About your teacher
My name is Angela Maria Schaeken. After teaching Dutch, English and Italian for over 20 years in several countries, I decided to start off on my own with AMS Language Studio to do what I like best: helping individuals and small groups improve their language skills so that they feel empowered to live and work with confidence in a different language environment.
The Netherlands
My journey began in the Netherlands where I was born and raised. With a M.A. in languages (Italian) from the University of Leiden, the Netherlands and a M.Sc. in Communication from the University of Sterling, UK, I began my professional life working as a part-time language trainer to adults and full-time Communications expert for a parastatal in the Netherlands.
Africa
My interest in exploring other cultures and languages took me to Africa where I continued working as a Communications expert for the ministry of Education in Botswana.
In 2002, I relocated to Cape Town, South Africa. This country, with its majestic landscapes, beautiful cultures and 11 official languages, allowed me to fully appreciate how powerful of a tool language can be in crossing cultural barriers. In the words of South Africa’s former President:
“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head.
If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.”– Nelson Mandela
Soon upon arrival in the Cape, I fine-tuned my teaching and training skills by obtaining a Post Graduate Certificate in Education from the University of South Africa, and I fully refocused on languages and teaching.
Over the past 18 years, I have taught students of all levels, ages and backgrounds in Dutch, English and Italian. For those who needed to take an exam, I have successfully helped them obtain their certificates. For those who wanted to learn the language or polish up their language skills, I have helped them to communicate effectively and with confidence.
Back in the Netherlands
The year 2020 marks the start of a new phase as I have returned to the Netherlands. With AMS Language Studio, I continue to do what I love most: helping students to reach their language objectives by offering all the teaching experience, knowledge and skills I’ve gained on both continents.
Angela Maria Schaeken
Director and founder of AMS Language Studio
About the lessons
Whether in person or via Skype, in small groups or one-to-one, AMS Language Studio offers English and Dutch lessons that are effective and stimulating.
Effective
The lessons are effective because they are personalised: tried and tested language teaching/learning methods are combined with a variety of learning resources that best fit the students’ learning needs, objectives and interests. The diverse and interesting learning resources include authentic materials, specially prepared materials, and online media and tutorials.
AMS Language Studio is constantly searching for new tools to optimally support each and every student in achieving their leaning objectives.
Stimulating learning environment
Having fun while learning, is essential to stay motivated and progress.
Personal interests related to work or hobbies are incorporated in the lessons and used to enhance the students’ language skills. Also, excerpts from tv-programmes, interviews, games, and role-plays are just a few of the activities we use to ensure lively and fun lessons.
The varied and personalised lessons create a stimulating and fun learning environment. As a result, students successfully reach their language objectives.
Read what our students have to say.
Testimonials
SEE WHAT MY STUDENTS HAVE TO SAY
Try a FREE Trial lesson
via Skype or Zoom
Discover what it’s like to learn a language using Skype, Zoom or another video call platform and sign up for a free trial lesson. We will demonstrate how the lessons work and discuss your language needs and objectives.
Sign up here for your FREE 30-minute trial lesson and start learning Dutch or English today!
