Thinking about Greek language lessons for business or personal reasons? You’re in exactly the right place at the right time.
Our ‘In The Staffroom’ series of articles has been introducing you to some of the wonderful people who help make La Academia such a great place to work and to learn. Our April edition features Kyriaki Koukou, who we all call Kiki.
Kiki is our Greek language goddess. She teaches Ancient Greek, Modern Greek and Latin to our students.
When we caught up with her recently, she told us about the mouth-watering Mediterranean food and the blistering beach weather that keep her longing for her homeland.
Q: You’ve always spoken the Modern Greek language Kiki, but you developed a love for languages from a young age. Tell us about that.
A: Yes, I was born in Greece. I’m a native speaker of the Modern Greek language, and I also learnt Ancient Greek and Latin in high school.
Q: What springs in to your mind when Greece comes up in conversation?
A: The food. Greek cuisine it’s a main part of our culture. In fact, Greek culture revolves around food, all celebrations, a wedding, a christening, a funeral. Absolutely everything. Combine that with the warm weather that lasts for the larger part of the year. Thanks to the weather conditions there are several activities, entertainment and events relevant to Greek culture that can take place outdoors.
Q: How has the Greek language influenced your life and career?
A: Back in Greece, I used to teach Modern Greek mainly as a first language, but also as a foreign language, too. Then I had the opportunity to move to England and continue teaching the Greek language as a foreign language. I still attend personal development courses to keep improving myself and my language skills.
Q: What do you get up to when you’re off duty from everything to do with the Greek language?
A: I love listening to music, baking, cooking, reading in the garden (when the Manchester weather permits!) and going for walks. I’m also a keen cinema-goer. So, I’m looking forward to getting back in front of the big screen in the not too distant future.
Greek is the word for Kiki. Have her musings inspired your interest in learning the Greek language? We’d love to hear from you and talk you through the Ancient and Modern options available at La Academia.