Let me get started by saying I have been working as an English teacher for over 28 years in both the private and public sector. My goal has always been the same: helping people reach their full potential.
English-language teaching is not simply a job but a passion for me. I love working with both students and professionals, getting to know them and watching them further their careers and social interactions through their improved English skills.
My techniques focus on addressing the often overlooked areas of language like making small talk, feeling relaxed and confident with others by using common English expressions and phrases. Clear pronunciation plays a role but so does using the correct intonation.
I have a BA, H. Dip, CELTA and am a full member of the Irish Teaching Council of Ireland and an approved tutor with ETB (Cork Educational Training Board). I also hold a Diploma as a Speech and Drama Teacher.
For as long as I can remember I’ve always treated every person as an individual with specific needs. My experience over the years as an English teacher has taught me the importance of personalised learning. What works for one client might not work for another.
Taking the mystery out of learning English, developing a client’s communication skills outside of their own language, brings me so much joy.
I have the privilege of working with students from all over the world who want to communicate more effectively in their personal and professional lives.
On a personal note, I have been married for over 31 years with two adult children and a dog called Belle! She is the real boss in our household!
I would love to help you on your journey to learn English!
A tip when you are reading books in English – be patient, reading is a skill and it takes time and practice! Try and select genres that interest you.
An inspirational story about a camp for boys who have to dig holes in the sun!
Maeve Binchy was one of Ireland’s greatest storytellers. Set in the 1950s in Ireland you will love her characters, their interactions and their journey. This is a real page-turner.
Published in 1945 - This book tells the story of a group of farm animals who rebel against their human farmer, hoping to create a society where the animals can be equal, free, and happy. A life-changing book.
If you like romantic stories then this is definitely for you! Written by a young writer from Ireland, Cynthia captures the true meaning of love and loss!
This book has changed the lives of millions of people around the globe - so what are you afraid of? This is a brilliant self-help book, easy to read and which could make all the difference in your quest to speak fluent English.
Following the success of her first book Conversation with Friends, Normal People is set in Ireland and is the complex story of love and friendship between Marianne and Connell. Dramatised in 2020 - the series became an international phenomenon. A really enjoyable read.
One of the first books by Jeffery Archer who is a gifted writer. If you like business and stories about families then you will not be able to put this down!) All of his books are worth reading!
This is the first book in the Walsh Family series and this book deals with the oldest of the Walsh sisters, Claire. Claire is happily married to her husband James and living in London. She's expecting their first child any day now. Marian is a very observant witty Irish writer and she creates characters that you will never forget.
Written in the form of a personal diary, this novel chronicles a year in the life of Bridget Jones, … it is hilarious and very entertaining.
Especially the earlier ones from 1963 - 1990’s. The plots are easy to follow and the diction and pronunciation are clear.
A great romantic comedy that will have you laughing one minute and crying the next. This film has a fantastic story with an amazing cast). Also, check out other Richard Curtis movies like Four Weddings and a Funeral and Mr Bean’s Holiday!
(A great thriller about a killer shark who attacks a small beach community). Steven is one of the most famous directors in the world so have a look at his other films Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park, ET and Catch Me if you Can.
These have to be watched. Watch them all - there are 8 of them in the series - but I have to say that my favourite is the first one!. The dialogue is really well written and the characters speak clearly with excellent diction.
Seriously think about investing in any online streaming service such as Netflix, Disney, NOW, Amazon Prime, Apple TV+, HBO or Hulu. Tip – Pick a series you might like and watch it over time. After you have finished it – take a break and re-watch it again without the subtitles! You will notice just how much your English will have improved.
Probably the most famous TV comedy series ever and if you want to improve your English - you must watch these! The characters are so funny and the dialogue is really easy to follow! Try it without the subtitles and see if you can learn any new phrases!
A brilliant documentary series set in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin (USA) about Steven Avery who was accused of murder and who is now serving a life sentence. He states he is innocent. Totally addictive watching.
These crime series are ideal for listening to American English. Each episode follows the same plot and the dialogues are constantly being repeated. Listen carefully, press pause and repeat the phrases that they use!
This is an American mockumentary family sitcom television series that is hilarious. There are 11 series in total but the first few series are the best!.
This is the dramatised series of the British Royal Family starting in the 1950s when Princess Elizabeth was crowned Queen of the United Kingdom. This is beautifully filmed, great storylines and with a fantastic cast. If you want to listen to RP pronunciation - this is the best place to start.
The quickest and cheapest way to learn English is through MUSIC! Subscribe to SPOTIFY and start with the songs below to build your own playlist! Singing in English (and I am not a good singer !) is the best way to perfect your intonation and pronunciation. You will learn new expressions and vocabulary, phrasal verbs, reductions and contractions. So off you go and start singing today (but maybe start in the shower !!
The songs I have picked are easy to learn, have simple lyrics and a chorus that keeps repeating. Even if you just learn the chorus – it will transform your English!
Very catchy tune and easy to learn.
For intonation and to practice 3 syllable words.
Practice the ‘s’ sound in English and linkages - Handzup!
A total classic with a great chorus and story.
Great for contractions - ‘ I’ll ‘ instead of saying ‘I will’.
Beautiful lyrics with some lovely expressions.
Great sing-along tune.
To encourage you to use ‘indefinite pronouns’ and not the word ALL.
A slow song which can help with fluency.
Great for reductions and for releasing your inner Diva!
Who doesn’t love a bit of Dolly - fantastic song !!