Mr. Adrian Yahvah from U.S.A.

Mandarin Beginners & Intermediate Evening class (22/4, 2010 -17/3, 2011)

1, Why did you choose Hong Kong Language School?

–I chose Hong Kong Language School because it was the first one that Google search brought me to. Since it was located in Wan Chi and convenient for me I decided to give it a try.

2, How’s the school environment?

–The school environment is very casual and friendly and the staff is very helpful at the front desk. They provide a hassle free and professional setting at the Hong Kong Language School.

3, How’s the class atmosphere?

–The class atmosphere is very straight forward and professional. It accommodates my needs as a student who needs intensive learning atmosphere.

4, How’s your teacher? Was your class effective? Did you learn what you had expected?

–My teacher, Carol is an exceptional instructor on may levels. She has a superior understanding of the English language which is imperative for helping me learn. She understands that I work hard and on some days need to go slow, on days that I feel fresh she knows to push hard to get my maximal effort. I have learned more than I expected and have continued to come to class which I didn’t know I would. Carol makes learning Mandarin fun and engaging with her refreshing and witty personality coupled with her immense skill as an instructor. Her professionalism is unmatched and can’t be overstated.

5, Will you recommend Hong Kong Language School to your friends & relatives? Why?

–Because of the above reasons I recommend HKLS. I tell all my friends that they are fools if they don’t come there to learn Mandarin. I consider Carol and HKLS the ultimate authority on the instruction of authentic mandarin speaking.

Mr. Steve M. Miller from U.S.A.

Cantonese Private Tuition (17/8, 2009- 9/1, 2012)
Mandarin Private Tuition (16/1, 2012 – Present )

Director, Portfolio Management

O’Connor
UBS Global Asset Management (Hong Kong) Ltd

1, Why did you choose Hong Kong Language School?

— I liked the price structure 🙂

2, How’s the school environment?

— A very warm, friendly learning environment with flexible staff to help meet clients needs.

3, How’s the class atmosphere?

— One on One is very good.

4, How’s your teacher? Was your class effective? Did you learn what you had expected?

— My teacher is excellent. She is an expert in her field and displays intricate knowledge of both Cantonese & English languages. She teaches in a manner that is very beneficial to the student. My class was as effective as I was willing to work at it. My teacher was very understanding in meeting & exceeding all of my expectations. She was very flexible and able to construct a dialogue that suited both of us every time we met.

5, Will you come back & take more lessons? Why?

— Yes. Life is a never-ending lesson in learning. There is much more I have to learn about language & I feel HKLS is right to do this job.

6, Will you recommend Hong Kong Language School to your friends? Why?

— Yes. For above mentioned reasons.

Steffen Wolf from Germany (the first gentleman from the right)

Mandarin Beginners & Intermediate Day Time class (28/9, 2010 – 8/4, 2011)

Regional Business Development Manager
SIKA AG

1, Why did you choose Hong Kong Language School?

— I have checked out various schools and also universities, but none of them could offer a flexible? time schedule for classes which met my schedule at reasonable costs.

2, How’s the school environment?

— The school is conveniently located just two minutes away from the bus station and a bit more than three minutes to walk by foot from the nearest subway. When entering the school, the first impression is very bright and friendly, which is partly also because of the friendly girls who are welcoming the visitors at the reception. The interior decoration is new and modern, with sufficient class rooms to care even for a bigger number of groups and individual students.

3, How’s the class atmosphere?

— Making the best out of the transition period between two companies, I have decided to take up with Chinese. After graduating the university more than 20 years ago, this is the first time that I can concentrate on finer things than just sales figures, market shares and financial statements. I really enjoy to step into the Language School every morning and to study together with people from different parts of the world like Italy Columbia, Japan, India … We have a very open atmosphere during the lessons, mixed with many jokes, and also this helps to master the difficulties of the Chinese language.

4, How’s your teacher? Was your class effective? Did you learn what you had expected?

— With a completely different linguistically background, I was quite concerned if I would be able to tackle a language like Chinese. But all teachers I have met at the Language School gave me confidence by their easily comprehensible way of teaching and their patience. Actually, my first intention was to acquire just some basic conversation skills. But now I became quite excited about my progress so that I am already planning to attend also the next higher course.

Octavian Cheung from U.S.A.

Mandarin Upper Intermediate (4/7 – 13/12, 2011)
Cantonese Private Tuition (7/2 – 9/3, 2012)

I joined HKLS because I had just come to Hong Kong and was interested in improving my Mandarin for work. Unfortunately, because I work full time it makes joining a Mandarin program at a place like Hong Kong University really difficult because the hours are not flexible. So of course I had to find something that was more adaptable to my schedule and that would best fit me.

I had searched for a number of independent programs (HKLS being one of them) and had read the reviews that people had posted. I made a list of places and gave them a visit to see what they were all about.

When visiting HKLS for the first time it was somewhat intimidating because I thought, “Oh man, they are going to laugh at my mandarin”. However I had a different experience that definitely left a good impression.

