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Grow: A podcast from Cambridge

Cambridge

Hello and welcome to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge, where the Mediterranean is the backdrop of our first series. From navigating the lively classrooms of Milan, to discovering diverse learning environments in Barcelona, the Grow podcast will guide you through the world of English Language Teaching. Join us as we delve into the personal journeys of educators just like you, from their very own classrooms. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of triumphs, setbacks and invaluable lessons learnt along the way. Whether you're an experienced educator or just starting out, Grow offers practical tips and inspiration to enhance your teaching skills. You’ll learn from others who have been exactly where you are, gain new ideas to implement straight into tomorrow's lesson plans, and reflect on how you want your own career journey to develop. So join us for an adventure towards a brighter future for education, fuelled by your passion for teaching. Learn more: cambridge.org/wobl

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S1 · E34
October 8 · 27 min
Teachers ask: burnout, wellbeing and supporting every learner - Episode 34
Watch this episode on YouTube. Hello and welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. We’re back at the beautiful and sunny King’s College in Cambridge to bring you another very special Q&A episode. Host Luísa Geão is joined by Helen Kenyon, Product Manager at Cambridge and Dr Kate Brierton, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist. Together they explore how you can care for your learners and protect your own well-being. Our experts answer real questions submitted by English language teachers around the world from Azerbaijan, Mexico, and Germany - collected at the IATEFL conference in Brighton. In this episode of Grow, you will discover: How to notice when a learner is struggling. Simple weekly check-ins to spot burnout before it takes over. Easy emotional language you can teach to young learners. Using English as a space for students to talk about stress and emotions. Practical tips on body language to calm anxious learners. If you’ve got a question about your own classroom we’d love to hear from you. Send your questions to growpodcast@cambridge.org and they might feature in a future episode of Grow. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Find out how you can start your own CELTA journey. The world’s best-selling grammar book, English Grammar in Use Fifth edition Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E33
September 24 · 28 min
Teachers ask: AI, mixed-ability classes & multilingual learners - Episode 33
Watch this episode on YouTube. Hello and welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we’re bringing you a very special Q&A episode of Grow directly from the beautiful and sunny King’s College in Cambridge. Host Luísa Geão is joined by English Language Teaching specialists Cecília Lemos Harmer and Olha Madylus, along with co-host Rebecca Rios from Brazil. Our experts answer real questions submitted by English Language Teachers around the world from Austria, Poland and Georgia - collected at the IATEFL conference in Brighton. In this episode of Grow, you will discover: How to manage large mixed ability classes. Ways to use multilingual classrooms as an advantage. What to do when tech - or AI - goes wrong. How to talk about AI, ethics and plagiarism with your students. How to give actionable, encouraging feedback that highlights progress. If you’ve got a question about your own classroom we’d love to hear from you. Send your questions to growpodcast@cambridge.org and they might feature in a future episode of Grow. Discover our Cambridge Life Competencies Framework at cambridge.org/clcf. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Find out how you can start your own CELTA journey. The world’s best-selling grammar book, English Grammar in Use Fifth edition Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E32
June 25 · 27 min
Making space for everyone in the classroom with Sarah-Ann Elizabeth Brown - Episode 32
Welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we’re bringing you another episode from the city of Vũng Tàu in Vietnam. Host, Uyen Pham sits down with Sarah-Ann Elizabeth Brown, to explore what it really takes to help every child feel seen, valued and confident in the English classroom. After moving from South Africa to Vietnam, Sarah-Ann shares how teaching abroad has reshaped her career, her classroom and even how she sees the world. She explains how resilience, patience and compassion guides her work with young learners. In this episode of Grow, you will learn: Practical ways to build confidence in shy learners. How to make every child feel included and valued. Tips for designing lessons that fit different ages and learning styles. Teacher wellbeing and sustainable work habits. How to bring joy, laughter and your own story into the classroom. You’ll also hear from Cecília Lemos Harmer & Matt Ellman from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on how to bring the Cambridge Life Competencies Framework into the language classroom. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers at cambridge.org/clcf. Find out how you can start your own CELTA or DELTA journey. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join the conversation in your teacher community: Explore fresh ideas, share your insights and connect with educators around the world. Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E31
June 11 · 21 min
Building confidence lesson by lesson with Douglas Deer - Episode 31
