Meet our Academy Coordinator, Frank Tropman for some topnotch advice.
Can you tell us a little bit about the vision behind Berlitz | ELA? What sets it apart from other language schools in Malta?
Innovation sets us apart from other language schools. We live in an increasingly digital age and we also have to consider the environment a lot more than we used to. At Berlitz | English Language Academy, we use the latest digital Promethean boards in all our classrooms, along with our extensive digital resources to deliver quality learning programs. Our students also get access to their personal online course materials so they can do their homework online. This access is valid for 12 months, so can still be used even after the student has returned home. The use of technology fully immerses our students in the learning process as our lessons are totally interactive, not just two dimensional. In addition, we are constantly developing and improving our product, bringing new courses online, especially in the area of Professional English
What kind of experience can students expect when they enrol with Berlitz ELA?
Our dedicated teachers and staff ensure our students have the most comfortable stay in Malta. Within the school itself, students mix with others from every corner of the world, sharing their learning journeys, making life-long friends and most important, developing the language skills that will help them on the next steps of their careers or education
How do you ensure that learning English is both fun and effective for both mature students and younger ones?
We value all our students, young and old, and want to make the learning process as much fun as possible. For our very young learners, we engage them in activities that keep them interested while learning new language skills. For our more mature students, as previously mentioned, our lessons are totally interactive, each unit aimed at a practical speaking task that reflects the need to be able to communicate in life. Our students are eager to participate in the lessons, and there is always laughter coming from one classroom or another during the day.
Can you share some feedback or a memorable story from a student who participated in one of our previous packages? – like the one to one packages or anything that comes to mind.
I spent some time working with a student who is a HR Professional. One day she came to class and with great pride, told me that she finally had the confidence and ability to present her development plan, in English, to her manager. This is what I call the ‘ah’ moment. That special moment when your student has developed their skills enough to use them in a practical way, a way that actually demonstrates a changing point in their lives. Every time this happens it gives me the warmest feeling, knowing that I have been a small part of someone’s journey.
What excursions or cultural activities do students enjoy the most? Why do you think they are so popular?
As part of our cultural program, we offer a variety of different excursions. The most popular of these are Mdina by Night and Valletta by Night. Both of these locations are UNESCO heritage sights and the guides we use are expert in bringing the culture and history of Malta to life.
What’s your favourite part of working at Berlitz | ELA?
The people. Both the amazing colleagues I work with daily and the fascinating mix of students I get to meet over the months really make coming to work a pleasure. I truly love my job and have been with English Language Academy for over 20 years. I believe in the school and its values, I believe in the development of the school and know we have a brilliant future ahead of us.
If you could recommend one “must-do” experience in Malta to new students, what would it be?
Explore! Do not just stay in the central harbour area but go around the island. Visit the villages and try local life in a village band club. The people are genuinely friendly and welcome the opportunity to let people know how amazing Malta really is.
How do you and the team make sure that students not only improve their English but also immerse themselves in Maltese culture?
Our teaching team are the best. Although international, they all have a true love for the Maltese lifestyle and culture and share this with their students. They often discuss different events that are taking place all over the island and encourage students to participate in local life.
What’s one fun fact about Malta that always surprises students?
I think there are many oddities about Malta but perhaps the most fun fact is that the Maltese are very animated. Quite often, foreigners assume Maltese people are fighting, when in reality they are just having a daily conversation. So do not be surprised to hear loud voices that might seem angry, it is just a couple of friends having a chat!
Do you have a favorite Maltese dish? What would you recommend students try during their stay?
It might not be a popular choice, but traditional Maltese rabbit and horse meat are really a must try. There are several very popular Maltese restaurants that specialise in rabbit and horse meat.
What’s one word or phrase in Maltese that students always love to learn, and why?
“Inhobbok”. Probably not the most popular phrase, but the meaning is… well I will let the reader find out what the meaning is 😊
What’s the biggest piece of advice you would give to students who are thinking about joining a course at Berlitz | ELA ?
Do not hesitate, we have over 35 years of experience of teaching English as a foreign language. We are constantly innovating our courses to bring the best to the learning environment. If you are still not 100% sure, book a call with either myself or our sales team and have an informal chat.
How do you see the future of language learning evolving, especially for mature learners?
We are already there in terms of technology and course offerings. However, we are not just going to rest there. We are always developing our learning programs, listening to what our students need, keeping one step ahead and maintaining our position as a premier language centre.