The staff members were very informative and the teacher that gave me the assessment I found was very charismatic and funny. We had talked about my history and she and the rest of the faculty were able to gauge my level pretty well. Because of this encounter I was able to feel very comfortable, which was the kind of environment I wanted for my class.

After going to the other various schools on my list I unfortunately found that the experience wasn’t quite the same, so based off of that I decided the best choice by far was HKLS.

I was not disappointed.

The school environment was as I expected, very friendly and comfortable. I found it easy to talk with others who may not be in the same class as me or with the teachers of other classes.

The class environment was also nice. What was often the case would be people trying to make each other laugh with what we had learned or what we were learning. Overall it added to the experience and brought different people together.

I had asked to be with the teacher who had given me my assessment, and found she was a very methodical teacher and had a good sense of humor. She took great interest in her students and I feel like a lot was accomplished in her class. Personally I feel I learned what I expected (and a few things I didn’t expect).

I will come back to HKLS when possible. It is a great experience with great people and I would recommend it to anyone interested in learning or brushing up on their Mandarin/Cantonese. If you like the laugh and learn, then you should try this school.

David Lunsford from USA

Mandarin Beginners Level 1 & 2 Day Time class (6/10-2/11/2011)

1, Why did you choose Hong Kong Language School?

— My wife took Mandarin classes at HKLS several months ago. She enjoyed her classes very much and the facilities are located nearby my office, making morning classes convenient. Based on her experience I didn’t hesitate to enroll into a four week intensive course.

2, How’s the school environment?

— The Institute is located on a busy street corner in Wan Chai but, thankfully, street noise isn’t heard within the building. It’s only a few minutes walk to the nearest metro stop. The school is small but contains all the necessities that one needs to learn a language.

3, How’s the class atmosphere?

— My class consisted of only a handful of students. We were each from different countries, such as Panama, Japan and Switzerland. Based on differing ages and cultural backgrounds, each of us were learning Mandarin from different reference points but we got along well and had fun in class together.

4, How’s your teacher?

— All my classmates enjoyed our teacher. She was always well prepared for our lessons and kept us smiling as we all encountered challenges learning a new and difficult language.

5,Was your class effective?

— Yes – my teacher made sure that everyone was learning a significant amount of Chinese and that no-one fell too far behind at any point. My teacher was obviously well-trained and very patient.

6, Did you learn what you had expected?

— Yes – I am happy with the results of my lessons. I was taking beginner lessons and am of course still a beginner, but at least I can now recognize some words and characters whenever I hear mainland Chinese speak. I can also communicate in basic Mandarin when needed, which was my goal.

7,Will you come back & take more lessons? Why?

–I will certainly take more lessons at HKLS if my work agenda allows for it. It’s a busy time of year for me right now so I’ve paused for the moment, but I’m looking into taking intensive course again in the springtime.

8, Will you recommend Hong Kong Language School to your friends? Why?

–Yes, of course. It is easy to end up in disappointing language classes (I speak from experience). Since mine and my wife’s experience at HKLS has been satisfying, there is good reason to continue to recommend the school to our friends and colleagues. HKLS has a very good formula for success: convenient location, well-trained teachers, and fair prices.

RW Martin from U.S.A.

Mandarin Private Tuition (8/10-8/12, 2011)

I just wanted to drop a quick note letting you know that Lauren was amazing! She was very attentive, patient and accommodating during our time together.

Also, in addition to learning the language, i learned more about the culture, history and current events. Hiring Lauren was an excellent decision on your part – she was phenomenal! Have a great day! =)

Katarzyna Urbaniak from Poland (the second lady from the left)

Mandarin Upper Intermediate to Advanced Full Day Class (5/9 – 12/10, 2011)

1, Why did you choose Hong Kong Language School?

— While looking at school’s website I have discovered that lessons schedule is very flexible. You can start class anytime you want and finish any time you want. It was a very important factor for me. The school would adapt to your preference. It is very convenient. I also appreciate the contact with the reception. I have received a full clear information and advice on classes, materials and methods.

2, How’s the school environment?

— I loved the school environment. Teachers are very friendly and open-minded. Girls at the reception desk are very helpful and nice. Even school’s space is very well designed for socializing. During breaks everyone from different class and levels can gather together and socialize.

3, How’s the class atmosphere?

— I consider myself very lucky. My class consisted of really nice people and I have made great friendships. We studied and we laughed together. It was a great experience.

4, How’s your teacher? Was your class effective? Did you learn what you had expected?

— At the beginning I didn’t understand the very well the teacher’s method. However, after a week I have discovered that the class was really effective because I could actually communicate well in Mandarin. After a month of class, not only I wasn’t afraid to speak anymore but also I have gained an adequate amount of Chinese vocabulary and fixed phrases. I had highly qualified teacher. The teaching methods and tips the teacher gave us were really useful and made studying a foreign language easier and pleasant.