Welcome back to another episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge where today Joel Cutting sits down with Douglas Deer, a newly qualified teacher in London. Douglas shares the tools and techniques that are already making a difference in his practice - from pre-teaching vocabulary and effective Concept Checking Questions, to managing work-life balance and drawing on colleague support. If you’re at the start of your English Language teaching journey, or supporting teachers who are, this episode is for you! In this episode, Douglas and Joel explore… What those first few weeks in the classroom really feel like. Reflections on his CELTA journey How he’s learning to balance planning and flexibility. The shift from observed lessons to independent teaching. How he is building confidence and developing his classroom presence. You’ll also hear from Cecília Lemos Harmer & Matt Ellman from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on how to bring the Cambridge Life Competencies Framework into the language classroom. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers at cambridge.org/clcf. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Find out how you can start your own CELTA journey. The world’s best-selling grammar book, English Grammar in Use Fifth edition Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E30
May 21 · 23 min
Creating connection in the English classroom with Lê Thị Lan Anh - Episode 30
Welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we’re bringing you our very first episode from the city of Vũng Tàu in Vietnam. Our host Uyen Pham sits down with Lê Thị Lan Anh to explore what it takes to grow confident English learners step-by-step, lesson-by-lesson. Lan Anh shares her top tips for motivating large mixed-ability classes by slowing down, designing engaging tasks and celebrating every small step. She also offers honest advice for new teachers, including always being kind to yourself, valuing small wins and remembering that teaching is all about connection. In this episode of Grow, you’ll learn: How to create a safe classroom where even the shyest students feel brave enough to speak. The importance of showing teenagers how English connects to their future. How Lan Anh balances her role between teaching and leading. How she curates personalised learning paths that honour each student’s starting point, personality and goals. You’ll also hear from Cecília Lemos Harmer & Matt Ellman from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on how to bring the Cambridge Life Competencies Framework into the language classroom. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers at cambridge.org/clcf. Find out how you can start your own CELTA or DELTA journey. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join the conversation in your teacher community: Explore fresh ideas, share your insights and connect with educators around the world. Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E29
May 7 · 28 min
Building creative English lessons around students’ passions with Lilian Velázquez Salinas - Episode 29
Join us for another inspiring episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. This week we join Lilian Velázquez Salinas, a passionate English teacher in Mexico City. Host Ricardo Morales discovers how Lilian focuses on truly knowing her learners and their interests. Utilising TV programmes, games and music to design lessons that feel relevant, joyful and meaningful in her classroom. In this episode you will hear all about: Practical ways Lilian encourages shy students to speak up. How she balances different personalities and needs. How she is adapting to changes in students' attention and behaviour. Why conferences, webinars and sharing experiences with other teachers keep her inspired. You’ll also hear from Cecília Lemos Harmer & Matt Ellman from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on how to bring the Cambridge Life Competencies Framework into the language classroom. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers at cambridge.org/clcf. Join our free webinars and get practical, up‑to‑date insights from leading Cambridge specialists. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E28
April 23 · 21 min
Finding confidence in the early years of teaching with Cindy Hoang - Episode 28
Welcome back to a special episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge where today we welcome Cindy Hoang, EFL teacher at Stafford House, London. In this episode, Cindy and host Joel Cutting explore the first few years of being a new teacher, discussing the realities between academic study and then taking those first steps leading the classroom. Cindy has a unique journey, moving from being a teaching assistant for young learners in Vietnam to leading multilingual adult classes in the UK. She talks honestly about the pressure of studying and teaching in a new country, as well as the small moments that remind her why the job is worth it. In this episode of Grow, you will hear all about: How Cindy navigated the shift from supporting roles into leading her own classes. Practical ways she adapts lessons for different age groups and cultures. How self-reflection, mentorship and a willingness to keep learning have built her confidence. How to create a positive, engaging classroom environment where students feel safe to make mistakes. You’ll also hear from Helen Allen & Cecília Lemos Harmer from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on how to bring sustainability into the language classroom. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers at cambridge.org/sustainability. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E27
April 9 · 30 min
When passion for language becomes a lifelong teaching career with Victor David Salas Chavolla - Episode 27
