Which English Learning Path Is Right for Your Child?
Comparing Bespoke & Conversational Lessons, Twinkl ESL Curriculum, and Cambridge English Preparation
Every child learns differently — and the most effective English lessons are the ones that match a child’s personality, learning style, and goals. That’s why I offer three flexible learning paths: Bespoke & Conversational English, Twinkl ESL Curriculum Lessons, and Cambridge English Exam-Focused Lessons.
Each approach has its own strengths and is designed to help children grow in confidence, build key skills, and enjoy learning. In this post, I’ll explain what each option looks like, who it’s best suited for, and how combining them can give your child the best possible results.
Bespoke & Conversational English Lessons
These lessons are fully personalised around your child — their interests, ability level, and learning style. I combine speaking, listening, reading, and writing through real conversation, games, stories, and creative tasks.
What it’s like:
Each session feels natural and engaging. We might explore a favourite topic, role-play real-life situations, or build vocabulary through stories and discussions. Grammar and pronunciation are taught in context, helping children use English confidently and accurately.
Best for:
- Children who learn best through real conversation and creative activities
- Learners who need to build speaking confidence and fluency
- Families who want lessons tailored around their child’s interests, pace, and goals
Why parents love it:
Children see English as fun and useful, not just a school subject. This flexible approach supports long-term growth, confidence building, and bilingual families.
Twinkl ESL Curriculum Lessons
The Twinkl ESL curriculum provides a structured, research-based approach that balances fun and clear progression. Each unit follows a sequence of vocabulary, grammar, and skills development, supported by visuals, songs, and interactive tasks.
What it’s like:
Lessons follow a proven order, helping children build a solid foundation in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. I adapt each topic to your child’s level, using Twinkl’s resources alongside my own materials.
Best for:
- Children who thrive on structure and clear learning steps
- Learners who benefit from visual and interactive resources
- Parents who want consistent progress and easy tracking of their child’s learning
Why parents love it:
It’s perfect for families who want a complete, school-style English course — especially for younger learners or those who enjoy routine and repetition. Children know what to expect and can clearly see their progress.
Cambridge English Test Preparation
For families aiming towards Cambridge English exams (Starters, Movers, Flyers, or beyond), these lessons focus on the specific skills and formats needed to succeed. I combine exam preparation with interactive teaching so children feel ready and confident, not pressured.
What it’s like:
Lessons follow Cambridge frameworks while keeping learning enjoyable. We practise vocabulary, grammar, speaking, listening, and reading tasks similar to the test — always in a calm, supportive way.
Best for:
- Learners who plan to sit Cambridge English exams
- Families who want recognised qualifications for school or future study
- Children who feel motivated by clear goals and milestones
Why parents love it:
This path builds exam confidence, time management, and accuracy — all without losing the joy of learning. It’s ideal for children ready for structured, goal-oriented learning.
Combining Approaches for Maximum Progress
One of the great advantages of my lessons is that they can work together to give your child the strongest possible learning experience. Many families choose to combine different approaches depending on their child’s needs, interests, and goals.
Popular combinations include:
- Twinkl ESL Curriculum + Bespoke Conversational English
Structured lessons provide steady progression, while conversational lessons give your child real-world speaking practice and build fluency and confidence. - Phonics + Bespoke English Conversation
Early readers can strengthen decoding and reading skills in phonics sessions, alongside conversation sessions that let them use what they’ve learned naturally. - Twinkl Curriculum + Cambridge Exam Prep
Younger learners may start with the Twinkl curriculum to build foundational skills, then transition into Cambridge exam preparation when they are ready for structured, goal-oriented challenges.
Benefits of combining approaches:
- Address different learning styles simultaneously (structured + creative)
- Target both academic skills and communication confidence
- Accelerate progress while keeping lessons varied and enjoyable
- Build a comprehensive weekly learning routine for children who enjoy multiple sessions
Many parents find that 2–3 sessions per week, mixing different lesson types, leads to faster progress and more confident learners.
Which Option Is Best?
There isn’t a single “best” way to learn — only the path that fits your child best.
| Learning Style | Best For | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Bespoke & Conversational | Creative, chatty learners | Flexible, confidence-building, real-world English |
| Twinkl ESL Curriculum | Structured, visual learners | Step-by-step progress, clear framework |
| Cambridge Exam Preparation | Goal-focused learners | Recognised qualification, academic challenge |
And remember: these approaches can be combined for the most effective learning journey, tailored to your child’s strengths and goals.
Final Thoughts
Every child’s learning journey is unique. My role is to find the path (or combination of paths) that brings out the best in your child — whether that’s free-flowing conversation, structured progression, or goal-driven exam success.
If you’d like to discuss which combination of lessons might suit your child, I’d be happy to offer friendly, personalised advice. Let’s help your child feel confident, capable, and excited about learning English!
The Growing Way Tuition 