Native English teacher Cambridge certified, 3,500 hours experience, specialized in Business English

Find out more about Sandra

• Fala fluentemente esta língua por causa das suas origens ou por uma outra razão?

  Yes, I speak English fluently, thanks to being British and being part of a British family.

• Cite uma pessoa (da atualidade, histórica ou fictícia) que, na sua opinião, representa bem a cultura da língua que ensina!

  When it comes to embodying English culture, for me my family takes center stage. Picture a quintessential English Christmas – a table adorned with a festive turkey, the obligatory Christmas crackers adding a dash of whimsy, and the warmth of shared moments over tea and mince pies. These traditions, passed down through generations, encapsulate the heart of English customs.
  
  It is these unique exchanges that make our family traditions not only a representation of English culture but a charming blend of influences that I hold dear.

• Existe alguma palavra, expressão ou tradição típica que goste particularmente?

  How about embracing the charming British tradition of "afternoon tea”? It is more than just sipping tea; it is a delightful ritual involving finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries. This timeless tradition embodies elegance and coziness, creating a perfect balance between refinement and comfort. It is a lovely way to slow down, enjoy good company, and indulge in delicious treats. The phrase "taking tea" itself carries a certain grace and warmth, making it a particularly likeable aspect of British culture. As for words, "Exquisite" is a term that denotes something of exceptional beauty, quality, or elegance. It describes things that are finely crafted, delicately detailed, or possessing rare and intricate
  qualities. Whether used to compliment a piece of art, describe a meal, or characterise a moment, "exquisite" conveys a sense of sophistication and refined taste. It is a versatile word that captures the essence of things that are not just beautiful but possess a certain rare and delicate quality that sets them apart.

• Por qual motivo, aprender esta língua é importante (seja no âmbito escolar, profissional ou pessoal)?

  From a Corporate English teacher's perspective, the importance of learning the English language in the education, professional, and personal environment is evident for several reasons:
  
  Global Business Communication : English is the international language of business.
  Proficiency in English facilitates effective communication in the global corporate landscape, enabling professionals to interact seamlessly with clients, colleagues, and partners worldwide.
  
  Career Advancement : In the professional realm, a strong command of English opens doors to career opportunities.
  Many multinational corporations use English as their primary language, and employers often prioritise candidates with solid English skills.
  
  Access to Resources and Knowledge : English is the predominant language for academic and professional resources.
  Proficient English speakers have broader access to educational materials, research, and industry-related information, enhancing their ability to stay updated and competitive.
  
  Cross-Cultural Collaboration : Corporations today operate in diverse and multicultural environments.
  English proficiency promotes effective cross-cultural collaboration, fostering understanding and cooperation among team members from different linguistic backgrounds.
  
  Enhanced Networking :Proficiency in English facilitates networking at both national and international levels.
  Professionals can participate in conferences, workshops, and industry events, expanding their connections and staying current in their field.
  
  Increased Marketability : Individuals with strong English language skills are more marketable in the global job market.
  Employers value candidates who can contribute effectively in an English-speaking work environment, making them attractive assets to their organizations.
  
  Business Presentations and Negotiations : English proficiency is crucial for delivering impactful presentations and engaging in successful negotiations.
  Clear and effective communication in English enhances one's ability to convey ideas persuasively and build professional relationships.
  
  Adaptability and Mobility : Learning English fosters adaptability, making professionals more open to diverse work environments and global opportunities. English-speaking proficiency is an asset for those considering international assignments or seeking career mobility.
  
  Corporate Reputation : Organisations with employees who are proficient in English often enjoy a positive corporate image.
  It reflects a commitment to global standards and effective communication, contributing to the overall reputation of the company.
  
  Personal Development : Beyond professional advantages, learning English contributes to personal development.
  It broadens perspectives, enhances cognitive abilities, and allows individuals to engage more meaningfully with the global community, both professionally and personally.

• Qual a maior dificuldade desta língua e o como facilitar este processo de aprendizagem?

  Learning English, like any language, comes with its challenges. There are several ways of overcoming these.
  
  Grammar Complexity : Break down grammar rules into digestible chunks. Use practical examples and engage in regular practice exercises to reinforce understanding.
  
  Pronunciation Variations: Incorporate listening and speaking activities. Practice with native speakers and watch English-language videos to improve accent and intonation.
  
  Vocabulary : Thematic learning though subject based lessons and incorporating new words into daily conversations. Reading in English also helps expand vocabulary.
  