In this episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge, host Diana Romero Saucedo speaks with Victor David Salas Chavolla at the Universidad del Valle de México. Victor shares how a simple love of English - long before he ever imagined becoming a teacher - shaped his journey into the classroom. Together they explore what it really means to grow as a teacher over a decade in the classroom. In this episode of Grow you will learn: How to balance traditional teaching techniques with digital tools. How projects and cultural events can make language learning meaningful and memorable. How to support mixed-ability groups with inclusive, student-centered tasks. How to build confidence and connection as a new English language teacher. You’ll also hear from Helen Allen & Cecília Lemos Harmer from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on how to bring sustainability into the language classroom. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers at cambridge.org/sustainability. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E26
March 26 · 31 min
Designing lessons that matter with Seda Kesici - Episode 26
Welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we’re bringing you another episode from Turkey, where we are meeting Seda Kesici in Istanbul. Seda and host Natasha Arain talk honestly about reducing “teacher talking time”, how CELTA and DELTA courses can transform your classroom practice and why it’s important to take time to carefully design your lessons. Hear how one inspiring English teacher changed the course of Seda’s life and how that experience now shapes the way she supports her own students and colleagues. In this episode of Grow, you will learn: Practical advice on managing exam stress with your learners. How to find balance when things feel overwhelming. Honest insights into leadership as an early career teacher. Top tips on leading with empathy and communication. You’ll also hear from Helen Allen & Cecília Lemos Harmer from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on how to bring sustainability into the language classroom. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers at cambridge.org/sustainability. Find out how you can start your own CELTA or DELTA journey. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join the conversation in your teacher community: Explore fresh ideas, share your insights and connect with educators around the world. Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E25
March 5 · 27 min
Nurturing a love of English from the earliest years with Natali de Sousa Chaves - Episode 25
Welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we are joining Natali de Sousa Chaves from her very own classroom in Brazil. Host Rebecca Rios, learns all about Natali’s unique experience of teaching English to learners as young as 1, 2 and 3 years of age! You’ll hear how Natali uses play, routines and real life moments - from snack time to free play - to help her very young learners “live the language” even before they can fully speak in their first language. In this episode of Grow, you will discover: Natali’s reflections on being a life long learner herself, from taking CELTA to studying neuroscience in education. Why teacher wellbeing and self-care are essential if we want to keep our energy, enthusiasm and warmth in the classroom. Practical ideas for dealing with short attention spans and managing behaviour. How being flexible, reading the room and changing your lesson plans on the spot can make all the difference. You’ll also hear from Helen Allen & Cecília Lemos Harmer from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on how to bring sustainability into the language classroom. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers at cambridge.org/sustainability. Find out how you can start your own CELTA journey. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E24
February 19 · 25 min
Moving beyond grammar to build confident English speakers with Eylem Ateş - Episode 24
Welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we’re bringing you our first episode from Turkey, where we are meeting Eylem Ateş at Final Schools in Istanbul. Eylem and host Natasha Arain explore what it really means to create classrooms where students feel safe, curious and confident to speak. Eylem shares her journey from teacher to academic leader, practical ideas for programmes and projects that get students genuinely using English, and a “That feeling when…” moment of a once silent learner who “accidentally” discovered he could speak English! In this episode of Grow, you will hear: How Eylem moved beyond grammar-heavy lessons to build voice focused classrooms. How she adapts her teaching approach from preschool to high school students. How she helps her learners think critically and express themselves without fear of mistakes. How Eylem supports teachers through curriculum, coaching and feedback. You’ll also hear from Helen Allen & Cecília Lemos Harmer from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on how to bring sustainability into the language classroom. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers at cambridge.org/sustainability. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E23
February 5 · 12 min
That feeling when … A special episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge - Episode 23
