Asking Emily – Learn Welsh Tutors of Tomorrow

Emily Evans, from Ystalyfera in the Swansea Valley, was among those who followed the National Centre for Learning Welsh’s Tutors of Tomorrow (Tiwtoriaid Yfory) course this year. Emily is about to complete a Doctorate in Welsh at Swansea University.

We spoke to Emily about her experience on the course.

Why did you want to do the Tutors of Tomorrow course?

When I was studying for my doctorate, I worked at Tŷ’r Gwrhyd, the Welsh language centre in Pontardawe. I saw learners coming in for their lessons and heard tutors teaching, and I thought to myself, I'd love to do something like that – it's such a valuable job – so I went for it and applied.

How was the course?

I really enjoyed the course. I learned so much. It was a great opportunity to get a taste of what it’s like to be a tutor, as well as to understand more about the Learn Welsh sector. The whole experience was amazing – it was an opportunity to make new contacts, and I've made good friends through the course. I would certainly do it again if I could.

Give us a taste of the course...

We had a variety of valuable sessions. One of the highlights for me was observing lessons, and seeing tutors at work, learning from their teaching techniques. We also had the opportunity to speak to learners and hear about their Welsh-language journeys.

At the end of the two weeks, we each had to deliver a micro-lesson. It gave us the chance to put everything we had learned into practice, and I really enjoyed it.

What would you say to anyone considering a career as a Learn Welsh tutor?

Go for it. The course was an amazing experience, and as a group we got to know each other very well – nobody wanted to leave by the end! It was a real eye-opener to all the different opportunities and pathways within the sector.

What's next for you?

I'm about to complete my PhD and I've been appointed as a full-time Tutor in the Welsh department at Swansea University, starting in January. I learned so much on the Tutors of Tomorrow course, and I can put it all into practice in my new role. The course has given me the confidence I needed to teach students.

For more information about the scheme, and to apply, follow the next link: Tiwtoriaid Yfory