S. Rosenberg
About
My name is Maarten Bobbert
In high school I discovered that I had affinity with both natural sciences and language. I chose to study Human Movement Science at VU University in Amsterdam, where I obtained my Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD degree. After a postdoc in Canada I returned to the department of Human Movement Science VU University to do research and teach, among other things, neurosciences and biomechanics. I always find it highly rewarding to help students develop their critical thinking skills and give them a solid basis for the rest of their lives.
In my free time I learned Spanish and Portuguese. In Canada, and later in Brazil where I worked on a science without borders grant, I discovered how important and enriching it is to speak the language of the people in the country where you live.
Early 2024 I was certified by the VU University as a teacher of Dutch as a second language. In the meantime, I have taught Dutch to many students to help them find their way into education, work, and a good position in society.​​​
About my NT2 classes
I live in Zandvoort, teach classes at the NT2 Academy of VU University, and I’m available for teaching classes of up to 20 students, for private lessons online, and for private lessons on location in Zandvoort or Haarlem. My lessons are meant for expats and students at higher professional education or university.
My students work independently and in a natural flow towards a higher language level using the online platform LINK (or LINK+), designed to promote implicit learning as much as possible; a bit like how you learned your mother tongue. Students prepare before class, and in class we translate what has been learned into practical applications; we start with guided assignments, and quickly work towards communicating freely on themes relevant to living, studying and working in The Netherlands. This may be followed by a practical assignment outside of class. Needless to say, I also provide feedback on written assignments.
Student Stories
Discover what my students have to say about their Dutch language learning journey with me.
Sarah M. (US)
''I would like to thank Maarten very much for making the whole learning journey so engaging and completely stress-free! I’m really grateful for his guidance and for the calm, inspiring atmosphere he creates in class. Wishing him many curious, motivated, and joyful students ahead!''
Pooria K. (Iran)
''I would like to say that I really enjoy Maarten's lessons and that his teaching style is very effective for me. I always have a good time in class and learn a lot from him.''
Esra K. (Turkey)
''I find Maarten's teaching method very useful. The repetition of vocabulary and grammar at the beginning of each lesson, followed by group work, is excellent.''
How long does it take to learn Dutch and how much does it cost?
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) organises language proficiency in six levels, A1, A2, B1, B2, C1 and C2. Just to give you an idea, it takes a higher educated and dedicated student who starts from scratch about 60 hours of lessons to reach level A2, and a similar amount of time to reach level B1, which is the level of the state examination in Dutch as a second language. Obviously, dedicated lessons tailored to your needs are also possible. My hourly rate for private lessons is 35€.
I look forward to meeting you and helping you improve your Dutch!
Get in Touch
Have a question or want to know more about my Dutch language courses? Feel free to reach out via maarten.bobbert@gmail.com.