Ms Ana Carrasco

(she/her)

BA (Universitat de Barcelona), MA (Cardiff), FHEA

Overview

I am a Project Coordinator for MFL Mentoring , a language outreach projects based at the School of Modern Languages. 

MFL Mentoring mobilises mentoring methodologies to improve motivation and resilience for language learning at GCSE and beyond. Our project encourages a multilingual, global mindset that is open to all regardless of a learner's socio-economic background or proficiency in the language classroom. Our learners are encouraged to be curious and to challenge their perspectives and assumptions by exploring the world through language and culture.  This project is funded by the Welsh Government and enjoys fruitful partnerships with Aberystwyth, Bangor, Cardiff Metropolitan, Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (RWCMD), Swansea, University of South Wales (USW), University of Wales Ttrinity St. David's (UWTSD) and Wrexham Universities.

The project trains university students to mentor learners aged 12-14 as they make their GCSE option choices. Mentoring sessions take place either in the classroom or online depending on the needs of the school. Mentors run six sessions each autumn and spring term with small groups of mentees to provide a learner-centred approach. Each session focuses on a different theme to help learners see the multidisciplinary nature of language learning. The themes explore all languages and cultures around the world rather than promoting one language in particular. This ensures that, regardless of a learner's language profile or proficiency, there is something to inspire and motivate. We have worked in over 165 of the secondary schools across Wales.

Prior to my current role, I was a Lecturer in Spanish at the School of Modern Languages in Cardiff University between September 2000 - June 2023. I taught across the full range of the Spanish undergraduate programmes at Beginners, ex-Beginners, Advanced and ex-Advanced levels, as well as Postgaduate level in MA in Translation Studies.  I designed, coordinated and lead the Spanish Language Beginner and Advanced first year module.

During my time in the School of Modern Languages I took administrative roles at departamental level (Language Module Coordinator; Spanish Recruitment Oficer) and School roles (Deputy Director of Undergraduate Recruitment; Senior Personal Tutor)