From South Africa, Kaylynn is part of Bridge’s Global Teachers team, where she combines her TEFL training with a comprehensive approach that connects language learning with communication skills, critical thinking, and personal confidence. Her goal is clear: for each student to learn to communicate with empathy and confidence in real professional contexts.
“In addition to focusing on language accuracy and fluency, I place strong emphasis on broader communication skills that help learners become confident and effective communicators,” she explains.
Teaching English Is Teaching to Communicate with Empathy
For Kaylynn, learning English is much more than memorizing structures or expanding vocabulary: it is about learning to connect with others. In her classes, she actively works on empathetic listening, nonverbal communication, and intercultural awareness.
“I help learners develop the ability to understand meaning, tone, and context—not just individual words. This improves their comprehension and interaction in real situations.”
She also promotes interpersonal skills and critical thinking.
“I encourage students to organize their ideas logically, support their opinions with examples, and adapt their message to different audiences. We also explore how cultural norms shape communication styles to promote intercultural competence.”
Confidence and Progressive Learning
Kaylynn believes that confidence is built step by step, through meaningful experiences.
“Creating a supportive and low-pressure environment, where learners feel safe to take risks and make mistakes, is essential for growth,” she says.
Her methodology combines gradual exposure, authentic work simulations, and constructive feedback.
“I start with small, easy tasks, such as pair discussions or role plays, before moving to larger presentations or debates. That gradual progression helps learners gain confidence step by step.”
She also encourages collaborative learning:
“Group work allows learners to support each other. Seeing that others face the same challenges normalizes mistakes and reduces anxiety.”
Thinking, Participating, and Growing Together
Beyond teaching English, Kaylynn seeks to shape reflective and collaborative communicators.
“I don’t want students to be passive receivers, but active participants in building knowledge.”
In her classes, she uses problem-solving activities, debates, and visible thinking routines such as Think–Pair–Share or See–Think–Wonder.
After each activity, she takes time for reflection:
“We talk about what worked well, what could improve, and how the group dynamic influenced the results. This helps learners become more aware of their own learning process.”
The True Achievement: Seeing Them Communicate with Confidence
What Kaylynn values most about her work are the visible progress and milestones of her learners.
“The most rewarding thing is seeing their growing confidence and independence. When students realize they can express complex ideas, connect with others, or handle real-life situations in English, it’s incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about grammar or vocabulary—it’s about empowerment.”
Kaylynn especially celebrates those small moments that make a difference.
“When a learner finally uses a phrase naturally, participates confidently in a discussion, or tells me they successfully gave a presentation in English at work—those moments remind me why teaching communication is so meaningful.”
Practical Tip for Professionals Who Want to Improve Their English
“Feel the language.” Integrate English into your daily routine: change your phone’s language, listen to a short podcast, practice in front of a mirror, or think in English while doing daily tasks. “Frequent contact, even brief, multiplies progress.”
Would you like to see our Global Teachers in action? Request a demo here.
