Zest for languages

Fantastic experience: I genuinely feel so lucky to have found Laure and her amazing French classes. I was nervous about speaking in French in a group before I joined, but she immediately made me feel welcomed and put me at ease. Laure is endlessly encouraging and creative with her approach to lessons and I always leave class having learnt something new, both in terms of vocabulary, grammar and elements of French culture I hadn’t yet come across. Outside of class Laure is always recommending fantastic French films to watch as well as other French-related events going on nearby. I haven’t just joined a wonderful French class, but a wonderful community of interesting people who also all love French, which is a real testament to Laure’s natural talent for bringing people together. Her dynamic classes are the highlight of my week and I’d recommend them to anyone looking to inject a bit more French into their lives - they’re hugely enriching and I’d be so sad if they stopped!

Fantastic experience: I can’t recommend Laure highly enough. Living in France I thought I had a passable understanding of everyday French but in a few short weeks Laure has really lifted my confidence to deal with more complex levels of conversation. Laure makes every lesson topical and interesting and I can honestly say that in over 50 years of various study this is the first class in which I’ve not once been tempted to pull a sickie ;)… thank you Laure

Fantastic experience: Laure's classes are fun and engaging. She pitches the standard at a level which allows all to participate and enjoy, while gently stretching the class mental sinews. Classes are designed so we learn to speak French and also learn about French culture which makes them all the more interesting and useful. No question is too silly and people are encouraged to speak and learn from their mistakes. Laure's corrections are gentle and encouraging and everyone in her class is willing you to find 'le mot juste' or the next best thing. And because of this, and Laure's welcoming and encouraging nature, classes are really enjoyable.

Fantastic experience: I’ve been learning French with Laure for about a year now, and I honestly couldn’t recommend her more highly. She is a fantastic teacher who brings both warmth and professionalism to every lesson. Her teaching style is engaging and thoughtfully structured. It’s clear that a huge amount of preparation goes into each session—everything feels purposeful and tailored, which has made a real difference to my progress. She has a great ability to explain not just the basics, but also the deeper rules and nuances of French grammar in a way that actually makes sense. What I particularly appreciate is her focus on authentic, real-life French. It’s not just textbook learning—you gain a genuine understanding of how the language is used in everyday conversation, along with the cultural context behind it. Laure is also incredibly patient, supportive, and encouraging, which creates a relaxed learning environment where you feel comfortable making mistakes and improving from them. After a year of lessons, I can confidently say I’ve learned a huge amount and feel far more comfortable with the language. If you’re looking for a dedicated, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring French teacher, Laure is an excellent choice. Thank you Laure

Fantastic experience: I couldn't be happier or more impressed with Laure's teaching. As a student, she is kind, supportive and I have learnt so much from her in a relaxed supportive environment which she creates. As a trained TEFL teacher, I can see how very impressively she structures her classes, designs different exercise to benefit different learning styles and know just when to correct and when to let the students talk freely. She is so inspiring and absolutely brilliant.

Fantastic experience: Exhilarating! If you want to learn French and have fun at the same time you've come to the right place. I lived in Bordeaux for a couple of years and attended two different classes whilst there. One of them in particular was really good and I'm still in contact with some of the people. Zest for Languages has far surpassed those classes which was such a surprise because I thought I knew what to expect! Each Zest for Languages class has a theme that reoccurs in different sections throughout the lesson. There is usually: a video section, problem-solving or role play in small groups, and often a thought provoking song with lyrics, all backed up with work-sheets and varying techniques that are seamlessly packaged together. The classes are small (My particular class has 8 students) so we all spend a lot of time talking and asking questions in French. New words and phrases that we don't understand or question are automatically written on the blackboard, Laure takes a photo of these at the end of the session and post them on our website. Laure Gournay is a natural teacher. She speaks French in a clear tone which is easy to understand, Laure also quickly recognises when you don't understand a phrase or sentence and she will instantly change it to a simpler form. She has boundless energy, a great sense of humour and a 'can-do' attitude which is infectious and heart-warming. Elle est un génie ?! Probablement! Either way, Laure works really hard on preparation, research and support to make it all seem effortless. Nothing is too much trouble, you can contact her at anytime if you're unsure of something and she'll respond promptly. The homework and back-up sheets, videos and songs are all accessible on our website. Saving the best to last... Laure is part of the Winchester French Society so there are lots of social events that we can attend, such as French Cinema Nights, Get Togethers, Discussion on French Cuisine, French Fayres in London etc. This is on top of the Christmas and end of term soirées. So, as well as bonding with your class mates, you can see it's a great way to socialise and meet new and interesting people from a diverse background. And as if that wasn't enough Laure is a fabulous chef, as you'll no doubt discover... Bonne chance pour ton apprentissage du français. Stu.

