Meet the Team

Richard came to Barcelona after graduating from Edinburgh University — and never left. He founded TEFL Iberia in 2012 with a simple goal: to make high-quality teacher training accessible, enjoyable and professionally rigorous. Since then he has built it into one of Barcelona's most respected language schools, training thousands of teachers from over 60 countries. The Gap Year in Spain program is his latest project, combining everything the school does best into a single transformative experience.

Raquel is a Barcelona native who is fluent in Spanish, Catalan and English. Driven by a deep passion for helping people from all backgrounds integrate into Spanish culture, she oversees the academic quality of both the TEFL training and the Spanish language programs. She is the reason our students don't just learn the language — they genuinely connect with the city and the people in it. Raquel is also the Academic Director of Iberia Language Academy.

Brianna made the leap from California to Barcelona two years ago and hasn't looked back. As the first person most prospective students speak to, she brings warmth, enthusiasm and genuine insight into the experience — she's lived it herself. Brianna personally reviews every application, answers enquiries and guides students through everything from choosing the right program to knowing what to pack. She's the person you'll hear from first and one of the most important members of the team.

Claire is from England and has called Barcelona home for the past ten years. As Program Manager she oversees the day-to-day experience of every student on the gap year — from arrival day through to graduation. With a natural talent for student support, she ensures every student feels welcomed, looked after and fully supported, whatever challenges come up along the way. If you ever need anything during your time on the program, Claire is the person who makes it happen.