A Thank You Note

Paloma Varela, Mexico

Paloma Varela is the Teacher Trainer for Bridges, and holds the Trinity College London Advanced CerTESOL, attended the Canadian Confederation College Alternative Education postgraduate course, and holds London Chamber of Commerce Certificate for Teachers of Business English. She also teaches English for Gastronomy and Stage Management at the Universidad del Claustro de Sor Juana. She has worked with Pilgrims trainers on a number of occasions in Mexico and the UK.

It was only last fall that I found out that John Morgan had passed away, and this feeling of sadness hit me. Not only because I would never see him again, but most of all because I will never have the opportunity to express my gratitude for leading me to a new vision of what teaching can be.

I will never forget my first encounter with John in 1999; I was invited to sit in on his Mexico City session. So in spite of the fact that I had never read or attended any of his workshops, once there time flew so fast. It was unlike anything I'd ever attended, there were moments of amazing wonder and delight, and those moments became an inner treasure for me that helped me feel confident and capable of pursuing my goal of becoming an English teacher. He was absolutely brilliant, his wonderful sense of humor, his warmth, his smile.

When I look back at all the good things that happened in my life and the wonderful people at the Hill that have enriched it, I didn't want to let more time go by before expressing my gratitude to all them for having influenced my teaching beliefs.

First of all, my gratitude to Mario for instilling knowledge and unlocking doors to discovery. Wherever I go one of your books always accompanies me. They are my like my woovie - what I called my security blanket -I always find something new in them to enrich my session.

Simon Marshall, as Mario pointed out, is an enthralling teacher. His workshop was absolutely inspiring! Teaching writing has never been the same. A very emotional workshop… just perfect!

When it comes to teaching business English, Chris Price's course was memorable, as are her generosity and her wisdom, and her smile! And above all I cherish her friendship.

Teaching a language should be done in a non-threatening way, and attending Hania's workshop is the perfect way to understand this.

Last but not least, my dear friend, the twinkling, and extraordinary Paul Davis, a true gem, an expert who not also understands methodology, but is also caring and involved with his students. The art of real ludicness!!

My admiration now and forever!!

Please check the Certificate in Teaching English to Business People course at Pilgrims website.
Please check the Teaching Advanced Students course at Pilgrims website.
Please check the Fun, Laughter and Learning course at Pilgrims website.
Please check the Expert Teacher course at Pilgrims website.