First Class Honours Graduate from Newcastle University in French and Spanish. Experienced, fun and inspiring teacher of modern languages from early secondary education to GCSEs and A Levels.

Learn more about Conor

• Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn?

  My dad has spoken fluent French around me since I was very young, and it wasn't until we went to France together that I really realised just how amazing learning a language can be - you can suddenly converse with people of a completely different culture! That being said, I had one amazing French teacher, who showed me the value of what a really great tutor can provide.

• Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  I think Édith Piaf, who famously sang "Non, je ne regrette rien" represents the romance of France, and particularly Paris, very well.
  In terms of Spain, I would have to say Pablo Picasso! His work, 'Guernica', is a dramatic portrayal of the Spanish Civil War, the impact of which very much lives on throughout Spain today.

• Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or behavior in the language that you particularly like?

  'Nickel" in French is an informal way to say 'great' or 'cool'. I love the word. It rolls off the tongue, and since it is used informally makes you sound like a native speaker!
  
  In Spain, I love the tradition of eating late and heading out to the local square late at night. The streets are buzzing past midnight!

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Both French and Spanish have allowed me to meet people from all across the globe, from France to Ecuador and Peru. In a world where many simply expect that everyone will speak English, speaking these foreign languages allows you to have unique experiences with people from completely different walks of life.

• What is the main difficulty in learning this language and what can help the process of learning?

  Grammar! It can be difficult when starting to get your head around grammar and why it is so important, but once you do it unlocks the whole language for you! Then it's simply a case of learning more vocabulary.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  I remember at school when I was starting French, and after 2 years, I didn't know how to conjugate a verb. I was taught the wrong way round - having had this experience, I know exactly where I would now start when tutoring another student.

• How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  When I was 18 I was lucky enough to go to Ecuador and Peru, and no one apart from myself could speak Spanish! With a bit of confidence, I was able to converse with people and integrate myself more than anyone else - even knowing a small fraction of the language can get you far!

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  I have travelled in South America speaking Spanish, studied and lived in both Paris and Seville at prestigious universities, and graduated with a First Class Honours Degree with distinction in spoken Spanish. I realise that languages are difficult, and will always be patient, and allow the student to progress at their own rate, encouraging a fun and inspiring environment which will prepare them to both take exams, and have the confidence to speak to people from all over the world.