Barbara Bontempo – Student Coach

Barbara Bontempo is a Student Coach dedicated to helping international learners of all ages create meaningful, structured learning experiences. With over 20 years of experience in educational psychology, she guides students, parents, and professionals in transforming their learning challenges into sustainable growth.

Originally from Brazil, Barbara has lived and worked in the UK, Chile, China, and Spain, immersing herself in diverse educational systems and multilingual environments. This international journey has given her a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with learning across cultures.

Barbara began her career in language teaching and traditional educational counselling, but she soon realised that real, lasting learning goes beyond instruction. She transitioned into coaching, focusing on building systems that lead to meaningful learning, autonomy, and personal growth. Her coaching method is rooted in the humanistic psychology of Carl Rogers and Thomas Gordon, incorporating emergent references such as James Clear and Cal Newport to help students develop effective learning habits and long-term strategies for flourishing.

She specialises in:

• Coaching students in developing study strategies that foster focus and long-term growth.
• Supporting neurodivergent learners (ADHD, dyslexia, etc.) with tailored, effective learning techniques.
• Helping parents raise multilingual children with confidence and clarity.

She is the co-author of Slurping Soup, a beloved book on growing up multiculturally. An educational counsellor with an MA in Educational Psychology from the University of London, she is also a Certified Instructor of Gordon Training’s Parent Effectiveness Training and Be Your Best programmes. She offers coaching in six languages, including English and Catalan.

Learning should feel like growth, not struggle. When we design study systems that align with our natural drive for autonomy and meaning, we unlock confidence, flow, and a lifelong love of learning.
Barbara Bontempo

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