Learn Russian
Why Learn Russian?
Russian is the eighth most spoken language in the world, with over 258 million people using it either as a native or second language. As the official language of Russia and an important language across Eastern Europe and Central Asia, it holds a significant place on the global stage. Learning Russian not only opens up the opportunity to communicate with millions of speakers but also offers a deeper understanding of one of the world’s most influential cultures.
For those interested in global business, politics, or science, Russian is an essential language. Russia is a major player in international affairs, and its growing influence in industries such as energy and technology makes knowledge of Russian highly valuable in these sectors. By learning Russian, you enhance your career prospects and gain a competitive edge in international markets.
Russian is also a gateway to a rich cultural heritage. From its world-famous literature and classical music to its revolutionary art and film, Russia’s contributions to the arts are unparalleled. By learning the language, you can access the works of literary giants like Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, and Chekhov in their original form, and fully appreciate the nuances of Russian culture.
Moreover, for travellers, Russian is invaluable. With its vast geography, from the historic streets of Moscow to the natural beauty of Siberia, Russia offers an array of experiences for tourists. Knowing the language allows you to explore the country with more ease, engage with locals, and immerse yourself in the culture in a way that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Whether you’re interested in career advancement, cultural exploration, or travel, learning Russian provides a unique and rewarding challenge. As one of the six official languages of the United Nations, Russian’s global relevance continues to grow, making it a smart and strategic choice for language learners.
Our Russian Language Classes
We offer Russian language courses both on-site and online, providing flexibility for learners with different preferences. You can choose between one-to-one classes or semi-private classes with up to four students, ensuring a personalised and focused learning experience.
Our courses cover all levels from A1 to C1, which are sufficient for various purposes, whether you are learning Russian for work, travel, or personal interest. Each level is divided into three sub-levels, such as A1.1, A1.2, and A1.3, allowing for a more gradual and thorough progression through the language. Each sub-level typically consists of around 15 sessions, ensuring that learners have enough time to absorb the material and practise effectively.
We use two highly regarded textbooks in our classes: Aopora B Poccnn (The Road to Russia) and русский сувениp (Souvenirs of Russia). These books provide a solid foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and cultural insights, giving you the tools to communicate confidently in Russian.
Master Russian with The Road to Russia and Souvenirs of Russia
The Road to Russia is a comprehensive four-volume series designed to teach Russian from beginner to advanced levels. The first volume introduces learners to the fundamentals of the Russian language, focusing on practical language skills and basic grammar structures. As students progress through the series, they build a solid foundation in Russian grammar and conversational skills, allowing them to communicate effectively in everyday situations. The later volumes incorporate more advanced material, including Russian stories, proverbs, and cultural expressions.
Each lesson in the Road to Russia series ends with a glossary section, providing students with a structured way to review and learn vocabulary. The series also includes a teacher’s guide and audio CDs to support the development of listening and speaking skills. These audio materials allow learners to practise accurate pronunciation, helping them to master the correct sounds and intonations of the Russian language. The combination of clear explanations, practice exercises, and audio resources makes the Road to Russia an excellent choice for anyone serious about learning Russian.
Souvenirs of Russia is a six-volume series that also covers the Russian language from beginner to advanced levels. This series is accompanied by audio CDs and features a short phonetic guide as well as a concise glossary. The main focus of Souvenirs of Russia is on developing conversational skills, making it an ideal resource for learners who want to quickly become comfortable speaking Russian.
Designed specifically for English speakers, Souvenirs of Russia requires a good command of English as a prerequisite for study. The clear and structured approach of this series, combined with its emphasis on practical communication, makes it an invaluable tool for mastering Russian at all levels.
Why Private and Semi-private Russian Classes are Ideal
When it comes to learning Russian, the advantages of private and semi-private lessons go beyond just smaller class sizes. These formats offer unique benefits that make a significant difference in how effectively and quickly you can master the language.
- Focus on Individual Learning Styles: Everyone learns differently, and in a private or semi-private setting, the teacher can adapt the teaching style to suit your personal learning preferences. Whether you’re a visual learner who benefits from diagrams and images, or you prefer to learn through listening and conversation, the flexibility of these classes ensures you get the most out of each lesson.
- Deep Dive into Specific Topics: In a private class, the focus can shift to the areas that matter most to you. If you need extra help with Russian grammar, pronunciation, or conversational skills, the teacher can spend more time on those aspects without being held to a strict curriculum. This freedom allows for a more in-depth exploration of the language and the opportunity to tackle challenging topics head-on.
- More Cultural Insights: Russian isn’t just about learning words and phrases—it’s about understanding the culture behind the language. In private and semi-private lessons, teachers have more time to share interesting cultural elements, from Russian traditions and customs to idiomatic expressions and proverbs. These cultural insights enrich the learning experience and make the language come alive in a way that group classes often can’t accommodate.
- Flexible Pacing for Consistent Progress: One of the major drawbacks of large group classes is the rigid pace that might not match your learning speed. Private and semi-private lessons allow you to move forward at a pace that is comfortable for you, whether that means spending more time on complex areas or accelerating through topics you’re already familiar with. This flexibility ensures that you maintain a steady learning trajectory without frustration or unnecessary delays.
- Personalised Feedback and Continuous Support: In a private or semi-private class, your progress is constantly monitored. The teacher can provide instant and detailed feedback on your performance, identifying areas for improvement and helping you to avoid bad habits early on. This ongoing support ensures that you stay motivated and on track to achieve your language goals, with a clear understanding of what to focus on for improvement.
