What are some of the challenges trainers face when teaching English to non-English speakers?
Teaching English as a foreign language (EFL) presents a variety of challenges in the classroom. Students are placed in a class based on their level, meaning you may encounter students from different nationalities, varying in age, in a class together. Teachers sometimes face extreme cultural and social differences, so not only are teachers required to have subject knowledge, they must be socially aware and good at classroom management. Each student will have a different set of needs, goals and strengths that requires individual focus.
Why are students coming to Cape Town to learn English?
Cape Town is increasing in popularity as an English learning destination due to factors such as affordability, the weather and, of course, the beauty and international popularity of the city. Being a cosmopolitan playground for all ages and cultures, people tend to feel at home immediately. The South African accent is also easily understandable as you learn English.
Your job requires you to travel around the world to meet Oxford English Academy agents and students. What are some of the issues you have to address?
Selling Cape Town, or actually SA, as an EFL destination is not an easy job. People tend not to equate Africa with English. Most students aspire to learn the language in the UK or the US. So I am usually faced with questions surrounding visas and safety.
What makes you good at your job?
I love what I do. I love the diverse people I meet. Collaboration with the South African tourism industry can help us to become one of the top destinations in the world for EFL learning. Add to that the travelling and networking, and it really is a labour of love.
What do you find most meaningful about the work you do?
First, it's the opportunity to market the city I love. Showing people where I live and convincing them to visit our school makes me extremely proud. I'm an emotional sucker when I showcase what we have to offer.
Second, witnessing the progress and success of each student makes for a very meaningful outcome. Knowing that we've contributed to changing someone's life can be very rewarding. We are starting to offer courses to South Africans as well, not only foreign students, meaning we will be changing and influencing local lives too.
Not many people are aware the EFL industry in SA accounts for 1% of the world market share. Even though this is a small share, it still adds up to a multimillion-dollar industry, creating hundreds of jobs locally.
What is the best career advice you have ever received, and who gave it to you?
While I was studying at university, I managed a small cafe for extra income. The general manager told me that to be a good leader, you must be prepared to do any job you might expect others to do. My parents also always encouraged me to be fearless and passionate.
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