After living in Belgium for a time, Hong Kong mum ALPHION was keen for her children Hugo (17) and Jerrie (13) to continue learning French – as were they! They were able to do exactly that through the French courses at the Hong Kong Institute of Languages (HKIL).
Where do you live in Hong Kong?
We’re currently living in Tseung Kwan O; we previously lived in Belgium – we came back to Hong Kong a few years ago.
Who in the family attends HKIL and what language are they learning?
My eldest son Hugo attended HKIL from the age of nine; he’s now living in France and studying at a university in Paris. My daughter Jerrie is still at HKIL and she has taken French courses there for more than seven years.
Is there a particular reason for choosing French?
As mentioned, we previously lived in Belgium, so we wanted Hugo and Jerrie to continue learning French; and they were very interested in continuing as well.
Tell us a bit about the lesson structure.
Jerrie attends face-to-face lessons, as Hugo did previously, and it’s usually once a week. During the early period of the COVID-19 crisis, the school continued to offer lessons via online classes. It really helped to keep the continuity of the children’s progress.
What have been your favourite aspects of the lessons at HKIL?
The tailor-made courses, quality of teachers and stress-free lessons. This is exactly what I wanted for Hugo and Jerrie.
What do they hope to do with their additional language in the future?
By learning French, we wanted to provide a wider university choice for them both. Hugo has since successfully been accepted into his university in Paris. And we’re planning on relocating to the French-speaking city of Zurich, in Switzerland, which will help Jerrie adapt better locally.
How did you first learn about HKIL, and why did you decide to enrol your children?
It was recommended by a friend; it’s a small, cosy school with courses that fit my kids’ level, and nice and professional teachers. Would you recommend it to other families? Yes, I would greatly recommend HKIL!
About HKIL
The Hong Kong Institute of Languages has been teaching young learners, students and adults in Hong Kong for well over 30 years. It currently offers tuition in seven languages – English, French, German, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese and Japanese – across face-to-face private classes, small group classes and online lessons.
6/F, Wellington Plaza, 56-58 Wellington Street, Central
2877 6160 | WhatsApp 5421 0288 | info@hklanguages.com | hklanguages.com
This article first appeared in the Winter 2021 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue.
