Hello! Thank you for clicking on my profile. My name is Shona Gordon. I am a native English speaker currently living in the United Kingdom. I am a fully qualified TEFL teacher and have a Masters Degree in Online and Distance Education. I have lived most of my life in Scotland, although I have spent some years living in Switzerland too. I have been teaching English online for over 15 years now.

Prior to teaching English, I spent over 20 years in the business environment. In 2003 I met my husband, and he was the catalyst for change! By 2007 we were married, had 2 children and were living in Switzerland where he was working. Whilst living in Switzerland, I discovered my passion for teaching. I taught English to children, students and adults face-to-face and online. I founded various English speaking playgroups and book clubs for children and adults in Zurich. Using my own basic French and Swiss German language skills, I had great fun teaching English and learning more about my learners. I have continued to teach English online since returning to the United Kingdom.

Since I am very interested in the impact technology is having on education today, I studied for (and have now attained) a Master's degree in Online and Distance Education.

In my spare time I enjoy walking, swimming, cycling with the family and gardening in spring/summer time.

Qualifications:

Masters Degree in Online and Distance Education (2021)

Award in Training Principles and Practice (2015)

Advanced TEFL/TESOL Certificate (2013)

Certificate in Teaching IELTS (2013)

TEFL Certificate (2012)

European Computer Driving Licence (2011)

ILM Diploma in Management (2003)

IAM International Diploma in Administrative Management (2003)

RSA Shorthand 140 wpm (1986)

HND in Secretarial Studies PA (1984)

Experience:

I have been teaching conversational and business English online for over 15 years.

I have also been working for an Online English language school for 10 years, teaching Business English (from CEF level A1 to C2) using a virtual platform. I have also taught BULATS, TOIEC, IELTS and Cambridge First Certificate and Advanced classes.

Having over 20 years experience in the business environment means that I am ideally placed to teach learners how improve and develop their business English skills for example writing emails, letters and reports, minute taking, presentations, interview preparation, telephone conversation, and shorthand. In particular, I spent many years working in Human Resources, so have a great deal of experience and advice to share with English learners who are applying for jobs and going to interviews.

I also teach English academic skills to students who are preparing to enter University. I help them with their University applications (personal statements) and interview preparation.

My aim is to create a fun, positive, safe learning environment for my learners. I am a good listener, hence I am able to identify my learner's specific needs and adapt lessons accordingly. Where possible, I encourage learners to use a variety of open education resources freely available online to learn English.

I have a passion for the English language and working with people. I am able to combine my business and teaching experience which allows me to teach conversational and business English for real life situations (including interview preparation, presentations, email, telephone conversations, computer skills, shorthand etc).

I am both flexible and adaptable in my teaching. My priority is to give each English learner the individual support needed on their unique learning journey.