Hortense

My teaching style

My teaching style is rooted in the belief that language learning should be joyful, meaningful, and empowering. With over a decade of experience teaching French and German in schools across the UK and Ireland, I have developed a learner-centered approach that nurtures communication, curiosity, independence, and creativity. My goal is always to create a supportive space where learners feel safe to express themselves, explore the language, and take risks without fear of judgment.

A cornerstone of my approach is discovery-based learning. Rather than delivering grammar rules in a traditional way, I guide students to notice language patterns, compare examples, and deduce rules themselves. This process encourages deeper understanding, critical thinking, and ownership of their learning journey. It’s truly rewarding to see learners have those “aha!” moments when they figure out grammar through their own observations.

I’m particularly passionate about making language learning fun, hands-on, and real, especially for children. I use realia—authentic materials like menus, brochures, recipes, and maps—to make lessons more engaging and relevant. These everyday items connect learners to the culture behind the language and help them develop practical communication skills. I also incorporate CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning), teaching subjects like cooking, PE, and drama in French. For example, students might follow a recipe in French, act out a story in roleplay, or give and follow instructions during a physical activity. This approach enhances not only their language skills but also their ability to think and function in French across different contexts.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I transitioned to online teaching and developed interactive, engaging methods to maintain connection and energy in virtual classrooms. Since then, I’ve continued teaching online with Lingoda, where I work with adult learners of all levels and backgrounds. I tailor each lesson to suit learners’ individual goals—whether it’s preparing for travel, advancing professionally, or simply speaking with more fluency and confidence. I use digital tools, visual aids, and topic-based learning to keep lessons dynamic and motivating.

My background in counselling has also shaped the way I teach. While completing my MSc in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy, I worked online with students and staff, providing emotional support and developing deep listening skills. This experience has helped me create a classroom environment that is not only intellectually stimulating but also emotionally safe and inclusive. I’m highly attuned to learners’ emotional needs and work to ensure they feel seen, respected, and encouraged throughout their journey.

As a speaker of multiple languages—French, English, Romanian, German, and some Japanese—I understand the ups and downs of language learning firsthand. This gives me insight into the challenges my students face and allows me to empathise and support them with personalised strategies. I meet learners where they are and help them move forward with confidence, creativity, and clarity.

Ultimately, what I value most in teaching is helping students become more confident, independent, and genuinely curious about the language and culture they’re learning. Whether I’m teaching online or in person, to children or adults, my aim is always to make learning an enjoyable and empowering experience.