I’m Ana, a Spanish teacher since 2002. I live in England with my husband Glenn and our two children. Madrid is my hometown, and we travel back several times a year to stay connected with family and friends.

Life took an unexpected turn at 24, when I moved from Madrid to the north of England (Sheffield) to study English. I fell in love with the country and its people, and England has been my home ever since.

My Journey

To understand who I am as a teacher, it helps to start at the beginning.
While studying Social Work in Spain, I worked in promotions to fund my degree. After graduating, I accepted a marketing role and spent several years working long hours in a high‑pressure environment.

At 24, I decided it was time to make a change. Despite seven years of English classes in school, I arrived in England knowing only one word: “Hello.” That experience — the frustration, the vulnerability, the determination — shaped my mission. I realised I wanted to help others speak a new language from the very first day, without fear or embarrassment.

In 2002, I trained as a Teacher of Spanish as a Foreign Language at the Instituto Cervantes in Manchester. Since then, I’ve taught adults, families, and children in various settings. I worked in primary schools for 20 years, but in 2020, COVID left me with significant, permanent lung damage, and I was unable to return to classroom teaching.

From 2002 to 2025, I taught Spanish for Derbyshire County Council, during which time I also completed further teacher training. Unfortunately, in 2025 the Council discontinued its adult language classes. Encouraged by my five wonderful groups, I decided to take the leap and register as a sole trader. Their support gave me the confidence to begin this new chapter, and I am truly grateful.

My Teaching Philosophy

Over the years, I have developed a conversation-focused teaching approach. From the very first lesson, my students begin speaking Spanish — gently, naturally, and with growing confidence. One of my greatest joys is hearing learners return from their holidays proud of their ability to understand menus, order food, and exchange simple phrases with locals.

I believe language learning should be empowering, human, and enjoyable. My classes are warm, supportive environments where adults can learn at their own pace, connect with others, and celebrate every step forward.

What I Love

I’m passionate about teaching Spanish to adults and creating opportunities for people to practice in real, relaxed settings. I regularly organise Social Spanish events, where learners can meet, chat, and enjoy using their Spanish in a friendly environment.

Where will your journey take you?