(Editor’s note: Every Tuesday, Dispatches looks at the tech scene in the Netherlands and across Europe. In the spirit of Eindhoven Business Briefing, we are highlighting an expat service – Dutch language skills – that tech talent needs to stay in the Netherlands long-term as the government moves toward getting highly skilled internationals better integrated. Dispatches receives no remuneration for this post.)
Based in the Eindhoven area, Yvonne van Deursen-Bakx specializes in coaching international nerds – engineers and medical professionals – to fast-track their success in passing the official Dutch language exams. Whether it’s achieving Staatsexamen B1 for Dutch citizenship, Staatsexamen B2 for entry into the Dutch educational system, or C1 Taalunie certificate for BIG registration, Yvonne’s expertise can make sure you reach excellence in Dutch proficiency.
“Most internationals take the beginners courses, and then quit or lose their motivition. That’s such a pity because once you have the basics in place, you can start to accelerate towards proficiency level,” she said.
The recently formed Dutch government is considering tightening requirements for highly skilled internationals. For long-term stays, employers will be responsible for employees learning Dutch. Employers reliant on labour migrants will need to consider stricter regulations and higher costs for integrating these workers.
Yvonne has been teaching Dutch to highly-skilled migrants since 2010. “However, it really became my mission to help international nerds pass the Dutch Staatsexamens when Brexit started to become a hot
topic,” she said “A woman came up to me – she ‘s married to a Dutchman – and asked me to help her to get her Dutch citizenship as soon as possible.”
After eight weeks of private lessons, the woman passed for all four citizenship exams at once. That’s when Yvonne realized she wanted to use her teaching experience to change people’s lives. Her advice is “When you invest in learning Dutch, make sure you also officially prove the level that you have reached.”
The certificates are recognized by the Dutch government, linked to the migration system and the entry of the educational system and valid for life. And you are making a serious monetary investment.
More about her programmes:
• One year programme Dutch Fast Forward takes you fron Level 0 to passing the Staatsexamen B1. one-on-one LIVE online coaching. Your investment is 7,000 euros.
• Year programme Dutch Fluent Forever takes you from a solid A2 level to passing the Staatsexamen B2. one-on-one LIVE online coaching. Your investment is 7,000 euros.
• 10 week Accelerator programme A2 to passing Staatsexamen B1. This includes weekly online sessions in a small group, Acces to NT2prep academy for three months plus unlimited speaking skills training and feedback on your writing assignments. Your investment is 1,900 euros.
You can reach Yvonne with a connection request or DM via her LinkedIn profile.
