Naomi Osella is an experienced hospitality manager who used to train people to run and work in restaurants. She has also worked on-site in new restaurants and at Bournemouth University. She got used to training people of all nationalities and working around their often limited ability to communicate in English. “It’s such a pleasure to train people and see them develop their confidence and skills. It really helps them to further their work opportunities and develop their relationships.”
A few years ago she decided to change direction and re- trained to become an English teacher. “I’m an avid reader, write a bit of poetry and even won my school’s English prize. I’ve always loved the language and it seemed a natural step. I used to host foreign students at home when the children were younger and enjoyed it. I also have three teenagers and I find working with teenagers and young people especially rewarding.”
What is the best way to learn English?
In my opinion the best way to learn English is to use the language as much as possible in every situation and to practise speaking at every opportunity. Be brave! Try to express yourself and also try to extend your vocabulary. Ask people to correct your mistakes and help you. I love teaching using a topic that the students feel passionate about. They get so involved in the discussion that they stretch their language skills by searching for the correct words and collocations in a very natural way.
Tell us three things you will take to an desert island.
If I had to survive on a desert island I would need tea, my penknife and my dog.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
When I was younger I wanted to be an opera singer. I used to sing classical and folk music in local competitions.
Tell us something not many people know about you
One thing not many people know about me is that I’ve had poetry published. (Yeah, not famous yet!)
