It has been hot in the UK, and in many places around the world, but that hasn’t stopped our students or teachers…
Where We’ve Been
Sometimes the best months are the ones where you simply get on with the work. The blog got some attention (more on that below), the social media feeds stayed busy, and the lessons kept coming.
Website News
Three posts went out this month, each tackling a different angle. The biggest talking point was a post about why I don’t use textbooks. I compared it to a doctor prescribing antibiotics without knowing what’s wrong with you. The idea is that many grammar errors trace back to a single root cause, often a listening problem, and a one-size-fits-all coursebook will never find it.
I also posted an interactive grammar poll asking whether “Neither Ian nor Mary was late” or “Neither Ian nor Mary were late” is correct. The point wasn’t really about the answer and won’t be revealed until the next edition.
Finally, I wrote about the upcoming change to UK settlement language requirements – from March 2027, the English level needed for indefinite leave to remain rises from B1 to B2. If that affects you, the time to start preparing is now, not next year.
Twitter/X
The @withanexpert feed kept up its usual rhythm of curated vocabulary articles – pieces chosen because they’re packed with language you can use in Speaking and Writing Task 2. This month’s themes included microplastics and cardiovascular health; the benefits of spending time in nature; a US plan to cryopreserve DNA from over 2,300 endangered species; supporting older people in society; the four-day work week debate; digital detox and screen time; declining rates of children reading for pleasure; Gen Z and secondhand fashion; and sports fandom and the psychology of belonging. Sources ranged from TIME and Forbes to NBC News, Science Focus, and SUCCESS Magazine.
Blog
Three new posts went live this month. First, a General Training Task 1 model answer: a formal letter suggesting improvements to a public swimming pool. Second, an Academic Writing Task 2 model answer on whether governments should fund space exploration – a classic topic that forces you to balance long-term aspirations against immediate human needs. And third, the June edition of The Latest IELTS News, which covers the upcoming Ofqual branding change to IELTS Test Report Forms from 17 July 2026, among other industry developments.
Where Our Students Come From
Our students come from around the world and we have taught test candidates from every continent. This month we have had an especially heavy focus on students from Taiwan; Hong Kong; and mainland China.
Student Spotlight
Sasha A. – Band 8 in Writing (Native English Speaker)
This month’s spotlight goes to Sasha, and the reason I’ve chosen this story is because it challenges something I hear all the time: “Why would a native speaker need an IELTS tutor?”
The answer is simple. IELTS is a technique exam as much as a language exam. Knowing English and knowing how to perform under timed exam conditions are two completely different things. Sasha came to me for help with the Writing test specifically, and after a series of focused sessions working on exam strategy, structure, and the specific demands of Tasks 1 and 2, the result was a Band 8.
Here’s what Sasha had to say:
“Really productive sessions with Andy as my teacher. My weak point was the Writing exam and even though I am a native English speaker, Andy provided really great tips that I applied in the IELTS writing exam to get a score of Band 8. I highly recommend having a tutor even if you think you may not need one as a native English speaker – the 1:1 coaching is invaluable and Andy’s style and approach made it very easy to learn and apply to the exam.”
If Sasha’s story resonates with you – whether you’re a native speaker or not – and you want focused, personalised coaching to hit your target score, book a lesson and let’s get to work.
When We Are Available
Lessons are available Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 6:30 pm London time. Demand is high, so if you’ve been thinking about booking, don’t leave it too long. The calendar fills up quickly, especially mid-week. Head to the booking page to grab your slot.
That’s All For June!
Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you in July.
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The post School’s Out: IELTS and OET Teaching Stories From June 2026 appeared first on IELTS Online Teacher.
