I welcome you to BLS English which I started in 1995 as a teacher. I chose Bury St Edmunds as the location because this is where I love to be and I feel that others will also love staying and studying here. The teachers and staff at BLS English are incredibly dedicated to making your experience a positive one.
Principal: Ben
I started at BLS in 2000 after an enjoyable period teaching in Asia. The BLS journey has been incredible and I have met so many fascinating people during my time here. My main role is overseeing the day to day running of the school which means I work closely with all staff and visitors. Our team of teachers and welfare staff are exceptional and together we will give you all the personal care and attention you need. I truly believe there is no better place to run a language school than Bury St Edmunds.
Director of Studies: Robert
I have taught and travelled in Japan, China, Malaysia, Morocco, Russia, Bolivia, Argentina, Chile, Canada and Brazil, as well as travelling and working in Europe and the UK. I completed my DELTA in London and hold a BA in Human Geography & Spanish and am very happy to welcome you to my home town, Bury St. Edmunds. Outside of school I enjoy rugby, cricket and enjoying the beautiful local countryside.
Accommodation Manager: Lucy
I am one of the friendly faces you will see on your first morning at BLS English. I will assist you in settling into your new surroundings, whether it is with one of our fantastic host families or the school residence. I ensure that all child protection policies are adhered to, creating a safe and secure environment for all of our students is top of my priorities.
BLS Teaching Team
Gareth (Assistant Director of Studies)
My name is Gareth. I’ve been working in TEFL for over forty years, in a number of countries in Africa, the Far East and the Middle East as well as in the UK. I’ve had various jobs teaching people of all ages and from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds in the private sector, in the military, in telecommunications and in the oil and gas industry, and I’ve also worked as an examiner and as part of a textbook writing team. I joined BLS English in 2018, and I became Assistant Director of Operations in 2024. I’ve always enjoyed TEFL, and still get great satisfaction from helping to improve learners’ language skills as well as increasing their understanding of other people’s culture and way of life.
Laurence (Teacher)
Hi, I’m Laurence and I have 40 years of experience teaching English in Europe, Asia and North Africa. I have taught all levels and ages and prepared students for all internationally recognised exams. I use project work in my class as I believe that students work best if they have some autonomy in a structured environment. My interest in English history helps me a great deal when I take students on tours of the local area. I enjoy teaching and I am positive that my enjoyment is reflected by the positive response I get from students.
Salma (Teacher / Warden)
My name is Salma, and I’ve been working in TEFL for 30 years. During this time, I’ve taught in a wide range of settings across different countries, including Turkey, North Africa, and the UK. My experience spans from teaching in the private sector to working with professionals in the oil and gas and textile industries. I’ve taught learners of all ages and levels, both in classrooms and through online platforms, and I’ve always enjoyed working with people from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds. I’ve also prepared students for all major international English exams and worked as an examiner. Teaching English has always been a passion of mine. I find it incredibly rewarding to help learners build their confidence and improve their language skills. I believe in creating a supportive, engaging learning environment where students feel encouraged to make progress and reach their goals.
Mike (Teacher)
Following a business career in global sales/management, and a short second career making and repairing guitars, I obtained my DELTA and have since taught both general and business English to multi-national students in Europe, New Zealand, USA and the UK. My students are both my material and my educators and helping them develop English fluency for their careers and futures is the most satisfying aspect of this third career.
Annette (Teacher and Activities)
Having taught private students in Spain for nearly twenty years and subsequently managed major client accounts for International House there, I am pleased to be working again in language-training – both in the classroom and leading extracurricular activities and trips.
Elizabeth (Teacher)
I am a qualified veterinary surgeon, but have recently started teaching English as a career change. I am thoroughly enjoying the experience. I find it both challenging and rewarding. Meeting and engaging with students from different backgrounds and abilities which makes every day varied and interesting. I’m looking forward to continuing to help students develop their language skills and confidence.
Claire (Teacher)
Hi, I’m Claire, an experienced Foreign Language Teacher with a strong history of working in diverse educational settings. I have been lucky enough to teach in Italy and Vietnam. I have also taught students from many nationalities when teaching in England. I am passionate about teaching and enjoy creative lesson planning and foster a supportive and inclusive classroom atmosphere, which leads to notable improvements in student confidence and communication skills.
