Case Studies: Teachers

Hi Ahmed, thank you for agreeing to this short interview. I would just like to ask you a few questions about your teaching career and what it is that appealed to you about working with Language Trainers.

Absolutely, I am happy to share my story!

Great! Can you start by telling us which language you teach and why?

Teaching is my passion. It is something I have wanted to do since my childhood. I love not just to teach others, but also to learn new things from others, as well. I am a native Somali speaker and semi-native Swahili, so these are the languages I teach to others.

And can you share a little about your teaching history prior to working with Language Trainers?

Of course. I started teaching and interpreting back in 2010 as a volunteer for a community-based project. I loved it and have been teaching ever since. I have lots of experience teaching both native and non-native students. Many native speakers of Somali and Swahili speak the language fluently but do not learn to read and write, so I would teach them the skills and techniques to do so, especially adults. However, I primarily taught non-natives the full range of skills (speaking, listening, reading, and writing). It was in my classes with non-natives that I learned the value of being flexible. So, if a student wants to focus on one particular area or demonstrates a keen interest in certain topics, I consider this when planning my classes.

Well, then it’s no wonder you found your way to us! Besides your desire for a flexible teaching approach, why else did you want to teach with Language Trainers?

I believe Language Trainers is the right place for me to teach while also improving my skills. The staff are incredibly supportive and provide as much guidance as I need. They communicate with me regularly to make sure I have everything I need and that the lessons are going well, and the payment is very fair and reliable.

It sounds like you are getting everything from us that you could need. And what about you? What can your students expect from you in their lessons?

Definitely a friendly and open teacher who is always punctual and excited to help you reach your expected targets and goals. I offer the student choice over their timetable and the main areas of focus throughout the course.

That’s great, Ahmed! And what do you expect from them in return?

The same, really. That they are eager to learn, motivated, punctual, and friendly. My message to all my students is to never give up and you will reach your goals by the end of the course.

Excellent advice, I must say! Do you have a standout favorite memory from your time working with our clients?

Not really. I have been blessed that Language Trainers has consistently provided me with great students who are proactive and have good attitudes to learning.

Well, that’s very nice of you to share that with us! If you had to convince a potential student to study with Language Trainers instead of another school, what would you say?

Without a doubt, Language Trainers is the best place for them to make their language dreams come true. It is the only place where they can get such reliable, responsible, and native teachers.

Thank you so much for speaking with us, Ahmed!