ABOUT EDNA ALLEN

About Me

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Hello, and welcome! I’m a certified teacher originally from São Paulo, Brazil, and I’ve been living in Bristol, England, since December 2011. My academic background includes a BA in Full Teaching Certification in Portuguese and English (Language and Literature) from Universidade Metodista de São Paulo, a TKT (Teaching Knowledge Test) Certificate from the University of Cambridge, an Award in Education and Training (AET/PTLLS), and a DBS Check.

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I began my teaching journey in August 2004 at a renowned language school in São Paulo — a birthday gift to myself that turned into a lifelong passion. My initial role focused on extracurricular multimedia activities, speaking practice, and support sessions for students looking to strengthen their grammar or refine their skills. By December of the same year, I was promoted, awarded a scholarship to study Spanish, and entrusted with my first classroom and students.

In 2005, I officially became an English as a Foreign Language teacher while juggling Spanish studies and earning my degree in education. After graduating and dedicating five years to my first school, I sought greater challenges and took a position at one of São Paulo's largest language schools. This experience expanded my teaching approach, allowing me to design dynamic lessons filled with games and interactive activities.
 

In 2011, I moved to Bristol to join my fiancé. Once I obtained my work permit, I began working in translations but soon realized I missed the energy of the classroom. I returned to teaching at a language school in Clifton while simultaneously building my own private online lessons — a rewarding endeavour that continues to this day.

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My Experience and Teaching Philosophy.

 

With over 16 years in education, I’ve taught students of all ages and backgrounds — from 4-year-old children to university students, business professionals, and senior managers. This diversity has enriched my knowledge across subjects like Semantics and Stylistics and sharpened my ability to tailor lessons to each student’s unique needs.

Beyond teaching, my professional background includes roles in General Business Management and Administration of Health Service Establishments, as well as experience as a Secretary and Personal Assistant. These roles have equipped me with organizational and business acumen that often enhance the productivity and professionalism of my lessons.

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I am passionate about creating engaging and dynamic lessons that go beyond traditional methods. My current focus is on developing a resource centre to share my favourite teaching materials with other educators who, like me, love using visuals to enhance learning.

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Always Learning, Always Growing

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I firmly believe that learning is a lifelong journey. That’s why I’m currently teaching myself illustration and e-learning development to bring even more creativity to my lessons and resources. I look forward to sharing these exciting projects soon.

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Read more why I am the best Brazilian Portuguese teacher here. 

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Feel free to explore my teaching resources here or watch a sample lesson here. If you have any questions or special requests, don’t hesitate to reach out to me here.

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P.S. I enjoy switching up my hairstyle, so you might notice me sporting different colours in my photos. It keeps things fun!