Japanese Evening Classes

Since its establishment in 1991 the Language Centre has grown steadily and developed to become what it is today: a dynamic teaching unit offering high quality language learning to more than 1200 students from all departments across the University.

A small proportion of students follow a degree course with a compulsory language element. The majority, however, choose a language as an optional module and can either begin a new language or improve existing language skills.

Our Teaching Philosophy

All teachers bring their own personal expertise and personality into the classroom. This richness and variety is something which all learners appreciate. We are fortunate in the Language Centre that we draw staff from many countries and different professional backgrounds - a factor which enhances greatly the opportunities for learners. 

These skills and professional convictions lend energy to discussions among staff members about teaching methods. The Language Centre seeks to be a place where ideas are exchanged and where teaching programmes and materials are drawn from the strengths of individual staff members, supported by technology and a dedicated and imaginative technical team. 

It is fair to say that there is general consensus amongst staff on a basic teaching philosophy. This can be briefly summarized under the following points:

• A commitment to 'communicative' teaching
• A balance between listening, reading, speaking and writing
• Resources at our disposal should be used to the full