Learning English – What our teachers say, Part 1

Learning English? Listen to what our English teachers have to say about it!

In this series of articles, we interviewed six senior English teachers at ASC Languages, who will give you some top-notch advice on learning English. They will also explain to you why English classes at ASC Languages are so unique and what their personal recommendations are.

This first article focuses on more general advice, whereas we’ll focus on some more specific points in our second article, to be released soon!

Fun fact: between the six of them, Antonia, Tessa, Zsuzsa, Paul, Peter and Norman have spent 105 years teaching at ASC Languages, more than twice as much time as the age of our school! And if we add up all the years they have spent teaching English throughout their careers, this number is above 130… and they are still young! They’ve seen all there is to see in the area of language learning!

Can you describe English classes at ASC Languages?

Peter : Les cours d’anglais à ASC Languages se concentrent toujours sur un sujet spécifique. Peter: English classes at ASC Languages always focus on a specific topic. This could be anything from personal interests and travel to finance, current affairs, or other useful subjects. These topics help students learn new vocabulary and understand grammar in a clear and practical way. Topics are carefully chosen to match the needs and goals of the students. This means the language they practise is always relevant and useful in real life. Lessons are interactive and encourage students to use English in context. Activities include group discussions, roleplays, presentations and practice meetings and are all based on real-life situations. Our English classes also promote teamwork. Students get plenty of chances to speak, share ideas, and learn from each other. This approach helps them become more confident and fluent. Whether students want to improve their English for work or for everyday life, they leave the course with stronger skills and more self-assurance. Learning English at ASC is not only effective, it’s also enjoyable and motivating.

What general advice would you give people who are learning English?

Antonia: As an American English teacher with over 20 years of experience, my general advice to people who are learning English is to be consistent, patient, and open to new methods. The process of learning English is different for everyone and each student’s journey is unique. At ASC Languages, I’ve seen students succeed through different strategies. For example, one of my students improved significantly by watching English films and reading short stories in English, while another student gained confidence simply by practising conversations with classmates after class and trying to use new vocabulary in his speaking practice. These examples show that regular exposure and active use are key to learning English effectively. I always remind students that mistakes are part of the process and should be viewed as opportunities to grow. Learning English requires time and dedication, but with a positive mindset and setting practical goals, students can achieve lasting progress and use the language successfully in real-world situations.

What is so special about English classes at ASC Languages?

Firstly, English classes at ASC Languages are student-centred. Classes are always designed and delivered with the students’ needs and objectives in mind to ensure that each learner achieves their goal.

Secondly, English classes at ASC are dynamic, fun and communicative. Students always participate actively throughout the lesson, practising their speaking skills in different real-life contexts and scenarios.

Thirdly, our English classes centre on helping students gain in confidence in a supportive, friendly and reassuring environment. Our teachers understand the importance of self-confidence when learning a second language and encourage students to believe in themselves through positive reinforcement.

Finally, English classes at ASC enable students to network and build relationships with others on both a personal and professional level, thereby improving students’ feelings of overall well-being and increasing their professional network.