FAQ

Are you looking for high-quality, engaging Dutch lessons for expats? 

What sets Active Dutch apart?

My small group setting of 4-6 students ensures you get a lot of personal support and feedback. The motto of Active Dutch is “Learning Dutch with a personal touch”. This means that I know all my students well, because I do the intake interviews and teach all the classes myself.

Who are the courses for?

My students are English speaking expats or international students studying at a Dutch university who want to learn Dutch in order to feel more connected to Dutch people and culture.

From which countries are my fellow classmates?

Students come from all over the world, but the majority of my students are living in the Netherlands.

What language skills do the group courses focus on?

The courses focus on developing your speaking and listening skills in Dutch. As part of your homework you read Dutch texts and you can do some writing assignments. And of course you will build your vocabulary, learn essential grammar and learn how to pronounce Dutch words properly.

How do the courses work?

The lessons are based on the principle “Flipping the classroom”. This means that a lesson consists of three components: preparation, classroom activities, practice independently. By doing some self-study before and after each lesson, we can spend valuable class time on interactive activities which you cannot do by yourself at home.

What do I need to follow online lessons?

You need a stable internet connection and a laptop or desktop. You cannot join the classes from your mobile phone; an Ipad is possible but not ideal.

How do I know which level is suitable for me?

In order to make sure you are placed in the right group, I personally conduct an intake interview with you to assess your Dutch level.

What does language level A1, A2 mean?

Level A1 is the first level in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). This is an internationally -recogniszed framework that helps language learners accurately describe their proficiency in any European language.

The CEFR describes your language ability on a scale from A1 (basic) up to C2 (full mastery and fluency). This framework makes it easy to determine your level and compare it to the level of others, describe your language level on a resume or application, and apply for the right language course for you.

The CEFR levels are:
A1/A2 (Basic/ Pre-intermediate)
B1/B2 (Intermediate/ Upper Intermediate
C1/C2 (Advanced/ Fluent

 

 

How much are the group courses?

You pay €385 for 20 hours of live tuition + 1 hour Meet & Greet session.

How long are the lessons?

All classes are two hours, with a 10-minute break in between.

Will the classes be recorded?

No, the classes won’t be recorded for privacy reasons. And most importantly, language learning is best when you are actively participating during the lessons.

You can however, look back at the slides of the PowerPoint to see what we did during the class.

Can I get a certificate?

You will get a certificate of attendance, if you don’t miss more than 3 classes, not counting the Meet & Greet session. You can only get an official proof of your language level by passing a state exam.

What happens if I miss a lesson?

You cannot reschedule a group session, but you can book a private 30- minute catch up lesson. You can use this Calendly link to book it. 

Which coursebook do I need?

For the Dutch courses Bronze and Silver you will need the book Taaltalent 1 and for the courses Dutch Gold and Platinum Taaltalent 2. 

If you are taking private lessons, we will decide on the coursebook after the intake interview, depending on your goals and wishes.

Why do I need to know some English?

Along with Dutch, I will be speaking English in class and in my communications. Your English does not have to be perfect, but you need to be able to understand me. 

Is there a final test?

Yes, at the end of the course I will send you a test which you can do at home in your own time. I strongly recommend you do this test, in order to assess your progress, but the test is not obligatory.

Does this course prepare me for the Inburgeringsexam?

If you complete all four courses successfully, you have reached level A2. As part of the Dutch course Platinum you can do some mock exams to prepare you for the Inburgeringsexam A2, but this is not exam training!