Libby Barnes - Active English
What is Bright Sparks?
Bright Sparks provide English classes and activities for native/fluent English speaking children. We offer the opportunity to write in English, to develop English language skills and to encourage creativity.
Why was Bright Sparks started?
I have two English/Irish children aged 8 and 10 years who attend a great Catalan school. However, I felt sad that they never wrote stories or poems in their mother tongue. Having searched unsuccessfully for extra curricular classes, I decided, with over 10 years teaching experience, to provide the classes myself and thus, Active English (now Bright Sparks) was born.
How do you feel English as a native language suffers in children who attend local schools?
Firstly, I'd like to say, I fully support and believe in local schools. My children are very fortunate indeed, in that, their local school has an amazing music program whereby all the children aged 8 years above have peripetetic tuition and play in a big band! However, the English classes are 'English as a foreign language' and are therefore way below their level.
How do you feel about the level of English as a foreign language in the schools in Catalunya?
Well if you compare it with the level of Spanish (or French) as a foreign language in the the schools in the UK then it's excellent! However, in comparison with other European countries, I believe the general consensus is there is room for improvement.
Could you detail all the courses Bright Sparks offers and to which age groups?
The courses we have include: book club, singing, photography, art and craft, yoga and sport.
Who are the people behind Bright Sparks?
We are all professionals in our field, with many years teaching experience and are dedicated to the education and development of children.
Where are the Bright Sparks courses be held?
100 Rambla Catalunya
What are the duration and cost of the courses?
The courses each last 8 weeks and each class is 2 hours, split into 1 hour English language class and 1 hour activity (in English).
What were the main challenges you faced setting up your business?
Finding the right venue was an enormous challenge as I faced rejection many times and yet others really wanted to help but their space didn't meet my criteria. When I eventually found 'Memory' (thanks to the Bright Sparksdance instructor, Nikki) I knew we had the perfect place.
Promotion - it's fine doing it for somebody else but when it's your own project it feels a bit like saying "aren't I great" or the question in the interview when they ask, "so what makes you right for this job?" - it feels big headed to say "well, I'm excellent at this and excellent at that" (even when you know you are!)
What are your future goals for Bright Sparks?
I want to extend the age range to include 3 - 18 year olds. I also want to provide classes at other times giving people more choice. I also have plans to offer classes/activities to adults, in English, and to set up a book and film club. I would love it to become an English Cultural and Learning Centre providing classes and activities for all ages.
Bright Sparks isboth educational and enjoyable. Selecting a team of high quality teachers was the most important challenge. Our teachers are talented, professional, experienced and dedicated. My next challenge is to keep them happy!
How do people sign up for your courses and find more information about you?
People can contact Libby on 679796281 or email barnes.libby@hotmail.com
Feb 2009
