With a passion for linguistics and a Master’s in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), Khalil began volunteering as a home tutor at English Language Partners in early 2024.

Originally from Jilin City in Manchuria, China, and now based in Auckland, he speaks Mandarin, Arabic, and English fluently – along with a handful of phrases in other languages, thanks to a lifelong interest in languages.

After a few months of volunteering, Khalil’s work with English language learners grew into a deeper passion.

Volunteering: the first step

Describing himself as a bit of a “wanderer”, Khalil has lived in multiple countries and understands the challenges of adapting to new environments.

Completing a Master’s degree in TESOL gave him a strong theoretical foundation, but he knew teaching was something different entirely. Khalil saw volunteering as a way to support people from migrant and refugee backgrounds while also seeing if teaching was a career he wanted to pursue.

“Volunteering felt like a way to meet people and support them, while also learning from their experiences,” says Khalil.

Despite his enthusiasm, Khalil almost backed out before his interview for the volunteer role when imposter syndrome kicked in. “I was that unsure. But once I got into it, I realised I was right where I wanted to be,” Khalil added.

After an interview and background checks, volunteers undergo a comprehensive training course and complete the NZQA-approved Certificate in ESOL Home Tutoring before being matched with a learner.

Khalil's volunteer training began with a lesson in Farsi - a humbling experience that helped volunteers understand what it’s like to learn a new language. Khalil recalls feeling overwhelmed but says it taught him the importance of patience, especially with beginner-level learners.

Khalil also learnt about the relevance of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the importance of fostering a safe, inclusive learning environment.

After completing the training, volunteers are matched one-to-one with a learner and visit them at their home, usually for 1-2 hours per week. Khalil believes the one-to-one approach is more personal and relaxed compared to a classroom setting.

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Having a home tutor makes language learning personal and safe, especially for those still adjusting.

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“It’s about bridging the learner into their new life here, which makes the process more effective,” Khalil explains.

One of his learners was shy at first but opened up when Khalil tailored lessons around the learner’s interest in animals. The learner recently took the leap into a classroom setting – a significant milestone.

Khalil encourages others to give volunteering a go. “You’ll gain more than you expect, and it’s a fantastic way to connect with people from all around the world. Plus, you’ll see how much a little language support can mean to someone’s life here.”

From volunteer to teacher

Khalil’s journey progressed faster than he had imagined. Finding home tutoring deeply rewarding, he soon became a volunteer in the classroom. Inspired by this experience, he decided to pursue a formal teaching qualification. Completing a CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) gave him the skills and confidence to take the next step.

By the end of 2024, Khalil had transitioned into a paid teaching role at English Language Partners’ Auckland Central and West Centre. Today, he is one of over 200 teaching staff across Aotearoa.

“Teaching in a classroom was a whole different level, and sometimes I felt like an imposter who had no clue what they were doing. CELTA was a huge step in giving me the confidence and structure I needed to take on a classroom,” says Khalil.

Khalil believes teaching should be fun and engaging. He has plenty of creative ideas that he is excited to bring to the classroom.

Khalil adds, “Teaching has given me a sense of direction and purpose, and I enjoy going to work for the first time.”

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As someone who loves talking, I get to do what I love and get paid for it!

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For people interested in teaching English to adults, Khalil believes volunteering is a great way to gain experience and see if teaching is the right fit.

“Working with adult learners is different from teaching kids. It’s all about patience, flexibility, and understanding their needs. And if you really enjoy teaching and language, you’ll find a community of like-minded, supportive people,” says Khalil.

Khalil’s teaching journey has developed quickly, but he’s just getting started. Looking ahead, he hopes to create teaching materials that are more tailored to New Zealand learners.

“I want to make learning more relevant and engaging for learners, based on their unique needs and interests.”

Inspired? Join us.

Apply to become a volunteer home tutor. No teaching experience required.

Qualified ESOL teacher? Fast-track your volunteer training or visit our Careers site for paid teaching roles.

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