Language courses taught
Arohamai Literacy Horowhenua is focusing on new languages, with the introduction of a new Mandarin programme.
A Chinese teacher who began English classes at the organisation four years ago is now sharing her own language with students.
Tutor Daniel Bulman said Yan Ling came to New Zealand four years ago and started as a student in Arohamai’s English language, drivers licence and reading classes.
“With support her English skills improved fast, but her tutors saw great potential in Yan Ling,” he said.
“She had been a teacher back in China and had some wonderful skills helping others in her class. She has gained employment in retail during the day due to her determination to improve herself. Now she has come back to Arohamai Literacy Horowhenua, but as a tutor.”
Yan Ling has started a Mandarin class from 6pm to 8pm on Tuesdays at at 13 Bristol Street, Levin. Mr Bulman said it is a class for all who would love to learn the official language of China.
“Yan Ling’s class members are a real range of people,” he said. “Some are Cantonese speakers who would like to develop their skills in Mandarin while others are people who are right at the beginning of their journey and just learning their first few words.”
The class starts with counting, simple directional language and knowledge about culture.
An event making Chinese dumplings was held on Monday at Te Takeretanga o kura-hau-po¯ to launch the class. Mr Bulman said the organisation’s Te Reo programmes are also going full steam ahead.
“We offer two programmes through Te Wa¯ nanga o Aotearoa; a level 2 language programme He Pi Ka Pao, a 36-week programme, and He Pi Ka Rere, the next level where learners are moving towards greater fluency,” he said.
Arohamai Literacy Horowhenua also offers the Korero Reo programme focusing on speaking Te Reo with more confidence, he said. Phone 06 368 6064 or email office.alh@xtra.co.nz for further information.