Beyond the book. Beyond the classroom. Into life.
We believe learning should not stop at a textbook, an examination or a certificate. Learning should change something in you.
Nine convictions that shape every session
Learning should be meaningful.
Teaching should be human.
Experience should be valued.
Creativity should have a purpose.
Mistakes should be part of learning.
Confidence should grow alongside knowledge.
Teachers should continue learning.
Relationships matter.
Learning should continue long after the course ends.
Our aim is not to create people who depend on a teacher forever. Our aim is to help learners develop the confidence, curiosity and strategies to keep growing independently.
Because the real test of learning is not what happens during the lesson. It is what you do with it afterwards.
What does “SpeakShine” mean?
SPEAK is about finding your voice.
It is communication, language, expression, confidence and the courage to participate.
SHINE is about the person behind the voice.
It is self-awareness, individuality, growth, passion, confidence and discovering your own potential.
So SpeakShine is not only about learning to speak. It is about becoming someone who feels able to speak, connect, grow and shine.
I don't believe in teaching only from books
Books and curricula are valuable. They give us structure, progression and academic direction. But they are not the whole learning experience.
Over the years I have developed my own notes, activities, teaching resources and learning materials, and I am creating my own books and learning journeys for use within SpeakShine Academy.
I bring together curriculum requirements with real conversation, stories, games, music, songs, role play, humour, discussion, creativity and real-life situations.
Sometimes an activity is carefully planned. Sometimes the best learning begins with a student's question. I believe in planning thoroughly while remaining flexible enough to respond to the people in front of me.
The curriculum gives us the road. The teacher brings the journey to life.
Created from experience
SpeakShine programmes are supported by original notes, resources, activities and learning materials developed from years of teaching and real-life experience.
My own books and material
My own books and teaching material form an important part of the learning journey.
Support, not a substitute
They are not designed to replace creativity or conversation. They are there to support it.
Refined by real classrooms
The material has grown through classrooms, students, questions, mistakes, successes and years of refining what actually helps people learn.
Real experience. Original material. Human teaching.
Ready to speak, grow and shine?
Live online programmes in small batches, open to learners worldwide. Register your interest and we will keep you informed as groups are formed.