Information About Joanna - Basingstoke teacher

Personal Description:

Hello, my name is Jo and I’m a dedicated and passionate art educator specialising in painting, drawing and textiles. Art has been a core part of my life for as long as I can remember, and creativity is a big part of who I am. It has shaped me, continues to bring me great joy and purpose, and I practise and teach it with enthusiasm and heart. I believe that art is a powerful way for students to explore and express who they are. I’m deeply committed to nurturing self-expression, helping each learner discover and activate their creative potential. Teaching isn’t just about technique for me it’s about inspiring confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of creating. I bring enthusiasm, empathy, and a genuine belief in every student’s ability to grow, express themselves, and be inspired by their own creativity.

Teaching Experience:

I’ve brought creativity, design and teaching together over more than 10 years. After university I moved to Spain, where I taught English to students of all ages kids, teens, and adults. That early experience taught me how to connect across ages and adapt lessons to suit different learners.

When I returned to the UK I worked as a teaching assistant, supporting students across all subjects. Then I spent eight years working as an interior designer, helping people visualise and create the homes, restaurants and workspaces of their dreams. That time developed my sense of space, aesthetics and visual communication.

Eventually, my love of art led me back to teaching: after doing a painting and sculpture course, I’ve spent the last 18 months as an arts educator, teaching painting, drawing, textiles and dressmaking to children, teenagers and adults including students preparing for GCSE-level art.

All these different chapters mean I bring a unique mix: patience and clarity from language-teaching, structure from academic support, design instincts from my interior design days, and genuine love for art practice.

Working with such a varied background means I get to meet each student where they are - whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or refining skills for a piece you care about.

Teaching Approach:

I believe teaching art really works best when it's individual - that’s why I tend to teach either 1:1 or in small groups. This way I can give my full attention to each student, get to know them properly, listen to what they want, and really tailor the classes to them.

I’m flexible: if a student needs structure, we’ll work with clear objectives and step-by-step guidance. If they thrive with more freedom, I let the lesson flow more organically, following their interests, pace, and personal style.

Whether you’re starting out or trying to build on existing skills, I aim to meet you where you are, while encouraging you to grow, experiment and find your own creative voice.