NLG KS1 tutors identify exactly where the gap is in your child's phonics or comprehension and build systematic support from that point.
Yes. The first lesson is just £1. No commitment, no contracts. Book here.
Three ways to get started. No commitment until you are ready.