A language school is not just exercises and textbooks, it’s mostly experienced and qualified teachers who have already opened the door for many of our students to the world of English. And they are not only professionals in their field, but also interesting people, world travelers and unique personalities. Let´s get to know them better.
Luis comes from Brazil and besides being a teacher, he has another, very interesting profession. Surprisingly, this is what led him to teaching, which he now considers his mission. Read how Luis went from being his first student from Brazil to joining us here at Bastia, where he teaches classes for children.
Do you ever get homesick?
Of course, like most people I do. When it hits me hardest, however, depends on a number of factors.
How many years have you been teaching English?
I’ve been teaching English for about eight years, two and a half of which have been for the Bridge.
How did you get into teaching English?
I was trying to break through as an actor in Brazil, and I needed enough time and freedom to do that, so I quit my job and followed that goal for 6 months. I was living with my parents, so I wasn’t that worried about the financial side of things. At the time, my cousin needed to learn English, so he asked me if I would help him with that. He was my first student, and I kind of liked teaching. I realized that it gave me the flexibility I needed. So I signed up for a teaching course and then got a job as a teacher, which is where I really seemed to have found my true calling. I feel I can do it for the rest of my life if I need to.
How many years have you been teaching English?
I’ve been teaching English for about eight years, two and a half of which have been for the Bridge.
How did you get into The Bridge?
I was working for another language school in Slovakia and I was doing some research on how successful language schools work. I came across the Bridge’s website and saw that they were looking for teachers. I had heard words of praise about the Bridge before and a friend had personal experience with them, so I decided to send in my CV. And they accepted me.
Where have you worked before?
I’ve worked at four other language schools, but in different departments. Two of them were still in Brazil, where I worked in both the sales and the finance departments, but also as a teacher and assistant director of studies. In Ireland I worked as a business advisor and in Slovakia as a teacher, then at the Bridge as the teacher responsible for children’s courses and supporting new teachers.
What is your favourite part of your job?
Teaching and watching the progress of my students. It brings me a sense of satisfaction.
What gets on your nerves the most with your students?
Lack of commitment. We try to help students with this as well, but sometimes they don’t even know what they actually need English for, and then it’s very difficult for them to find the motivation needed.
What are you best and worst features?
I think it’s that I’m always smiling – at least that’s what some of my students say. I’ll skip talking about my inner demons.
What do you do in your spare time?
I love to travel, meet new people, and visit new places. Most recently, exercise has been added to my hobbies.
Fancy improving your English? Email us at kurzy@thebridge.sk or call +421 948 104 916 and maybe lessons with witty gentleman Ben will be just right for you.