Spellian originates from the teaching experience of our founder, Patricia Cordeiro, at one of the leading independent senior schools in London, where she became increasingly aware of a common concern among students: “speaking anxiety”.
After repeatedly hearing students describe speaking in their target language as intimidating, stressful, or overwhelming, she started thinking how she could help them approach language learning in a different way, one that would allow to develop confidence through enjoyable, meaningful and supportive conversations. With this goal in mind, Spellian was created a year later.
Almost ten years have passed since then, and today Spellian is offered in most leading schools across the UK, including comprehensive, grammar and independent schools, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.
Thousands of students now participate in the programme each year, and although some of them still feel slightly nervous before their first session, this anxiety quickly disappears once they meet their partner: another young person who is equally trying to improve their target language. Through these friendly and authentic conversations, students quickly realise that talking in a foreign language can be enjoyable and rewarding, while naturally developing their speaking and listening skills with growing confidence.