On this page you will find answers to questions that we are frequently asked.
Q: I am very interested in the Mini-groups of 3–6 participants.
Can you guarantee the group size?
Yes, we do not run larger classes on principal. As soon as more than 6
people have enrolled, we start a new group. Small groups mean that each
person has plenty of opportunity to speak and that the trainer can respond
to your individual needs. This guarantee also applies to both our diploma
courses and intensive courses!
Q: When does the next Mini-group begin?
A: In most cases, you can join an existing group right away. New groups
start on average every 2–5 weeks. Before recommending a course,
we always take the time to find out about your personal goals and linguistic requirements.
Q: Is there a big difference in level between participants in
the Mini-groups?
A: No. This due to the fact that you take a spoken and written placement
test in order to clarify your goals and determine your level. Our greatest
concern is that you feel comfortable in your group – this gives
you the best chance of improving. Therefore, we take great care in forming
groups and it is only once we have met you that we propose a group in
which you will feel neither under-challenged nor over-stretched. If, during
the course, you feel that the learning pace is too slow or too fast, you
can always change to a more suitable group at your level, without incuring
any extra charge.
Q: In the past, I have given up beginner courses because other
participants already had some previous knowledge of the language. Do I
already have to know some words or phrases before being able to join one
of your courses?
A: No! We do everything to make sure that you do not find yourself in
such a situation. A real advantage of our Mini-groups with 3–6 participants
is that when creating a new group, we distinguish between learners who
have some previous knowledge and those who are total beginners. Most importantly,
this means that you remain motivated to learn!
Q: I mainly want to improve my speaking. How important is conversation
in the Mini-groups?
A: Very important! Having plenty of opportunity to speak is fundamental
to any course. This is only possible, though, if you work in very small
groups – another advantage of our Mini-groups. The motto for our
Mini-group, Diploma and Intensive courses is: «Find your voice».
In addition to our well-balanced Mini-group courses, we also offer pure
conversation classes. Further information about these special courses
can be found on the following page: Mini-groups
Q: Do you have a language lab?
A: No. You are assured of completely individualised classroom teaching
by our motivated team of trainers. Nowadays, it is possible to buy modern,
interactive computer programs for language-learning and these can certainly
be used as a supplement to the lessons you attend at the school. If you
are interested in using these to practise with at home, please do not
hesitate to ask us for tips about the latest CD-ROMs. However, such programs
are not able to replace traditional language lessons.