Frequently Asked Questions
If you can't find the answer to your question below, please don't hesitate to contact me - I'll be very happy to help!
What qualifications do I need to start training with you?
None - all I ask is that you speak English as your first language. I'm also happy to work with non-native speakers who have very fluent English. I don't work with non-fluent speakers: although I've done some TEFL work, if you need training in English as a foreign language there are better providers than me available.
What qualifications do you have?
First class honours degree in English, a Masters in English and a Postgraduate Certificate of Education (the PGCE is the standard qualification for teaching in UK secondary schools and further education colleges). That's an awful lot more than most people who offer this sort of training. Find out more on my bio page.
What do you mean by "personalised" training?
No two programmes I teach are the same. When you start working with me, we'll spend a fair amount of time discussing how we can address your needs. If possible, programme modules will be based on real jobs that are sitting on your desk right now. Got a speech to write for your boss? Copy to put together for a website? We can take those projects and use them for your training. You get to use your time efficiently by moving forward with your work while you learn.
I'm dyslexic - is that a problem?
Not necessarily. If your specific difficulty is of average severity and was diagnosed and addressed while you were still in full-time education, chances are you've developed good strategies for dealing with it. I can provide additional, business-specific help. However, if you're only recently diagnosed or you suspect you are dyslexic but are as yet undiagnosed, you're probably better off getting specialist help before you take one of my courses. Get in touch in either case, and I'll point you in the right direction.
But you're in the UK and I'm in the USA/Canada/Hong Kong/Australia/New Zealand...!
No problem at all. I work with clients all over the world, and all the training I offer can be carried out through a combination of phone and email communication. I generally use Skype for international calls, and I would recommend the service - if we're both Skyping, the call is free for both of us. If Skype isn't an option, I'm happy to call you on any international landline (not mobile/cell) at no extra cost.
Time zone differences don't usually present difficulties.
What equipment do I need?
An internet-connected PC or Mac with (preferably) a recent edition of MS Office Word. If you don't have Word, Open Office is the next best thing, and it's free. It would help if you had a basic understanding of Word's track changes and commenting features, as I tend to use these extensively. If you're not familiar with them, don't worry - they are dead easy to use, and I'll show you how.
Apart from that, you'll find a pen and paper useful for taking notes during calls.
Do I get a formal qualification?
No. There are few widely-recognised, accredited qualifications available for the sort of very specific training I offer. In any case, I do my best to meet the very specific needs of my clients, offering the sort of personalised coaching that wouldn't be covered by a one-size-fits-all course syllabus.