My name is Carmela, I am Italian and I hold a full English teaching qualification in Post Compulsory Education and Training (Cert.Ed.)and a Qualified Teaching and Learning Status (QTLS).I also have a BA degree in Post Compulsory Education and Training from Warwick University. I have been teaching Italian since 2005.
I grew up in a small village in a traditional Neapolitan family, where food wasn’t just something we ate—it was a way of life. We grew, preserved, and prepared everything from scratch, passing down recipes and traditions through generations. Sundays were special—making fresh pasta or gnocchi for lunch wasn’t just a task, it was a family event, filled with laughter, flour-dusted hands, and the unmistakable aroma of home-cooked meals.
During Christmas and Easter, the celebrations started weeks in advance. Families and friends exchanged their handmade treats—Struffoli, Panettone, and Pandoro in December; Pastiera, Tortano, and Casatiello at Easter. Carnival brought Chiacchiere, and Father’s Day was never complete without Zeppole. Some of my fondest memories are gathering at Zia’s house to bake pizza and bread in her old stone oven, turning every occasion into a reason to cook, share, and celebrate.
My love for Italian food grew from these traditions, and over the years, I’ve learned even more from the kitchens of Sicilian, Puglian, and Tuscan nonnas. Now, through my Italian cooking workshops, I invite you into my kitchen to experience this authentic tradition—where we cook, learn, and share the joy of real Italian food, just as it was meant to be.
I am passionate about continuously improving my teaching skills and subject knowledge, ensuring that my lessons stay engaging, effective, and in line with the latest educational standards. Learning should be exciting, and I strive to make every session relevant, interactive, and tailored to my students' needs.
Beyond the classroom, I encourage independent learning by providing the right tools and resources—whether it’s access to online language platforms, native Italian media like newspapers and TV shows, or practical exercises that build confidence outside of lessons.
My passion for Italian culture extends beyond language—I have led traditional Italian cooking workshops in Birmingham, Lichfield, Tamworth, and at my home, where participants have learned to make fresh pasta, gnocchi, risotto, and beloved desserts like Pastiera Napoletana, Panettone, and Babà al Rhum. Around Christmas, I also shared another cherished tradition by hosting an Italian crochet workshop in Lichfield, creating handmade festive decorations.
For younger learners, I’ve run Italian after-school clubs at local primary schools, making language learning fun through games, songs, and creative activities.
If you’d like to stay updated on upcoming courses, workshops, and special events, join my mailing list—just get in touch! I’d love to hear from you.
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