-transparent.png)
Mandarin 123 Program
Learn Mandarin by Speaking First
Designed for both hesitant and motivated Adult Beginners
The Mandarin 123 Program at Vancouver Mandarin School (VMS) is a structured, speaking-focused Mandarin pathway designed for adults who want to move from basic Ni Hao to confident, real-world communication.
Rather than overwhelming learners with characters at the beginning, this program prioritizes listening and speaking first, helping students overcome “silent Mandarin” and build practical fluency step by step.
The program is built on the internationally recognized Developing Chinese – Elementary Speaking Courses and is delivered through small-group, interactive classes.
L0 Beginner Foundation (10 hrs)
Build a solid Mandarin pronunciation foundation and get ready to speak with confidence.
L3 Intermediate Speaking (20 hrs)
Speak more naturally and confidently through storytelling, discussions, and real-world scenarios.
L1 Beginner Speaking (20 hrs)
Learn to speak Mandarin from day one using essential sentence patterns and everyday topics.
Character & Speaking Bridge (15 hrs)
Transition from Pinyin to reading-supported Mandarin with high-frequency characters and guided speaking practice.
L2 Pre-Intermediate Speaking (20 hrs)
Expand your spoken Mandarin with longer sentences, smoother flow, and real-life conversations.
L4+ Extensive Reading for Speaking
Develop integrated speaking and reading skills using character-based materials for real-life communication.
How We Support Your Learning
Learning Mandarin takes more than weekly classes.
We provide structured academic support, high-quality resources, and a warm learning community to help you stay confident, consistent, and motivated throughout your journey.
Learning Platform and Support Chat Group
Access to class notes, assigned tasks, and updated learning resources, with a dedicated group for sharing materials, class updates, and answering questions between sessions.
After-Class Leveled Reading Support
Registered students receive one-year complimentary premium access to Du Chinese
(Valued at $120) to support independent reading and vocabulary development.
Up-to-Date Learning Materials / Assessments
Carefully curated materials aligned with Developing Chinese and HSK, combining systematic structure with practical usage and assessment for each module.
A Supportive Learning Community
Join VMS language and cultural workshops, social activities, and community events to practice Mandarin in a relaxed, real-world environment.
Next Start Dates
(Update on July 26, 2026)
Level/Module | State Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
L0 – Beginner Foundation | Sundays, 5:00-7:00 PM (Sep 13, Oct 25) | Burnaby Metrotown: 5050 Kingsway |
L0 – Beginner Foundation | Mondays, 6:15-8:15 PM (Sep 28, Oct 26) | Vancouver DT: 938 Howe St |
L0 – Beginner Foundation | Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30 PM ( Sep 8, Oct 13) | Vancouver W Broadway: 2524 Cypress St |
L1 - Beginner Speaking | 2026 Onging | Vancouver/Burnaby |
L123 - Learning Bundle | 2026 September | Vancouver/Burnaby |
L3.5 - Character & Speaking Bridge | 2026 September | Vancouver |
Course Price
(Bundle pricing and alumni discounts available for continuing students.)
Level/Module | Hours | Price |
|---|---|---|
L0 – Beginner Foundation | 10 hrs | $275+GST |
L0 – Beginner Foundation | 10 hrs | $275+GST |
L0 – Beginner Foundation | 10 hrs | $275+GST |
L1 - Beginner Speaking | 20 hrs | $549+GST |
L123 - Learning Bundle | 70 hrs | $1699+GST |
L3.5 - Character & Speaking Bridge | 15 hrs | $410+GST |