Clever Kids

Now in its 35th year, the Hong Kong Institute of Languages is launching a branch dedicated to teaching young learners. Read on to find out more.

Since 1985, the Hong Kong Institute of Languages (HKIL) has been providing children, teens, adults and schools with the lifelong asset of languages.

Language courses at HKIL are available in French, English, German, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese and Japanese. They’re delivered via private lessons and small groups, and taught by qualified native speaking teachers. Flexible learning modes have recently been introduced, including home tuition and online learning.

Now, the language school is launching the Hong Kong Kids Academy, a specialised branch for children. In the words of one of HKIL’s founders, Dominique Chasset: “It’s well known that the earlier one learns a language, the better. Children learn a second or third language very much like they learnt their own; by hearing, playing and taking part in all kinds of activities in the target language. Because they’re so young, they don’t even realise they’re in a language lesson; the language acquisition takes place naturally and spontaneously.”

There will be three core offerings at the new Academy: foreign language courses, enrichment programmes, and a bilingual English and Mandarin preschool.

We believe in a caring educational approach, centred around the wellbeing of each child, which adapts to the child’s learning rhythm, individuality and specific learning needs. We invite parents to participate actively in their children’s education. Each child is individually motivated and encouraged to progress according to their own learning style, so they can flourish and develop selfconfidence while acquiring new skills.

This reassuring approach allows them to take their first steps towards independence, gently preparing them for entry to the next level. The learning activities revolve around play, stimulating curiosity and motivating a desire to learn. Play also promotes a wealth of experience and enhances communication with others.

Hong Kong Institute of Languages, Hong Kong Kids Academy, Les Petits Lascars PreSchool | 2877 6160

• Central Campus: 3F & 6F, Wellington Plaza, 56-58 Wellington Street, Central • Wong Chuk Hang Campus: 306- 307, Level 3, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Road, Wong Chuk Hang

• Tseung Kwan O Campus:

G01, Capri Place, 33 Tong Yin Street, Tseung Kwan O