My Experience
After 15 years of working in marketing and communication and living for 10 years as an expatriate (Italy, Gabon, Scotland, Pacific Islands, the Shetland Islands) I decided to specialize in tailor-made French lessons.
Since my return to Paris in 2009, I have given lessons in French as a Foreign Language to expatriates, their spouses and children, all the while bringing a friendly intercultural dimension.
Always looking to know more about the learning process and passionate about sharing the French language, I have my heart set on building and proposing dynamic lessons that fit my clients’ needs.
Another visit to the halls of university in France and the United Kingdom gave me the opportunity to integrate new practices. Neurosciences and learning languages, tools for coaching and mentoring, and pronunciation correction are an integral part of my teaching practice. As a member of the “Génération 15-25” coaching association, I also assimilate coaching techniques into my method.
Trained in literature, with a degree in sociology and a double Masters (Masters of Linguistics, University of Paris X Nanterre and Professional Graduate in Education-PGDE, University of Glasgow), I put to use my general knowledge, my love of culture(s) and my curiosity for the latest trends, discoveries, and innovations in my approach to education.
10 years of reputable experience
I’ve built my experience in teaching courses for recognized schools such as HEC, CEMS, Wharton School, and international organisations like AEMF, BCE, and DFID, l’École de guerre (NATO program).
Today, as a freelance teacher, I work in various industries, very often at the cutting edge: IT, banking, finance, fashion, well-being… and with international organisations: OECD, delegations, ambassadors, … I also teach at the UNESCO Language Center.
Certified ICPF & PSI teacher, CNEFOP standard. My training organisation is Datadock referenced.
Testimonials
« In just hundred hours Catherine has brilliantly equipped me with skills for a good level of French language. Before meeting her I barely knew any French and at present, not only do I manage my daily life in France with ease but also am able to efficiently do my first English teaching job in a French school.
She is an exceptional teacher who was quick to recognize my learning style, the way I register things in mind and accordingly gave me strategies of learning. She also made me go beyond what I am capable of without making my learning stressful at all.
I loved learning French grammar logic from her. There were no boring grammar sessions (or any class for that matter) with her ever! She provided historical references and narrated anecdotes to give cultural context and to make learning interesting and memorable.
She is also a keen observer and listener and hence is the best professor of French to teach French pronunciation. Many French people have commended my pronunciation of French words and I have Catherine to be thankful for.
In short, two words describe Catherine’s teaching skills: Exceptionally brilliant! She has motivated me to continue to learn and that’s what I intend to do as I remain grateful to her for her guidance and all that she has helped me learn. »
« Catherine always made my lessons fun and stimulating with her positive energy, her research beforehand on subjects that interested me; she was like a breath of fresh air during my workday! What puts her a cut above the rest is her sensitivity : she was very perceptive of my state of mind and adapted the lesson to ensure I would get the most out of it. »
Each class I progressed more and more, a dynamic and very pleasant way of teaching.
So if you want to make great progress in French in a pleasant way, the answer is to have Catherine as a teacher.
I was preparing to take a French exam to be admitted to French universities, I only had 1 month to prove a B2 level and I had an A2. It was thanks to her that I passed my exam and I am immensely grateful. Not to mention that when I felt discouraged or overwhelmed Catherine always found a way to guide me on the right path.
I couldn’t have asked for a better teacher.
