FAQs

🧒 About the Classes

What age group are the classes suitable for?

Our classes are designed for children aged 5 to 11 years old, with groupings based on age and language level to ensure effective learning and fun interaction.

 

What level of Chinese do the children need to start?

Beginners: No prior experience is needed! We welcome complete beginners.

Upper Beginners: Suitable for children with some exposure to Mandarin.

 

What teaching methods do you use to keep children engaged?

We use a blend of games, songs, storytelling, role-play, and interactive activities to make learning Mandarin fun and memorable. Children are active participants, not passive listeners.

 

How many students are in each class?

We keep our class sizes small—up to 8 students per group (usually 5-7 students) —so each child receives plenty of attention and opportunities to speak.

 

Are the classes conducted online or in person?

For group sessions, I currently offer in-person teaching on Saturday mornings. Private sessions can be online or in person (within Twickenham area).

 

Do you offer trial lessons?

Yes! We offer a free trial lesson so your child can experience our teaching style before you commit.

 

📚 Curriculum & Progress

What topics or themes are covered in the classes?

Our curriculum includes everyday topics like greetings, family, animals, hobbies, food, and school life—building vocabulary and confidence step by step.

 

Which curriculum or proficiency framework do you follow?

We align our lessons with the YCT (Youth Chinese Test) and HSK 1 beginner level, ensuring learners gain a solid foundation in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.

 

How do you track and report students’ progress?

We provide weekly progress updates and regular informal feedback. You’ll know exactly what your child is learning and how they’re doing.

 

Can students prepare for YCT/HSK exams through your classes?

Yes! Our classes prepare students for YCT levels 1–3 and HSK 1, and we offer optional exam prep support when your child is ready.

 

Will my child learn to read and write Chinese characters?

Yes. Our program includes character recognition and writing tailored to your child's level—starting with simple, high-frequency characters.

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🧑‍🏫 Teachers

Who teaches the classes?

All classes are taught by Dr Sophie Guo, who has more than 17 years teaching experience at different levels (from primary schools to university).

 

Are the teachers native speakers?

Yes, Dr Guo is a native Mandarin speakers with excellent English communication skills and cultural understanding.

 

Do the teachers have qualifications in language teaching or child education?

Absolutely. Dr Guo holds a PhD degree from University of Sheffield specialising in Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language. She taught reading, speaking and comprehensive courses in the universities, and she also taught children aged from 4 to 16 as private tutors and in primary schools.

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🕒 Scheduling & Commitment

How long is each lesson?

Lessons are 50 minutes long.

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How often do the classes take place?

The classes take place during term time on Saturday mornings.

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What if my child misses a class?

We’ll send you a link of the slides for this lesson and any resources used.

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Is there a minimum enrollment period?

We ask for a termly commitment (usually 10 to 11 weeks) to ensure consistency and progress for all learners.

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💸 Fees & Payment

How much do the classes cost?

Our group classes start from £12.5 per session. We charge a one off registration fee of £10 per student.

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Do you offer sibling discounts or referral bonuses?

Yes! We offer 5% off for siblings and referral rewards of £5 if you recommend us to a friend.

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What is your refund or cancellation policy?

We offer flexible cancellations before a term begins and credit or catch-up options if classes are cancelled due to the teacher’s illness or other unforeseen reasons. Unfortunately we don’t offer refund after a term begins, but full resources and support will be provided if you miss a session. Please see our full policy on the website.

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🎉 Extra Activities & Support

Do you assign homework?

No official homework. We provide stickers with the words/grammar learnt in the session, and a Kahoot link will be provided following the session to reinforce what was learned.

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Are there any cultural activities or events included?

Absolutely! We celebrate major Chinese festivals (like Lunar New Year) and include information on culture, traditions, and stories.

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Do you offer one-on-one tutoring or extra support?

Yes! We offer 1-to-1 tutoring tailored to your child’s needs—perfect for extra practice, exam prep, or more focused learning.

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💬 Communication & Feedback

How do you communicate with parents about their child's learning?

We share regular updates via email, and we’re always available to answer your questions or concerns.

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Can I talk to the teacher if I have concerns?

Of course! Just send an email to squirrelchinese@gmail.com and we’ll have a quick chat with to discuss anything you’d like.

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Do you provide feedback after each lesson?

Yes—we provide brief summaries via emails after lessons so you can stay involved in your child’s learning journey. We also provide a revision sheet with vocabulary, grammar points and characters at the end of each term.