Grow: A podcast from Cambridge

Welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we are joining Fernanda Maria Parente Batalha from her very own classroom in Brazil.Host Rebecca Rios, learns how Fernanda believes in the importance of connecting with students through real-life examples, personal stories and understanding their individual experience. For her, teaching goes far beyond just delivering content. She shares her honest struggles and brilliant strategies for teaching every age from primary, through to teenagers, and adults. In this episode of Grow, you will hear about:Creating classroom environments where students feel seen, heard and motivated to learn.Strategies for engaging younger students and how current generations interact differently with learning. Learning through play and engagement to create dynamic environments. Inspiring stories of student’s transformation and growth You’ll also hear from Matt Ellman & Cecília Lemos Harmer from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on creating effective learning objectives. Explore free, integrated learning and assessment tools for teachers, including our new course, ideas pack and more, at cambridge.org/ILA.Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello and welcome to another episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we are back in France, with host Luísa Geão speaking to Csilla Ducrocq, a Professor at Université Paris-Saclay. Csilla’s story is one of resilience, creativity and the impact of human connection in education. She has transformed her multicultural experiences into innovative teaching methods including her “crazy science” activities that make language learning engaging and memorable. And whilst she does embrace digital tools, Csilla emphasises that meaningful education happens through emotional connections between teachers and students, with AI serving as an enhancement rather than replacement for human interaction. In this episode of Grow, you will: Be inspired to think differently about education and cultural understanding. Discover how giving educators the autonomy to design their own programs can lead to breakthrough teaching methods. Learn the impact of connecting students across borders.Hear heartfelt words Csilla’s students wrote about how her classes opened their horizons.You’ll also hear from ELT Author and Trainer, Jeremy Harmer with a top tip.Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge, host Diana Romero Saucedo speaks with Miguel Espinosa Flores at the Universidad del Valle de México. Miguel, who began his teaching career at 19 years old, reflects on his initial nervousness and how he overcame the challenges of teaching students close to his own age by trusting in his knowledge and a passion for what he does. He discusses the importance of creating a fun and comfortable classroom environment, even in a university setting, and shares why he's so passionate about leaving his mark on the world through education.In this episode you will hear all about:The impact of incorporating student’s interests into lessons. Miguel’s tips for building rapport with students.The shared feeling of accomplishment when a student succeeds.How to strive for improvement in teaching every day.Going beyond language instruction to teach life skills and values.You’ll also hear a top tip from Miranda Hamilton, who has over 25 years experience as a teacher, teacher trainer and educational consultant. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to another episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge where today we welcome John Slade, a CELTA trainer and EFL teacher in London. Hosted by Joel Cutting, in this episode you’ll discover how John transformed his passion for languages into a thriving career that spans continents and disciplines.Whether you’re a newly qualified teacher looking for guidance, or perhaps considering CELTA training, John’s practical advice on building relationships with schools, saying yes to opportunities and staying present in the classroom will resonate deeply. In this episode of Grow, you will:Gain insights into making pronunciation less daunting.Discover unique techniques drawn from John’s background in dance and acting. Hear practical advice for progressing from newly qualified teacher to trainer. Learn the importance of contributing to the wider ELT profession through collaboration and knowledge sharing. You’ll also hear from teacher trainer and educational consultant Miranda Hamilton, with a top tip that you can use in your classroom! Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Find out how you can start your own CELTA journey.The world’s best-selling grammar book, English Grammar in Use Fifth editionExplore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we are joining Amanda Benites from her very own classroom in Brazil.Host Rebecca Rios explores Amanda’s heartwarming journey from a shy language learner to an inspiring educator. They dive into the world of bilingual education, the use of technology in the classroom and those magical moments when students truly connect with language. Amanda believes teaching English is about so much more than just grammar and vocabulary - it’s about helping students learn about themselves, build confidence and develop critical life skills. In this episode of Grow, you will discover:Attention-grabbing techniques and mindfulness for engaging young learners. How to create a classroom where mistakes are seen as positive stepping stones to learning. Tips for integrating language learning and technology purposefully.A positive understanding of bilingualism as effective communication. You’ll also hear from educator and materials writer, Michelle Worgan with a top tip that you can use in your classroom! Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“The feeling of helping them to grow, to become older and to pass knowledge, it’s so amazing for me.” Welcome back to another episode of Grow: A Podcast from Cambridge. Today we are welcoming primary school teacher Sylvie Canal, from her very own classroom just outside of Paris. In this heartwarming episode, Sylvie shares the joy and magic behind nurturing young minds and those precious moments that make teaching the most rewarding job. She also shares practical approaches for engaging young learners, using games, songs, stories, and interactive methods to make learning fun and meaningful. In this episode of Grow, you will hear all about: Sylvie’s philosophy of continuous learning, adapting teaching methods and seeing each class as a unique opportunity to connect with and inspire students. The importance of finding meaningful work and following your passion for education. Sylvie’s personal career journey from her nervous first steps in the classroom to leading international school trips. An innovative English immersion program in place at Sylvie’s school. The special bond between primary school teachers and their students. You’ll also hear from ELT writer, teacher, teacher trainer and conference speaker Ben Goldstein, with a top tip that you can use in your classroom! Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello and welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. We are excited to bring you a brand new line up of inspiring teacher stories from classrooms around the world. You’ll also meet some new hosts, and a few familiar ones too!We’re starting off in the UK, to meet Laurie Chase, a Senior Teacher and Safeguarding & Wellbeing Lead at LILA College in Liverpool. In this episode we delve into Laurie’s unexpected path into English language teaching, their unique approach to classroom observations, and the innovative staff wellbeing initiatives at their college. Laurie shares how they overcame imposter syndrome and navigated neurodiversity, utilising these challenges to become powerful strengths within the classroom.  Tune in to learn:Valuable insights into overcoming imposter syndrome in the classroom.Tips for supporting neurodivergent students and teachers. How to improve your professional resilience skills.The importance of continuous self-improvement and workplace wellbeing for teachers.You’ll also hear from teacher trainer and materials developer Jade Blue, with a top tip that you can use in your classroom! Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week is a very special episode, as we’ll be taking a look back at some of our favourite moments from the first ten episodes of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. During the first series we visited teachers in their classrooms across Italy, Spain and The Netherlands.It’s been an incredible journey full of valuable insights, inspiring stories and helpful advice. Let’s revisit some of those heart-warming moments.Tune in to discover:Achievements and memories that make our teachers feel proud. Some of their favourite English words and phrases The impact teaching English has on their students' lives. We’ll be taking a very short break, whilst we visit new classrooms in more incredible countries worldwide. But don’t worry, we’ll be back in a few weeks, so there won’t be long for you to wait! Make sure you subscribe wherever you listen to your podcasts, so you know when the next episode is released. We can’t wait to bring  you some more insightful and inspiring teacher journeys in series 2.See you soon. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“I “grow” with them in their first steps of being a teacher”Welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. In this episode we’re joining English Teacher, Helmi Sonneveld in the Netherlands. Helmi has been an inspirational teacher for over 28 years, and now trains future teachers at the start of their careers. From those nerve-wracking first steps in the classroom, through to new magical moments that make teaching so rewarding. Discover classroom life through Helmi’s lens, with her take on working with young adult students, the true art of connecting with learners, and the invaluable lessons she’ll pass on to the next generation of educators.Tune in to hear about: Developing confidence in both students and teachers Addressing individual learning needs with empathy and strategic approachesThe palette of emotions that all teachers embrace throughout their careerOpportunities which open up to learners and educators through learning the English languageHow to reframe classroom development and create connections with studentsEnglish teaching as more than a career, but as a lifelong learning journeyYou’ll also hear from ELT Author and Trainer, Jeremy Harmer who shares his advice on getting students to do their homework. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. In this episode we sit down with Anne Niemeijer-Mackie, a passionate English teacher with over 40 years of experience in education. We join Anne in her very own classroom at Talland College in Amsterdam, and dive into her remarkable work with refugee students, exploring how language can be a powerful tool for integration, opportunities and hope.  Anne’s passion and unique stories will leave you feeling inspired - tune in now to discover: Anne's innovative approaches to education, supporting students from diverse backgrounds.How teachers can be more than instructors - they are mentors and supporters helping students navigate the world.Teaching as a two-way learning process, where educators gain as much from their students as students gain from them.You’ll also hear from teacher trainer and materials developer Jade Blue, who will share a top tip on getting students to pay attention after a free or practice activity.  Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to Grow: a podcast from Cambridge, as we embark on the first stop of our latest journey around the Netherlands. In this episode we're joined by Liesbeth Elbers, from her classroom in Lingecollege MAVO, to explore the art of teaching teenagers. Liesbeth reveals how she connects with her students through genuine interactions, creative five-minute activities and her genuine passion for language - learning as much from her students as they do from her! This episode covers:How to empower the personal growth of teenage students. Balancing the need to be engaging in the classroom, while remaining true to oneself.The need for boundaries, recognition, and opportunities for students to lead their own learning.Strategies for maintaining motivation and making learning interactive and fun.You’ll also hear from Educator and Materials Writer, Michelle Worgan, who will share her top tip for getting students to speak in English during pair or group activities.Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Teaching English doesn’t just give students the tools to visit the UK and the US —it connects them to so much more of the world than they could ever imagine.‘The sky's the limit’ is a phrase that encapsulates that potential perfectly, and it’s among Cristina Tunica’s favourite idioms which she’s shared with students throughout her 20+ years of teaching.Listen as Cristina joins Luísa Geão for this heartfelt and life-affirming episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge.This episode covers:How English connects you with more than just English-speaking countriesCristina’s favourite idioms to use in classLeading as more than a teacher; as a guide and mentorHow to encourage students not to be scared of failureYou’ll also hear again from Ben Goldstein, who will provide his advice on how to increase engagement in the classroom. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

