About Gavin

A PASSION FOR TEACHING

Born and raised in London, a city which I love, I began teaching English a few years after I got my degree in Politics and Sociology at the University of Glasgow.

Teaching English is a passion for me. I love it. It all started many years ago when I got the CELTA qualification and began teaching in various language schools and businesses in London, Buenos Aires and Florence.

During this time I not only greatly improved my skills as a language teacher, I also realised that Skype was the best way of connecting the student and teacher. Skype eliminates the need for travel and cuts the costs in terms of both time and money for the student.

There are three key principles that guide my lessons: enjoyment, strategy and minimal ‘teacher-talk-time’.

• Enjoyment

  Enjoyment is fundamental to the learning process and this is why I try to create a relaxed environment where a variety of interesting topics are discussed.

• Strategy

  Every student needs a personal strategy and a plan for success. The progress of the student must be measured, and if no improvements are being made, the strategy must change.

• Minimal 'teacher-talk-time'

  Lessons should be an opportunity for the student to practise speaking, not the teacher, so it is key that 'teacher-talk-time' is kept to a minimum and the student speaks as much as possible.