Meet Your Coach, Jane

Language Coach, Culture Lover, Connector of Curious Minds.

Hi, I’m Jane – the founder of Move & Shake Your English. I was born in Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland and have been helping English learners grow their confidence and connection through English for over 20 years.

I went to university in Scotland and studied Business Studies with German Language.  After graduation and a position as a Marketing and Sales Assistant in a small Korean manufacturing  company, I started to get itchy feet and went to Japan to teach English, acquiring a CELTA Teaching Certificate on the way.  I lived in Yokohama for about 9 years.  So many happy memories and what a cultural experience.  

Next came the Caribbean, and around 4 years living in Barbados, where I met my now husband. We moved to Ireland (the EU side) in 2015 and then finally in 2024 relocated back to Northern Ireland (the UK side) with our two sons.  

I literally did a full circle of the world and have ended up back, more or less, at my beginning, about 20 minutes outside Belfast, in a coastal town called Carrickfergus.

Over the years, all the different locations, experiences,  wonderful people and various cultures I encountered have influenced and shaped me.  It has led me to where I am today and my plans and dreams for Move & Shake Your English. 

Furthermore, I have a keen interest in languages in general, having studied French, German, Japanese, a little Spanish and also Latin.  I know what it feels like to be that language learner, the person who is nervous to speak and is scared of making a mistake or sounding silly.

My background includes language schools, university & college courses, exam preparation, proof-reading, business English, interview & CV preparation, intensive English summer camps and leading English programmes, as a Director of Studies. However, in recent years, I have realised what truly excites me:

Bringing like-minded people together through language, culture and conversation.

Today, my focus is on learners who want more than grammar rules and vocabulary lists. I create engaging, culturally rich programmes that offer structure, motivation and real-world connection, without the overwhelm.

When I’m not coaching, you’ll find me spending with my family, going for coastal walks, listening to global music, planning travel adventures or chatting over a wee cup of tea with family, friends and visitors.

If you’re looking for an inspiring and down-to-earth way to Move & Shake Your English, you have found the right coach and are in the right place.