English Language Support (ELS) Teachers
The English Language Support (ELS) program has seven full-time English teachers. The ELS takes students whose English skills aren’t strong enough to handle regular homeroom work. Students that are assessed and placed in the ELS program benefit from small classes (anywhere from 8 to 15 students). ELS teachers offer them an intensive English language program with the sole goal of returning them back to their regular English classes with the language skills needed to be successful. ELS students are assessed four times during the school year to return to the homeroom. Over the years, students from the ELS that return to the homeroom tend to remain in the homeroom, with a 99% retention rate. While learners learn a second language at different rates, most students only require one or two semesters to return to the homeroom. ELS teachers work on a supportive team where they share resources and best teaching practices.
Tshepo Makgoba
Nationality: South African
Year starting at Clifford: 2021
Position: LELS.1 English teacher
Qualifications: Bachelor of Science, TEFL
Teaching Experiences: I have been teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in China since 2018.
"I am excited to help students at Clifford Bilingual learn English in a fun and engaging way. I want to see students become more confident with using English to express their thoughts, feelings, ideas and life experiences.”
Michael Coney
Nationality: British
Year starting at Clifford: 2021
Position: LELS.2 English Teacher
Qualifications: Bachelor in Law and Politics; TEFL
Teaching Experiences: Taught in China for four years.
“It is very enjoyable watching students learn and develop in the classroom, gaining in confidence and using the language skills they have acquired. I’m looking forward to the year ahead.”
Akaysha Griffiths
Nationality: Jamaican
Year starting at Clifford: 2025
Position: UELS.1 English Teacher
Qualifications: BSc in Management; TEFL
Past Experiences: 6 years teaching in China
"Teaching elementary students is rewarding as it allows me to help young learners build a strong foundation and develop essential skills for their future."
Peter Dykeman
Nationality: Canadian
Year starting at Clifford: 2009
Position: UELS.2 English Teacher
Qualifications: Master of Arts TESOL, Bachelor of Arts, TESL
Teaching Experiences: 14 years teaching ESL in China
"Teaching English to elementary students in China is a journey of discovery and joy. It's about bridging fun and learning with every lesson and watching young minds expand with new language skills and original ideas."