5 Best Japanese Classes in Adelaide That Open Global Doors 

PACE (Professional and Continuing Education) at the University of Adelaide provides a more structured learning environment for learners with beginner and advanced proficiency levels.

They have a structured curriculum with exams for those seeking formal certifications.

They provide evening and weekend classes, which is a flexible option for those with busy schedules. 

The teachers are certified instructors. They also incorporate supplementary materials like videos, tapes, and films to enhance the learning experience. Moreover, students say that the teachers here are supportive and always available to answer questions. 

Despite these advantages, I enquired about their services and found their fees to be very expensive. 

I also found structured lessons taught in universities to be more challenging since they follow a fixed curriculum and pace. So, if you’re someone who wants a more personalised lesson, then you might benefit from a one-on-one tutorial instead.  

Excellent classroom environment for adult learners

“The teachers were always very welcoming, you could ask them any questions and they would always take the time to answer. Fantastic classroom environment for adult learners, where everyone is willing to have a go! Exams are optional at the end of the semester, it’s a bonus if you want to complete a formal certificate of competency (they prepare you very well for this). Completed classes alongside my full-time university degree once a week with ease.”

Emily D | Google Review

The fee is too expensive.

“Ridiculously expensive and not value for money. Would definitely not recommend.”

Julia Wright | Google Review

The Vocational Language Learning Centre’s curriculum focuses on practical language use in both vocational and social contexts.

Available in-person and online, they offer four certificate courses, from basic social and workplace communication to advanced lessons. They also assist students in preparing for the Japanese Proficiency Test with their in-country testing preparation course.

The instructors base their lessons on individual learning styles and career goals. Because of this, students can immediately apply what they learn in practical situations.

Teachers here are native Japanese speakers and have experience teaching the language for as many as 10 years. Moreover, their students praised them for their flexibility and effective teaching. 

However, a former student shared that  VLLC provided outdated software throughout the course. For me, having access to advanced software significantly reduced my stress when I studied Japanese. This is an important factor to consider before enrolling.

Also, the focus on practical language is limiting. If you want a more academic or comprehensive study of Japanese, then a structured course is more fitting.

Stress-free learning atmosphere 

“VLLC is one of the best language learning facilities I have come across. Everyone involved is so helpful, understanding and the kindest of people. The teachers/tutors are amazing and are able to really help you if you are struggling! They have the best tips and tricks for learning in the most effective ways. They helped make learning a language easy and not stressful. They like to get to know you so you feel comfortable and they can find out the best way to help you learn…” 

Tanisha June | Google Review

Learning format meant for quick progress

“I very much enjoy learning a new language with VLLC! The people are very friendly and eager to help achieve your goals. The format for learning makes for quick progress and an enjoyable experience. I would highly recommend learning with VLLC!”

Dane Sampson | Google Review

The “Japanese for Fun and Travel” course at WEA Adult Learning Centre is perfect for those who prefer casual learning methods. The course covers basic questions, self-introduction, socialising, and more.

The instructor holds once-a-week sessions for eight weeks—perfect for those who have work commitments. However, the schedule is dependent on the teacher’s availability. 

The instructor, Yoshimi Mizobe, has extensive teaching experience in Japan and Australia. Her teaching style centres on cultural immersion, which makes it ideal for travellers.

But I think this course may be too basic. I would love for them to offer more advanced classes, especially for those who want a deeper understanding of the language. It would also be better if they also teach reading and writing, not just conversations. 

The standard fee for this class is AU $277. However, they offer a 10% discount (AU $250) for full-time students and senior card holders. They also give a concession fee of up to 12.5% (AU $243) for pensioners, unemployed people, supporting parents, and those receiving Austudy or Abstudy.

A Good Value for Your Money 

“Casual learning place offering a large range of adult education/entertainment offerings at a reasonable price.”

Richard Jacobs | Google Review

Quality Teachers with Great Facilities 

“…The teachers have all been of a high calibre, the staff are helpful and friendly, and the building/equipment is perfect. I cannot speak highly enough of this great, local resource. 

Diane Cass | Google Review

Language Trainers Australia allows teachers to customise lessons to meet your goals and needs. Taught online and face-to-face, they have general and business Japanese classes available.

For private classes, you have the option to hold them at home, in the office, at the trainer’s office, or at public locations. 

They also hold classes for small groups of 2–8 participants and up to 12 for in-company sessions, depending on everyone’s needs.

The instructors are native speakers with diverse academic backgrounds and extensive teaching experience. One of the teachers even has 17 years of experience. 

I booked a free online lesson to assess the quality. Fortunately, the tutor was accommodating. We discussed my goals and assessed my fluency. Afterwards, he created a lesson plan based on what we’d discussed.

I recommend you book a free online lesson before deciding to enrol. 

I think the only downside is that private lessons are more expensive than group classes. That makes group classes a more practical choice if you’re on a budget. 

Private online lessons start at AU$32.50 per hour, while face-to-face classes begin at AU$51.00 per hour. As for online group classes, they can start at AU$10.50 per hour. The price can increase depending on whether you need more hours or not. 

One-on-one sessions exceeded expectations 

“The materials provided were a good fit for my level, the instructors have been patient and professional. I opted for one-on-one instruction, which has allowed me to focus on the areas that are important to me, and they’ve been quite flexible with timing and locations of sessions. A great experience overall.” 

Mark Leslie | Google Review

Fun learning tailored to your needs. 

“Very nice and professional customer service and teachers. You learn quickly, as they personalise each class for the student. Also the learning is fun, really recommend.”

Saija Makkonen | Google Review

Listen & Learn specialises in tailor-made private and small group lessons. These lessons aim to meet personal or business needs.

They also provide face-to-face and online private lessons for students that match their skill level.

It’s the same for group classes. It caters to groups with similar levels, accommodating up to 6–8 participants or up to 12 in-company sessions. 

Upon checking their website, you don’t really see the teachers’ profiles, unlike other tutorial sites. However, they will provide them once you request it.

They offer a free 30-minute online conversation with your trainer where I tried to get a feel of their teaching style. However, it wasn’t enough for me to determine if it would work for me. In the end, I believe a full, free trial lesson is more helpful.

Best lessons taught by professional teachers

“For the people who learn a language best with human interaction and tailored guidance, Listen & Learn is the solution. They are professional in their rigor to provide expert language teachers.” 

Gabriela Ferreira | Facebook Review

Professional, knowledgeable and patient 

“I have been enjoying learning Japanese lessons with Kazumi-san who is very professional, knowledgeable and patient. Each 2-hour lesson has never been so short! Thanks Listen&Learn!” 

Mingmei Wang | Facebook Review