Bildungsurlaub - A Personal and Supportive Atmosphere

Bildungsurlaub in Shanghai: a two‑week Mandarin course, fully self‑funded for personal growth.

I’m a beginner (only a few months with an app). Both weeks included 2 hours daily of 1‑on‑1—very personal and tailored; I learned a lot with Anne—and 4 hours of small‑group classes (week 1: 4 students; week 2: 3) with Ray and Winnie. We followed the textbook but deviated smartly when it helped, for example with tenses and practical dialogues. I realized my big Hanzi gap and the need to catch up, so I took many fundamentals to review at home.

The atmosphere was warm and close‑knit—breaks felt familial, with friendly chats among students from other small classes.

My accommodation was uniquely charming and just three metro stops from the school, which made daily study convenient and comfortable.

Overall, the mix of tailored 1‑on‑1 guidance and intimate group sessions delivered steady progress and confidence in everyday situations.