Language is one of the things families most often tell us they wish they had started earlier. A new school, a new job or a new neighbourhood all become easier when you can hold a conversation, even a simple one. To help with that, Kaitu is now hosting regular language exchanges, online and in person.
How a language exchange works
The idea is simple. People who speak one language and want to learn another are paired with people heading the other way. Each conversation is split, roughly half in one language and half in the other, so that everyone spends time both practising and helping.
There is no lesson plan and no test. The aim is relaxed, real conversation, the kind that builds confidence far faster than study alone.
The languages on offer
This season's exchanges include:
- Japanese and English, online.
- Mandarin and English, online.
- Spanish and English, in Madrid and online at the same time.
- A language exchange café in London, in person, bringing together speakers of several languages.
We plan to add further languages and cities as the programme grows.
Who they are for
The exchanges are open to anyone who wants to practise, but they are particularly useful for:
- Students preparing to study abroad who want to arrive able to talk to classmates.
- Families getting ready to relocate, including children and teenagers who are curious about their new home.
- Professionals preparing for a role in another country.
- People who have already moved and want to keep up the language they grew up with.
All levels are welcome. Beginners often gain the most, because the format is patient and both sides are learners.
Online and in person
Online exchanges use small groups and short rounds, so everyone has time to speak. In-person exchanges are more informal, held in a relaxed setting where people can move between conversations. The hybrid Madrid event connects a room of participants with others joining online.
Booking and joining
Language exchanges are listed alongside our other events. Each event page sets out the date, time and format, and says whether it is free or ticketed. Once you book, your private booking page holds the details, and for online sessions the joining link appears there shortly before the start.
A few tips for your first exchange
- Prepare two or three simple topics, such as your town, your work or studies, or why you are learning.
- Be generous with the other person's language as well as your own.
- Do not worry about mistakes. Everyone in the room is making them.
Join an exchange
Find upcoming sessions among our online events and in-person events. If language is one part of a wider plan to study, work or live abroad, you can also book a free consultation to talk it through.