‘English: the beautiful language’. That simple phrase inspires countless students to engage with a subject that unlocks so much in the world.As a huge advocate for the phrase, Graham Ward is a wonderful example of a teacher who’s been empowering students for over 27 years. He’s now sharing his talents at Fundació Collserola.Graham joins Luísa Geão on episode 6 of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge, to share how he challenges and motivates students, how silence can be such a useful tool, and staying fresh for a new generation of students!This episode coversEmpowering students to be responsible for their own learningHow you can motivate your students by challenging themWhy silence attractsAdapting your teaching to the new generation of studentsYou’ll also hear from Miranda Hamilton who will share her advice on how an integrated learning and assessment approach can help teachers in the classroom. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

English isn't just a language for visiting the UK, it unlocks cultures around the world – and that's at the heart of Stefania Rosa Cisternino's wonderful teaching style.Stefania’s been a teacher for over 17 years, and her attitude to allowing collaboration, using unique approaches and harnessing the power of music is absolutely refreshing!Join us for a fascinating fifth episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge, as Stefania shares her journey with Filippo Pavesi.This episode coversWhat makes music such a key part of Stefania’s essential teacher’s kitFinding new ways to teach and unlock students’ understandingWork-life balance when running your own English schoolThe most common challenges that she faces as a teacher, and how to overcome itYou’ll also hear from Sarah Mercer, Professor of Foreign Language Teaching at the University of Graz, Austria, with a top tip on how to increase engagement within the classroom.Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Florencia Sarsotti has a fascinating, humanistic approach to teaching English which makes her such a passionate force for good at Madre Sacramento school.She joins us in the latest episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge, where she talks through her holistic view on bringing English to life, and how to stay current for new generations of teachers and students alike.This episode coversFlorencia’s holistic approach to engaging studentsHow teachers are adapting to the new generation of pupilsMaking students feel like the school is a home for themThe give and take relationship between teachers and their classesYou’ll also hear from Ben Goldstein, who will provide a top tip for ensuring learners feel like they belong in the classroom, whatever their differences. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During her 17-year teaching career, Laura Berni’s focus on learners with Special Educational Needs (SEN) has defined her caring approach.One of her many fabulous qualities as a teacher is her ability to observe, understand, and include students with special educational needs. We're delighted to share some of Laura’s experience as an English Language Teacher in the latest episode of Grow, a podcast by Cambridge!Laura joins Filippo Pavesi in Tuscany, to share her greatest moment of pride in being a teacher,how she shifted from the corporate world to education, and much more.This episode coversLaura’s shift to teaching from a previous career as an Export ManagerThe rewarding empathy that students can provide to teachersThe importance of never being static, and always learningYou’ll also hear from ELT author and trainer Jeremy Harmer, with a top tip that you can use in your everyday teaching. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Teaching English is about more than just teaching the language, it's about helping your students use English to live.Susana Gálvez Plou isn't just an inspiration to her students, but is a great role model to us all on how to empower and motivate future generations.Susana shares her teaching story as she joins host Luísa Geão in Barcelona for episode 2 of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge.This episode covers:The power of “yet”Translating the idea of constant progress to studentsMaking decisions in the knowledge that you’ve time to change courseHow much Susana learns from her studentsYou’ll also hear from educator and materials writer Michelle Worgan, with a top tip that you can use in your classroom! Links & references Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognized exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello and welcome to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge - this series will guide you through the world of English language teaching. Join us as we delve into the personal journeys of educators just like you, from their very own classrooms.To kick off this exciting new series our host for the Italian leg of our journey, Filippo Pavesi, is speaking with the wonderful Mariacristina Marcato, an English Teacher & Co-ordinator in Milan.Mariacristina takes us through her greatest career achievements and challenges, shares the joys of seeing her students’ growth, and offers invaluable advice for new teachers!You’ll also hear from teacher trainer and materials developer Jade Blue, with a top tip that you can use in your classroom! This episode covers:Mariacristina’s defining moment where she knew she’d become a teacherHow she overcame her greatest challengesWhat kinds of activities best connect with studentsWhy maintaining energy and not being discouraged are importantMariacristina’s advice for new teachersLinks & referencesKid’s Box New Generation: Growing, learning and having fun together in the primary classroom: World of Better Learning Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognized exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution.Join our social community:FacebookInstagramLinkedInXTikTokYouTubeSend your audio questions to be answered in future episodes:growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello and welcome to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge, where the Mediterranean is the backdrop of our first series. From navigating the lively classrooms of Milan, to discovering diverse learning environments in Barcelona, the Grow podcast will guide you through the world of English Language Teaching. Join us as we delve into the personal journeys of educators just like you, from their very own classrooms. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of triumphs, setbacks and invaluable lessons learnt along the way. Whether you're an experienced educator or just starting out, Grow offers practical tips and inspiration to enhance your teaching skills. You’ll learn from others who have been exactly where you are, gain new ideas to implement straight into tomorrow's lesson plans, and reflect on how you want your own career journey to develop. So join us for an adventure towards a brighter future for education, fuelled by your passion for teaching. Learn more: cambridge.org/wobl Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.