I am a qualified teacher with a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the Institute of Education at UCL. My specializations include German, French, Russian, and English as an Additional Language (EAL). Additionally, I hold a Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA) from International House, London. Before pursuing a career in teaching, I earned a Master of Arts (MA) with Honors in German and Russian from the University of Edinburgh.
With a teaching journey spanning over 15 years across various countries and settings, I've fine-tuned my teaching style to meet the unique needs of a diverse range of learners.
My experience has allowed me to connect with students from different backgrounds and learning preferences. Whether in a bustling classroom or through online platforms, I've learned to adapt and make learning engaging and effective.
Teaching internationally has given me insights into the importance of clear communication and collaboration in diverse settings. These experiences have shaped my approach, making it adaptable and learner-centered. My aim is to foster language skills in a down-to-earth and practical manner, focusing on what really works for students.
My journey in teaching started 15 years ago, and it has been a wonderful one! I started off working for a charity doing community development in Mombasa, Kenya. I then transitioned into teaching English as a Foreign Language. This role not only opened doors to the world of education but also took me to culturally diverse locations like Russia, Ukraine, Zanzibar and Kenya. These experiences were more than just geographical adventures; they were lessons in empathy, adaptability and the universal power of education.
Living and teaching in these unique environments sharpened my ability to adapt and innovate my teaching methods. It made me appreciate the importance of context in education and the need to tailor my approach to meet the specific needs of my students, whether in a bustling urban centre or a remote village.
Above all, my journey from community development to teaching languages in diverse global settings taught me the incredible impact education can have on individuals and communities. It reinforced my commitment to making education accessible and empowering for all, regardless of their circumstances or location.
After that adventure, I found myself settling in London, where I had the privilege of being Head of Modern Foreign Languages at a secondary school. My background as a Head of Modern Languages has honed my interpersonal and communication skills, enabling me to connect with students on a personal level even in a virtual setting. Understanding the challenges students face, I can tailor my teaching methods to cater to individual needs, ensuring that each student receives the guidance and encouragement required to excel.
Whilst I still teach, I now also create online GCSE courses and am enjoying developing and sharing resources. My goal is to help students succeed and to help them enjoy the ride. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
Alexandra