Since moving to the Czech Republic in 2015, I’ve helped thousands of Czechs learn English. It’s been a journey filled with connection, fun, and a shared love for language.
Often, it’s not just about correcting grammar or expanding vocabulary, but giving students the confidence to express themselves. Czechs tends to be quite hard on themselves, and while their self-awareness has its advantages (sense of humour is one example), it can be counterproductive if it stops them speaking English.
Beyond individual tutoring, I’ve had the privilege of conducting English writing workshops at various companies. And for several years, I served as a university teacher at the University of South Bohemia, guiding pedagogical students in their journey to become teachers themselves. The classroom became a space for mutual growth, where I learned as much from my students (if not more) as they did from me.
Motivated by the recurring patterns I observed in my English classes, I decided to write a book — 101 English Mistakes Czechs Make And How To Avoid Them. Building on the success of my English writing workshops, I also crafted a series of short books, aimed at assisting students with their English writing skills. These were born out of real classroom experiences, addressing the specific challenges faced by Czech learners.
Today, I continue to conduct company workshops for employees who want to improve their English writing. For those seeking individual assistance in how to improve their English writing, I also accept private students for online sessions.
Looking back on my journey of helping Czechs learn English, I am reminded of the power of language to bridge cultures and create lasting connections. Learning English is not just about mastering a set of rules; it’s about the relationship between student and teacher, and embracing the beauty of self-expression and understanding.