Personal Language Tuition
There are a few small language schools appearing now which offer tailor-made lessons. Your first contact with a teacher from such a school will be to establish why, what and how you want to learn. Then your tutor negotiates with you what your lessons will be like. There is also constant negotiation as you go along as to whether you are meeting your goals or whether you want to change them.
Many of these schools, like my own, Bridge House Languages, have been set up by individuals who have a wealth of experience in the world of foreign languages. They choose their tutors carefully, and give them ongoing training and support. Sometimes, they will actually recommend another type of course, either instead of or to supplement their own.
Advantages
You do get a course which suits you ideally. You can also take your lessons when and in which setting fits you best.
You have a very personal relationship with your tutor.
Disadvantages
These courses can be expensive. You are having to pay the tutor not just for the time they are teaching you, but also for preparation time and in some cases travelling time. Even though cover is often offered if your tutor is ill or on holiday, many people prefer to stay with the same tutor, so many gaps can arise - especially if your commitments take you away at different times from your tutor.
Learning style suited
If you like to have a big say in what and how you learn, this type of course is for you. It will also suit you if you work unusual hours and have to travel frequently. You do need to be prepared to put in some work between lessons, if the course is to be effective.
