FAQ
How does one-to-one tuition work?
One-to-one tuition takes place at your home or place of work. We will arrange a time to come and see you for an
intial consultation, when we will discuss why you want to learn a language and the best way forward for you.
We will then match you to one of our tutors, who will telephone you to arrange the date and time of your first lesson.
Your tutor will plan and deliver all lessons for your particular needs.
What about Online Tuition?
For online tuition, you will need access to a computer, broadband and a headset. You will also need to download
Skype.
Online tuition works in a similar way to one-to-one tuition. All lessons will be tailored to your needs, you be able
to speak and listen to your tutor, as well as sharing files and practising writing.
How can I prepare for a language course?
As we have increased the amount of languages and classes we will providing, there will be more nervous
language learners awaiting their first session with trepidation!!
It is nerve wracking starting something new - particularly if that something new involves speaking a foreign
language.
Rest assured that all of our tutors are very friendly, and experienced tutors. We also use a lot of games,
ice breakers and fun activities to help you to relax. The more you enjoy the session, the more you will learn.
You can do a little preparation by looking at some of the language websites (see links page on the website),
even (or especially) the ones for Primary children.
And make sure you arrive with a smile on your face!
How do I become fluent?
This is a question that I am often asked and the answer is simply PRACTICE!
There are of course many techniques for improving language and many different ways of learning. This may be in
classes at school, adult education classes, self-study or the total immersion method.
Spend as much time as you can reading and listening to the language. If you are a beginner, start off with
short news articles, working your way up to the longer ones as you become more confident. This will enable
you to get a feel for the language and to build up your vocabulary.
The most effective way of learning is to spend time with speakers of the language. If your village has a local
twinning association, join it. You will get to meet the people of the country and get to understand the culture
and traditions.
I have studied languages since the age of 11 (French and German) and did A levels in these subjects. However,
I didn't think myself truly fluent until I spent my year abroad, two years into my degree course. This is
because I had no choice but to communicate. Several years later I started an Open University course in German,
and only felt fluent after doing a residential summer school in Jena, Germany. I strongly believe that it is
vital to spend time in the country n order to become proficient.
Of course, becoming fluent in a language is the easy thing to do, it's keeping up your skills that is difficult.
Am I too old to learn?
No, is the simple answer, you are never too old to learn.Our tutors will match methods of teaching to the way that you learn best, and will work with you to increase your confidence and fluency.