Speakers

Detailed Bio

Jan Blake, an internationally recognised storyteller and IATEFL Patron, has dedicated over three decades to advancing English Language Teaching (ELT) through the art of storytelling. Since 1986, she has performed and led workshops worldwide, collaborating with prestigious organisations such as the National Theatre, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, and the British Council. Her work as a storytelling consultant for Barnardo’s SEEN initiative and CBeebies’ ‘Musical Storyland’ underscores her commitment to inclusive education. As the founder of the Akua Storytelling Project, she trains educators and storytellers to integrate narrative techniques into language teaching, enhancing students’ speaking and listening skills. Her extensive experience in schools, festivals, and academic settings has made her a leading figure in using storytelling to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps.

Impact Story:

In 2021, Jan Blake launched the Akua Storytelling Project, an online school training over 200 teachers across 15 countries to incorporate storytelling into ELT classrooms. The initiative, initially piloted in Manchester’s St. Luke’s Primary School, led to a 25% improvement in students’ oral proficiency, according to school reports. By equipping educators with tools to weave diverse narratives into lessons, Blake has empowered students to express themselves confidently in English while embracing cultural heritage. Her work with Barnardo’s SEEN has further supported marginalised youth, with one participant noting, “Jan’s stories gave me a voice when I felt unheard.” Blake’s mission to foster connection through storytelling continues to reshape ELT worldwide.