Some student case studies
Although David did Spanish A level at school, he is enjoying starting afresh with me using the natural approach to language learning and leaving the text books behind:
“I am enjoying the course very much. For me conversations in real situations work much better rather than just following a textbook or simply grammar where you are struggling.
In our conversations you can relate to them, you can work out what you are saying. And I am enjoying the in-person lessons”.
Kate joined my group classes as a beginner and this is what she has to say one year on:
“You’re an excellent teacher. I have tried several other Spanish classes and this is by far the best.
I always enjoy your lessons. Material is appropriate for the students, interesting and at the right level. And yet it stretches me a bit, not too much.
The atmosphere is always lovely in the classroom. People are friendly and everybody participates. There’s a lot of laughter; everybody is happy.”
Update: Having travelled in Spain, Kate is looking forward to re-joining classes soon.
Mark is a new student who’s struggled with keeping up motivation in previous tries to learn Spanish:
“I find the course very accessible and very interesting. I have learnt a huge amount in the nine lessons so far.
Previously I have tried several times to learn a language but I struggle with motivating myself and the structure in your classes helps me in that regard”.
Bob has been with me for only 9 weeks as a complete beginner, and I asked him for some feedback:
“It’s really enjoyable. The lessons are well structured. I like the material and the way it is presented; the friendliness of everybody and your approachability.
In only nine lessons [my improvement] is quite amazing!”
STUDENT FEEDBACK
(Advanced Beginners – summer term ’22)
- Really relaxed, low pressure
- Friendly atmosphere and I don’t feel silly if I say something wrong
- It’s very dynamic and funny
- I like the fun aspect of the lessons
- I’m put at ease even though I’m a little slower than the rest of the class
- Everything being conversational is really good
- Victoria tells good stories
- A bit shocked how much [of the teaching] is in Spanish, but I think this will help [me] learn quicker
- It’s a good mix of understanding, speaking, reading and writing
- There is no heavy grammar
- I like the variety of topics and the different exercises
- Visually everything is very good
- I can’t really see that it could be improved
TESTIMONIALS
Here are some of the comments that people have made on my teaching style.
“Victoria is a fantastic teacher. She adapts her lessons to the needs of the student, she is encouraging and engaging. I worried that I would feel embarrassed speaking Spanish to a stranger but Victoria instantly put me at ease. She is very encouraging and I always finish a class feeling positive about my Spanish. I have grown in confidence and my grammar and vocabulary have flourished too. Victoria has lots of ideas to make learning Spanish fun, with videos, film discussions, semi-structured discussions on a pre-agreed topic etc. I would highly recommend Spanish with Victoria.“
“Dedicated, friendly and very motivating Spanish Tuition – Victoria will help you meet your goals and discover new ones you hadn’t realised you had!“
“I first met Victoria when I was looking for some tuition to improve my conversational Spanish. Topics were agreed beforehand and materials provided, if necessary. Feedback was always given afterwards. She is VERY encouraging which certainly helps one’s confidence. She has now established a Spanish Club which is particularly aimed at intermediate learners. I have joined a group which meets every week (via Zoom). We discuss topical events in the Spanish speaking world, films and literature, as well as have more general conversations. She also hosts a Facebook page where she has interviews with native Spanish speakers, grammar tips and explanations of Spanish idioms. (I love these!) In my experience, it is quite difficult to find language classes beyond beginners so the services Victoria provides are perfect for anyone wanting to move on in their Spanish language journey. Highly recommended.“
“Victoria is an excellent teacher. I had been learning Spanish for over a year on my own before starting with Victoria and had a reasonable grasp on grammar but my listening skills were terrible. Since starting with Victoria my conversational and listening skills have dramatically improved. Victoria gets me talking solely in Spanish… and gives me time to articulate my thoughts and never rushes me. It is like talking non stop to a friend in Spanish… Fantastic teacher who knows how to tailor her lessons to the individuals needs.”
“For my job I needed to improve my Spanish skills from non-existent to European level B (intermediate) within a year. Apart from taking a language course with the OU I also signed up for private tuition with Victoria. Those sessions have definitely been worth my money and time as they were tailored to my needs at all times. Victoria would always go the extra mile to make each meeting worthwhile, interesting and enjoyable. I have succeeded to get a Grade 2 pass after a year of intense learning with Victoria but even more importantly I have come to love the language and culture as well. ¡Muchas gracias, Victoria! :)“
“Victoria is an excellent teacher. Her lessons are always well prepared, stimulating and well balanced. Her sense of humour and relaxed manner remove any inhibitions one may have about speaking Spanish and her lessons are a joy to attend!”
“…studying with Victoria is rewarding and has certainly increased my enthusiasm towards learning the language”.
“Our knowledge and speaking of the Spanish language has increased tremendously and we now have the confidence to communicate when on holiday in Spanish speaking countries. We would recommend Victoria to all.”
“… the best thing was the amount you got me talking in Spanish; I just felt way more confident by the end.”
“I really enjoy Victoria’s lessons; the atmosphere is friendly and supportive and there is plenty of opportunity to ask questions. Victoria makes a real effort to ensure that the lessons are varied and to tailor them to the needs of her students. They have given me a lot more confidence to speak Spanish when I’m on holiday. Thanks, Victoria:-)”