Hello and welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we’re bringing you a very special episode of Grow. We’re celebrating “That feeling when …” - those unforgettable moments when English teachers, like you, know they have made a difference. We’ll look back at some of the most heartwarming “That feeling when …” stories from previous Grow episodes, with our host LuÍsa Geão. From that feeling when your learner says thank you, to that feeling when you see them succeed - you’ll hear stories that show the true impact you have on their lives. What’s that feeling for you? As you listen, we encourage you to think about your own “That feeling when …” story and share it on social with us using #CambridgeTFW Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join the conversation in your teacher community: Explore fresh ideas, share your insights and connect with educators around the world. Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E22
Dec 11, 2025 · 28 min
Bringing the world into the classroom with Marcio Souza - Episode 22
Welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we are joining Marcio Souza from his very own classroom in Brazil. Host Rebecca Rios, hears about Marcio’s journey from being raised by a family of educators to conducting doctoral research on Plurilingual intercultural competence in English teaching in the UK. Marcio shares the importance of balancing formal and informal language and celebrating diverse Englishes to equip students for the real world. In this episode of Grow, you will hear about: Navigating the differences between teaching preteens and teens. The importance of plurilingual and intercultural competence. Supporting student’s confidence for international exams. Practical tips for well-being as an educator. You’ll also hear from Jess Rundell from the Cambridge Dictionary team, sharing a top tip for bringing the Cambridge Dictionary Word of the Year 2025 into your classroom. Find out more about the Word of the Year 2025 here, and explore free Cambridge Dictionary teaching resources. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join the conversation in your teacher community: Explore fresh ideas, share your insights and connect with educators around the world. Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E21
Nov 27, 2025 · 28 min
“Teaching English goes beyond just speaking the language” with Rubén Hernández Rodríguez - Episode 21
Join us for another inspiring episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. This week we join Rubén Hernández Rodríguez, a passionate English teacher in Mexico City. Host Ricardo Morales dives into Rubén’s 25 years of teaching experience and uncovers his secrets to motivating students and balancing both his professional and personal life. Rubén’s story will remind you why teaching English is about so much more than just language. In this episode you will learn about: Transforming teenage classrooms into safe, dynamic learning spaces. Creating meaningful connections with students. Navigating technological changes in the classroom. You’ll also hear from Matt Ellman & Cecília Lemos Harmer from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on creating tailored follow-up. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers, including the Integrated Learning and Assessment course and an ideas pack, at cambridge.org/ILA Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E20
Nov 13, 2025 · 29 min
The rhythm of teaching with Clélia Daniel - Episode 20
Hello and welcome to another episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we are back in France, with host Luísa Geão speaking to Clélia Daniel. This episode is a beautiful example of what it means to teach with both presence and passion. We talk all about the rhythm that makes a great teacher a wonderful conductor, and Clélia even shares the joyful ritual of dancing with her pupils every morning. Clélia believes that young learners truly are philosophers but that the key to success in primary education is all about teamwork and continuous learning. In this episode of Grow, you will learn: Short, dynamic activities for young learners. Why movement should be at the heart of every lesson. The importance of language learning as a bridge to understanding different cultures and perspectives. Clélia’s unique philosophy of teaching through rhythm. You’ll also hear from Matt Ellman & Cecília Lemos Harmer from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge who share a top tip on delivering actionable feedback. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers, including the Integrated Learning and Assessment course and an ideas pack, at cambridge.org/ILA Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E19
Oct 30, 2025 · 25 min
Teaching English across different learning environments with Peter McMahon – Episode 19
Hello and welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today our host, Joel Cutting joins us from the UK to chat with Peter McMahon - a teacher with a diverse background in both primary school and adult language settings. Peter shares candid insights about transitioning between teaching contexts, the transformative power of the CELTA course and how his passion for languages has shaped his career. You’ll discover practical teaching strategies, hear heartwarming stories of student success and gain valuable perspectives on managing workload and maintaining enthusiasm in education. Tune in to discover: The unique challenges and rewards of being a supply teacher. Practical advice for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Strategies for teaching across different environments The importance of seeing student progress. How language learning can break down cultural barriers. You’ll also hear from Matt Ellman & Cecília Lemos Harmer from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on how to collect evidence of progress in your lessons. Discover further, free, practical support for teachers, including the Integrated Learning and Assessment course and an ideas pack, at cambridge.org/ILA Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E18
