Immersive Language Programmes for your Little Linguist from Stamford American School

The sooner you start, the simpler it gets…

In today’s multicultural world, where everything is a plane ride away, it’s no surprise that bilingual babies are the leaders of the future. As parents, we can fully vouch for how tricky learning new skills can be later in life, so we’re all set to give our little learners the tools they need as early as possible!

If you’re looking for a school that focuses on building multilingual skills, Stamford American School may just be the right fit. The teachers here are strong believers that speaking two (or more) languages offers a wealth of opportunities. This is key for the next generation of jet setters, ready to step out and change the world (or, at least, add a little kindness, understanding and appreciation). Learning a language from an early age is a sure way to foster cultural appreciation and enhance communication skills (at school, work and beyond). Sounds pretty good to us, mamas!

So, how does Stamford practice what they preach? From the age of 5, students at Stamford have the option of learning Spanish or Chinese daily (Mandarin in simplified Chinese characters), two of the world’s most widely spoken languages. The little ones can progress through four proficiency levels in Chinese, ensuring that they are stretched and challenged appropriately, improving their ability to use and master the language. This unique World Language Programme includes a bilingual Chinese and English programme that uses a teaching model different from any used in other international or local schools in Hong Kong.

Schools often operate bilingual programmes where two separate teachers instruct 50% of the curriculum in each language, but Stamford offers a more immersive bilingual programme. They have one bilingual teacher who leads kiddos through the year, giving them consistency and helping them learn both languages simultaneously. As a cheeky bonus, this also avoids the issue of doubling up on homework (woohoo!) as the teacher is able to fully understand where the child is weakest or strongest, and caters to their needs. Stamford believes that having equal daily exposure to both languages across the curriculum results in the greatest possible proficiency and confidence in both languages.

Whether you’re looking for a full-time curriculum or a daily foreign language course, this is one place your little linguists are sure to reach their full potential…

As a little extra perk, Stamford is giving away 5 pairs of tickets to “Why The Whales Came”, showing on Saturday, 11 and Sunday, 12 February as part of KidsFest Hong Kong. Enter the giveaway here before Wednesday, 8 February for your chance to win!

Looking to find out more? Sign up for Stamford American School’s Open House on Wednesday, 15 to Saturday, 18 February, or contact Stamford’s Admissions Team at [email protected] or +852 2500 8688 to book a personal visit. 

www.sais.edu.hk 

*Stamford American School – Hong Kong will apply to the International Baccalaureate for programme candidacy in December 2017.