My Time in Berlin (CELTA, July 2024)

In July 2024, I travelled to Berlin to complete the CELTA course at the Berlin School of English. The course was rigorous and intense — far more demanding than I expected, even with 25 years of experience as a lecturer. I was part of a diverse group of trainees from around the world, and, as the only British English speaker in the group, I found myself both challenged and inspired by the contrast in perspectives and backgrounds.

Despite the pressure, the experience was deeply fulfilling. I had to relearn everything I thought I knew about teaching — it felt like starting from scratch. The standards were high, the expectations exacting, and the learning constant.

Outside the classroom, I connected with students from Germany and beyond, including Ukraine, and found the teaching practice both humbling and rewarding. I had little time to explore Berlin during the course itself, but I made time at the beginning and end — including a 10-hour walk on my final day, camera in hand. I also ran and cycled through the city when I could. These brief glimpses of Berlin were as energising as the course itself.