Italian for Older Learners (Beginner - A1 Level 1)
taught by Mary Spratt
This course is designed for complete beginners and introduces Italian gradually and clearly, with a strong focus on practical communication.
Using Nuovo Espresso 1 Plus, students will build the foundations of the language, learning essential vocabulary and grammar while developing their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills through everyday situations.
The course is taught by Mary Spratt, a highly experienced language teacher, teacher educator and author. Her background makes her particularly well suited to teaching beginners: as applied linguist Péter Medgyes has argued, teachers who have themselves learned another language can bring valuable insight into the difficulties learners face and can use the students’ first language strategically to support understanding. English can therefore be used when helpful, while the amount of Italian increases naturally as students progress. Mary also has a solid background in Italian, having a degree in it and an Institute of Linguists qualification as well as having lived in various parts of Italy and travelled extensively in it.
Key Information at Glance
Who Can Join
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Complete beginners with no previous knowledge of Italian
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Those who know a few words or phrases but have never studied Italian formally
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Older learners who would like a structured course at a comfortable pace
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Anyone looking to develop practical Italian for conversation, travel and everyday situations
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Learners who appreciate clear explanations and plenty of time to practise, rather than feeling rushed
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Unsure about your level? Contact the School for a quick, friendly assessment
Where and When
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Location: Storey's Field Centre (Eddington Avenue,
Cambridge, CB3 1AA). Parking information here -
Schedule: Tuesdays, 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
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Dates: September 29; October 6, 13, 20; November 3, 10, 17, 24; December 1, 8. No lesson during half-term (27 October)
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Duration: One module consists of 10 relaxed and fun lessons (15 hours)
Materials and Homework
Included:
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Nuovo Espresso Plus 1 (textbook)
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Extra worksheets + digital resources
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Free beginner cultural events
Homework: -
Short weekly tasks + light feedback
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Useful beginner free resources to practise between lessons
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Optional extra practice for those who want more
Cost and Booking Details
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Costs: £190 (textbook + all materials + cultural events included).
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Joining Late? You can join at any time up to week 2 and only pay for the remaining lessons (pro rata)
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Minimum group: 6 students (alternative formats available if fewer enrol, see below)
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Terms and Conditions: Please read the Terms and Conditions for Courses before payment.
Course confirmed – bookings are open.
This course will go ahead as scheduled. Places are limited, so we recommend booking your place as soon as you’re ready.
If the course has already started, please get in touch — we can usually accept new students up to two weeks after the first lesson.
🎁 Looking for a gift?
You can purchase the full course as a present or contribute any amount toward it. Simply choose your amount and buy a personalised gift card online - click here to continue.
FAQs
01
Do I need any previous knowledge of Italian?
No. This course is designed for complete beginners, including people who have never studied Italian before and those who know only a few words or phrases. Everything will be introduced gradually and explained clearly.
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How much homework will there be?
Homework consists of short weekly activities and light revision of the language covered in class. Additional practice is available if you would like it, but there is no expectation of completing large amounts of homework.
02
Will the lessons move at a comfortable pace?
Yes. The course has been designed especially for older learners who appreciate clear explanations, plenty of repetition and enough time to practise without feeling rushed. English can also be used when helpful, with Italian introduced progressively as your confidence grows.
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What is included in the course fee?
The fee includes all 10 lessons, the Nuovo Espresso 1 Plus textbook, additional worksheets and digital resources, as well as access to free beginner cultural events.
How our courses work
1. Choose a Course
Select the course that suits your level and schedule.
3. Course Confirmation
Around two weeks before the course begins, we confirm whether the course will run as planned and send final details to all participants.
If enough students have enrolled, the course will go ahead and you will receive instructions for settling the remaining balance.
If fewer students have enrolled, we may wait a little longer to allow additional registrations or offer an alternative format (for example online or shorter lessons).
In that case, you will be notified and free to decide whether to continue. Deposits are fully refundable.
2. Reserve Your Place
Click “Pay Deposit or Full Amount” (more than 2 weeks before the start of the course) or "Pay Now" (within 2 weeks from the start of the course). Before making any payment, please confirm that you have read and agreed to the Terms and Conditions.
4. Interested in a Future Course?
If registrations are closed, click “Register Your Interest” on the course page. We'll contact you when new dates become available or if a suitable alternative is offered.
If the course has already started but is still within its first two weeks, feel free to get in touch — it may still be possible to join, depending on availability and the course content.