It’s been a busy one! I still have writing projects to wrap up before the Xmas break, but I’m taking a moment off for some reflection. So, how’s everything been this year? Teaching I’ve learnt quite a bit from my… Read More ›

reflections
What’s it like to write for ESL Library?
I’ve been working on a cool new series of functional Business English lessons for ESL Library. Here’s a bit about the approach taken and my experience of working with ESL Library. The overall content Here’s the basic info: And here… Read More ›
A connected curriculum?
One benefit of being an EAL teacher is that we’re not in a ‘subject bubble’. We support our learners in various subjects, meaning we get a good insight into content across the KS3/KS4 curriculum (or at least phases of it)…. Read More ›
Some regular EAL activities
Here are few things I do / use in my EAL practice that didn’t feature much (if at all) when I worked at the British Council. I’m just sharing for general interest and it’s actually been prompted by some of… Read More ›
EAL Science and CLILing it
I’m supporting in some really interesting classes this term, especially Science. The subject knowledge of those Science teachers is pretty impressive, especially once you get to KS4. The need for language support in our class tends to be high. The… Read More ›
New book! IELTS Reading Practice
If Carlsberg did writing projects… Ha, what would we ask for as writers? What would be your ultimate terms and conditions? Mine would probably include: choosing my co-author (almost) complete freedom over content flexible deadlines so I can work around… Read More ›
Before I became a teacher
Tyson Seburn recently tweet-asked followers about their degrees prior to working in ELT. After seeing such varied responses, I feel quite embarrassed to admit that I know very little about anything other than the English language ☹. Not even much… Read More ›
International schools: the current state of play (EL Gazette)
The latest EL Gazette includes a feature article on international schools: This article began with a focus on traditional international schools – those typically serving the interests of Western expatriates. It suggested that nations such as Singapore, India and China… Read More ›
Reflections on the DipTESOL
Here are some short video reflections on my DipTESOL experience. These are meant for candidates on the new DipTESOL course run through DublinTEFL. I’ve explained more in this intro vid… Excuse the tiredness. And the lockdown hair! Barbers are shut… Read More ›
Towards building a whole-school approach to EAL
I enjoyed Adri’s post on EAL vs ESL the other day. It’s great to read so many positives regarding EAL culture at her school: teamwork, addressing individual needs, building a whole-school EAL approach, etc. Based on Adri’s comments, I feel… Read More ›