Language Lessons
for Expats & Internationals
in São José dos Campos, Brazil
Whether you're moving to Brazil and need Portuguese lessons, or you're an international professional looking to improve your English or Spanish — Marjorie Palacios has been helping students just like you for over 25 years.
Your language teacher in SJC
Hi, I'm Marjorie — and I understand what it's like to learn a new language abroad
I've lived and studied in the United States, England, and Spain — learning each language directly from native speakers. That experience gave me a deep understanding of what it truly means to be immersed in a new culture and language.
Since January 2000, I've been teaching Brazilian Portuguese to foreigners, and English and Spanish to Brazilian professionals in São José dos Campos. My method is 100% personalized — your pace, your goals, your content.
Whether you just arrived in Brazil and need to survive the first few months, or you're here long-term and want to become truly fluent — I can help you get there.
What I teach
Language classes available in São José dos Campos
All classes are private (1-on-1), fully personalized, and available both in-person at Jardim Satélite or online via Google Meet / Zoom.
Brazilian Portuguese for Foreigners
The most popular class for expats in SJC. Learn the Portuguese you'll actually need — for daily life, work, neighbors, and integrating into Brazilian culture.
- Survival Portuguese (shopping, transport, doctors)
- Workplace & professional communication
- Brazilian slang and cultural expressions
- Pronunciation of Brazilian accents
- Grammar essentials without memorizing rules
English — from Basic to Advanced
Private English classes for Brazilian professionals and internationals who need to improve their English for work, travel, or exams — with an expert who lived in the US and UK.
- Business & professional English
- Business & workplace communication
- In-person (SJC) or online
Spanish — Personalized Method
Spanish lessons with a teacher who lived in Spain and learned from native speakers. Covers conversational Spanish and correct pronunciation.
- Conversational Spanish from lesson 1
- Spain or Latin American Spanish
- Business Spanish
- All levels welcome
Why choose private lessons
Why expats in São José dos Campos learn faster with private classes
Group language schools work with fixed curricula that don't adapt to your specific situation. As an expat, you have unique needs — and a unique timeline. Private classes are the fastest path to real communication.
100% Personalized Content
No generic textbook. We work with what you actually need: the vocabulary for your workplace, the phrases for your neighborhood, the grammar for your specific situation in Brazil.
Fast Results — Especially for Expats
Expats living in Brazil have a huge advantage: total immersion outside the classroom. When paired with focused private lessons, progression is dramatically faster than studying in your home country.
Teacher Who Understands the Expat Experience
Having lived abroad in 3 countries, I know the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language. My teaching is practical, empathetic, and focused on real communication — not just grammar rules.
Flexible Schedule
Classes available in the morning, afternoon, and evening. In-person at Jardim Satélite / Estoril in São José dos Campos, or online via Google Meet and Zoom — whatever works best for your routine.
Experience with Corporate Expats
São José dos Campos is home to Embraer and many international companies. I've taught foreign professionals who relocated here for work and needed to quickly navigate Portuguese in a professional environment.
Classes Conducted in English or Portuguese
For absolute beginners, lessons can be conducted in English so you always understand the instructions. As your Portuguese improves, we gradually switch — it's a natural and effective transition.
Who are the classes for?
Foreign professionals, expats & internationals in SJC
Embraer & Aerospace Industry Expats
São José dos Campos is Brazil's aerospace hub. Many international engineers and executives relocate here for Embraer, ITA, or related companies. I help them communicate and integrate with local teams quickly.
International Business Professionals
Foreigners working for multinationals in the Paraíba Valley region who need to communicate effectively in Portuguese with Brazilian colleagues, clients, and suppliers.
ITA Students & Researchers
International students and researchers at Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica (ITA) who need strong Portuguese for academic and daily life in São José dos Campos.
Expat Families
Partners and family members of relocated professionals who want to feel comfortable navigating daily life, schools, supermarkets, and social situations in Brazil.
Remote Workers & Digital Nomads
International remote workers who chose to live in Brazil and want to build real connections with the local community — beyond just ordering food in Portuguese.
Partners of Brazilians
Foreigners in a relationship with a Brazilian and want to connect deeper with their partner's family, culture, and language. One of the most rewarding journeys I've helped students through.
What students say
Real reviews from real students
"I've had several English teachers and Marjorie is by far the best I've ever had! After 6 months with her, my English evolved a lot. I highly recommend her!"
"The best English class I've ever had. Very experienced teacher in both English and Spanish. Highly recommended! 👍"
"Teacher Marjorie is extremely attentive and patient. Excellent teaching methodology. I'm very happy with the classes."
Getting started
How to book your first lesson
It's simple, fast, and no commitment required.
Send a WhatsApp message
Write to me in English or Portuguese — whichever you prefer. Tell me a little about your goals and schedule. I respond fast.
Free 30-min assessment
We talk online or in person. I assess your current level, understand your goals, and explain the plan that works best for you. No cost, no commitment.
Start your personalized lessons
Classes begin. Built specifically for you — at your pace, with your content, at your chosen time. You'll feel the progress from the very first lesson.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Do you teach in English for beginners?
Yes! For absolute beginners in Portuguese, I explain concepts in English so you always understand. As your Portuguese improves, we naturally shift to more Portuguese in the lessons — it's a gradual and effective process.
How long does it take to learn Brazilian Portuguese?
With 2 sessions per week and daily practice (which is easy when you live here), most expats can have basic conversations within 2–4 months. Reaching a comfortable intermediate level takes roughly 8–12 months.
Are classes available online?
Absolutely. Online classes via Google Meet or Zoom are just as effective as in-person. Many of my students prefer online for the flexibility. I also accept students from anywhere in Brazil or the world.
Where are the in-person classes held?
In-person classes are held at my studio in the Jardim Satélite / Estoril neighborhood, São José dos Campos — SP. It's a quiet, comfortable environment very close to the main areas of the city.
Can you also teach my spouse or children?
Yes! I teach students of all ages and profiles. Families who relocate to Brazil often have multiple members who need Portuguese — I'm happy to teach each of them with individualized plans.
Do I need any materials or books?
No textbook purchase necessary. I create custom materials based on your learning profile and objectives. You'll receive digital resources as needed — tailored to what you're actually trying to communicate in real life.
Location
São José dos Campos, SP — Brazil
Located in the Paraíba Valley, about 1 hour from São Paulo. Home to Embraer, ITA, and a growing international community. In-person lessons available at Jardim Satélite — online available everywhere.
Online — Anywhere in the World
Google Meet · Zoom · Skype
Classes for students worldwide
Ready to start your language journey in Brazil?
Send a WhatsApp message in English or Portuguese. Free 30-minute assessment, no commitment. Let's find out what's the best plan for you.
Book your free trial class