  Idioms and Phrasal Verbs : Focus on commonly used idioms and phrasal verbs.
  Integrate them into context during conversations, readings, and exercises. Encourage learners to understand their usage in real-life situations.
  
  Fear of Making Mistakes : Foster a supportive learning environment. Emphasize that making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process. Encourage regular communication and provide constructive feedback.
  
  Limited Exposure : Immerse learners in the language. Encourage reading English books, watching movies, and listening to podcasts or music. Create opportunities for real-life language use through language exchange or joining English-speaking groups.
  
  Lack of Confidence : Gradually build confidence through positive reinforcement. Encourage participation in English-speaking activities, celebrate small achievements, and provide supportive feedback to boost learners' self-esteem.
  
  Limited Practice Opportunities : Create a dynamic learning environment with interactive activities. Encourage group discussions, role-playing, and real-life scenarios to enhance practical language use.

• Pode partilhar alguma história e/ou curiosidade engraçada relacionada à sua profissão ou às suas aulas particulares?

  In my role as a Corporate English Teacher, I have had the privilege of working with students who, despite multiple setbacks and unsatisfactory learning experiences, emerge as success stories in their English language journey.
  
  Each student brings a unique narrative, and their objectives are clear when they join my class.
  Many have faced challenges, from large groups hindering personalised attention to past negative experiences that created barriers in their language learning.
  My adult students often carry with them years of frustration and setbacks.
  
  However, it is precisely these challenges that make their achievements with me so impactful.
  Every student I teach becomes my best story.
  Whether it is the professional growth they experience, the newfound confidence in expressing themselves, or the ability to participate in meetings and discussions, each accomplishment is a significant step forward in their lives.
  
  These success stories extend beyond the classroom.
  Several students, after lessons with me, have taken the bold step to move abroad, whether independently or with their families.
  The global reach of my students now spans places like London, Hawaii, Miami, Bali, Belgium, France and Germany.
  We maintain a close connection, reminiscing about their language-learning journey, and our teacher-student relationship often evolves into a lasting friendship.
  
  For those who stayed local, the impact is equally profound.
  Improved confidence, enhanced fluency, and a relaxed posture in expressing themselves in English have resulted in remarkable opportunities, career growth, and the ability to confidently contribute to international teams.
  
  These stories are not just about language learning; they are about personal development, growth, and seizing opportunities.
  Witnessing my students accomplish their goals is not only professionally rewarding but also a testament to the transformative power of learning English in the corporate environment.

• Queremos saber mais sobre si, conte-nos um pouco sobre as suas viagens e aventuras.

  I have always found immense joy in traveling and exploring new cultures around the world. When I was younger, I embarked on solo journeys, scuba diving and trekking in exotic locations, armed with my gear and a simple wardrobe of shorts and t-shirts. I explored the depths of the Red Sea through scuba diving, traversed Africa and Asia, and forged incredible friendships in Indonesia. Turning 50 didn't slow me down and I celebrated this milestone climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point of the African Continent. The year before my daughter and I cycled 738 kilometers from Chaves to Faro, following the iconic N2, the National 2 Road, cutting across Portugal from north to south. What an exhilarating adventure!
  
  Sports have always been a significant part of my life, and I have happily blended them with my love for travel. My daughter Michelle, born in Portugal but raised bilingually in a mix of British and Portuguese culture, shares my passion for exploration. Despite life's challenges, we find solace and excitement in planning our next adventure, always smiling at life's unpredictable journey. It is a philosophy we embrace wholeheartedly

• O que faz de si um Superprof (além do poder comunicar em várias línguas)?

  What sets me apart as a Superprof is my commitment to making every student feel seen, heard, and understood in our English lessons. It is more than just language learning; it is about creating a space where each student feels genuinely special, because they are. During our lessons, my focus is entirely on them—I am here to address their challenges, lend an ear to whatever they want to discuss, and value their opinions, experiences, and feelings. I pay attention to the small details, whether language-related or getting to know them as I pay attention to the small details, whether language-related or getting to know them as individuals. I take note of their preferences, what captures their interest, and take that step to understand their unique personalities. Beyond the classroom, I check in on their well-being, acknowledge special milestones in their lives or their families, and share experiences that I believe will bring them joy. In essence, what makes me more than just a Corporate English teacher is that I am a person connecting with other people. My students are not merely learners; they are individuals with their own stories, and I am here to make each lesson a personalised and meaningful part of their journey.