Intensive English lessons with Gaëlle Valera

Gaëlle Valera was a school teacher in several institutions in Gard for twenty-three years. But nearly a quarter century later, she wanted to teach differently. Thanks to his meeting with the managers of Régionglais, founded in 2010, he took a leave of absence from national education to develop his activity.

Since last October, she has been welcoming children between the ages of 3 and 7 to her home for sessions that allow them to familiarize themselves with English. A master's degree in English and spending a year in Scotland was a great way for Gayle to combine her passion for the language and culture of Shakespeare with her passion for teaching.

“The idea is to give children a language bath. she pointed out. I pick up the kids from school and enliven the journey with games and songs. And all this in English. When I get home, I become a sort of English nanny like Mary Poppins: I give the children a snack before the session starts.”

At the academic level, learning English happens naturally through songs, games (memory, puzzles) and practice. Groups are formed with a maximum of six children so that everyone can express themselves during the sessions. “A small group reassures kids that they're not afraid to speak up even when they make mistakes.”, the author expressed hope. Children work on a theme in four sessions, the duration of which varies from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the age of the children.

After a few months, the progress of the children is visible. “Because they are small, their hearing is penetrating, they are accustomed to the melody of language, and register words well.”Gaëlle pointed out.

Five children were initially enrolled last October, now ten and two are being tested. Three age divisions were formed. Children can start at any time of the year.