Language Acquisition: How Native is a 'Native Speaker'?
Explore the journey from language learner to native speaker status. Learn how age, environment, and education influence fluency.
39 views
top of page
I believe that in a world where students have become numbers, a personal approach is key to ensure you get the most out of your learning experience.
About me
Cosmopolitan background
I grew up in an English-speaking family of university professors in London and Singapore. I traveled extensively in South East Asia.
9 years of teaching experience
I was amongst the best teachers at both SkyEng and EnglishDom, the two companies I worked for before starting SpeakSpark. I know exactly what you need to get to the next level through the use of communicative methodology.
High referral rate
Over 80% of my students come through referrals. But not to worry, I've got plenty of testimonials here too, so you can judge for yourself!
Cambridge certified
After three years of working as a tutor, I successfully completed the English teaching course for adults at International House London.
Click here to view my CELTA certificate.
Russian language support
I'm bilingual so if you speak Russian, I've got you covered for idioms and those moments when a word is hard to remember. I'll be working on my German too!
A multipotentialite
I've got A LOT of interests; from sports and wellness to gaming and popular science to celebrity culture (with a bit of politics in between). I can chat about almost anything!
Meet our managers
Introducing our managing team, the masterminds behind SpeakSpark's academic excellence and smooth operations, who prefer to work their magic from the shadows.
They ensure our teaching standards are top-notch and our administrative processes run like a well-oiled machine.
While they may not seek the limelight, their expertise and dedication shine through in every decision they make.
Dave, PhD
Academic Consultant
PhD in History, 1996;
CELTA, IH House London, 2004
Helga, PhD
Managing Partner,
Director of Studies
PhD in ELT, 2007;
DELTA, IH House London, 2006
Meet our mascots
We're excited to introduce our nocturnal friends! Why owls, you ask?
They're the only ones who can stay awake as late as our team to offer classes at times convenient for everyone, even night owls!
Get ready to hoot with laughter as we unveil the qualifications, specialisations, and personalities of our feathered mascots, symbolising our aspiration to wisdom and knowledge in language teaching.
Professor Hoots
Professor Emeritus with a Ph.D. in Linguistics (1986, Featherdale Academy of Avian Arts)
He's an expert in "bird language" translation of Charles Dickens.
Despite his academic prowess, Prof Hoots has a creative side. He finds solace in composing sonnets in iambic pentameter.
Lady Tweetly
A social media sensation, holding a diploma in Digital Avian Communication (2008, Perchfield College).
She's adept at helping you chirp your thoughts in perfect English.
During her off hours, she's a keen birdwatcher, always ready to spot the next feathered trend.
Miss Featherstone
Our feathered fashionista with a BA in English Literature (2005, Nestington University).
She's unrivalled at helping you "dress up" your writing.
Outside the classroom, she enjoys flitting through vintage bookstores, searching for Stephen Crane's rare editions.
Sir Wingington
Our knight of knowledge with a Master's in Language Arts (1999, Beaktown Academy).
He's a master of "owliteration", skillfully weaving whimsical wordplay into his writing.
When the sun sets, you'll find him perched gracefully, practising calligraphy with his talons.
Dr Squawk
A distinguished bird of science, with a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics (1994, Staremore University).
He specialises in idioms, from "a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" to "the early bird catches the worm," just not the avicidal one.
In his free time, you'll find him gazing wisely into the distance.
Mr & Mrs Owliver
Our owls about town, certified in Exam Preparation (2012, Hootbridge Institute).
They excel at "branching out" your vocabulary to help you pass exams with flying colors.
Outside of their teaching duties, they enjoy jazz nights and hatching new test-taking strategies.
Secrets of the trade
After introducing SpeakSpark's mastermind, managers, and mascots, all that's left is the last M.
Curious about our teaching methods? Check out our blog posts where we spill all the beans on how we make learning English fun and effective!
bottom of page