Meet Louise Thorne

Louise’s Berlitz journey began the same way many of our learners’ do: as a student.

I arrived in Italy more than 20 years ago, took an intensive Italian course, and thought, ‘This is really good. Could I teach English?’.

That spark launched a career that’s seen her move from instructor to regional quality leader, now overseeing Live Online programs across three continents.

The Berlitz Difference: World‑class instructor training

Most language schools hand teachers a coursebook and wish them luck. Berlitz does the opposite:

  1. Intensive onboarding – Every instructor completes rigorous training in the Berlitz Method before setting foot in a classroom.
  2. Development period – New teachers receive hands‑on coaching and feedback during their first months.
  3. Ongoing mentorship – Even veterans are observed four times a year and receive tailored support from quality specialists.
We have an entire Quality Assurance team whose sole focus is to help instructors do a great job in the classroom

Louise explains.

What that means for learners

  • Consistency across 70+ countries – Whether you study in Dubai, Düsseldorf or online from home, the methodology and energy feel the same.
  • Student‑driven lessons – Functional goals provide structure, but instructors customize every activity around your objectives—business negotiations, social travel, exam prep, you name it.
  • Faster confidence – Louise’s own first lesson left her able to “go out and sort of say something” in Italian, a springboard that kept her motivated.

Quality you can measure

  • 97 % overall satisfaction (with 85 % “very satisfied”).
  • Real‑time feedback loop – Learners can rate every session and open a support case at any time.
  • Actionable follow‑ups – Feedback is provided to the instructor to help reinforce strengths or address areas for improvement.

Customization over curriculum

Sure, Berlitz provides rich teaching materials, but they’re a starting point, not a script. Instructors are trained to:

  • Read the room – Spot when energy dips and pivot.
  • Lean into speaking time – Keep you talking as much as possible about topics you truly care about.
  • Bridge to the real world – Every activity targets language you can use today, not someday.

Quickfire insights from Louise

Question

Louise’s take

One tip for fluency “Prepare, then speak, speak, speak—dive right in.”
Berlitz in one sentence “We’re better than the rest.”
Most rewarding part of the job Watching both students and instructors grow.
Language she’d learn overnight German—unfinished business from school days.

Why it matters

Language is more than grammar; it’s connection. With Louise’s team behind every class, Berlitz students don’t just memorize; they communicate, collaborate and cross borders with confidence.

Ready to experience the difference for yourself? Dive in, start speaking, and let Berlitz handle the quality.