Hutong School Policies and Procedures

How does Hutong School assess your Chinese language level?

Upon arrival a suitable time for a level assessment test will be scheduled. The test consists of a speaking, reading and writing part. After the test and the assessment by our Classes Coordinator a class group will be suggested to you. For absolute beginners the assessment test is not required.

What happens if you arrive in Beijing later than your classmates and need to catch up?

Since it is very important to be on a similar level as the other students in your class, the Hutong School will schedule some extra classes if needed, allowing you to catch up with students who started a bit earlier than you did. Normally, about 20hrs of classes can be caught up within one to two weeks without extra lessons.

What happens if you want to change groups?

At the Hutong School we are very flexible and we will always give students the chance to find the most suitable group. A new level assessment by our Classes Coordinator will also help you to make the correct decision.

What happens if there is no group suitable for my level?

If no group classes are available one-to-one classes are assigned. For internship package students this means 4 hours of one-to-one per week while for intensive students 8 hours per week are arranged.

What happens if the people in my group leave one after another?

We will run a group class till there are at least two students in the class. If, however, the last person apart from you leaves you will automatically switch to either 4 hours (internship) or 8 hours (intensive) per week of private classes.

How many tests are scheduled?

Normally, every lesson will be followed by a test which will give you the perfect opportunity to measure your own progress. If you do not pass a certain test, it does not necessarily mean you have to switch to another group. Instead, the teachers will first evaluate your learning situation and find a solution to improve your level by some personalized assignments etc.

When are the official school holidays?

At the Hutong School we celebrate both important Western and Chinese holidays. Below you’ll find an overview with the holidays from January 2009 till December 2009:

- New Year’s Day : Jan. 1st 2009 (holiday till January 4th)
- Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) : Jan. 24th - Feb. 1st 2009
- Qingming Holiday: Apr. 6th 2009
- International Labor Day : May 1st 2009
- Dragon Boat Festival: May 28th and 29th 2009
- Chinese National Holiday : Sep. 26th – Oct. 4th 2009
- Christmas: Dec. 24th 2009 - Jan 3rd 2010

During these days the Hutong School office will be closed and no classes will be held. However, there will always be a Hutong School employee on stand-by for any assistance needed during holidays under 1501 087 1748.