Fantastic experience: Laure is always professional, prepared, enthusiastic, and introduces subjects that are relevant to living life in French. You know that she cares about the quality of the student experience. Highly recommend!

Fantastic experience: I was referred to Laure by a mutual contact and I am so grateful for the recommendation. I've been studying French for three months now and have just signed up for more! I had a very basic level to start with but I am noticeably improving each week thanks to Laure's teaching method and her attention to my individual needs. She has clearly taken time to make sure I am learning not only the French language but also tailoring it to a specific project I have to get to a very decent standard. She is patient and encouraging, as well as very knowledgable and experienced in teaching languages. I could not recommend her more! A big thank you to Laure and I'm looking forward to our future lessons.

Fantastic experience: Laure is a dedicated and passionate teacher. Our 4 and 6 year old girls have been fully engaged and enthused to attend their French lessons and we have been so impressed with how much they have learned. We are so pleased to have found Laure's classes!

Fantastic experience: Laure has really helped our son progress with his French. He finds them really fun and she make the classes relevant to their level. Thank you so much and looking forward to another year!

Fantastic experience: Laure’s creative, thoughtful planning and teaching provide the perfect mix of enjoyment, enthusiasm and achievement for students of all ages. She is kind, fun and inclusive. Being a part of Zest for Languages is about so much more than the classroom. Cultural and social evenings for all members are greatly enjoyed, often involving food tasting and wine. I could not have hoped for a more inspirational teacher. She’s the best Janet Purvis

Fantastic experience: I can’t recommend Laure’s incredible Zest for Languages classes highly enough! They really are the highlight of my week. Laure puts so much effort into preparing each lesson - carefully choosing topics and using props, games, and all sorts of clever, well-thought-out techniques to help all the new words and grammar really stick. She makes sure to cover every skill area: listening, reading, speaking and writing. She’s truly excellent - and I say that as someone who has learned French for many years and has been in many classes! Whatever your level, she will have the perfect class, and she genuinely cares about helping each student improve and achieve their language goals. Thanks so much, Laure - I’ll be a lifelong student with you!

Fantastic experience: I have been having private French lessons online with Laura for several months. She is a wonderful and enthusiastic teacher. She has a genuine passion for languages and for teaching. She puts so much effort into each and every lesson. My French and confidence levels have increased so much. I would 110% recommend Zest for Languages!

Fantastic experience: Merci Laure. I am so delighted to have found Laure’s classes. Lessons are relaxed and without judgement but we learn so much. Class materials are varied and interesting and Laure is very willing to adapt the sessions to our various language needs. I have just signed up for next term.

Fantastic experience: Laure is the very best French teacher that I have ever had! Her lessons are fun and engaging and always perfectly tailored to her students - whatever their level of French. I look forward to every lesson and enjoy every aspect of them - whether grammar exercises, reading and comprehension, games or songs or just chatting. They all go towards the perfect language learning experience.

Fantastic experience: I can't recommend Zest for Languages highly enough. Laure is a wonderful teacher ; patient , thoughtful, and encouraging. She guided us through a learning plan designed to suit our needs - and the lessons were fun ! We certainly hope to have further lessons with Laure.

Fantastic experience: A small group of us wanted 6 lessons of conversational French prior to a trip to France. The lessons have been bespoke and well planned. Whilst we have worked hard, each session has been fun and definitely prepared us more to try out our French with the locals. Laure is very patient and encouraging. I would highly recommend her.

Fantastic experience: I have been having French classes with Laure for 3 months now and I feel a huge improvement in my ability to converse in French. The classes are excellently planned and the content is very relevant to what I am needing. I am feeling the improvement each week. The online platform is great and very interactive and easy to use. I had been looking for a while to find somewhere to learn French and practice speaking, I am so glad I found Zest! Vraiment excellent!

Fantastic experience: Laure is a wonderful teacher! I feel much more confident than I used to. Each lesson is catered to what I need and is really well prepared. If there is an area I am struggling with, lessons are adapted to focus on weaker areas which is really helpful. I like the variety in each lesson with a mixture of vocabulary, grammar and games that encourage me to speak in French. Laure makes me feel so positive about the gains I am making and her enthusiasm is great! Great teacher and such a lovely person! Merci beaucoup, Laure!

Fantastic experience: A wonderful teacher! Laure and Zest for Languages make a huge effort to keep the lessons fun and engaging. I have been taking lessons for 6 months and have just signed up for another 6 months. Merci beaucoup Laure!

Fantastic experience: My two daughters aged 8 and 10 have been doing French classes for 6 months now and they absolutely love it. Laure hits the right balance of learning lots whilst having lots of fun! Thanks Laure!

