How can we step up from B1/B2 level English to C1? Well, one of the most effective ways to improve our level and become a more natural and fluid speaker is TO WORK ON our phrasal verbs. The English language is full of phrasal verbs and we can't avoid them. In my previous sentence, TO WORK ON (something), is a great example of what I mean. phrasal verb with work verb uk /wɜːk/ us /wɝːk/ to spend time repairing or improving something: His dancing technique is good, but he needs TO WORK ON his stamina. Students are sometimes afraid of phrasal verbs. Why? Because there are so many of them, because they follow different, rules and patterns and often the meanings are idiomatic. So how do we master them? While it's important to be aware of the different rules, the best way to learn them is in context and in small bites! eg phrasal verbs we use around the home, eg turn (something) on. give power to something electrical or mechanical, like a light, a TV, or a tap. pick (something) up. grab something and lift it. clean up. make something clean. throw (something) away. ... wash up. ... put (something) away. ... take (something) out. ... hang (something) up. When I'm working with my students, I encourage them to use new phrasal verbs with examples from their own lives, to attach meaning and emotion in their speaking practice. Additionally, I regularly send them a phrasal verb or idiom of the day. So if you are trying to improve your level, try it. Learn a new phrasal verb daily, try to choose themes/context to learn them in, and write sentences to practise, using examples from your own life. So good luck and CATCH UP SOON!

English is full of idioms which makes it such an interesting and rich language to use-but it can also make it confusing! Here are a few idioms and expressions to learn as we step into spring! Try to learn these by writing your own examples. I guarantee I'll give you some feedback! To all you lovely learners...the sun is shining here in the UK, yes, really!! Here's an idiom connected to spring! What is the idiomatic expression spring into action? Spring into Action 🪻🌷🌼🌹⛅ This English idiom is used when something or someone is quiet and calm then suddenly becomes active and starts moving or working. It's done quickly and with energy or force. 'The lifeguard sprang into action when he noticed the child drowning.' And... To be full of the joys of spring 🌷 This idiom is used when someone shows they are happy and full of energy. ' The little girl ran around the garden, jumping and laughing. She was full of the joys of spring!' Spring chicken🌼🐥 This means someone is no longer young. ' Although my grandfather is not a spring chicken, he still goes jogging every day.' Spring to mind 💡 This means a sudden thought that enters your mind. 'I was talking about my next summer holiday and a picture of blue skies and beaches sprang to mind.' Finally...To have a spring in your step. 💃 This means to show in your behaviour and attitude that you are happy about something. 'Ever since he was promoted in his job, he's had a spring in his step.' Can you write your own examples? Remember to put the verb ( if the idiom has one) in the appropriate tense. 😊Time to spring into action!

A lot of my fabulous students are away over the summer taking well-deserved holidays, and some are just taking a pause. It's good sometimes to let the learning you have done 'settle in', but if you happen to be visiting an English speaking country, or somewhere where the language isn't your own and English is used, you can try out the words, phrases and complex sentences in real life situations! However, we know that practice makes perfect, or at least learning a few phrases regularly, revising what you have learned with your teacher, or simply listening to podcasts, reading or watching a series in English, can have a positive impact on improving your English. A little learning everyday is better than an intensive 'meal' of English once a fortnight. So keep up the good work...it will be worth it!

Rapport! What does it mean? This is the Oxford learner's definition: rapport noun /ræˈpɔː(r)/ /ræˈpɔːr/ [singular, uncountable] ​a friendly relationship in which people understand each other very well rapport with somebody She understood the importance of establishing a close rapport with clients. rapport between A and B Honesty is essential if there is to be good rapport between patient and therapist. There was little rapport between the two women. She felt an instant rapport between them. Rapport is indeed a friendly relationship in which people understand each other well. But what does it mean for learners of another language? Having a comfortable relationship between teacher and learner, where communication feels easy is so important for the learning to take place. It is just as important as expertise in grammar or the ability to teach better pronunciation etc. I think however, that it's even more than that. Rapport also means that the teacher listens and notices when the learner is feeling embarrassed about mistakes or is frustrated about his/her/their learning progress and errors that happen. Rapport is about empathy, remembering details the learner shares, and showing curiosity in and about the learner's life. Rapport is about building trust, a space where the learner feels ok about making mistakes and feels free to communicate without awkwardness. Rapport is also about the teacher's willingness to learn from and with the student. I have learned so many things from and with my learners, not only about their worlds but about the English language too. Rapport is about going on a journey of discovery with the learner, and finally it is about building relationships, bonds with a global community, many of which have lasted for years.

Valentine's day What's the most romantic thing anyone has ever done for you on Valentine's day? Roses? a picnic in the park? An orchestra to serenade you? Or perhaps a marriage proposal? 

Love shopping?!! Hate shopping? High St or internet?

How many of you love or hate shopping? I don't like shopping much particularly for clothes!

When you are in an English speaking country do you prefer to shop on the internet because you may find it easier than talking to shop assistants and clerks etc? How easy do you find it to speak or understand English in everyday situations; shopping, eating out,  getting around on public transport for example? Is google translate your best friend when you have to buy a gift to take back home or a pair of shoes?

Do you find it is better to learn English following practical topics that use everyday English or follow a more grammar based course?

Interested to hear your thoughts!

Helen.