Matthew R.

About me

My journey into teaching began with my lifelong passion for communication and language. Originally from the United States and now living in Portugal, I have spent the last seven years teaching English as a foreign language, beginning as a volunteer and now as a dedicated professional. Whether leading group classes or working one-on-one with students, I find immense joy in helping people achieve their language goals and empowering them to flourish in new business and cultural environments. With a background in journalism and communications and a diverse career in public relations, business communications, and writing, I bring a unique ability to connect with students of all levels. Coming from a family of teachers — grandmothers, siblings, nieces, cousins and uncles — I knew that teaching would be a natural next step in my career. Experienced in teaching group classes and individual students at various levels of English proficiency. Love working with people from different countries and cultures. Six years of experience teaching English as a foreign language, with a TESOL Certificate. Native English speaker from the United States living in Portugal. Communications career in public communications, business communications, writing, editing, and web content management. Versatile writer and editor with broad experience in corporate communications. Degrees in Journalism and Communications.

About my lessons

My approach to teaching English is to offer students boutique service. Even in a group setting, you will benefit from individualized attention through one-on-one meetings to discuss your goals and progress as well as detailed feedback and coaching on writing assignments. Individual Classes: Choose individual lessons tailored to your needs instead of group classes (or both). Group classes aren’t for everyone. Small classes: Group classes are two to four students, which allows for more feedback and participation. You receive detailed feedback on all aspects of your learning – conversation, pronunciation, grammar, and writing. Peer Learning and Interaction: Small classes of two to four students provide more opportunities for interaction with classmates. Learn with students at your level. Culture: When you learn a new language you also learn about the culture of the native English speakers from the United States (and to a lesser extent from the United Kingdom). Comprehensive Learning: Lessons focus on pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, and writing exercises. However, the focus depends on the individual student's goals. Real-Life Practice: Scenarios mimic real-life language which prepares you for everyday and professional situations. Confidence Building: Improve your English and gain confidence in speaking in any situation, including work and in social gatherings. Less Anxiety, More Fun: You will feel more at ease and enjoy learning more in small classes with students at your level. You don’t worry about falling behind because some students already speak more advanced English.

Exact available times are shown when you book.