Oxford House Community: Meet Our Students

The year has flown by and we are already into the second week of our summer intensive courses.

Today we look back at the year that has passed and speak to two of our students to find out about their experiences studying at Oxford House.

So, without further ado – we’d like to introduce you to Elisa and Anna.

Hi Elisa and Anna, thanks for speaking to us today. Can you tell us a how long you’ve been studying English?

Elisa – Wow, good question. I first started learning English when I was a kid. I used to do extracurricular classes and camps during the summer. However, I started at Oxford House a couple of months ago.

Anna – I’ve been studying English at Oxford House for four years. My daughter-in-law, Sandra, who you may recognise from Reception, recommended the school to me and I’ve been taking classes ever since.

And why is English important to you?

Elisa – My main motivation is for the future. I would like to find a job in another country. I’ve just graduated university and would love to move to the UK and start a career in industrial design.

Anna – I like learning other languages and nowadays it’s very important to know English. It’s spoken all over the world and is needed for travelling and to speak to people from other countries.

Yes, English is the currently the most spoken second language in the world, so it’s definitely worth learning!

What course have you just finished?

Elisa – I just completed a B2.2 level intensive course with Ross. It was 100 hours in two months which was pretty intense. But I learned a lot so it was worth it.

Anna – I did a B1.1 extensive course for over 55s. It was three hours a week from October to June. I really like the pace of the class and how friendly the teacher was.

And who was your teacher Anna?

Anna – Jess.

How did Ross and Jess help you achieve your goals during the course?

Elisa – Ross was a very positive and motivational teacher, and was very involved with his students, which made learning easier. We also did individual presentations which I really enjoyed. We had to teach the rest of the class a skill. I did a life drawing class. There was also a drumming workshop, a session on animation and a presentation about traditional Brazilian games.

Anna – I love studying at Oxford House because the teachers that I’ve had are very nice. We even went out for dinner with Jess at the end of the course. It’s great that the teachers take a real interest in their students.

Sounds like you had a great time! Can you give us one piece of advice for someone who is thinking about taking English classes?

Elisa – I recommend not trying to learn English too quickly. Even if you are in a hurry or have a lot of pressure to do an exam, it could be counterproductive. It’s better to keep calm and improve step by step, talking a lot in class and using the language in many aspects of your daily life as well.

Anna – keep practising your English during the summer to maintain your level.

What great advice! Looking to the future. What plans do you have for this summer?

Elisa – I’m working in July, but in August I’ll spend my holidays near the beach.

Anna – In July I’ll stay in Barcelona and study English in the afternoons at Oxford House. In August I’ll go on holiday.

And do you have any long term plans for your English?

Elisa – As I mentioned before, I would like to move to an English-speaking country to improve my English. I’d also like to take the IELTS so I have something to prove my level on my curriculum.

Anna – I’d love to travel to London or New York and be able to speak and understand everyone.

Good luck! We are sure you’ll achieve all your goals. Before you go, we have one last question. For people visiting Barcelona for the first time, what are three things they shouldn’t miss?

Elisa – I recommend going for lunch at Pez Vela Restaurant in Barceloneta, then for a walk through the Born neighborhood, and to finish the day a party at RazzMatazz.

Anna – In Barcelona there are many things to see. There is El Barri Gotic. The oldest part of Barcelona. Gaudi buildings – Sagrada Família, La Pedrera, Casa Batlló. His architecture is unique and famous all over the world. You could also climb (or take the tram) to the top Tibidabo mountain and see some of the best views of Barcelona. You can see the entire city all the way to the sea.

Wow – between the two of you there’s enough things to keep people busy for a week!

Thanks for your time – it was great chatting to you!

Elisa & Anna – Bye!

Study English at Oxford House Barcelona

Interested in taking an English course at Oxford House Barcelona? Check all the different English classes we can offer you this summer or contact us for more information.