Tom Harris

If you have found my profile, you have probably already realised that English grammar and vocabulary are only part of the puzzle.

Native English speakers make grammar and vocabulary mistakes all the time, but importantly they speak with confidence and with a familiar accent.

I really believe that improving accent and pronunciation is key to giving speakers of English as a second language the confidence to use their grammar and vocabulary knowledge effectively.

I have over 20 years' academic and business experience, with a research focus in phonetics and speech sounds. In addition to English, I have researched the speech sounds of diverse world languages, have published papers detailing parts of my research, and have presented findings at international conferences.

I taught phonetics and sociolinguistics at undergraduate level while also studying for a PhD.

Following my academic career, I moved into the world of professional services, where I spent 11 years in various research and executive positions before once again returning to language and teaching.

I am a Fellow of the Institute of Training and Occupational Learning and have advanced TEFL certification. I am also a Member of the International Phonetic Association.

Sessions are all held via Zoom, where you will have access to a personal whiteboard during and outside of lessons. You will also have full access to a resource area on my website to help you with your studies.

My coaching is tailored to your needs, but is rooted in phonetic theory and designed with advanced, adult learners in mind. Sessions are generally relaxed and fun, and are flexible enough that we can focus on anything that has challenged you since our previous session.

I feel privileged to be able to share some of what I've learned with others, and I would really like the opportunity to talk to you about how improving your accent can help you make full use of the grammar and vocabulary you have spent so long learning.