Elena Gallego

Elena Gallego

Teacher of Spanish  

Bio

I’m Elena, a Spanish teacher from León, a small town in northern Spain. With over a decade of experience in international schools, I’m committed to creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment for my students. I previously worked at UWC Dilijan from 2017 to 2019 and I loved my time in the school and living in Armenia. Outside the classroom, I’m an avid traveler - so far, I’ve explored 150 countries and use these experiences to bring fresh perspectives into my teaching. I’m also passionate about hiking and mountain climbing. This year, I’ve completed challenges like the Camino de Santiago (800 km across Spain), the West Highland Way (190 km across Scotland), the Tour of Mont Blanc, and climbed Mount Ararat ( 5137 m). My ultimate goal is to inspire a lifelong love of learning languages and an appreciation for intercultural relations in every student I teach.

Education

  • BA in Art History, University of Leon, Spain/ University of Rennes 2
  • MA, Spanish and Latin American Studies, Kings' College London. 
  • PGCE University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton 
  • MA in Education and New technologies, UOC, Barcelona (to be completed in 2025)

What is the favourite part of the course you teach?
Interactive skills - speaking and writing

Which teaching method do you prefer and why?
A dynamic and creative teaching approach that gives students autonomy in their learning.

Who is your role model or mentor or who inspires you?
I'm inspired by many people, including Anne Mustoe, Eva Zu Beck and Ernest Shackleton. Their courage, curiosity, and adventurous spirits resonate with me deeply. Also, my grandmother, she’s 94 years old and has inspired me many times to explore the world and leave my comfort zone.

What is your life motto?
 "Life is about the adventures you take and the memories you make."

What are the three things you can't imagine your life without?
Mountains, friends and family. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?
Spending time with friends and doing any outdoor sports, like hiking, cycling or skiing. And, of course, exploring new countries.