5, Will you come back & take more lessons? Why?

— I am thinking of coming back. HKLS is the first thing I would spend my money on if I stay longer in Hong Kong. I believe it is both a good investment in your language skills and a fun experience with great people.

(Came Back to us and took 2 more weeks – Mandarin Advanced (27/11- 3/11, 2011)

6, Will you recommend Hong Kong Language School to your friends? Why?

— Of course I will recommend HKLS to my friends. No matter they work or study they can always find a class schedule adequate to their needs. You can meet great teachers with outstanding teaching skills and meet new friends. It’s worth be a part of the school!

Marie Craberou from France (the first lady from the right)

Mandarin Upper Intermediate to Advanced Full Day Class (5/9 – 12/10, 2011)

1, Why did you choose Hong Kong Language School?

— a friend recommended me the school.

2, How’s the school environment?

— comfortable and convenient

3, How’s the class atmosphere?

— serious and friendly so a good balance.

4, How’s your teacher? Was your class effective? Did you learn what you had expected?

— Lily Liu is my teacher, she is very smart, very cultured and open mind so it’s very comfortable to learn with her.

4 personnes and after only me. i improve my understanding and talking, that what i was expected. (however, i think for the beginning is good to be with other students but after, in upper levels, is better to be alone for the lesson. Because all students don’t improve at the same steps, some are good to understand or some are good to speak)

5, Will you come back & take more lessons? Why?

— Yes i will come back. i will come back because i like the way to teach and i also like my teacher!!

6, Will you recommend Hong Kong Language School to your friends? Why?

— Yes i will recommended this school because there is a nice mood (friendly), i had a good teacher and i enjoy go to this school.

Mr. Raymond Chan from U.S.A.

Cantonese Beginners Day Time class (25/11- 23/12, 2010)

1, Why did you choose Hong Kong Language School?

–I chose Hong Kong Language School because they were very flexible.? They had many different time options to choose from and their staff was very friendly.? Also, the facility looked very presentable and the location is quite close to the MTR.

2, How’s the school environment?

–The school’s environment is quite good. There is always a friendly and helpful atmosphere. The school itself feels very “open” and you never feel trapped or cluttered.

3, How’s the class atmosphere?

–The classrooms are comfortable and clean.? Students are encouraged to ask questions and the teachers always make sure that the students are able to comprehend the material.? You never feel rushed to learn the material.? If there is something is confusing or hard to learn, the teacher slows down and tries to help the students first.

4, How’s your teacher? Was your class effective? Did you learn what you had expected?

–My teacher, Angela, was awesome.? She was very friendly and knowledgeable.? My class was quite effective.? Due to the fact that Angela is flexible, I had learned more than I had expected.?? She was not one of those teachers that only follows the book like a robot.? If there are other things that she feels a student should know, she deviates from the book and teaches her students very useful words/phrases/ sentences.? Also if a student wanted to learn about subjects that were not covered in the course, she would also take time to teach/ explain them.

5, Will you come back & take more lessons? Why?

–Of course!? Before choosing Hong Kong Language School, I had called/ visited many other schools around Hong Kong.? Hong Kong Language School was the most flexible.? They always try to work the time schedule around the student, making it convenient.? Besides convenience, the staff is always friendly and welcoming.? Lastly, Hong Kong Language School’s price is quite reasonable compared to others.

6, Will you recommend Hong Kong Language School to your friends? Why?

–Yes, I would recommend Hong Kong Language School to my friends.? Due to its convenient location, it is easy to get to.? The staff is very friendly and you are never looked down upon.? The material is designed to make learning Chinese easier and due to their flexibility, you can always learn at your own pace.

Ms Jennifer Hennings from U.S.A.

Cantonese Beginners Day Time class (24/11- 21/12, 2010)

1, Why did you choose Hong Kong Language School?

— I chose HKLS because it had so many positive student reviews on its website, and because it was offering Cantonese classes at a time that worked well for me. I also thought the price was reasonable compared to other programs I’d seen.

2, How’s the school environment?

— HKLS is a friendly place. I like the way that students can have tea and snacks together and chat during the break. It makes it much more social.

3, How’s the class atmosphere?

— The class atmosphere is friendly without being overly lax. I’d say it was “learning with a smile.”

4, How’s your teacher? Was your class effective? Did you learn what you had expected?

— Vectra is a thoughtful and encouraging teacher. He did a good job of identifying and focusing on words and phrases that were most challenging for me. He also used a good variety of exercises to help me practice. I really feel like I’ve learned a lot in my four weeks of lessons. The class was quite effective.

5, Will you come back & take more lessons? Why?

— If my schedule allows, I will definitely come back for more lessons, since I like the pace, structure, and price of the HKLS classes.

6, Will you recommend Hong Kong Language School to your friends? Why?

— Yes, I’ve already recommended HKLS to several people, and I’ll continue to do so. I think the classes are a great value for the money, and the teachers are friendly, knowledgeable, and professional.