FAQ
Who is SpeakYourMind for?
Big or small, it could be right for you. Whether you are in the process of setting up a new English school or you have an established centre and are looking to make a change, SpeakYourMind can give you the structure, support and edge you need to succeed.
What about the investment?
It's very straightforward. There is a one-off Start-up Fee and a fixed Annual Licensing Fee. To know more, please contact us outlining your project.
What do you mean by 'exclusivity'?
As an associate school, your fees include an area of exclusivity: no other school will be able to use SyM in your neighbourhood and cash in on your hard work and success. The designated exclusive area of exclusivity can be extended according to the scale of your plans.
What about Training?
Training is a key area and represents the major investment in a school's success. Initial training is included in your Start-up Fee. The basic standard package is a initial 5-day Teacher-training programme with an experienced trainer (assuming participants have existing ESL experience). Also provided is a 2-day course for a Director of Studies / School manager dealing with placement testing, group formation and course management plus administrative procedures. Depeneding on the size of your operation this can be extended.
This start-up training will get you on your feet and walking: we also provide you with comprehensive Guides for all aspects of teaching and the integrated course management systems that we have developed. On-going training programmes throughout the duration of the contract can also be arranged on request.
Where does the training occur?
According to your circumstances the initial Teacher-training can take place either at the SpeakYourMind school in Verona or at your premises. Please note that all accommodation and travel related expenses are not included in the start-up fee.
How much support can I expect?
SpeakYourMind is designed to simplify the whole business of running a school. Nonetheless, your success is ours and we are always at your disposal to assist in any way by phone, email or skype. This applies to the start-up period to help you through that transition phase, but it also remains in place for the duration of your contract. In addition, as an associate of the SyM Network we will seek your input, feedback and participation in working with the other member schools.
Do the teachers need to be native speakers?
We have worked successfully with both native and non-native speaking teachers so this is essentially your decision to make.
As owner, do I have to be a teacher or have experience in the teaching field?
No: however, if your role is to provide the business know-how, you will know the importance of having a Teaching Director with a suitable background.
Is it possible to see any of the student material?
We have sample material available to give a better idea of how the books are structured. There are samples taken from beginners through to advanced levels. We can also send you video samples from various levels.
Is there a maximum class size?
Here there can be no room for doubt: smaller is better. Local expectations may vary and schools will place themselves in different positions in local markets but in order to offer an effective speaking-based course, schools need to place realistic limits. Each school is free to decide maximum class size but this typically ranges between 6 and 10. At the other end of the scale, SpeakYourMind is extremely effective and popular with one-to-one teaching.
Where do I get the materials?
All Teachers' Books and Students' Book+CD packages are obtainable directly from us and are not available in bookshops or online.
Can I use other courses together with SyM?
As a licensee, SpeakYourMind will be your General English course for all levels. This does not restrict you on offering specialized courses such as Exam preparation, Business English, Converstation courses, etc...
Other?
If there is other information you would like to know at this stage, please contact us at info@speakumind.com