Fantastic experience: Very engaging, fun and thought out lessons with Laure, she puts a lot of time and effort into your learning, couldn’t ask for a better Tutor

Fantastic experience: My husband and I are two fairly elderly francophiles, keen to improve our command of French, and having tuition from Laure has been a real treat. The reviews on this website demonstrate how much her enthusiasm for enabling her pupils of all ages to acquire skills in her native tongue, are valued. We found all her lessons to be well structured, engaging, topical and fun. She is warm, receptive and patient. Topics for study are very wide ranging, from popular French songs and school menus to news reports about China and discussions about holidays and popular French villages. She provides helpful tailor-made information on any aspect of the language and adapts her classes to respond to pupils' specific requests or needs. We look forward to continuing in the future.

Fantastic experience: We are thrilled with the progress our son has made during his short time in Laure class. Laure is a wonderful teacher. Each lesson is carefully prepared, with many fun activities to engage the children. It's definitely lots of fun. I highly recommended for anyone wishing to learn french.

Fantastic experience: My daughter, Charlotte (aged 8) absolutely loves lessons with Laure. The lessons are so engaging and fun, but the children learn so much. It is a highlight of her week without a doubt.

Fantastic experience: I'm a father of 4 kids and my eldest is taking classes with Laure. I attended silently in the back of the room and I was amazed by her class. She connects with the student making them interract and pay attention during the entire lesson. She is the best teacher I have ever met !

Fantastic experience: In the time I had lessons with Laure I went from only being able to speak a couple of sentences at a time to being able to converse solely in French for a whole hour. Laure provides interesting and varied lessons which are always fun. Laure is able adapt her teaching methods to match your requirements and bring out the best in you. Laure is an exceptional teacher.

Fantastic experience: My son has been with Laure for 6 years +, she has a fantastic relationship with him. Her teaching methods are engaging, thorough and she tails them for him which makes him feel confident and comfortable. Laure goes over and beyond to make sure her students have all the necessary materials providing extra resources when required. Her enthusiasm for teaching and interest in her students progression shines through.

Fantastic experience: Both of my children started learning French with Laure during lockdown. Her ability to make a connection with young children online was amazing. The classes were fun and engaging and the kids really enjoyed them - and were learning :-) She is an amazing teacher!

Fantastic experience: A caring and inspiring teacher. She invested much time in planning interesting and constructive lessons. She also made lessons fun.

Fantastic experience: I’ve been learning French with Zest as part of my professional development and they have been brilliant every step of the way! Laure is so patient and an excellent teacher. The lesson plans are fun, with different activities tailored to my life and career. I particularly enjoy that there are a range of activities each focusing on a different method of learning. Thank you Zest!

Fantastic experience: Laure is one of those rare teachers who make learning fun! I studied French with Laure for a couple of years, and her lessons were interesting, topical, fun, and challenging in a good way. Her love of the language rubs off on you and we learnt good grammar and widened our vocabulary with games and stories. Each and every student is important to her and I encourage you to give it a go with Laure, as she has given me the confidence to speak French in France.

Fantastic experience: Laure has been teaching my son for just over 5 years and has a great ability to engage children of all ages. She has the ability to adapt quickly and incorporate themes and the children’s favourite things, such as paw patrol and Pokémon! Learning through games and songs makes it easy for me to pick up too! Laure has a brilliant relationship with the children and has managed to keep this alive virtually during and post covid. Anyone who is thinking of using Laure for her skills shouldn’t hesitate and jump in feet first.

Fantastic experience: Laure is an exceptional teacher, tailoring lessons to suit varied levels of French. For more than 4 years I enjoyed every single lesson with Laure - the time she took to prepare topics and sharing the slides of the discussion has always been amazing. Being able to discuss current affairs, as well as so many different aspects of the French language - cultural themes etc - has been such a joy. Laure is patient, kind, good fun and the best French teacher I have ever had. Wishing her well with the launch of her new venture - Zest for Languages.

Fantastic experience: Laure has been an outstanding French tutor to our daughters over the past six years. She is incredibly kind and patient and customises her lessons to suit their individual learning styles. She makes lessons engaging and fun and they’ve made excellent progress with her.

Fantastic experience: My husband and myself have spent 6 years learning french with Laure. We were in a class of 6 all in our 70's and she makes learning such fun using board games, word games and videos. Not only is she a superb teacher but a delightful person too. You will be lucky to have her. Not only does she teach the language but we learnt a lot about current affairs and geography in this franccophone world!

Fantastic experience: Laure is a fantastic teacher! I really like that she tailored the classes to my needs and helped understand my goals and what I was looking to accomplish with my continued learning. Each lesson was always very well thought out and planned in a way that built my confidence and continued to challenge me. She helped me deepen my language skills and understanding of the French culture. I would highly recommend her classes and I plan to continue classes again with her in the future!

