Tuition Format

Pre-Course Student Assessment

Preparation is the key to effective learning

The teacher will conduct an Assessment Interview for each student at the start of the course in order to clearly define his/her level, to assign him/her to a suitable group (if relevant), and to decide upon suitable course material.

The Assessment Interview lasts between 20-30 minutes per student. There are two initial questionnaires – Beginner or Intermediate / Advanced – which determine the student’s level on a scale of 1 – 10 (the first level being for a complete beginner and the last level being for a highly advanced student).

Lessons

The lessons take place regularly each week for a minimum of 90 minutes for a gradual acquisition of the language skills.

Fast pace classes comprise 3 hours of tuition a week.

Semi-intensive classes comprise 3 hour lessons, four to five times a week, and are supplemented with a similar amount of home study.

Intensive/immersion classes are available for 6-8 hours per day for a minimum period of two weeks.  Usually, more than one teacher is involved. Course contents and package prices can be arranged with the client. A detailed report can also be provided.

Examinations

At the client’s request, written and oral exams for all levels can take place. They are based on the course book or the subjects studied, and are useful in assessing the student’s level and progress. We also offer a wide range of professional courses which can lead to accredited professional diplomas.

Teaching Methodology

Students’ motivation is maintained thanks to lively, fun and friendly lessons in a stimulating environment to help them gain confidence in the language chosen. The emphasis of the lesson is on communication, not correction. The target language is used as much as possible.

The teacher is flexible and takes into account the student’s preferences, aptitudes, and language needs, to customise each course and company programme. Company documentation may be introduced if requested.

Our “A la carte courses” can include work on pronunciation, accent reduction, grammar awareness, writing skills, presentations, negotiations, vocabulary expansion, cultural awareness, and current affairs along with business or basic language crash courses.

We can also teach specialist language communication skills for business purposes (e.g. financial, legal etc).

Students usually learn best from a balanced mixture of classroom activities such as role-play, pair and group work and information-gap exercises. The knowledge of grammar is essential for effective communication, but it is not the main focus of the programme.