Donal Thompson
Creative language professional with extensive experience in education, management, and the arts. Based in Madrid, Spain.
Contact Me
Professional Objective
To work creatively and joyfully.
With over 30 years of experience spanning language education, management, creative arts, and media production, I bring a unique blend of skills to every project. My career has been defined by a commitment to creativity, effective communication, and helping others achieve their goals.
Current Role
Language Coach
DIAL ENGLISH (2020 - Present)
As a dedicated language coach, I work with diverse clients including the Spanish Ministry of Defence and Milton Education. My approach combines traditional language instruction with creative methodologies that engage learners and produce measurable results.
I also serve as a voice actor and director in the production of audio materials, bringing language learning content to life through professional narration and direction.
Editorial Experience
Freelance Editor
Editorial SM (2014 - 2020)
Managed a diverse team of creative professionals including editors, illustrators, videographers, authors, and musicians to produce high-quality educational materials.
Project Management
Leveraged my "Gestión de Proyectos Editoriales" training from Calamo y Cran to oversee complex educational publishing projects from conception to completion.
Workshop Facilitation
Conducted engaging workshops focused on innovative language learning techniques and the integration of poetry in classroom settings.
Academic Leadership
Director of English Language Seminars
UNIR Universidad (2011 - 2014)
At Universidad Internacional de La Rioja, I created and directed specialized English language seminars designed to enhance students' language proficiency and cultural understanding.
My workshops on language learning methodologies and poetry in the classroom provided educators with innovative tools to engage their students and improve learning outcomes.
Course Direction Experience
1
Course Director at Astex
2010 - 2011
Directed residential English courses for prestigious clients including the Spanish Ministry of Defence and BBVA, creating immersive language learning experiences.
2
Formador de Inglés at Cursos Humanos
2009 - 2011
Developed and conducted bespoke English classes for professionals, tailoring content to meet specific industry needs and individual learning goals.
These roles allowed me to combine my educational expertise with management skills, creating effective learning environments for diverse groups of professionals.
Leadership & Management
Head of Studies
Congenia SL (2002 - 2009)
Led course creation, video editing, creative writing, and teaching initiatives. Developed innovative educational content and managed implementation across multiple programs.
Manager
Wall Street Institute (1998 - 2002)
Managed all aspects of an English academy, including staff supervision, curriculum development, student assessment, and administrative operations.
Teaching Experience
English Language Educator
My teaching career spans multiple institutions and approaches, from traditional classroom settings to language labs and specialized programs.
Wall Street Institute (1996 - 1998)
Taught classes to adults and assisted in language lab operations, utilizing technology to enhance learning outcomes.
Hernani Hizkuntzak (1992 - 1995)
Taught English to children and adults at various proficiency levels, developing age-appropriate curricula and activities.
Creative Arts Management
Manchester Craft Centre
Manager (1990 - 1992)
As manager of the Manchester Craft Centre, I oversaw the operation of studio shops featuring local artisans and craftspeople. My responsibilities included:
  • Coordinating exhibitions and showcases for artists
  • Organizing cultural events and workshops for the community
  • Managing facility operations and vendor relationships
  • Promoting local arts and crafts through marketing initiatives
Media Experience
1
Audience Warm Up
Granada TV (1987 - 1990)
Energized live television audiences before and during broadcasts, creating an engaging atmosphere for studio recordings. Wrote creative scripts for Granada Studios Tour, enhancing visitor experiences through compelling storytelling.
2
Special Events Organizer
Stockport Borough (1986 - 1987)
Organized promotional events, fashion shows, and competitions to engage the community and promote local businesses. Developed creative concepts and managed all aspects of event execution.
Theatrical Background
Actor/Writer/Director
Foursight Theatre (1984 - 1986)
My theatrical background includes writing, directing, and performing in educational theatre projects with Foursight Theatre. These productions combined entertainment with educational content, making complex topics accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.
This experience developed my skills in creative communication, storytelling, and public speaking—abilities that continue to enhance my work in education and language coaching today.
Education & Certifications
Gestión de Proyectos Editoriales
Calamo y Cran, 2017
Course accredited by Universidad Europea de Madrid
Coaching in the workplace
The Open University, 2011
Diploma Literature & Creative Writing
The Open University, 2006-2008
Additional certifications include CELTA (Cambridge University), Lean Start-up (Universidad Internacional de La Rioja, 2012), and AI Prompt Engineering (Vanderbilt University, 2023) and Drama (Manchester University).
Professional Affiliations
Círculo de Bellas Artes
Madrid, June 2014 to Present
Active member of this prestigious cultural institution, participating in literary events and artistic exchanges.
The Poetry Society
UK, April 2010 to Present
Maintaining connections with the UK literary community through this established organization for poetry enthusiasts and practitioners.
Asociación Enseñanza Bilingüe
June 2016 to Present
Contributing to the advancement of bilingual education methodologies and practices in Spain.
Awards & Publications
BBC ALFRED BRADLEY BURSARY
Awarded this prestigious prize for poetry in 1992, recognizing exceptional talent and creativity in the literary arts.
Published Works
"Internal Combustion & Letter to Maeve" - A collection of poems and short stories published in February 2011, showcasing my creative writing and literary perspective.
Contact Information
Location
Calle Herrenzuela 46
Los Molinos, 28460
Madrid, Spain
Phone
0034 676 447 873
References available upon request. Thank you for your interest in my professional background.