Bio:
Hey! My name is Steven, I am from a small town in the south of England, but I currently live in Peru, where I have been working for a children's charity. In my lessons, I like to get to know my students as friends, so that I can understand their personal motivations for learning English. I then design relaxed, conversational classes based around the goals and topics that are important and interesting to you. Send me a message, and see you in a class soon!
My teaching methodology:
My teaching background:
I began teaching English in New Zealand, where I lived in a busy house full of travellers from all over the world. Many of my housemates had travelled to New Zealand looking for work, and to explore the country, but their level of English was very basic. It was here that I started to give informal lessons, and I saw just how important it can be to speak English, especially when applying for jobs, or travelling in new places. When I returned home to England, I decided to take two TEFL courses to improve my teaching skills. I gained a Level 5 certificate in teaching English as a foreign language, along with an advanced course in teaching English online. Since gaining these qualifications, I have continued to teach English online and in person, to both adults and children. While I have worked with complete beginners, I particularly enjoy working with intermediate and advanced students, who are looking to improve their skills in conversational English.
My background outside of teaching:
In 2021, I took a break from my studies as a mental health counsellor, and decided to come to Peru as a volunteer. I joined a children's charity in which we gave free classes on topics related to mental health, that were based around skateboarding - a sport which I have loved since I was a teenager. When I first arrived to Peru, I spoke very little Spanish, and it was a humbling experience. Suddenly, simple conversations about my work, my studies, or my emotions, were now very difficult. This process of learning a new language myself has helped me to shape the way that I now teach English to my students. I understand how embarrassing it can be to speak in another language, and to make mistakes. And I know how frustrating it can be when we want to express our own thoughts and opinions, or understand what others have to say. Therefore, I always encourage my students to relax, to learn at their own pace, and to celebrate their achievements as they improve their English, step by step.
