Italian courses

[40andlovelife]

Hi I have been using the duolingo app to learn some Italian but would really love to undertake a certificated course either self study or online. The google searches I have done bring up so many results though I don't know what the recognised qualifications actually are. Anyone know where I can start?

Can’t help with self study / online courses but there used to be a brilliant book on all the varied language study abroad options. I know it’s not what you asked for but Italian is a language that really benefits from in-country tuition. And if you plan ahead it can be surprisingly inexpensive. (As well as enormous fun.)

Are you looking to get an actual qualification or just learn some Italian? This will determine what kind of course you do.

Check local FE colleges for courses, or somewhere like CityLit offers both online and in-person language courses www.citylit.ac.uk

Or if you have the time and money, go do a course for a week or more in Italy - the language schools usually let you choose the duration.

My DH and I decided to learn Italian during lock down, primarily with Duolingo. I have loved it, but I felt I wouldn't really improve without talking face to face with a native speaker. I found a wonderful website, which is completely free,
www.conversationexchange.com

It matches you with a partner who wants to practice English with you, and you practice Italian with them. My DH was a bot dubious, and I must admit it was a bit daunting, but I was brave and have met a lovely Italian lady, my age and it has been brilliant for my speaking skills. We have become good friends and she visited us this summer - we are going to stay with her next year.