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Mandarin Club
Since 2013, we have been offering our signature after-school Mandarin Club program tailored for Tasmanian primary students at local schools. In 2020, we expanded the Mandarin Club with an advanced program specifically designed for students who speak a Chinese dialect as their native or heritage language. Each Mandarin Club is delivered by a native-speaking, university trained language professional who is accredited to practise in one of the three chosen fields - Education, Translation or Social Work. All our educators have a Working with Vulnerable People Check and prior experience working with children in a linguistically diverse environment.
As language professionals, we firmly believe in the benefits of bilingualism developed in childhood. Research shows that bilingual children tend to be more creative and better at planning and solving complex problems than monolinguals. Children with a strong foundation in an additional language more easily learn their own language in a school setting. However, children are also at risk of losing the ability to reach a high level of proficiency in a foreign language, if learning is not continually supported in their formative years.
Through our Mandarin Club program, children are offered an opportunity to develop their second language skill in a natural and engaging small group setting on a weekly basis. Our program incorporates stories, songs, games, arts and activities that will inspire young children to enjoy learning whilst also giving them practical linguistic, inter-cultural and inter-personal skills.
To learn a language is to have one more window from which to look at the world.
Chinese Proverb
FAQ
Why Mandarin Chinese?
Can I visit the class as a parent?
Mandarin Chinese is the official language of China and one of the commonly used languages in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia and overseas Chinese diasporas. It is the second most spoken language in Australia, and arguably one of the most important languages for international business.
My child knows some Chinese already?
You are more than welcome to stay with your child and even pick up some phrases with them (for free). That said, some children may prefer staying in a classroom setting only with their friends, and you might want to run some errands or catch up with a fellow parent over a cuppa!
Is language certification available?
We have worked with many children who speak Chinese as a native, heritage or foreign language at an advanced level. Students' level of proficiency will be assessed to ensure meaningful and achievable outcomes through individualised learning experience. Wherever possible, we endeavour to create a full immersion environment for children with Chinese background.
What about your Instructors?
All our Instructors are degree qualified and have prior teaching/tutoring experience. All Instructors have a current Working with Vulnerable People check. TasMandarin does not contract current undergraduate students or working holiday visa holders.
We work closely with the Tasmanian Chinese Testing Centre for the provision of the internationally recognised HSK/YCT Certification Testing in Hobart. All our Mandarin Club students will have the opportunity to participate in authorised testing, with one-on-one support and discounted fees available.
Do you offer private tutoring?
You are welcome to book private tutoring for your child or yourself if you would like to learn Chinese too. We offer bespoke one-on-one tutoring based on your level and needs. Our areas of expertise range from TCE/HSK exam preparation to Business Chinese. Bookings can be made through the website.
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