Oct 16, 2025 · 29 min
Encouraging supportive learning environments with Fernanda Maria Parente Batalha - Episode 18
Welcome back to Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we are joining Fernanda Maria Parente Batalha from her very own classroom in Brazil. Host Rebecca Rios, learns how Fernanda believes in the importance of connecting with students through real-life examples, personal stories and understanding their individual experience. For her, teaching goes far beyond just delivering content. She shares her honest struggles and brilliant strategies for teaching every age from primary, through to teenagers, and adults. In this episode of Grow, you will hear about: Creating classroom environments where students feel seen, heard and motivated to learn. Strategies for engaging younger students and how current generations interact differently with learning. Learning through play and engagement to create dynamic environments. Inspiring stories of student’s transformation and growth You’ll also hear from Matt Ellman & Cecília Lemos Harmer from the Professional Learning and Development team at Cambridge with a top tip on creating effective learning objectives. Explore free, integrated learning and assessment tools for teachers, including our new course, ideas pack and more, at cambridge.org/ILA. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E17
Oct 2, 2025 · 29 min
Creating intercultural understanding with Csilla Ducrocq - Episode 17
Hello and welcome to another episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge. Today we are back in France, with host Luísa Geão speaking to Csilla Ducrocq, a Professor at Université Paris-Saclay. Csilla’s story is one of resilience, creativity and the impact of human connection in education. She has transformed her multicultural experiences into innovative teaching methods including her “crazy science” activities that make language learning engaging and memorable. And whilst she does embrace digital tools, Csilla emphasises that meaningful education happens through emotional connections between teachers and students, with AI serving as an enhancement rather than replacement for human interaction. In this episode of Grow, you will: Be inspired to think differently about education and cultural understanding. Discover how giving educators the autonomy to design their own programs can lead to breakthrough teaching methods. Learn the impact of connecting students across borders. Hear heartfelt words Csilla’s students wrote about how her classes opened their horizons. You’ll also hear from ELT Author and Trainer, Jeremy Harmer with a top tip. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E16
Sep 18, 2025 · 25 min
Leaving a positive mark on the world through teaching with Miguel Espinosa Flores - Episode 16
In this episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge, host Diana Romero Saucedo speaks with Miguel Espinosa Flores at the Universidad del Valle de México. Miguel, who began his teaching career at 19 years old, reflects on his initial nervousness and how he overcame the challenges of teaching students close to his own age by trusting in his knowledge and a passion for what he does. He discusses the importance of creating a fun and comfortable classroom environment, even in a university setting, and shares why he's so passionate about leaving his mark on the world through education. In this episode you will hear all about: The impact of incorporating student’s interests into lessons. Miguel’s tips for building rapport with students. The shared feeling of accomplishment when a student succeeds. How to strive for improvement in teaching every day. Going beyond language instruction to teach life skills and values. You’ll also hear a top tip from Miranda Hamilton, who has over 25 years experience as a teacher, teacher trainer and educational consultant. Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E15
Aug 28, 2025 · 25 min
Bringing movement and presence to language teaching with John Slade - Episode 15
Welcome back to another episode of Grow: A podcast from Cambridge where today we welcome John Slade, a CELTA trainer and EFL teacher in London. Hosted by Joel Cutting, in this episode you’ll discover how John transformed his passion for languages into a thriving career that spans continents and disciplines. Whether you’re a newly qualified teacher looking for guidance, or perhaps considering CELTA training, John’s practical advice on building relationships with schools, saying yes to opportunities and staying present in the classroom will resonate deeply. In this episode of Grow, you will: Gain insights into making pronunciation less daunting. Discover unique techniques drawn from John’s background in dance and acting. Hear practical advice for progressing from newly qualified teacher to trainer. Learn the importance of contributing to the wider ELT profession through collaboration and knowledge sharing. You’ll also hear from teacher trainer and educational consultant Miranda Hamilton, with a top tip that you can use in your classroom! Discover thousands of experiences, insights, ideas and resources on the World of Better Learning blog. Find out how you can start your own CELTA journey. The world’s best-selling grammar book, English Grammar in Use Fifth edition Explore our extensive range of learning resources and the world’s most recognised exams and tests for English - all ready for you and your institution. Join our social community: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn X TikTok YouTube Send your audio questions to be answered in future episodes: growpodcast@cambridge.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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