The school holidays are finally over, and it’s time to get stuck into making sure your little tykes get good and educated once again. For some, this means a little extra support in certain school subjects, while for others this might mean giving them the chance to explore their more creative sides, through music lessons. Fortunately, Abu Dhabi has a wealth of tutors available to improve your kids’ little minds this term.
Learning a language
French classes for kids
Alliance Française offers classes that involve creative usage of books, French movies and plays to improve understanding of the language. Conversation and teaching are held almost entirely in French in order to speed up the learning process. (Naturally, with translation by the tutor when required). Both complete beginners and kids with previous learning are welcome.
When: Lessons are held twice a week, and are running from September 10 and October 30.
Price: The course costs Dhs1450, plus book fees, which cost Dhs100-150 depending on the level.
Alliance Française (02 666 6232)
Classes in Mandarin Chinese
Grace Lu has been teaching for 25 years. Her classes for children in Mandarin Chinese focus on daily life conversations, using textbooks as a source. She teaches using pictures, movies and songs to make Mandarin learning enjoyable, and puts an emphasis on pronunciation. Kids will love her Chinese-themed classroom.
When: Lesson times can be arranged through Grace Lu.
Price: Fees are negotiable.
Grace Lu (056 698 7390)
Arabic classes
Maher Alkhodr offers Arabic tuition for students of all levels from basic to advanced. He uses books, CDs, DVDs, and conversation in Arabic with students to help them learn.
When: 5pm-11pm, all days.
Price: Charges are Dhs150 per session for a single student, with the rate divided between students who share the lesson.
Maher Alkhodr (050 904 8750)
Extra help with schoolwork
Extra tuition for grades 1 to 7
Tasbeeh Fatima provides tuition in British, American and Indian curriculums across all school subjects. She assists students with their homework, explaining the key concepts to them and at the end of each week gives tests to check their understanding and progress.
When: 4pm-8pm, five days a week.
Price: Dhs600 for one month of two hours per day, five days per week. Two-three children are taught at any one time.
Tasbeeh Fatima (050 836 6700)
Sylvan Learning
This learning centre has tutors who can assist students learning from a range of curriculums. The emphasis is on the American education system, and tutors specialise in sharpening the English skills of students. Also coaches students in SAT and TOEFL. Classes can be tailored to suit individual students or small batches. Tutors use textbooks, presentations, computer programs and tests to further progress.
When: Sylvan Learning is open from Sunday-Thursday 3.30pm-8.30pm and Saturday 10am-6pm, Fridays are dependant on schedules.
Price: Tuition timings and fees are negotiable.
Sylvan Learning (026508505).
Maths tuition for CBSE, GCSEs and A levels
Sunitha Nambiar offers maths tuition to students preparing for CBSE, GCSEs and A levels. She uses tests, practice worksheets and time management training to help them progress in time for their exams.
When: 90-minute classes are held three times a week, Saturdays to Thursdays, 6pm-9pm
Price: Dhs250-300 per month.
Sunitha Nambiar (026448916).
Music
Piano lessons
Maida Hassiman gives piano lessons that include music theory, rhythm, and performance.
When: Weekends only, 1pm-6pm
Price: Dhs150 for 45 minutes for 10-12 year olds and Dhs225 for 45 minutes for four-seven year olds.
Maida Hassiman (0509431997).
Various instruments
Philemon Manuel teaches students how to play piano, guitar, violin and keyboard. Lessons are set according to the Trinity Guildhall syllabus, and cover both practice and theory.
When: 4pm-9pm Saturday-Thursday
Price: A course of eight classes costs Dhs300 for beginners, Dhs300-400 for intermediate level and Dhs400 for advanced classes.
Philemon Manuel (050 536 5413)
