Tara Toller
ESL Beginner & Advanced Speaking
Tara has been teaching ESL for almost 9 years. She taught grammar and Business English in Spain for a year and then went to Japan. In Japan she taught English to children and adaults of all ages and abilities for 6 years. She spent one year teaching on a boat while travelling around the world before coming home to Victoria.
Education: University of Calgary: Bachelor of Arts – Major in Cultural Anthropology.
Teaching Experience: Over 8 years in Japan and Spain.
Teaching Certificate: TESL Canada Federation Professional Certificate Standard One (Permanent)
Hobbies and Interests: Travelling, wakeboarding, cooking, and studying Spanish.
Favourite Quote: “Do one thing everyday that scares you.” -Unknown
What countries have you been to?: Japan, China, Korea, Thailand, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Kenya, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Spain, France, Greece, Sweden and about 30 others!
Jonathan Granfar
IELTS Preparation & Upper-Intermediate ESL
His international experience in three continents has given him the ability to connect with students from all over the world and from all walks of life. As a conscientious teacher, he is always trying to bring out the best in his students whether they are beginners or advanced IELTS candidates. Jonathan’s encouragement and support always makes students feel comfortable and gain confidence with their English.
Education: University of Victoria: Bachelor of Arts – Major in Sociology. McGill University: Master of Arts – Culture and Values in Education.
Teaching Experience: 9 years in Canada, China and Spain.
Teaching Certificate: TESL Canada Federation Professional Certificate Standard One (Permanent)
Hobbies and Interests: Playing guitar and songwriting, international travelling, chocolate making, bicycling, and food.
Favourite Quote: “Blessed is the man who can laugh at himself, for he shall never cease to be amused.” -Unknown
What countries have you been to?: Spain, France, Italy, Switzerland, Portugal, Germany, Czech Republic, England, Canada, U.S., Israel, China, Bolivia, Chile, Peru.
Daniel Pimentel
TOEFL Preparation & Business English
Daniel has taught beginner & intermediate ESL classes. His favourite ESL teaching experiences have come from teaching Business English and TOEFL. He says, it is much more challenging and rewarding.
Education: University of Victoria: Bachelor of Arts – Major in Political Science. Camosun College: Diploma – Financial Accounting and Marketing.
Teaching Experience: 3 years in Thailand and Canada.
Teaching Certificate: TESL Canada Federation Professional Certificate Standard One (Permanent)
Hobbies and Interests: I love watching great movies, especially comedies and thrillers. Tennis is my favourite sport, and I enjoy playing with anybody from beginners to professionals. In the summer, you can find me kayaking along the harbour, hiking and exploring the outdoors, and barbecuing in the evening!
Favourite Quote: “Feed the right wolf” (Means to be positive and have positive thoughts)
What countries have you been to?: Canada, Portugal, Japan, USA, Thailand, Mexico and China.
Anything else you want to say?: I love teaching English! There ain’t nothin’ better!