A woman who has dedicated her time to helping the community through the pandemic is offering free online tutoring lessons to children who may otherwise fall behind because of lockdown.

In March, Reshmi Kalam set up a service called Homelearning Maidstone as a platform for pupils to learn from home while schools were closed.

Now almost a year later the service has expanded rapidly and is once again helping to tutor pupils all across the town.

With the government confirming schools will be closed until at least March 8, Mrs Kalam wants people to know her service is completely free for families who may not be able to afford a tutor.

The 30-year-old said: "Some parents can manage, but those from a disadvantaged background might not be able to afford a tutor or have the academic background so homeschooling can be extremely difficult for them.

"That's why I want as many people as possible to know that these classes are free for anyone who needs them.

"I use the money from people who can pay for the service to buy the books and fund the tuition time for those who can't. It's effectively like sponsoring somebody else's education.

"Kids' education should not suffer because their parents can't afford a tutor so my main intention is reaching as many families as possible."

Pupils will meet in groups of no more than four for their lessons over Zoom twice a week.

The classes cater for GCSEs, the 11 plus, SATs, Year 4 Maths and English Boosters, and all things inbetween for kids missing the social atmosphere of learning.

Books and exam materials are free for all pupils and classes are available seven days a week.

Mrs Kalam, who used to work as a human resources expert, has been an active volunteer throughout Covid-19.

She started out sending free hot cross buns to the elderly and vulnerable - but soon realised the number of people who needed help was much greater than she first thought.

Mrs Kalam then formed a 'Sewing for the NHS' group, which made gowns, scrubs and bags, and organised fabric supply, pick-ups and deliveries.

She also worked with many other charities and businesses to arrange for delicious hot meals for NHS staff, including Al-Amin Tandoori in Maidstone and Amada Sidwell from MADM.

In October her efforts were recognised in the Compassionate Community Awards, a joint initiative by Maidstone Borough Council and the Heart of Kent Hospice, backed by the Kent Messenger.

Her aim to help anyone, regardless of the task, saw her win the Compassionate Neighbour/Volunteer category.

For more information about Homelearning Maidstone, click here.

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