Sara’s journey: from language learner to inspiring teacher

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Learning the hard way – so her students don’t have to

Sara grew up in the northernmost region of Croatia, Međimurje. Early on, she found herself drawn to helping others, often guiding friends with their homework. When she encountered German in primary school, however, it became her toughest academic hurdle – sparking a determination that would shape her future.

Determined not to let one challenging subject define her, Sara studied both Croatian and German at university. Her passion for guiding others merged seamlessly with her growing love of languages, setting the stage for a fulfilling career that helps people overcome the obstacles she once knew so well.

Transforming challenges into opportunities

Throughout her studies, Sara realised how similar German and Croatian grammar structures could be, and she devoted her Master’s research to comparing the two languages. By understanding the nuances and common stumbling blocks, she found innovative ways to help students overcome the same difficulties she once faced herself.

As she gained teaching experience – first in foreign language schools, later at a gymnasium – Sara developed her unique blend of empathy and expertise. Her early struggles with German evolved into a practical teaching method that empowers students to move past their own uncertainties.

A dynamic teaching style and philosophy

Central to Sara’s approach is adapting each lesson to her students’ goals. Some wish to focus on speaking; others excel by diving deeper into reading and writing. She uses active participation, targeted exercises, and regular feedback to keep learning fresh and engaging – never confining herself strictly to the textbook.

She advocates repetition and real-world application. She believes it’s a lifelong process, one that’s both challenging and rewarding, no matter your age or background.

Bridging borders with diverse learning experiences

As both teacher and learning coordinator, Sara helps students from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and beyond find the right path – be it one-to-one lessons, group courses, or even immersive language trips. She takes pride in matching each student’s needs to the best format, ensuring no one feels lost along the way.

Her commitment doesn’t stop in the classroom. From administrative support to organising appropriate skill-level groups, Sara is there at every step, making sure each learner has the resources and encouragement they need to succeed.

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Hobbies that inspire her teaching

Outside of teaching, Sara’s love for languages continues through her travels and passion for learning Spanish. Whenever she visits a new country, she picks up local phrases to immerse herself in the culture. Beyond languages, she rides a quad across the countryside and plays the piano – an instrument she took up at 30, proving once again that age is no barrier to learning.

These hobbies feed back into her lessons, keeping her approach refreshing and well-rounded. She’s living proof that curiosity and flexibility can open doors to new worlds – both for her and her students.

Sara’s story shows how a single stumbling block can become the very thing that fuels a lifelong passion. From her first struggles with grammar to coordinating successful language programmes today, she embodies the idea that the learning journey never truly ends.