The learning approach
I arrived at NovaMova in Kiev with around four weeks’ experience of teaching myself Russian using only a book, therefore the range of my vocabulary and all-round ability to listen, process and respond in the target language was quite limited. I signed up for 10 individual lessons over a five-day period, and from the first minute on Monday morning until the last on Friday lunchtime, my tutor delivered every lesson in Russian, from start to finish. (However I imagine there would be flexibility here if that was not your preference). Although initially presenting a considerable challenge in understanding what was being said, I strongly believe that this full-immersion method is the best approach. As a student with little experience of Russian, one is compelled to focus absolutely in order to keep up, and with one-to-one tutoring you have the chance to do this. The result? Yes, a little awkward and difficult at first, but through this method you will find yourself learning rapidly - it is surprising the amount of progress that can be made in just a few days of sustained effort.
My teacher and the staff
My teacher was fantastic – friendly, warm, approachable – and most importantly, patient. I would certainly ask her to teach me again. The staff were also great, replying without delay to any questions I posed via email or in person, and very welcoming on the first day. There were also several textbooks/exercise books available to purchase in order to supplement learning, as well as advice from the staff as to which would most suit the individual student and their requirements for learning Russian.
The activities
Again, brilliant. The introductory tour on Monday afternoon with Karina was a super start to the week, both as orientation for those new to Kiev, as well as providing historical and cultural insights (including visiting an ancient raven nearby to the school) for those who have visited before but perhaps not had time to do much exploring themselves.
On Tuesday afternoon, a Russian film with English subtitles was shown in one of the classrooms for those who had an interest – Ivan Vasilievich: Back to the Future. Made in 1973, it was a comedy about a scientist who builds a time machine that brings Ivan the Terrible to the year 1973 and sends two ordinary Russians back to the 16th century. Even as a non-native speaker it was quite funny, and the perfect choice for those learning Russian. Another activity organised by the school that is absolutely worth your time is the Tandem Language Learning. This is a kind of exchange with a resident of Kiev who wishes to improve their English (or any other language you may speak), whereby you meet in a café and spend half the time speaking in Russian, and half in English – both parties therefore benefit, and it is a chance to meet some new people and perhaps make a new friend.
Would I come back? Yes, absolutely. I recommend NovaMova to anyone who wishes to learn/improve their Russian, as well as to benefit from a cultural exchange through tours, film nights, friendly meetings…it’s all there for you to take advantage of and have a good experience whilst learning a new skill.
Thanks for a great week!
Sam, London.
