Ella O'connor-Barratt

My lessons are entirely one-to-one and conducted online via Zoom or Google Meet. Every session is tailored to the individual student. I do not follow a fixed syllabus or textbook.

Before we begin working together I like to have a short introductory conversation to understand your current level, what you find challenging, and what you actually want to get out of our sessions.

I believe strongly in the effectiveness of speaking practice over traditional study. Surrounding yourself with your desired language, making mistakes in real conversation, and understanding how natural dialogue flows will teach you far more, and far faster, than a classroom ever could. That is the foundation of how I teach.

A typical lesson is built around natural conversation. I might introduce a topic, a news story, an image or a short piece of text as a starting point, and we talk. I listen carefully, gently correct errors where it is useful to do so, and introduce new vocabulary or expressions organically as they come up in context rather than in isolation.

Depending on what a student needs, I can also focus sessions around specific areas such as pronunciation, British idioms and expressions, professional communication, or preparing for real-life situations like job interviews or presentations.

I keep sessions relaxed and pressure-free on purpose - confidence grows when you feel comfortable making mistakes. My role is to keep the conversation moving, keep it interesting, and make sure every session feels like time well spent. I genuinely enjoy getting to know my students and understanding their world, which makes for richer, more natural conversations and faster progress over time.

So let me assist you on this journey and boost your English to the max!