Updates

When Mission Santa Maria launched the English Program at Santa Maria del Fiat in 2020, the goal was simple: equip students with a skill that could open doors far beyond the classroom.

In Santa Elena Province, English proficiency can create opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach. Whether pursuing higher education, working in the local tourism industry, or pursuing a work-study opportunity, the ability to communicate confidently in English gives young people a significant advantage.

Over the past five years, our English Program has grown into a comprehensive initiative that supports both students and teachers. Through an internationally recognized English language curriculum, ongoing teacher training, classroom observations and feedback, English language level placement, educational resources, and additional teaching staff, the program is helping students build practical language skills and confidence.

At the center of this work is Vicky, our English Program Coordinator.

Originally from the United Kingdom and now based in Ecuador, Vicky brings more than twenty years of experience in English language teaching and teacher training. Her career has taken her around the world, working with schools, colleges, private institutes, and government education programs. She has delivered more than twenty Cambridge CELTA teacher training courses and collaborated with the British Council on projects in Borneo, Peru, and Thailand, helping local teachers strengthen classroom practice and improve student outcomes.

Since joining Santa Maria del Fiat School in 2020, Vicky has worked closely with the English teaching team to strengthen instruction across every grade level. She provides professional development workshops, classroom observations, lesson planning support, and English language classes for teachers themselves. She also developed and taught the school’s first Cambridge B1 exam preparation course, helping students prepare for an internationally recognized English qualification.

One of the most rewarding changes she has witnessed has been the growth in student confidence.

“Through the English program, I’ve seen students’ confidence grow significantly, both in their language use and in their willingness to participate,” Vicky shares. “Now, students happily come up to me and talk, which is wonderful to see.”

She has also seen classrooms become increasingly student-centered, with learners taking a more active role in discussions, activities, and communication practice. As students become more comfortable using English, lessons have become more dynamic, interactive, and engaging.

For Vicky, these moments are what make education so meaningful.

“I genuinely enjoy creating lessons and seeing the impact they have,” she says. “Watching students progress and grow in confidence is deeply rewarding.”

Her passion aligns closely with the mission of the program itself. While many students enjoy learning English, opportunities to use the language outside the classroom remain limited. By strengthening English instruction at the school, students gain practical skills that can support future studies, employment opportunities, and greater access to the wider world.

We are grateful for Vicky’s leadership, expertise, and dedication to our students and teachers. As the program continues to grow, we are excited to see even more young people develop the confidence and communication skills that will help shape their futures.