FAQ - Frequently asked Questions - English language training in Geneva
Are you a business manager who needs to make a professional presentation in English? Are you stressed when you speak in English? Do you need to pass the IELTS exam to study for your master’s degree? Are you looking for an online learning course? Do you want to have moe interesting conversations with the local people, when you are in Scotland, London, New York or Melbourne? Is your company language switching from French to English? Are you a health professional who needs to communicate with English-speaking patients? Do you want to work for an international company? Do you need to prepare for a job interview in English?
Our story, so far…
The Language House in Geneva has been helping students and professionals in Switzerland and France develop their confidence and fluency in English since 2003. We specialise in English language training. Only English. We have a team of 12 experienced trainers.
English courses in Geneva, online and around the world
We don’t just teach English in Geneva; we also organise immersion courses in English-speaking countries around the world. We work with a select group of training centres and language schools in the UK, Australia, the US, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. You can read detailed profiles of our partner schools here on our website (click on destinations).
Where is The Language House?
We are very central. Our school is close to the bank quartier, a 5-minute walk from the city centre and a 15-minute walk or 8-minute tram ride from the train station, Cornavin.
The Language House school address is 35 rue du Stand, 1024 Geneva. We are on the first floor. Tel: +41 22 321 52 63 or +41 79 522 62 91 if you need directions.
How do I get there?
The closest stop for trams and buses is Genève, Stand in Bd Georges-Favon. We are located just a 2-minute walk down Rue du Stand away from the city centre towards La Junction. We are on your right next to a popular (and excellent) ramen Restaurant calls Susuri. If you are coming by car, you can park at the Square du Stand parking (Foundations Parking) almost opposite the school. Car park entry is from rue du Stand or rue de la Synagogue.
If you are coming for Gare Cornavin, take tram 15 in front of the station and get off after a few stops at Geneve, Stand (about 5-8 minutes).
I have some questions. Who should I talk to…?
Please call the director Garry Littman or the academic director David Creber. The school number is +41 22 321 52 63 or you can call +41 79 522 62 91. We are happy to respond to your questions.
If you would like to meet use, please call, and make an appointment. Email us at
How much does a course cost?
This depends on how many lessons you take, your budget and your language objectives. Here is a guide to different courses ranging from a STANDARD package (12 hours) to an academic year package MASTERY-plus (54 hours). If you scroll down, you will find prices for in-company group courses.
Do I have to pay for my course all at once?
No, you can pay in two or three payments if you wish. The first payment should be made just before your classes begin.
When can I start?
As soon as you like. We just need match you with a trainer and complete an assessment of your learning objectives and level.
Does The Language House teach in companies?
Yes, we teach in many different companies, including watchmakers, universities, catering, heavy engineering, construction and electricity companies and banking, finance, law, accounting , real estate and IT companies, to name a few.
I am a beginner. Can you help me?
Yes, of course. Many of our students of all ages and backgrounds start with a very low level. Our objective is to activate your English as quickly as possible. We also have teach younger school students some of who have difficulties at school and others who love English and want to make the maximum progress possible.
How often can I have lessons?
Most people who work full-time have one lesson (1.5 hours) once a week. However, our more ambitious students have two lessons or even three lessons per week. We also offer intensive immersion courses of two, three or four hours per day. These courses are especially popular during summer.
How long is a lesson?
Most lessons are 1.5 hours (90 minutes). For students travelling longer distances, for example from France, we can organise two or three-hour lessons. This reduces the time lost in travelling. Some students prefer one-hour lessons, especially for online lessons. We try to be as flexible as possible.
Is there homework?
Yes, we encourage homework. Work at home helps your progress and our trainers will make sure you have interesting and challenging projects to work on. Most students will receive an online platform that offers about 100 hours of work from home. However, some of our busy clients have very little time. It’s your decision.
Can I do an English exam?
Yes, we offer the IELTS exam (for university) and the Cambridge suite of exams from levels B1 to C2. But we recommend exams only if it is a key element for work or study.
Can I still have lessons if I am travelling?
Some clients have their lessons on Zoom or Teams when they are away on business The more regular your lessons, the quicker you will progress. Our clients are often extremely busy. We are happy to try to reschedule a lesson if necessary.
What happens if I must cancel a lesson?
Of course, there are periods when students are sick, on holidays, or on a training course. But, you must cancel a lesson at least 24 hours beforehand. Otherwise, it will count as a late cancellation. We usually give our students a warning first. Email or telephone the school and your teacher if you must cancel at the last minute.
Can I have online lessons?
Post-Covid, many students continue to have online lessons. Our trainers are skilled and capable in delivering online lessons.
Who will be my trainer?
Good question. We have a team of 12 excellent trainers and our job is to find the trainer who is best suited to your learning needs and your availability.
Is there a pre-course test?
Yes, we have an online test on our website. One of our senior trainers will have a Zoom interview with you before your course begins, to get a better understanding of your level, your speaking confidence and your learning objectives. Then we can choose the materials for your lessons and match you with a trainer.
What books and materials will I use?
We have a wide range or English books for all kinds of English and all levels. Many of these books come with an online platform so you can do extra study at home. We also have a huge library of English language books for all kinds of communications skills. We will give you plenty of resources. That’s a promise. We also offer all students a simplified novel to read in English.
Are there online platforms?
Yes, your class book will most likely have an online platform which offers about 100 hours of work to complement the work you do with your trainer. We have online platforms for different levels, exams and general, professiona and academic English.
Do you have free resources to help me improve my English?
Yes, we have about 140 blogs for English students available on our website. The blogs were published on the Le Temps website from 2018 – 2023. We will also give you an English reader (a simplified novel) to read at home as well as your class books. If you want more work, just ask your trainer.
How do you assess progress?
Progress is assessed through regular evaluations, questionnaires, and personal feedback sessions with your trainer. We also encourage self-assessment and reflection on your learning journey.
Do you offer any special programs for advanced learners or professionals?
For advanced learners and professionals, we offer specialized courses focusing on professional English, such as public-speaking and presenting and inter-cultural communication. We offer in-company workshops and private lessons. We prepare students for the C1 and C2 Cambridge exams.
How do you ensure the quality of your teaching staff?
Our teachers are selected through a rigorous hiring process. They are certified CELTA qualified language instructors with extensive teaching experience and a passion for language education. We also conduct regular training and professional development sessions for our staff.
Thanks to our English teachers we have a 5-star Google rating (more than 100 reviews). Read more here.
How does The Language House accommodate students with special learning needs?
We are committed to inclusive education and provide tailored support for students with special learning needs. This includes personalized lesson plans, one-on-one support, and coordination with specialists if needed.
