Learning the language of the land of the rising sun
02 September 2020
Following the success of Burton and South Derbyshire College’s (BSDC) Japanese language course last year, the College is once again inviting local people to apply for courses starting in September, including an option for complete beginners and an option for those who are looking to build on their existing skills.
The College’s ten-week evening Japanese language courses aim to help students communicate effectively in Japanese, teaching the language as it is spoken in everyday situations and developing reading, writing, listening and speaking skills, while giving an insight into the country’s rich culture.
Local people are opting to study Japanese for a range of reasons, including pleasure, work or future travel. Dave Rowntree, who completed BSDC’s beginner Japanese language course last year and is now progressing to the improver course in September, said: “I have always had a passion for Japanese culture. I also work at Sony UK and have reached a level in the business where many of my colleagues are Tokyo born, and some still based in Tokyo, so it’s a mixture of business and pleasure.”
He continued: “What I didn't expect was the most enjoyable part of the course would be the people I met; like-minded individuals who all have an interest in Japan. The teaching style was fun; Misako sensei and Satomi sensei encouraged everyone to get involved. The whole class ended up feeling like a group of friends. It was also very cool to be able to begin speaking Japanese with my colleagues at work and surprising them by texting them in Hiragana!
“What I would say to anyone considering it is that this course that the College is offering is extremely great value. You won't find any other college offering a language course at this price and flexibility. But also, if you throw yourself into it like I did, you will meet new people and learn a lot about one of the most interesting cultures in the world.”
The College is currently taking applications for beginner and improver Japanese language classes beginning 30th September 2020. For more information and to apply, visit www.bsdc.ac.uk.