Maria Blanco-Hermida

Maria Blanco-Hermida is a Senior Lecturer in Spanish in the School of Humanities at the University of Westminster. She teaches Spanish Language in Polylang, the University's Open Language Programme, and the BA Spanish programme. Additionally, she works as a language learning strategies coach and language teacher trainer at her own coaching business, Maria Blanco Coaching.

Dr. Blanco-Hermida has held various academic roles over her career, including Open Language Spanish Coordinator, DELE Exams Officer, Spanish Language and Culture consultant, HE external examiner, GCSE examiner, and Spanish Development Editor. She has worked extensively in designing, delivering, and assessing Spanish as a Foreign Language courses for more than twenty-five years.

Her educational background includes a BA (Hons) in Education from the Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca (Spain) and an MA in Modern Languages in Education from the University College of London Institute of Education. She is also a Neurolanguage Coach® certified by Efficient Language Coaching and accredited by the International Coaching Federation, as well as a certified EUROLTA Teacher Trainer, International House Spanish Language Teacher and Online Tutor, DELE Examiner, and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Dr. Blanco-Hermida's research focuses on exploring frameworks for effective language learning strategy training and coaching, as well as learner perceptions of strategy use. She has designed, implemented, and researched strategy training activities aimed at promoting effective and enjoyable autonomous language learning.

Her recent work shows a strong emphasis on practical applications of language learning strategies, with numerous workshops and projects focused on vocabulary acquisition, speaking skills development, and teacher training. Her publications and presentations consistently address how to empower students to become independent and effective language learners.

Dr. Blanco-Hermida has authored two significant books: 'How to Learn Spanish: A guide to powerful principles and strategies for successful learning and self-empowerment' (2021) and 'How to Teach Language Learning Strategies: 4 simple steps for successful independent language learning' (2021), which have been well-received in the language education community.

She has been actively involved in staff development and teacher training, conducting workshops for institutions including the University of Westminster, Morley College, and the Instituto Cervantes in London and Berlin. Her work bridges theoretical research with practical classroom applications, making her a respected figure in language education.