Stein Beals

I’m an ESL teacher with a diverse professional background and a strong focus on engaging, student-centered learning. I currently teach at Apollo English in Vietnam, working with learners aged 3–17 across levels from Kindy to IELTS, using the National Geographic ESL curriculum.

Before teaching English full-time, I worked in roles that required leadership, communication, and training — including bar management and staff training at 5-star hotel bars, as well as teaching kayaking earlier in my career. These experiences shaped my ability to lead groups, adapt quickly, and communicate clearly with people from many backgrounds.

I’ve also tutored English online through Cambly, teaching students aged 5 to 75 from around the world, including business professionals and adult learners. In addition to teaching students, I’ve supported new teachers, helping them gain confidence in the classroom and leading informal training sessions.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley and a TEFL certification, and I previously lived in Japan for one year, giving me valuable cultural familiarity and a strong interest in returning.

Learning Through Context and Experience

I believe students learn English best when they can relate to it emotionally and experientially, not just memorize vocabulary or grammar rules.

Rather than teaching language “by the book” alone, I focus on:

• Context-based learning — connecting language to real-life situations
• Imagination and role-play — especially with young learners
• Energy and engagement — creating lessons students look forward to

For example, learning animal vocabulary isn’t just naming animals — it’s imagining being those animals, visiting a zoo, or acting out stories. This kind of context helps students retain language naturally and builds confidence in using English.

Adapting to the Individual

I’m observant in the classroom and pay close attention to when students are struggling — whether with the lesson itself or external factors. I adjust pacing, activities, and support to meet students where they are, while still maintaining structure and clear expectations.

Teaching Style

• Fun, energetic, and engaging
• Structured when needed, flexible when helpful
• Student-centered and adaptive
• Clear expectations and strong classroom presence

Strengths

• Strong rapport with students of all ages
• High energy that motivates students to participate
• Reliable, punctual, and organized
• Team-oriented and supportive of colleagues
• Always striving to improve as a teacher

Current

• ESL Teacher — Apollo English, Vietnam
  Teaching ages 3–17 (Kindy to IELTS), National Geographic ESL curriculum

Previous

• Online ESL Tutor — Cambly
  Students aged 5–75, including business professionals
• Bar Manager & Trainer — 5-Star Hotel Bars
  Led staff training and professional development
• Kayaking Instructor

Additional

• Informal teacher mentoring and training
• Experience working in multicultural, international teams

I’m comfortable using technology in and around the classroom, with a background in freelance web development and software engineering. I enjoy exploring how digital tools can support learning when used thoughtfully.

Outside of teaching, I’m passionate about the outdoors — hiking, skiing, kayaking, surfing, mountain biking, and rock climbing — and I enjoy bringing real-life experiences into lessons whenever possible.