What is the difference between a Language Teacher, Trainer, and Coach? (And Who Would Be Best for Your English Language Learning?)
The role of a language coach, trainer and teacher. Sketched by Jane. ©
When it comes to learning English, choosing the right guide can make all the difference. But who exactly should you turn to—a language teacher, a language trainer, or a language coach?
Whenever someone asks me “What do you do?”, I pause for a moment…
In the past, I’d simply reply “I’m an English teacher”, only to get questions about schools or grammar help for their kids. That’s not what I do.
These days, I proudly say I’m a self-employed Business English Trainer – and now, a certified Language Coach too (since completing the FEEL programme with the International Language Coaching Association). My work focuses on helping individuals and company teams improve their English communication skills for professional success.
Teacher. Trainer. Coach. So, what exactly do these roles mean, and which one is right for your English learning journey? Let’s take a deeper look…
The Role of a Language Teacher
A teacher focuses on foundational skills, general grammar, and vocabulary in a structured classroom setting. A teacher will explain how to do something and give you some activities to practise – you might even need to prepare for an exam or test at the end of the course.
Who Benefits Most from a Language Teacher?
Beginners or early intermediate learners who need a strong foundation in English grammar, vocabulary, and basic communication.
Students preparing for academic exams like TOEFL, IELTS, or school-level English tests.
Learners who thrive in a structured, guided environment with clear objectives and assessments.
The Role of a (business English) Language Trainer
A trainer specialises in practical, task-based learning tailored to specific skills, such as facilitating meetings or giving presentations. A trainer will look at your current skills, giving you tips and feedback on areas you could improve, plus activities to help you develop your communication and language skills.
Who Benefits Most from a Language Trainer?
Professionals needing targeted skill improvement, such as delivering presentations, negotiating, or writing reports.
Intermediate to advanced learners who want to apply English in real-world or workplace scenarios.
Learners who appreciate clear guidance and actionable feedback on how to enhance specific communication tasks.
The Role of a Language Coach
A coach puts you in the driving seat, this is what I mean when I say learner empowerment. A coach will use powerful questions and coaching tools to support you in reaching your English language goals. A coach is there to provide structure, motivation and accountability - but ultimately you will build your own unique strategy for improving your English communication skills.
Who Benefits Most from a Language Coach?
Highly motivated learners who want to take ownership of their language journey and set their own goals.
Professionals aiming for long-term, sustainable improvement in communication skills tied to their career ambitions.
Advanced learners who need support with fine-tuning their fluency, confidence, and strategic use of English.
Individuals who prefer a flexible, personalized approach over rigid lesson plans.
The International Language Coaching Association’s perspective on when to use teaching and coaching (LinkedIn, December 2024) :
“A common misconception positions language coaching as inherently superior to teaching. The truth is: both approaches are valuable, and their application depends on the learner's specific needs.
Coaching proves particularly beneficial when learners feel stuck, lack confidence, are demotivated, underperforming, struggle to identify goals, experience challenges in their relationship with their teacher, face resource limitations, or feel overwhelmed by stress and unrealistic expectations.
A conventional teaching approach is typically more effective when learners demonstrate consistent progress, high self-confidence, strong motivation, well-defined goals, and a supportive learning environment.”
Combining the Roles: My Integrated Trainer-Coach Approach
In my work, I blend the best aspects of training and coaching to provide a customised and empowering experience for my clients. First as a coach, I will listen to you and your English learning needs, helping you decided on clear, achievable goals – not forgetting to support you in creating a roadmap to reach your goals. As a trainer, I focus on practical, task-based exercises that help you master specific skills like pitching ideas, managing meetings, or writing persuasive emails. Meanwhile, my coaching approach ensures that you stay motivated and accountable while you are always able to learn and grow in your own unique way.
For example, a client (like Svenja) might come to me needing help with delivering presentations in English. As a trainer, I’d analyse their current skills, provide tips, and guide them through practice exercises. As a coach, I’d encourage them to reflect on their strengths, identify their goals, and develop confidence by setting achievable milestones. This integrated approach ensures that learning is both goal-oriented and personally fulfilling.
By understanding what each role offers and choosing the right combination for your needs, you can transform your English learning journey into an effective and enjoyable experience. Whether you need a teacher’s structure, a trainer’s precision, or a coach’s motivation, there’s a pathway to success waiting for you.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re ready to achieve your English language goals, let’s connect! Whether you’re looking for training, coaching, or a blend of both, I’m here to help you succeed. Reach out today to explore how we can create a personalised plan that works for you.
Hello,
I’m Jane Carvell, a business English trainer and language coach. I help German-speaking professionals improve their English communication skills, so that they can build better connections and flourish in an international working world.
