Clear EnglishBook a free trial

English tutor · online and in person

Speak English without translating in your head

One-to-one lessons built around what you need: small talk at work, the IELTS, or homework help for your kid. The first lesson is free.

Book a free trial

How lessons work

  • You talk from day one

    Most of the lesson is you speaking. Grammar comes in when you need it, not as a lecture.

  • At a time that suits you

    Early mornings, lunch breaks or evenings — online, or at my studio downtown.

  • Progress you can hear

    Once a month we record a short conversation, so you can hear how far you’ve come.

Programs

  • Conversational English

    For people who understand a lot but freeze when it’s time to speak. Real topics, plenty of talking, gentle corrections.

    50 min · $35 / lessonBook →

  • Exam preparation

    IELTS, TOEFL or Cambridge. A strategy for each part, timed practice and a marked essay every week.

    60 min · $45 / lessonBook →

  • English for kids, 7–12

    Games, stories and songs that make them want to come back. Short homework and a clear monthly note for parents.

    45 min · $28 / lessonBook →

  • Business English

    Meetings, emails, presentations and negotiations, practiced on situations from your actual job.

    60 min · $50 / lessonBook →

Hi, I’m Helen

I started out in a language school and moved to one-to-one lessons, because that’s where people actually start speaking. I hold a CELTA and lived in Manchester for several years, so you’ll hear natural British English, and I’ll point out the American differences too. My students include developers, nurses moving abroad, teenagers before exams and a few retirees who finally decided it was time. What they have in common: they were speaking within the first month.

From my students

  • “After three months with Helen I ran my first stand-up in English without notes. My team noticed before I did.”

    Marco B.

  • “7.5 in IELTS on the first try. The weekly essay feedback is what made the difference.”

    Priya N.

  • “My daughter used to hate English. Now she asks whether she can have two lessons a week.”

    Sarah L.

About the free trial

What happens in the trial lesson?
We talk for 30 minutes: I find out your level and goals, and you see how I teach. Afterwards you get a short plan, with no obligation to continue.
Do I need to know my level?
No. I’ll assess it during the trial, from A1 to C1, and tell you honestly how long your goal is likely to take.
Online or in person?
Both. Online lessons run on Zoom with a shared whiteboard; in person, at my studio on Market Street.
What if I need to reschedule?
Let me know 12 hours ahead and we’ll move the lesson at no cost.

Book your free trial

Leave your name and a time that suits you, or ask the assistant about free slots and prices.