In these booming online learning times, another platform has been launched, this time focusing solely on English language learners.
The English Portal is the brainchild of Natalie Grossbard, who originally hails from England, though she’s now based in the USA. From the age of 16 she knew she wanted to be a teacher and, after her first training post involved teaching four Polish children to speak English, she was inspired to go into teaching English as a second or further language.
She took a degree in English language and linguistics, followed by a CELTA and, now, she’s developed her own English language platform. But what makes it different from all the others?
“We have addressed common issues in teaching ESL/EFL/IELTS and found solutions,” says Natalie of The English Portal. “They are as follows:
- Learners tend to become too dependent. With this programme, they will build the confidence needed to to believe in themselves, feel empowered and see that they actually can do it.
- Students can get bored with traditional learning methods or become demotivated regardless of their age group. We offer multiple programmes, each one engaging and entertaining.
- Teachers can purchase our Deluxe Teachers’ Pack and get the programmes and all the materials they need for students of all levels. Teachers will be able to customise their programmes to make it their own and resell to their students.
- A major issue that learners have is they lack interaction with English speakers. With our programme, learners will have access to our weekly conversations club, where they can engage with native and non-native speakers. For young learners, we have a book club to help with reading skills.
“Aside from all this, once students have purchased the programme [it costs US$150], they will have unlimited access to tutors. If they have a question regarding their learning, they will be able to use the ‘live chat’ option on the website or contact us via email.”
Does the English Portal have what it takes to join the boom? Time will tell.
