Lara Staples

How I’ll help you learn Russian
I first learned Russian by living in Russia for a few years as a child, and I’ve kept it up ever since, through GCSE, A-level, and a four-year Russian degree at the University of Bristol, which I’ve just finished. Last year I also tutored first-year beginners at university, so I know exactly where new learners tend to get stuck, and how to get them unstuck.
I’m a methodical teacher, so nothing is left to chance. In our first lesson, I’ll find out why you’re learning Russian (travel, family, work, exams, or pure curiosity) and check what you already know, even if that’s nothing at all. Then I’ll build a clear, step-by-step plan around your goals.
We’ll start with solid foundations: the Cyrillic alphabet, pronunciation, and the everyday phrases you’ll actually use. From there, we’ll move on to grammar, including the famous Russian cases. I introduce them one at a time, with plenty of examples and practice, so they feel logical rather than overwhelming. Every lesson builds on the last, and you’ll always know where you are and what comes next.
Our lessons mix explanation, speaking practice, reading, and listening. I want you speaking Russian from day one, even if it’s just a few words.
Most importantly: there is no such thing as a stupid question. I’ve been a learner myself, so I know Russian can feel tricky at first, and asking “why?” is exactly how you learn. Ask as many times as you need. I’ll always be patient and explain things a different way if the first one doesn’t click.
After each lesson, you’ll get a short summary and some practice to keep things fresh until we meet again.