A languages teacher from Harpenden has been recognised for excellent teaching.

Kate Speirs, of Sun Lane, runs Lingua Fanatics school delivering French and Spanish classes to children through the La Jolie Ronde programmes.

The 48-year-old was honoured to receive the La Jolie Ronde Licensee of the Year Award for London & The South.

She said: “I am thrilled and immensely honoured to have been presented with this award.

“My classes offer French and Spanish learning through interactive songs, games, stories without pressure and my pupils say they have fun and learn a language at the same time.”

Kate said her passion for languages was first ignited as a child.

Her father spoke French, Italian and Russian, and encouraged Kate’s interest in languages from an early age – as did her mum who loved everything French.

Kate studied French, Spanish and Italian at university, and has lived and worked in both France and Spain.

Kate said: “This award has given me a huge lift and has inspired me to continue to offer an opportunity for local children to learn languages.”

The lower take up of languages in secondary schools made Kate even more determined, she said.

“A highlight from last year was my very first set of pupils,” said Kate.

“I taught from the age of three through to 12 years, and they went on to take their language GCSE two years early – in Year 9 – and achieved level 9 (A**).

“Therefore I feel it’s even more important than ever for children to enjoy a fun and positive approach to language learning, which will in turn give them confidence when they approach languages in secondary school.

“My teaching and classes have been designed to take that transition into consideration.”

Steve Baker, general manager for La Jolie Ronde, said: “Kate is such a deserving winner of this award.

“Kate’s pupils clearly enjoy their classes and parents are extremely pleased with the progress their children were making and certainly view Kate as the local language specialist.”

To find out more about Kate’s classes visit linguafanatics.co.uk/contact-us.