Friendly & Experienced Cambridge University & Sorbonne Graduate. I offer French classes online or in-person (GCSE, A Level, Adult) in London and Online.

Find out more about Stephanie

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

  I fell in love with the musical Les Misérables at the age of 14 and decided to dedicate myself to studying French in order to eventually be able to read the entire original novel in French. Since then, I have completed a degree in Modern Languages, specialising in French and Russian, at Cambridge University, and lived and worked in Paris.

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

  Victor Hugo, the author of Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre Dame, is a very mainstream answer to this question, but I think he really is probably the most emblematic figure of French culture. As a longtime Les Misérables fan, it would feel wrong for me to choose anyone else!

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

  'Occupe-toi de tes oignons' is probably my favourite French phrase. It literally means 'take care of your own onions' and it's a fun way of saying 'mind your own business'.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking a language unlocks access to a new culture and to a huge range of interesting conversations. Speaking French is both enjoyable and highly useful for me, whether at work or when conversing with friends. I also adore French food and I've found you're much more likely to be given the tastiest baguettes in a bakery in Paris if you can ask for it confidently in French!

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

  For English speakers, French grammar can be extremely daunting. I try to offer practical exercises and useful memorisation tactics for understanding French grammar. I also always ensure my students have a solid foundation in grammar because reviewing the basics (which are often somewhat skimmed over in school) can be key to getting a grip on the language.

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

  French was my favourite subject at school, but it certainly wasn't the subject I found easiest. Many people recommended I pursue other fields which came quicker and more naturally to me, but I persevered with French, even though it took a lot of dedication and a large chunk of my time. Now, with a degree in Modern Languages from Cambridge University and experience of living in Paris, I'm so grateful I never gave up!

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

  What makes you a Superprof in language?

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  I'm committed to helping my students not only understand but actively enjoy, speaking a foreign language. I encourage active conversation, which is key to developing confidence and gaining a solid grasp of grammar structures. For me, studying a foreign language is not just about memorising words, which can often be rather boring, but opening your eyes to a new and fascinating culture, and I always try to include interesting real-world examples of the language.