Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about the free assessment, the programmes and how lessons work. Can’t see your question? Just ask.
What happens in the free 25-minute assessment?
It’s a friendly one-to-one chat online. We talk about your goals and challenges, I assess your English, and I recommend the best path to help you get to your goals. There’s no obligation to continue.
Do I need to prepare anything?
No, just come as you are. If you have a test date, a job interview or a move coming up, it helps to mention it, but you don’t need to prepare anything.
How do lessons work?
Lessons are currently one-to-one and online. They’re practical and relaxed, with plenty of real conversation, so you can make mistakes, ask anything and take your time. Everything we do is matched to your real life and goals.
Would you like to learn with someone else? If you have someone in mind, just ask and we can arrange group lessons at a special price.
Which programme is right for me?
IELTS Success is for anyone taking IELTS, whether or not it’s for a move to the UK. UK Readiness is for people moving to the UK, or already living there, who want to feel at home in everyday English. A Custom Course is built around your own goals, from conversation and business English to interviews, writing or other exams.
Not sure? The free assessment is the best place to start, and I’ll recommend the right path. You can also compare the programmes.
What level of English do I need?
You don’t need to be advanced. UK Readiness suits people who already have some English but find real conversations hard. If you’re unsure about your level, the assessment is where we’ll find out, and I’ll suggest the right starting point.
How often are the lessons, and how long does a programme last?
Programmes are a minimum 12-week commitment, so you have enough time and practice to make real progress. For IELTS Success, lessons are at least twice a week, and you can choose up to 5 lessons a week for more practice. For the other programmes, you choose how often you’d like to have lessons and book your weekly time.
Can I practise Writing, Reading and Listening for IELTS?
Yes. IELTS Success is focused on Speaking, but you can also practise Writing, Reading and Listening, and we’ll add them to your plan.
Can I combine different goals?
Yes, that’s what the Custom Course is for. You might want business English and exam preparation, or interview practice alongside everyday conversation. Tell me what you need and we’ll build a course around it.
What is My Cuppa Hub?
It’s your own online space for everything from your lessons: class notes, quizzes, a vocabulary bank, materials and your classroom link. You can review and practise whenever you like, on your phone, tablet or computer, with nothing to install. See how it works.
Can I take lessons from anywhere in the world?
Yes. Lessons are online, so you can join from wherever you are. We’ll agree a weekly time that works for you.
How much do lessons cost?
Lessons start at $32 each. The exact price depends on the programme and how often you’d like to have lessons, and I’ll talk you through everything in your free assessment so you know exactly what to expect.
Which video platform do you use?
Lessons take place on Zoom. You’ll find your classroom link in your My Cuppa Hub.
What are your cancellation and rescheduling rules?
Cancellations and rescheduling need 24 hours’ notice.
How can I pay?
You can pay by bank transfer, or by credit card through a secure payment gateway.
How do I book, or ask something else?
Choose a time for your free 25-minute assessment, or get in touch on the contact page with any other questions.
Still wondering about something?
Book a free 25-minute assessment, or send me your question.