April 2026
This free lesson comes from our Vocabulary Builder series, where you’ll learn six key words through one of Christian’s engaging stories. Inside the Academy, you’ll find 400+ lessons like this to help you build your vocabulary step by step.
Below the video, you’ll also find a list of today’s words, along with discussion questions you can use to practice with other learners.
Just watching the video isn’t enough to really remember these words. The best way to make them stick is to use them in conversation or connect them to your own life. Find another learner and use the following questions in an informal chat:
Discussion Questions:
- Have you ever driven a forklift? Are you certified to operate one?
- Have you ever won a cup or trophy? What was it for?
- What’s something you’re certified to do?
- Have you ever pooh-poohed something and later regretted it? What happened?
- What makes a person irresistible to you?
Academy Updates
The Vietnam Retreat
What an incredible… and intense… trip! Led by Christian, our small group brought together members from 10 different countries. Along the way, we connected with welcoming local communities, discovered a rich cultural history, and explored some truly unforgettable places. But just as importantly, we built meaningful connections with each other—something that’s increasingly rare in today’s digital world.
From English lessons to mindset sessions, we made the most of every moment, turning the entire journey into a learning experience. Whether navigating the chaotic scooter-filled streets of Hanoi, kayaking through the otherworldly beauty of Ha Long Bay, visiting the spiritual temples of My Son Sanctuary, or wandering the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, English was our shared language from sunrise to sunset.
Most importantly, we made new friends — and were reminded that a common language can truly open the world.
Until our next Retreat…
April’s Speaking Challenge: English with Art
In this month’s Speaking Challenge, we’ll explore the work of two fascinating painters: Baroque artist Michaelina Wautier and English painter Joseph Wright of Derby. Across 20 video lessons, their artwork will inspire our daily speaking prompts inside the Academy.
Each day, members send a 1–2 minute voice message in a dedicated Telegram group. Teacher Matt listens to these and provides daily group feedback — highlighting common mistakes while keeping everyone focused on what really matters: communication.
With around 80 messages coming in from members all over the world, it becomes a rich cultural exchange… an opportunity to share ideas, perspectives, and experiences, no matter where you live or what time zone you’re in.
The Challenge runs from April 13th to April 24th!
Peek into the Classroom: Crossword with Christian
Every Wednesday from 10:30 to 11:30 CEST, Christian leads a live lesson where students come together to solve a crossword from one of the UK’s biggest newspapers.
During the session, Christian shares his screen and guides the group through the puzzle step by step. As you work through the clues together, you’ll naturally explore new vocabulary, expressions, and cultural references — all in a relaxed, interactive environment.
You can choose how you participate: sit back and enjoy the process, or jump in and suggest answers. By pooling ideas and thinking as a group, the crossword is (almost always) completed by the end of the hour.
Each puzzle brings its own surprises, making every session a fun and unique way to build your English while connecting with other learners and getting to know Christian personally.