Fantastic experience: I am a long-time student at the language school where Laure previously worked. She was my main teacher for over 6 years during which time my French speaking ability has improved enormously. Laure’s dedication and skill to adapt her teaching to match the character of our small class group brought out the best in all of us. Of all the teachers we have had over time Laure has been the outstanding leader.

Fantastic experience: Laure is an exceptional French teacher. Lessons are fun and carefully designed for each student so that it’s impossible not recognise one’s progress, which is of course an enormous encouragement to continue learning. There’s no pressure ; it’s entirely your own journey but without doubt Laure’s approach gives your confidence a boost when attempting to put into practice all you are trying to achieve. It’s been a privilege to be one of Laure’s students.

Fantastic experience: Laure is a very kind and thorough teacher. Her lessons are interesting and varied with an emphasis on building confidence and understanding. I have loved learning with her.

Fantastic experience: Laure is an amazingly skilled language coach. I had the pleasure of enjoying an ‘educational trip’ to France with Laure last year as well as having French classes with her. She catered for everyone’s needs on the trip and made sure we all enjoyed ourselves whilst immersing ourselves in the language and culture. Laure is kind, gentle, hard working and patient. She tailors her classes to the needs of her students be it a complete beginner or a more advanced student. Laure uses various methods to teach in her classes to make it such fun to learn. Thank you Laure, you are one special teacher

Fantastic experience: You can get expect nothing but the best from Zest for Languages Laure gives outstanding tuition. Laure has the highest expertise in coaching French that I have ever experienced. A supreme ability in explaining grammar and a clear understanding of where your language difficulties lie. Once my understanding of the language advanced she incorporated fascinating subjects relating to France past and present presenting a window onto life. This brings the language alive. I learnt French with Laure for six years and every lesson was a joy and taught by her with abounding enthusiasm and sensitivity.

Fantastic experience: Laure was my French teacher and was the most creative and thoughtful guide. Her love of French culture was an inspiration to me. Her sense of humour and her warmth makes her an excellent companion and she understands the complexities for us Anglophiles. You will enjoy learning with Laure and are fortunate to have her precious time available to you.

Fantastic experience: Ma fille a eu la chance et le plaisir d’avoir Laure pendant un peu plus d’un an en tant que professeur à Vici language en ligne. Laure enseigne avec beaucoup de gaité et de professionnalisme. Ma fille a fait de réel progrès en peu de temps. Bonne chance Laure !

Fantastic experience: I had an excellent experience with Laure as my French teacher. She is a lovely person, and a very good teacher, who adapts her content and style to suit the student. It was a pleasure to be taught by her, both in the UK and on immersion trips to France. I recommend her.

Fantastic experience: Laure is an exceptional coach. Laure taught my daughter French for 6 years and my little boy a few months. Laure has not only made language learning enjoyable but she is truly inspirational to both of them. Now my daughter has developed the confidence to converse in French, and she loves the language and the culture so much that she asks to go to France every holiday. Besides being an incredible teacher, she is also a very lovely person who I feel is genuinely interested in the happiness of your children. At this day and age with everything available online, there are a lot of native speakers offering French learning, but I would challenge anyone to find someone as dedicated and as talented as Laure. Thank you for all you have done for our children.

Fantastic experience: Laure is the most talented language teacher I came across. She is so good at teaching to kids that they don't even notice and would keep going forever! My kids (and to my knowledge many others) absolutely loved her and would refuse anyone else!

Fantastic experience: Laure is a brilliant teacher- very patient and she always made our lessons interactive and interesting. Laure always asked me what subjects I would like to discuss which really personalised the lessons. She is very easy to talk to and made me feel very comfortable even when she made corrections.

Fantastic experience: I had the great pleasure of having Laure as my ongoing French teacher over the past year (I connected with her because she came highly recommended by my mother in law). She is truly a gifted educator and goes out of her way to make her lessons impactful and personal. It is evident that teaching is her passion as she personally invests herself well beyond the duration of the lesson by researching materials and methods which work for each of her students, recognizing there is no “one size fits all” learning style. I made so much progress under her tutelage and especially enjoyed the interludes of cultural information that Laure provided, helping me navigate unfamiliar traditions and behaviours unique to France. You won’t find a better teacher.

Fantastic experience: Excellent experience with Laure. A very good teacher and we have learnt a lot during the six years we had the pleasure of her being our "prof". Would highly recommend.

Fantastic experience: We had the unbelievable pleasure of being taught French by Laure when she was part of the VICI Language Academy..6 years of lessons with such an intelligent, imaginative and sympathetic teacher was both fun and a great learning environment..Laure always had an interesting topic for us to discuss and learn something new from every time..our ability to REALLY speak French increased hugely and made us able to REALLY speak French to French people..and understand the replies! Being taught by Laure will be both entertaining and educational..you will definitely be glad you did!!