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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.
Next Start Dates
(Update on March 26, 2026)
Level/Module | State Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
L0 – Beginner Foundation | April 12 (Sun,12:15-2:15pm) April 14 (Tue,7:30-9:30pm) | Burnaby Metrotown Vancouver W Broadway |
L1 - Beginner Speaking
(L0+L1 - Beginner Bundle) | 2026 Mid April, Sun, 2:30-4:30pm | Burnaby Metrotown |
L2 – Pre-Intermediate Speaking | 2026 May | Vancouver |
L3 – Intermediate Speaking | 2026 Onging Monday or Wednesday | Vancouver/Burnaby |
L123 - Learning Bundle | 2026 April | Vancouver |
L3.5 - Character & Speaking Bridge |
Course Price
(Bundle pricing and alumni discounts available for continuing students.)
Level/Module | Hours | Price |
|---|---|---|
L0 – Beginner Foundation | 10 hrs | $275+GST |
L1 - Beginner Speaking
(L0+L1 - Beginner Bundle) | 20 hrs (30 hrs) | $549+GST ($799+GST) |
L2 – Pre-Intermediate Speaking | 20 hrs | $549+GST |
L3 – Intermediate Speaking | 20 hrs | $549+GST |
L123 - Learning Bundle | 60 hrs (70 hrs) | $1499+GST ($1699+GST) |
L3.5 - Character & Speaking Bridge | 15 hrs | $410+GST |