Did you know that German is the most widely spoken mother tongue in the European Union (EU)? After all, it is a principle language in Germany, Austria, Luxembourg and (although not members of the EU) Liechtenstein and Switzerland. There are also German speaking regions in Belgium and Italy, as well as parts of Eastern Europe. It is therefore a useful language to know when travelling to Europe.
German can be a challenging language to learn, especially with regard to grammar and pronunciation. One who successfully attempts the German language is therefore likely to be given much kudos from German speakers.
Another benefit of studying German is that it affords one the pleasure of enjoying an array of music, art, philosophy and literature in its original language. Do the names Brecht, Freud, Goethe, Kafka and Nietzsche sound familiar? Furthermore, Germany alone has a long tradition of generating and exporting classic films like Run, Lola, Run (
Lola rennt) and Wings of Desire (
Der Himmel über Berlin) - and not to mention more recent films such as The Lives of Others (
Das Leben der Anderen) and The White Ribbon (
Das weisse Band), both of which were formally recognised by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
So where can one learn German in Melbourne? Here is an overview of great places for beginners or for those simply wishing to replenish their existing skills.
Goethe-InstitutThe Goethe-Institut originated in the Federal Republic of Germany and now operates worldwide. The Goethe-Institut offers courses at different levels, which have been established in meticulous increments, from beginner (A1) to highly advanced (C2). A variety of class formats are available, including 10 week Extensive Courses. (Super)intensive courses cover the same content as Extensive Courses, yet instead over multiple sessions per week within a 3 week period. Prices are between $385 and $475 for Extensive Courses and $435 and $510 for (Super)intensive Courses.
The Goethe-Institut also offers courses for companies, as well as providing further teaching arrangements for exam preparation and distance learning. Extracurricular events, including conversation and film evenings, are also hosted by the Goethe-Institut. The Goethe-Institut is arguably the foremost institution for learning the German language. The quality of education is excellent and of course internationally recognised.
Lyceum Language CentresLyceum Language Centres are located across four Melbourne locations, including North Fitzroy, Kew, Malvern and the CBD. Much like the Goethe-Institut, the courses are divided pertaining to experience levels. Class sizes are kept small and there is emphasis placed on learning through interaction. Courses run for 10 weeks and students can choose the length of their weekly session, which run for either 1.5 or 2.75 hours. Course costs are $298 and $519 respectively.
Other institutions in Melbourne offering German lessons include the
Centre for Adult Education (CAE), the
East Melbourne Language Centre,
Language Champs and the
German Language Studio Melbourne.
What do you think? If you know a fantastic place to learn German in Melbourne, please let us know by leaving a comment below!
