Published: 02.04.08

Chinese Mandarin is not an easy language to master, but a 10-week evening course has a successful formula for teaching the most widely spoken language in China.

Language lessons are combined with classroom entertainment such as music and singing and native speakers share insights into Chinese culture, their loves, aspirations and what makes them laugh.

This short evening course, which restarts next week, is run jointly by the University of Brighton and the Chinese Educational Development Project (CEDP). A link to the local community is provided by the Chinese Centre in Brighton and students can join in with its many social events.

One of the tutors on the course, Lingning Zeng, said: "We had a workshop in making Chinese dumplings for the new year. It was very interesting and great fun! Students practise their Chinese with real Chinese people and feel the culture for themselves in a real language environment."

The language lessons are taught by highly qualified native Chinese speakers and classroom assistants are on hand for students to practise with one to one. Last year the students became so confident that they were able to speak on stage at Chinese new year.

If you'd like to learn more about Chinese language and culture, whether for business or just for pleasure, there are new beginners and improvers classes starting next Tuesday evening.

The 10-week course is taking place at the University of Brighton's Mithras House, Lewes Road, Brighton and costs £160. For more information call 01273 643354.

Notes for editors

Tutor Lingning Zeng is also project co-ordinator for the CEDP's Chinese Centre in Brighton and can be contacted on 07886983123.

Further information about the CEDP (Chinese Educational Development Project) can be found at: www.cedp.org.uk.