Our didactic methods

We offer a diverse set of learning methods to suit your needs. In every lesson, the focus will be on active participation, using SMART technology to encourage and facilitate interactivity. Our teachers will be available to provide you with feedback and answer any questions. They will coach you through learning all language skills: listening, speaking, reading, writing and grammar. You are expected to study most of the vocabulary at home, and practice the skills and grammar outside of the lessons as well. Homework is considered an essential part of learning and maintaining the language. Because of the relatively fast pace, our lessons are particularly well suited for expats and other adults who have experience learning other languages through education. You do not have to speak English to be able to follow our courses, however it is necessary to read and write the Latin alphabet.

All Dutch

From the first lesson on, all of our classes are taught fully in Dutch, providing an immersive experience. This has proven to be very successful. After only one lesson, students are able to greet someone and introduce themselves in Dutch. We start out with simple words, visual support in the shape of pictures and gestures and many repetitions to make sure the content is clear, even for the newest of learners. Our teachers are trained and experienced at making themselves understood to you in Dutch exclusively. Students can always speak to each other in any language they share, and it is fine to ask questions in English, especially in the beginner levels.

Using Dutch exclusively in class helps to get into the habit of speaking Dutch, which is your ultimate learning goal. It is easy to fall into the habit of asking and saying things in English when you know your teacher and fellow students will understand. Getting over the hurdle of forming your own sentences and saying them out loud, is one of the hardest thing in language learning. A fully Dutch environment helps you challenge yourself without pressure.

Using another language can even be misleading. Though some Dutch words are similar to English, they aren’t always the correct translation – think ‘de mond =/= the month’. The grammar is also very different. It is often easier to focus on the concept or structure in front of you than to come up with a translation into another language.

Classroom based courses

Every classroom is equipped with a SMARTboard, on which the lesson content will be displayed. The SMART technology is used for engaging and interactive ways of teaching including teacher-led explanations as well as games and group exercises. Books used are Contact! Nieuw from publisher Intertaal. The textbook is mainly used in class and the workbook mostly for homework. The textbook also includes a study word list with vocabulary. You can use paper or online books, or a combination of what you prefer. If you use digital books in class, make sure to bring a laptop or tablet with you (a smartphone is not sufficient due to the small screen size). The exact books used are mentioned in the course description for your particular course.

Online courses

Our online classes are taught via Zoom and use SMART technology. You will have 24/7 unlimited access to our e-learning platform, where you can study vocabulary and grammar, as well as practice with pronunciation, listening, reading and writing. The e-learning module was created around useful topics for expats and other adults who are new to the Netherlands and is based on recent scientific research. You can upload your written assignments to receive feedback from your teacher and ask questions during or outside of lesson time. You will have the chance to practice speaking in groups during each lesson, with your teacher available for feedback.

Self-study courses use the same online module, without the online lessons, but with a teacher available for feedback and questions. The teacher will keep up with your progress and send you individual learning plans to keep you motivated to continue learning Dutch in the module.

Individual lessons

Private lessons can be online, face to face in one of our classrooms, or a combination of both. You can choose to work with the books, the e-learning module, both, or use other materials. We’re happy to make a plan that fits your needs, to a T. Our individual lessons are perfect if you want to focus on specific skills only or practice for exams. You can plan lessons flexibly depending on availability of a teacher or classroom.